14 day itinerary for Kyushu

Itinerary

Kyushu is a beautiful region with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. I’m excited to help you craft a lovely 14-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights at a relaxed pace. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka

• Morning: Arrive at Fukuoka Airport. Pick up your rental car.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Head to Ohori Park for a leisurely stroll.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local yatai (street food stall) and try some Hakata ramen.

## Day 2: Fukuoka to Nagasaki (Approx. 2h 30m drive)

• Morning: Visit the Fukuoka Tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Drive to Nagasaki. Check into your hotel and have lunch.
• Evening: Explore the historic Dejima and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 3: Nagasaki

• Morning: Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum.
• Afternoon: Take a tram to Glover Garden and enjoy the beautiful views.
• Evening: Try Nagasaki’s famous champon (noodle dish) for dinner.

## Day 4: Nagasaki to Kumamoto (Approx. 2h 30m drive)

• Morning: Depart for Kumamoto. Stop at the beautiful Shimabara Castle along the way.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Kumamoto and have lunch. Visit Kumamoto Castle.
• Evening: Stroll through the Suizenji Jojuen Garden and enjoy a peaceful evening.

## Day 5: Kumamoto to Beppu (Approx. 2h drive)

• Morning: Visit the Shimada Museum of Arts or the contemporary art museum in Kumamoto.
• Afternoon: Drive to Beppu. Check into a ryokan for your first onsen experience!
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at the ryokan.

## Day 6: Beppu

• Morning: Explore the famous "Hells of Beppu" (Jigoku) and soak in the unique hot springs.
• Afternoon: Relax at your ryokan or visit the Beppu Onsen area for more hot spring experiences.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner in Beppu, perhaps trying some local seafood.

## Day 7: Beppu to Yufuin (Approx. 30m drive)

• Morning: Drive to Yufuin, a charming onsen town. Check into your second ryokan.
• Afternoon: Explore the quaint streets of Yufuin, visiting shops and cafes.
• Evening: Enjoy another delightful kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.

## Day 8: Yufuin

• Morning: Take a leisurely hike around Lake Kinrin and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Visit the Yufuin Floral Village and the local art museums.
• Evening: Relax in the onsen and enjoy a quiet evening.

## Day 9: Yufuin to Kagoshima (Approx. 2h 30m drive)

• Morning: Depart for Kagoshima. Stop at the scenic Mount Aso on the way.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Kagoshima and have lunch. Visit the Sengan-en Garden.
• Evening: Try Kagoshima’s famous black pork for dinner.

## Day 10: Kagoshima to Yakushima (Ferry)

• Morning: Take the ferry from Kagoshima to Yakushima (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation on Yakushima. Explore the nearby area.
• Evening: Enjoy a local dinner, perhaps trying some fresh seafood.

## Day 11: Yakushima

• Morning: Hike the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine for stunning views and ancient cedar trees.
• Afternoon: Visit the Yakusugi Land for more hiking and nature exploration.
• Evening: Relax and enjoy a quiet dinner at your accommodation.

## Day 12: Yakushima to Kumamoto (Ferry and Drive)

• Morning: Take the ferry back to Kagoshima and drive back to Kumamoto (approx. 2h 30m).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Visit the Shimada Museum of Arts if you missed it earlier.
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner in Kumamoto.

## Day 13: Kumamoto to Fukuoka (Approx. 1h 30m drive)

• Morning: Depart for Fukuoka. Visit the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine on the way.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Fukuoka and have lunch. Explore the Tenjin shopping district.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps trying some local specialties.

## Day 14: Departure from Fukuoka

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Return your rental car and head to Fukuoka Airport for your departure.

This itinerary balances relaxation with exploration, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Kyushu at a leisurely pace. Each day is designed to give you a taste of the local culture, delicious food, and the rejuvenating experience of onsen stays. Enjoy your trip! 🌸