Itinerary for 3 day trip to Kyushu

Kyushu is a beautiful region in Japan, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and, of course, its delightful tea fields and relaxing onsens. Let’s create a lovely 3-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty at a relaxed pace.

Day 1: Arrival in and Exploring

Morning:

Arrive in , the gateway to Kyushu. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Japanese breakfast items like grilled fish, miso soup, and rice.

Midday:

Head to , a charming town known for its exquisite tea fields. It’s about an hour’s drive from . Once you arrive, visit the to learn about the history and process of tea production.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a stroll through the lush tea fields. The scenery is breathtaking, especially if you visit during the tea-picking season (spring). Don’t forget to take some photos!
For lunch, try a local tea-infused dish at a nearby restaurant. is famous for its matcha soba noodles!

Evening:

After a day of exploration, unwind at an onsen. is a great choice, where you can soak in the mineral-rich waters while enjoying the serene surroundings.
For dinner, indulge in a kaiseki meal, which is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, often featuring seasonal ingredients.

Day 2: and Aso Region

Morning:

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to (about 1.5 hours from ). Visit the iconic , one of Japan’s most impressive castles. Take your time exploring the grounds and enjoying the beautiful gardens.

Midday:

Head to the , known for its stunning landscapes and active volcano. Stop by a local café for lunch, perhaps trying some ramen, which is rich and flavorful.

Afternoon:

Visit the . Here, you can take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process and even participate in a tea tasting session. The views of the surrounding mountains are simply stunning!

Evening:

After a day of exploration, relax at an onsen in the Aso area. is a fantastic option, known for its rustic charm and beautiful outdoor baths. Spend the evening soaking in the hot springs and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
For dinner, consider a local izakaya where you can sample various dishes and perhaps some local sake.

Day 3: and

Morning:

After breakfast, make your way to (about 2 hours from Aso). This city is famous for its hot springs and unique “hells” (Jigoku). Start your day by visiting one of the hells, like , which features beautiful blue waters.

Midday:

For lunch, try the famous “Jigoku Mushi” (steam cooking) dishes, where food is steamed using the natural hot spring steam. It’s a unique culinary experience!

Afternoon:

After lunch, head to , a picturesque town surrounded by mountains. Stroll through the charming streets, visit local shops, and don’t miss the , a delightful area filled with cute shops and cafes.
If you’re up for it, visit a tea farm in , where you can enjoy a peaceful tea experience amidst the beautiful scenery.

Evening:

End your trip with a relaxing soak at one of ’s many onsens. offers a variety of ryokans (traditional inns) with onsen facilities. Enjoy a final soak while taking in the stunning views of Mount Yufu.
For your last dinner, savor a traditional ryokan meal, which often features local specialties and seasonal ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This itinerary allows you to enjoy the best of Kyushu’s tea fields and onsens at a relaxed pace. Each day is filled with beautiful scenery, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to unwind. Don’t forget to take your time and soak in the experience! Enjoy your trip! 🌿🍵🛁