9 day itinerary for Road Trip Fukuoka Nagasaki Aso Beppu Yufuin Takachino Gorge

Itinerary

A 9-day road trip through Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Aso, Beppu, Yufuin, and Takachiho Gorge sounds like an incredible adventure! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and a bit of local culture. Buckle up!

## Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka

• Morning: Arrive in Fukuoka. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Ohori Park for a leisurely stroll. You can rent a paddleboat on the pond or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Evening: Explore Nakasu, Fukuoka’s famous nightlife district. Try some local street food like hakata ramen and yakitori. Don’t forget to check out the vibrant yatai (food stalls)!

## Day 2: Fukuoka to Nagasaki

• Morning: Depart for Nagasaki (about a 2-hour drive). Stop at Kujukushima (Ninety-Nine Islands) for some stunning views.
• Afternoon: Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum to learn about the city’s history.
• Evening: Head to Dejima, the former Dutch trading post, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try Nagasaki champon, a delicious noodle dish!

## Day 3: Explore Nagasaki

• Morning: Take the Nagasaki Ropeway up to Inasa Mountain for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Visit Glover Garden, a beautiful open-air museum with historical buildings and lovely gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise in Nagasaki Bay. It’s a perfect way to end your day!

## Day 4: Nagasaki to Aso

• Morning: Depart for Aso (about a 2.5-hour drive). On the way, stop at Mount Unzen for some scenic views and a short hike.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Aso and visit the Aso Volcano Museum to learn about the region’s volcanic activity.
• Evening: Relax in an onsen (hot spring) in Aso. The Kusasenri area is a great spot to unwind after a day of travel.

## Day 5: Aso to Beppu

• Morning: Explore Aso Kuju National Park. Take a hike around the Aso caldera and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.
• Afternoon: Drive to Beppu (about 1 hour). Once there, visit the famous Hells of Beppu (Jigoku), a collection of unique hot springs.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan (traditional inn) and soak in the onsen.

## Day 6: Beppu to Yufuin

• Morning: Spend the morning at Beppu Onsen. Try a sand bath or a mud bath for a unique experience!
• Afternoon: Drive to Yufuin (about 30 minutes). Explore the charming streets filled with shops and cafes. Don’t miss the view of Mount Yufu!
• Evening: Relax in an onsen in Yufuin. The Yufuin Onsen area is known for its picturesque settings.

## Day 7: Yufuin to Takachiho

• Morning: Depart for Takachiho (about a 1.5-hour drive). On the way, stop at Kusasenri for some last-minute views of Aso.
• Afternoon: Visit the Takachiho Gorge. You can rent a rowboat to paddle through the gorge and see the stunning Manai Falls.
• Evening: Attend a Takachiho Kagura performance, a traditional dance that tells the story of Japanese mythology. It’s a unique cultural experience!

## Day 8: Explore Takachiho

• Morning: Visit the Amano Iwato Shrine, which is steeped in mythology and surrounded by beautiful nature.
• Afternoon: Explore the Takachiho Farm for some local produce and maybe even try your hand at making some local delicacies.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in Takachiho, perhaps with a nice dinner at a local izakaya.

## Day 9: Return to Fukuoka

• Morning: Start your drive back to Fukuoka (about 3 hours). If time allows, stop at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine on the way.
• Afternoon: Spend your last few hours shopping in Tenjin or visiting the Fukuoka Tower for a final view of the city.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the opening hours of attractions and book accommodations in advance, especially for ryokans.
• Keep your camera handy; the scenery is breathtaking!
• Try to learn a few basic Japanese phrases; locals appreciate the effort!

This itinerary offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making for an unforgettable road trip. Enjoy your adventure! 🚗✨