Kyushu
Kyushu
Kyushu Featured Articles
Kyushu Guides
If you’ve already experienced the iconic highlights of Japan—Tokyo’s neon buzz, Kyoto’s temples, or even a quick tour through Fukuoka—then it’s time to dive deeper. This 4-Day Kyushu Itinerary is designed specifically for repeat visitors who are ready to uncover the island’s lesser-known treasures. Kyushu, Japan’s third-largest island, is a land of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, and this itinerary focuses on off-the-beaten-path spots that often go overlooked by first-time travelers. Whether you’re craving hot springs, hidden shrines, quiet countryside, or local street eats without the crowds, this guide has you covered. We’ll start on Day 1 in Oita Prefecture, known for its scenic mountains and soothing onsen towns like Yufuin. From there, Day 2 takes you to the rural charms of Fukuoka Prefecture, where coastal views and quaint villages reveal a quieter side of Japan. On Day 3, we’ll explore Saga Prefecture, famous for its ceramics, hot...
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Whether you are traveling in Kyushu to enjoy some peace and quiet in the great outdoors or heading to Fukuoka to shop until you drop at one of the mega malls, traveling around the island is easy thanks to a world-famous public transportation system! A picturesque island located in the southern waters of Japan, Kyushu attracts visitors who have an unwavering sense of adventure. It is the third largest island of the country and features backpack-worthy mountains and volcanoes, beautiful beaches, and Nagasaki's chic downtown scene. Traveling in Kyushu | Tips for Communication in Japan Japan is a forward-thinking country that loves its technology and you will be hard-pressed to find a location within the various prefectures that does not have a good wi-fi connection. Wi-fi is essential for navigating public transportation and speaking to locals. Before heading off to Japan, be sure to download a translator app so that...
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Nagasaki is often remembered for the tragic role it played in World War II, and while those events certainly helped shape the city, they don’t define it – or the region that surrounds it. Things to do in Nagasaki go way beyond Nagasaki city limits! The perfect four-day trip through Nagasaki includes a tour of Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park, sure, but it also features ferry rides to nearby islands, a fun evening at Huis Ten Bosch and a relaxing day at Unzen Hot Springs. Things to Do in Nagasaki | Day 1 – Pick an Island, Any Island! It just makes sense to see Nagasaki’s top attractions first. Visiting the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park in one morning is totally doable, and once Nagasaki’s historical landmarks have been explored, it will be time to pick an island! Nagasaki is home to several scenic islands, including Iki...
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Rent a yukata for sightseeing, and discover things to do in Kumamoto which include touring Kumamoto Castle and admiring traditional arts and crafts. Situated next to a still-active volcano on the island of Kyushu, Kumamoto is brimming with bubbling hot springs as well as historic landmarks and modern shopping malls. Things to Do in Kumamoto | Day 1 - Arriving at Kumamoto City Most travelers who arrive by rail will arrive in Kumamoto City by train at Kumamoto Station. Shinkansen trains stop here as well as local and regional rail lines. Centrally located, Kumamoto Station has a tram stop outside the East Gate and there is a tourism information office inside the station. Bus and train tickets to destinations in Kumamoto Prefecture or beyond can be booked up to 30 days in advance of travel, so you will be perfectly placed to explore Kumamoto's history and be charmed by this...
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The largest city on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is a popular tourist destination, and while visitors have no problem filling an itinerary with Fukuoka attractions, a daytrip from Fukuoka can be super rewarding. Venture to Oita Prefecture and Miyazaki Prefecture to find family-friendly cultural activities, natural attractions and a satisfying amount of local Japanese food. Daytrip from Fukuoka: Day 1 - Kitsuki, Oita Prefecture It’s just about two hours by train from Fukuoka to Kitsuki, a city known for Kitsuki Castle, the smallest castle in Japan. Kitsuki is also noteworthy because it is home to some of the country’s best-preserved samurai houses. The castle city prides itself on its historic feel and encourages visitors to explore the culture by dressing in kimono. There are a number of shops that will rent traditional dress to visitors for a brief photo shoot or to wear as they go sightseeing. In fact,...
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The southernmost of Japan's main islands, Kyushu is a place brimming with natural beauty and culture. Its numerous mountain ranges are home to relaxing hot springs towns like Kirishima Hot Springs while its cities are home to world-class art museums like the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum. For an immersive experience of Japanese art and nature in one trip, here is a Kyushu culture tour that will take you through Nagasaki, Takeo Hot Springs, and the Kirishima area. AGODA EXTRA: Make sure you get a JR Rail Pass, which is a special rail pass available only to overseas visitors. It will allow you to take advantage of Japan’s excellent rail system and save money as you criss-cross the island over the next three days. The pass is valid on almost all trains operated by Japan Railways (JR), including Limited Express, Express, Shinkansen, and local trains. Kyushu Culture Tour | Day 1:...
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Kyushu has many beautiful attractions during the wintertime, and travelers wanting to see as many sites as possible on the island should consider renting a car or driving their own during a visit. Plan a five-day Kyushu winter itinerary that starts and ends in Fukuoka and includes plenty of onsen towns and winter activities along the way! Exploring Kyushu by car during winter is one of the best ways to fully experience the island’s unique blend of natural beauty, traditional culture, and cozy hot spring escapes. The roads are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate, especially around major cities and popular sightseeing routes. Plus, having a car means you’ll have the freedom to stop by scenic viewpoints, small countryside villages, and hidden outdoor onsen baths that are off the beaten track. Winter in Kyushu is relatively mild compared to northern Japan, making it a great destination for travelers who want...
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Located in the southern most region of Japan, Kyushu is a picture-perfect island containing seven prefectures, all boasting their own unique charm. Things to do in Kyushu include exploring ancient forests, natural hot springs, and of course, Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan. In addition to natural attractions, Kyushu is home to an abundance of restaurants that serve up traditional Japanese dishes as well as regional cuisine only available in Kyushu. AGODA EXTRA: Before embarking on a journey through Kyushu, be sure to purchase a JR Kyushu Railway Pass to travel efficiently and save the most money. Visitors can purchase passes for specific regions or for travel throughout the whole island. Things to Do in Kyushu | Fukuoka Onsen & Hot Springs Known for their healing powers and mineral-rich waters, the onsens of Kyushu are coveted by Japanese residents and tourists alike. Kyushu offers hundreds of onsens for...
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Have you heard of Japan's "Land of Fire" before? Well, that is Kyushu! The third-largest of the islands that make up mainland Japan, Kyushu has numerous active volcanoes and abundant hot springs and also holds a distinct character within the Japanese archipelago, hence the intimidating nickname. However, the fact that it has a lot of eruptive mountains doesn't mean Kyushu isn't a great place to travel to—because it totally is! Beyond its pleasant climate, which nurtures lush landscapes and facilitates year-round exploration, Kyushu boasts a rich history as a crucial gateway for cultural exchange with mainland Asia. Ancient trade routes brought not only goods but also pivotal aspects of Japanese civilization, including Buddhism, which first took root on this southern island. This legacy is evident in the numerous historical sites and temples that dot the Kyushu landscape, whispering tales of bygone eras. The island's volcanic activity has not only shaped...
READ MORE
Picking out fun and memorable travel souvenirs is one of the best parts of any trip. Discover what to buy in Kyushu as well as the best places to shop for souvenirs in popular spots like Fukuoka and Nagasaki. In addition to personal photographs of the top sights and landmarks in Kyushu, souvenirs range from quirky snacks and beverages to traditional clothing and health and wellness products. Kyushu is a shopper’s paradise with a rich blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern retail offerings. Whether you’re strolling through local markets, boutique stores, or large shopping malls, there’s something for everyone to take home as a keepsake. For those looking to dive deeper into Japanese culture, Kyushu is known for unique regional products that reflect its natural beauty, rich history, and culinary traditions. Some of the most popular items include Kyushu’s famous ceramics and pottery, which are handcrafted by local artisans in...
READ MORE
Kyushu Guides
If you’ve already experienced the iconic highlights of Japan—Tokyo’s neon buzz, Kyoto’s temples, or even a quick tour through Fukuoka—then it’s time to dive deeper. This 4-Day Kyushu Itinerary is designed specifically for repeat visitors who are ready to uncover the island’s lesser-known treasures. Kyushu, Japan’s third-largest island, is a land of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, and this itinerary focuses on off-the-beaten-path spots that often go overlooked by first-time travelers. Whether you’re craving hot springs, hidden shrines, quiet countryside, or local street eats without the crowds, this guide has you covered. We’ll start on Day 1 in Oita Prefecture, known for its scenic mountains and soothing onsen towns like Yufuin. From there, Day 2 takes you to the rural charms of Fukuoka Prefecture, where coastal views and quaint villages reveal a quieter side of Japan. On Day 3, we’ll explore Saga Prefecture, famous for its ceramics, hot...
Whether you are traveling in Kyushu to enjoy some peace and quiet in the great outdoors or heading to Fukuoka to shop until you drop at one of the mega malls, traveling around the island is easy thanks to a world-famous public transportation system! A picturesque island located in the southern waters of Japan, Kyushu attracts visitors who have an unwavering sense of adventure. It is the third largest island of the country and features backpack-worthy mountains and volcanoes, beautiful beaches, and Nagasaki's chic downtown scene. Traveling in Kyushu | Tips for Communication in Japan Japan is a forward-thinking country that loves its technology and you will be hard-pressed to find a location within the various prefectures that does not have a good wi-fi connection. Wi-fi is essential for navigating public transportation and speaking to locals. Before heading off to Japan, be sure to download a translator app so that...
Nagasaki is often remembered for the tragic role it played in World War II, and while those events certainly helped shape the city, they don’t define it – or the region that surrounds it. Things to do in Nagasaki go way beyond Nagasaki city limits! The perfect four-day trip through Nagasaki includes a tour of Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park, sure, but it also features ferry rides to nearby islands, a fun evening at Huis Ten Bosch and a relaxing day at Unzen Hot Springs. Things to Do in Nagasaki | Day 1 – Pick an Island, Any Island! It just makes sense to see Nagasaki’s top attractions first. Visiting the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park in one morning is totally doable, and once Nagasaki’s historical landmarks have been explored, it will be time to pick an island! Nagasaki is home to several scenic islands, including Iki...
Rent a yukata for sightseeing, and discover things to do in Kumamoto which include touring Kumamoto Castle and admiring traditional arts and crafts. Situated next to a still-active volcano on the island of Kyushu, Kumamoto is brimming with bubbling hot springs as well as historic landmarks and modern shopping malls. Things to Do in Kumamoto | Day 1 - Arriving at Kumamoto City Most travelers who arrive by rail will arrive in Kumamoto City by train at Kumamoto Station. Shinkansen trains stop here as well as local and regional rail lines. Centrally located, Kumamoto Station has a tram stop outside the East Gate and there is a tourism information office inside the station. Bus and train tickets to destinations in Kumamoto Prefecture or beyond can be booked up to 30 days in advance of travel, so you will be perfectly placed to explore Kumamoto's history and be charmed by this...
The largest city on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is a popular tourist destination, and while visitors have no problem filling an itinerary with Fukuoka attractions, a daytrip from Fukuoka can be super rewarding. Venture to Oita Prefecture and Miyazaki Prefecture to find family-friendly cultural activities, natural attractions and a satisfying amount of local Japanese food. Daytrip from Fukuoka: Day 1 - Kitsuki, Oita Prefecture It’s just about two hours by train from Fukuoka to Kitsuki, a city known for Kitsuki Castle, the smallest castle in Japan. Kitsuki is also noteworthy because it is home to some of the country’s best-preserved samurai houses. The castle city prides itself on its historic feel and encourages visitors to explore the culture by dressing in kimono. There are a number of shops that will rent traditional dress to visitors for a brief photo shoot or to wear as they go sightseeing. In fact,...
The southernmost of Japan's main islands, Kyushu is a place brimming with natural beauty and culture. Its numerous mountain ranges are home to relaxing hot springs towns like Kirishima Hot Springs while its cities are home to world-class art museums like the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum. For an immersive experience of Japanese art and nature in one trip, here is a Kyushu culture tour that will take you through Nagasaki, Takeo Hot Springs, and the Kirishima area. AGODA EXTRA: Make sure you get a JR Rail Pass, which is a special rail pass available only to overseas visitors. It will allow you to take advantage of Japan’s excellent rail system and save money as you criss-cross the island over the next three days. The pass is valid on almost all trains operated by Japan Railways (JR), including Limited Express, Express, Shinkansen, and local trains. Kyushu Culture Tour | Day 1:...
Kyushu has many beautiful attractions during the wintertime, and travelers wanting to see as many sites as possible on the island should consider renting a car or driving their own during a visit. Plan a five-day Kyushu winter itinerary that starts and ends in Fukuoka and includes plenty of onsen towns and winter activities along the way! Exploring Kyushu by car during winter is one of the best ways to fully experience the island’s unique blend of natural beauty, traditional culture, and cozy hot spring escapes. The roads are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate, especially around major cities and popular sightseeing routes. Plus, having a car means you’ll have the freedom to stop by scenic viewpoints, small countryside villages, and hidden outdoor onsen baths that are off the beaten track. Winter in Kyushu is relatively mild compared to northern Japan, making it a great destination for travelers who want...
Located in the southern most region of Japan, Kyushu is a picture-perfect island containing seven prefectures, all boasting their own unique charm. Things to do in Kyushu include exploring ancient forests, natural hot springs, and of course, Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan. In addition to natural attractions, Kyushu is home to an abundance of restaurants that serve up traditional Japanese dishes as well as regional cuisine only available in Kyushu. AGODA EXTRA: Before embarking on a journey through Kyushu, be sure to purchase a JR Kyushu Railway Pass to travel efficiently and save the most money. Visitors can purchase passes for specific regions or for travel throughout the whole island. Things to Do in Kyushu | Fukuoka Onsen & Hot Springs Known for their healing powers and mineral-rich waters, the onsens of Kyushu are coveted by Japanese residents and tourists alike. Kyushu offers hundreds of onsens for...
Have you heard of Japan's "Land of Fire" before? Well, that is Kyushu! The third-largest of the islands that make up mainland Japan, Kyushu has numerous active volcanoes and abundant hot springs and also holds a distinct character within the Japanese archipelago, hence the intimidating nickname. However, the fact that it has a lot of eruptive mountains doesn't mean Kyushu isn't a great place to travel to—because it totally is! Beyond its pleasant climate, which nurtures lush landscapes and facilitates year-round exploration, Kyushu boasts a rich history as a crucial gateway for cultural exchange with mainland Asia. Ancient trade routes brought not only goods but also pivotal aspects of Japanese civilization, including Buddhism, which first took root on this southern island. This legacy is evident in the numerous historical sites and temples that dot the Kyushu landscape, whispering tales of bygone eras. The island's volcanic activity has not only shaped...
Picking out fun and memorable travel souvenirs is one of the best parts of any trip. Discover what to buy in Kyushu as well as the best places to shop for souvenirs in popular spots like Fukuoka and Nagasaki. In addition to personal photographs of the top sights and landmarks in Kyushu, souvenirs range from quirky snacks and beverages to traditional clothing and health and wellness products. Kyushu is a shopper’s paradise with a rich blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern retail offerings. Whether you’re strolling through local markets, boutique stores, or large shopping malls, there’s something for everyone to take home as a keepsake. For those looking to dive deeper into Japanese culture, Kyushu is known for unique regional products that reflect its natural beauty, rich history, and culinary traditions. Some of the most popular items include Kyushu’s famous ceramics and pottery, which are handcrafted by local artisans in...
