14 Days Exploring Kyushu's Cities and Nature Itinerary

Travel from Fukuoka to Nagasaki (approx. 2 hours by train). Start your day with a visit to Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum to understand the city's history and resilience. Reflect on peace at the serene Urakami Cathedral nearby.

After lunch, explore Glover Garden, an open-air museum featuring Western-style mansions from the Meiji era. Enjoy stunning views of Nagasaki Harbor from this hillside garden.

For dinner, savor local delicacies at Shippoku Hamakatsu, known for its fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine. End your day with a visit to Mount Inasa for breathtaking night views of Nagasaki.

Travel from Nagasaki to Kumamoto (approx. 2 hours by train). Begin your day with a visit to Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's most impressive castles with its massive stone walls and beautiful gardens.

After exploring the castle grounds, head to Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden representing the 53 Stations of the Tokaido Road. Enjoy matcha tea at a teahouse within the garden.

In the evening, dine at Sakurano, offering delicious local cuisine including horse meat sashimi (basashi), a regional specialty. Conclude your day with a relaxing soak in one of Kumamoto's hot springs.

Travel from Kumamoto to Beppu (approx. 3 hours by train). Start your day with a visit to the famous 'Hells of Beppu' (Jigoku), a collection of unique hot springs that are more for viewing than bathing. Each spring has its own distinct characteristics, such as the blood-red Chinoike Jigoku and the boiling mud pools of Oniishibozu Jigoku.

After lunch, enjoy a relaxing soak in one of Beppu's many onsen. Head to Takegawara Onsen, one of the oldest and most iconic hot spring baths in Beppu, known for its sand baths where you can be buried in naturally heated sand.

For dinner, savor local seafood at Kamesho Kurukuru Sushi, a popular conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Afterward, take a stroll along Beppu's waterfront and enjoy the illuminated foot baths at Beppu Park.

Travel from Beppu to Yufuin (approx. 1 hour by train). Begin your day with a visit to Lake Kinrin, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and often shrouded in mist. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake and visit the nearby Yufuin Floral Village, a charming area with quaint shops and cafes.

After lunch, explore Yufuin's art scene by visiting the Kyushu Yufuin Folk Craft Village and the Artegio Museum, which features contemporary art and music exhibits. Don't miss out on trying some local sweets at B-Speak, known for its delicious cheesecakes.

In the evening, dine at Hidamari, offering traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. End your day with a relaxing soak in an open-air onsen at one of Yufuin's ryokan inns.

Travel from Yufuin to Aso (approx. 2 hours by train). Start your day with a visit to Mount Aso, one of the world's largest active volcanoes. Take the ropeway up to Nakadake Crater for stunning views of the volcanic landscape.

After lunch, explore Aso Kuju National Park, home to beautiful grasslands and scenic hiking trails. Visit Kusasenri-ga-hama, a vast grassy plain perfect for horseback riding or simply enjoying nature.

For dinner, try local specialties at Akaushi no Yakata, known for its delicious Akaushi beef dishes. Conclude your day with stargazing at Aso Milk Road Observatory for an unforgettable experience under the night sky.

Travel from Aso to Kagoshima (approx. 3 hours by train). Begin your day with a visit to the Sengan-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden offering stunning views of Sakurajima, an active volcano across the bay. Explore the beautiful gardens and historic buildings within the estate.

After lunch, head to the Shiroyama Observatory for panoramic views of Kagoshima City and Sakurajima. Then, visit the Kagoshima Aquarium to learn about marine life in the region and see various aquatic exhibits.

For dinner, enjoy local cuisine at Kurobuta Yokocho, known for its delicious Kurobuta (black pork) dishes. Afterward, take a relaxing evening stroll along Dolphin Port, a waterfront area with shops and cafes.

Travel from Kagoshima to Yakushima by ferry (approx. 2 hours). Start your day with a visit to Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, a lush forested area known for its moss-covered rocks and ancient cedar trees. This mystical forest inspired the setting for Studio Ghibli's film 'Princess Mononoke'.

After lunch, hike through Yakusugi Land, home to some of Japan's oldest living trees, including the famous Jomon Sugi which is estimated to be over 7,000 years old. The trails offer various routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Yakushima Night Tour offers an enchanting experience where you can explore the island's nocturnal wildlife and enjoy stargazing away from city lights. For dinner, try local seafood at Iso no Kaori, known for its fresh sashimi and grilled fish.

Miyazaki Shrine Visit is a must-see attraction where you can learn about Shinto traditions and admire the beautiful shrine architecture surrounded by lush greenery. Travel from Yakushima to Miyazaki (approx. 4 hours by ferry and train).

Udo Shrine Tour takes you to this unique shrine built into seaside cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The shrine is dedicated to Yamasachihiko, a deity associated with maritime safety and good fortune.

For dinner, savor local specialties at Omiya, famous for its chicken nanban (fried chicken with tartar sauce). End your day with a relaxing walk along Aoshima Island's beachside promenade.

Travel from Miyazaki to Takachiho (approx. 2.5 hours by train and bus). Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Takachiho Gorge, where you can rent a rowboat and paddle through the crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery.

After lunch, explore the Amano Iwato Shrine, a sacred site linked to Japanese mythology. The shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection. Nearby, visit the Amano Yasugawara cave, where it's said that gods gathered to discuss how to lure Amaterasu out of her hiding place.

For dinner, enjoy local cuisine at Takachihoya, known for its delicious dishes made with fresh regional ingredients. In the evening, attend a traditional Yokagura dance performance at Takachiho Shrine, showcasing ancient Shinto rituals and folklore.

Travel from Takachiho to Kurokawa Onsen (approx. 2 hours by bus). Start your day with a relaxing soak in one of Kurokawa's many outdoor hot spring baths (rotenburo), surrounded by natural beauty. The area is known for its charming ryokan inns and scenic onsen baths.

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Kurokawa's quaint village streets lined with traditional wooden buildings and shops selling local crafts and snacks. Don't miss out on trying some onsen tamago (hot spring eggs) cooked in the natural hot spring waters.

For dinner, savor kaiseki cuisine at Yamamizuki, offering multi-course meals featuring seasonal ingredients. End your day with another relaxing soak in an open-air bath under the stars.

Travel from Kurokawa Onsen to Usuki (approx. 3 hours by bus and train). Begin your day with a visit to the Usuki Stone Buddhas, a collection of ancient stone carvings dating back to the Heian period. These impressive statues are designated as National Treasures of Japan.

After lunch, explore Usuki Castle Ruins Park, where you can wander through beautiful gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the city from atop the castle ruins. The park is especially lovely during cherry blossom season.

For dinner, try local seafood at Sushi Tsubaki, known for its fresh sushi and sashimi made with locally sourced fish. Conclude your day with a peaceful evening walk along Usuki's historic streets lined with traditional buildings.

Return to Fukuoka from Usuki (approx. 2 hours by train). Start your day with a visit to the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of learning and culture. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is especially popular during plum blossom season.

After lunch, explore the Kyushu National Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kyushu and its historical connections with Asia. The museum's modern architecture is also a sight to behold.

Fukuoka Food Tour offers an immersive experience where you can sample various local delicacies such as Hakata ramen, mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and motsunabe (offal hotpot). For dinner, enjoy these local flavors at Yatai Stalls, where you can dine at one of Fukuoka's famous open-air food stalls.

Nokonoshima Island Park Visit is a perfect way to spend your last day in Kyushu. Take a short ferry ride from Fukuoka to Nokonoshima Island and explore its beautiful flower gardens, scenic walking trails, and stunning views of Hakata Bay.

Ohori Park Boat Ride allows you to enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Ohori Park's large pond. Afterward, visit the nearby Fukuoka Art Museum which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.

Farewell Dinner Cruise offers a memorable way to end your trip with a dinner cruise on Hakata Bay. Enjoy delicious cuisine while taking in the night views of Fukuoka's skyline. For your final meal in Kyushu, savor local dishes at Hakata Motsunabe Yamanaka, known for its flavorful motsunabe hotpot.