Kyushu Adventure - 9 Days Itinerary

Take the morning ferry from Kagoshima to Yakushima Island. The ferry ride itself is a scenic experience, offering views of the surrounding ocean and islands.

Upon arrival, rent a car and start exploring Yakushima Island. Drive around to see some of the island's famous natural sights like waterfalls and ancient cedar trees.

Check into your local Airbnb and enjoy dinner at Iso no Kaori, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood dishes.

Spend the morning hiking in Shiratani Unsuikyo, a lush forest that inspired Studio Ghibli's film 'Princess Mononoke'. The hike offers various trails suitable for different fitness levels.

Visit either the Yakusugi Museum to learn about the island's ancient cedar trees or relax in one of Yakushima's hot springs. Both options provide unique insights into the island's natural beauty.

Return to your Airbnb for some rest. For dinner, try Yakushima Curry Kitchen, which offers delicious curry dishes made with local ingredients.

Take the morning ferry back to Kagoshima. Once back in Kagoshima, rent a car for your journey to Takachiho.

Drive towards Takachiho with a stop at either Kirishima Shrine or Amano Iwato Shrine. Both shrines are significant cultural sites with beautiful surroundings.

Arrive in Takachiho and check into your accommodation. Enjoy dinner at Takachiho Hanare, known for its traditional Japanese cuisine.

Start your day with a serene boat ride at Takachiho Gorge. The gorge is known for its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

Drive to Mount Aso, one of the largest active volcanoes in Japan. Visit the Daikanbo viewpoint for panoramic views of the caldera and surrounding landscapes.

Drive along the scenic Yamanami Highway, which offers stunning views of the Kyushu countryside. Arrive at your accommodation and enjoy dinner at Sen no Sato, a restaurant known for its local cuisine.

Drive to Beppu, a city famous for its hot springs. Start your day with a visit to the Hells of Beppu, a collection of unique hot springs that are more for viewing than bathing.

Enjoy a relaxing soak in one of Beppu's many onsen (hot spring baths). The experience is both rejuvenating and culturally enriching.

Dine at Kamesho Kurukuru Sushi, a highly-rated sushi restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes.

Drive to Fukuoka and start your day with a visit to Ohori Park. The park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a large pond perfect for a morning stroll.

Explore Fukuoka's cultural sites such as Kushida Shrine or the Fukuoka Art Museum. Both offer insights into the city's rich history and artistic heritage.

Enjoy dinner at Hakata Issou, renowned for its Hakata-style ramen with rich tonkotsu broth.

Begin your last day in Kyushu with a visit to the Fukuoka Tower. The tower offers panoramic views of the city and is a great spot for some morning photography.

Head to Canal City Hakata, a large shopping and entertainment complex. Enjoy some last-minute shopping or catch a show at the theater.

For your final meal in Kyushu, dine at Yoshizuka Unagiya, famous for its delicious grilled eel dishes. After dinner, head to Fukuoka Airport for your departure.

Take an early train from Fukuoka to Nagasaki. Start your day with a visit to Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum to learn about the city's history during World War II.

Explore Glover Garden, an open-air museum that showcases Western-style mansions from the Meiji era. The garden offers beautiful views of Nagasaki Harbor.

Dine at Shippoku Hamakatsu, known for its traditional Shippoku cuisine that blends Japanese, Chinese, and Western influences.