Kyushu is the third-largest and southernmost of Japan’s four main islands. Known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, Kyushu attracts visitors with its natural beauty, historic sites, and delicious cuisine.
Kyushu is located southwest of Japan’s main island of Honshu, separated by the Kanmon Straits. The island is characterized by volcanic terrain, hot springs, fertile plains, and rugged coastlines.
Kyushu is comprised of seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. Each prefecture offers its own unique attractions and cultural heritage.
Kyushu has a long and storied history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. It was an important center of trade and cultural exchange during ancient times. Throughout history, Kyushu has been the site of battles, political intrigue, and the arrival of foreign influences.
Kyushu’s culture is influenced by its diverse history and geography. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese arts, such as tea ceremonies and pottery-making, as well as local festivals, regional cuisine, and dialects unique to each prefecture.
Kyushu is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, volcanoes, forests, rivers, and coastline. Highlights include Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas; Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cedar forests; and the hot spring resorts of Beppu and Yufuin.
Kyushu is renowned for its delicious food, which reflects the region’s abundant seafood, fertile farmland, and unique culinary traditions. Local specialties include tonkotsu ramen (pork bone broth noodles), kurobuta pork (black pork), mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and fresh sashimi.
Kyushu is well-connected by air, rail, and ferry services, making it easy to travel between prefectures and explore the island’s attractions. Major cities like Fukuoka and Kagoshima have international airports, while the Kyushu Shinkansen (bullet train) provides fast and convenient travel within the region.
Overall, Kyushu offers a diverse and rewarding travel experience, with something to offer every type of visitor, whether they’re interested in history, nature, culture, or cuisine.
10 Best Places In Kyushu Must Be Visited
Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s main islands, is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some must-visit places:
1. Fukuoka
Start your journey in this vibrant city known for its delicious food, shopping streets like Tenjin and Nakasu, and historic sites like Fukuoka Castle and Ohori Park.
2. Nagasaki
Explore the poignant history of Nagasaki, including the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. Don’t miss out on Glover Garden, which offers a glimpse into the city’s international past, and the picturesque views from Mount Inasa.
3. Kumamoto
Visit the impressive Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic fortresses, and Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a tranquil landscape garden. Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, is also nearby.
4. Beppu
Experience the natural wonders of Beppu’s hot springs (onsen), known for their therapeutic properties. Beppu also offers “hells” (jigoku), hot springs with unique characteristics like blood-red waters and bubbling mud.
5. Miyazaki
Explore the beautiful coastline and lush greenery of Miyazaki. Highlights include Aoshima Island, known for its unique rock formations, and Takachiho Gorge, famous for its stunning cliffs and waterfalls.
6. Kagoshima
Discover the volcanic landscapes of Kagoshima, with attractions like Sakurajima, an active volcano accessible by ferry. Visit Sengan-en, a historic garden with views of Kagoshima Bay and the volcano.
7. Yakushima
For nature lovers, Yakushima offers ancient cedar forests, some of which are over 1,000 years old. Hike through the mystical Yakusugi Land or attempt to reach the summit of Mount Miyanoura, the island’s highest peak.
8. Ibusuki
Experience the unique sand baths of Ibusuki, where you’re buried in naturally heated sand, said to have health benefits. Afterward, relax in one of the town’s many onsens.
9. Kurokawa Onsen
This picturesque onsen village in Kumamoto Prefecture offers a serene atmosphere surrounded by forested hills. Enjoy a traditional ryokan stay and soak in the therapeutic waters.
10. Oita Prefecture
Explore the diverse attractions of Oita, including Yufuin, a charming hot spring town with scenic views of Mount Yufu, and the Usuki Stone Buddhas, ancient Buddhist sculptures carved into cliffs.
Each of these destinations offers a unique glimpse into Kyushu’s diverse landscapes, culture, and history, making it a memorable destination for travelers.
10 Things To Do In Kyushu Japan
Kyushu, Japan’s third-largest island, offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Here are some things you can do while exploring Kyushu:
1. Enjoy Hot Springs (Onsen)
Kyushu is famous for its natural hot springs. Relax and rejuvenate in one of the many onsens scattered across the island, such as Beppu, Yufuin, and Kurokawa Onsen.
2. Explore Historic Castles
Visit iconic castles like Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s largest and most impressive fortresses, and Nagoya Castle, a symbol of Nagoya’s samurai past.
3. Hike Volcanoes and Mountains
Kyushu is home to several volcanic peaks, including Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture and Mount Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture. Hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
4. Experience Traditional Culture
Attend a traditional tea ceremony, try on a kimono, or participate in a taiko drumming workshop to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
5. Sample Local Cuisine
Indulge in Kyushu’s delicious regional dishes, such as tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka, kurobuta (black pork) in Kagoshima, and basashi (horse sashimi) in Kumamoto.
6. Visit Historical Sites
Explore historical sites like Nagasaki’s Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, which commemorate the atomic bombing of the city during World War II, and Huis Ten Bosch, a Dutch-themed amusement park in Sasebo.
7. Discover Nature’s Beauty
Explore the natural beauty of Kyushu, from the lush forests of Yakushima to the stunning coastline of Miyazaki. Don’t miss the Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture, known for its dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
8. Attend Festivals
Experience traditional festivals like Hakata Gion Yamakasa in Fukuoka, where participants race through the streets carrying elaborate floats, and Karatsu Kunchi in Saga, known for its colorful parade floats.
9. Shop and Dine in Vibrant Cities
Spend time shopping and dining in vibrant cities like Fukuoka and Nagasaki, where you can find everything from trendy boutiques to local markets and Michelin-starred restaurants.
10. Relax on Remote Islands
Explore the remote islands of Amami Oshima and Yakushima, known for their pristine beaches, dense forests, and unique wildlife.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or culture, Kyushu offers something for every type of traveler to enjoy.
FAQ
International Flights
This Tour Doesn't cover International Flights.
You Should book these flight yourself. We recommended flights that arrive around / after noon, as you can only check in to your hotel starting 15:00. If your Flight arrive in the morning, we can arrange half day tour with an additional charge of JPY 50,000 per group
What Is A Tour Companion?
Tour Companion is someone who accompany you tour in Japan. They can be a friends, family members, or even professionals hired to assist during the travel.
Tour Companion will help you with various things such us preparing tickets, taking pictures, booking a restaurant, navigating unfamiliar places, translating from Japanese to your language, and even providing company and making your private tour more enjoyful and joyful.
However Tour Companion may have less detailed information about regions, culture, and history outside Tokyo, as they might not be local to that specific area. Hence the service more cheaper.
What Is A Local Guide Japan?
A local guide in Japan is an individual who is familiar with a specific region or city in Japan and offers their services to tourists or visitors. They have in-depth knowledge of the local culture, history, attractions, and can provide valuable insights and assistance to enhance your travel experience.
They can lead you on guided tours of popular tourist destinations, such as historical sites, temples, shrines, museums, and scenic spots. They provide detailed information, share interesting stories, and help you navigate through the attractions.
Local guides can introduce you to unique cultural experiences, such as tea ceremonies, traditional arts and crafts workshops, calligraphy lessons, kimono wearing, or participating in local festivals. They can help you understand the customs and traditions of Japan.
If you don't speak Japanese, a local guide can serve as a translator and help bridge the language barrier during your interactions with locals, restaurant visits, or shopping experiences. They can also help you read signs and navigate transportation systems.
How Can I Pay ?
We Welcome payments through bank transfers or widely accepted credit cards like VISA, Mastercards, JCB, and American Express, We Also Receive Payment from PayPal.
Payment
- Payment 1 : 25% of the price, at least 60 Days Before Departure
- Payment 2 : 25% of the price, at least 30 Days Before Departure
- Payment 3 : 50% of the price, at least on the first day tour ( JPY Cash )
Can I Join a trip with another group ?
No, we only serve private tour.
Because your comfort and privacy are important to us, we only offer private tours for your group. And we don't mix with different group.
Can I Book A Package Without A Hotel ?
Ofcourse You Can, Don't hesitate to get in touch with us for details.
Could You Help Us Arrange For An Apartment In Japan?
We can book high quality, repurtable apartment in Japan. However we can't reserve AirBNB accommodations for your safety and comfort during your journey.
Can I Customize This Tour Packages?
Ofcourse you can. We can adjust our current tour plans to match what do you wanna plan in Japan.
Which means we can add or remove some parts in itinerary to make it fit your interest better.
Changes could be things like:
- Adding more days to the tour
- Opting for public transport on certain days
- Changing the hotel ( Upgrade or Downgrade )
- Removing some destinations
- Adding a new destination
Tailor- Made Tours
"I have looked through your existing tours, but none align with what I wanna plan for Private tour in Japan."
We can make tailor a completely new one based on what you like.
But before we start creating this tailor made itinerary, we need two things :
- Your budget details, let us know how much budget you wanna spend in Japan. This is suitable way to make a tour plan that fits with your budget. But please remember we only create custom tours if your budget is at least the same as our tour packages.
- Non - Refundable Planning Fee ¥ 20,000. This Money will be deducted from your final invoice.
Please fill form private tour request first.
Form Private Tour Request
Do You Offer Airfare Sales?
WISATAJEPANG only offer tour arrangements in Japan. We don't handle airfare sales. However, we will provide recommendations on your plan tour in Japan. We suggest that you procure your air tickets from thrustworthy airline.
Do You Offer Travel Insurance?
WISATAJEPANG is specialist organize private tour in Japan that can arrange land tour during in Japan. We don't provide travel insurance. We recommend that all guest obtain comprehensive travel insurance from a reputable company.
As each individual or couple has unique requirements, we cannot make specific recommendations for insurance companies.
Term And Condition
CANCELATION FEE
1. More than 30 days before departure: 10% of the total price.
2. More than 20 days before departure: 50% of the total price.
3. Less than 10 days before departure: 100% of the total price.
ABOUT VISA
1. The Japanese Embassy has full authority to determine the approval or rejection of visa applications. WISATAJEPANG does not have the ability to influence this decision.
2. The Embassy of Japan may request additional documents for visa applications, and the submission of documents does not guarantee visa approval.
3. WISATAJEPANG cannot be held responsible if participants are denied entry or deported by Japanese Immigration, even if they possess a valid visa and appropriate documentation. The final decision regarding entry into Japan lies solely with Immigration authorities and cannot be contested.
4. In the event that a participant is deported from Japan or unable to enter despite holding a valid visa and having fully paid for the Japan tour packages provided by WISATAJEPANG, the payment made cannot be refunded.
5. Visa fees must still be paid, regardless of whether the visa application is approved or rejected by the respective embassy.
6. If an application is rejected after flight tickets and hotel vouchers have been issued prior to visa approval, cancellation fees for the flight tickets and hotel reservations will apply according to the policies of the airline and hotel.
7. If a participant has committed or is found guilty of an offense in Japan leading to deportation and the subsequent inability to continue the tour, WISATAJEPANG will cooperate with the authorities and no refund will be provided for the amount already paid.
Reviews
Thank you so much Uncle Fadli
Thank you so much Uncle Fadli
Thank you all, God willing, we’ll come here again later
🙏🙏
Sami-sami, God willing, next time will be longer🙏
You’re welcome everyone, thank you too, I’m sorry if my children are fussy
Thank you, Mas Hamid, Mas Wiwit, Mbak Saefah, Mas Adam.. we bid farewell to Tokyo for now... until we meet again.... 👍🙏
Thank you, Mas Hamid, Mas Wiwit, Mbak Saefah, Mas Adam.. we bid farewell to Tokyo for now… until we meet again…. 👍🙏
Thank you to Mas-Mas and Mba from the Japan trip! Our apologies for any shortcomings, both physically and spiritually.
Also, thank you to Mb Saefah and Mas Adam.. apologies if there were any actions or words that were not pleasing. Hopefully, we can meet again soon..
AZAZ…😁
Mas Hamid, Mas Wiwit, thank you, we have returned to Jakarta…
Thank you also for WISATAJEPANG
Thank you also for WISATAJEPANG, Sis Wiwit, Dira, Arya who have guided us while we were in Japan 🙏🙏
Thank you too Mr. Hamid
Thank you also Mr. @Japan Private Tour By Wisatajepang.jp Hamid and team for helping arrange transportation, itinerary too. Thank you Mr. @Mas Bram Tokyo for helping us driving around Japan and recommending delicious food 👍🏻👍🏻 Continued success for Official Japan Tour 😊😊
Thank you Mas Wiwied and your handsome and beautiful sisters
Thank you Mas Wiwied and your handsome and beautiful sisters, we were so happy being guided by you, hooe to see you again soon. Sayonara mata aimashou
Thank you so much for everything Pak Wiwit, Carrel, Aline and Gen. It’s safe to wait in the lounge now.
So happy this holiday🇯🇵, want to come back soon ❤️💕