Fukuoka

As the biggest city in Kyushu, Fukuoka City is considered the gateway

to the country due to its close proximity to the Asian mainland. This

energetic  and bustling city is the center of the region’s politics, economy,

culture, fashion, and tourism. With Fukuoka International Airport offering

direct flights from Asia, Guam, and Honolulu, the city serves as an ideal

starting point for your Kyushu exploration.

Kitakyushu

Kitakyushu is the second-largest city in Kyushu and possesses numerous

tourist attractions. Its natural areas include Mt. Sarakura, which offers one

of the most dynamic night views in the world. You can experience

traditional Japanese culture in the castle town of Kokura, explore Mojiko

Retro facing the beautiful Kanmon Strait, and visit the industrial area of

Yahata, which boasts many World Industrial Heritage sites.

Dazaifu

Dazaifu is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Fukuoka

Prefecture  for experiencing traditional Japanese culture. From the late

7th to the late 12th century, it served as the “Western Capital” of Japan

and the administrative center of Kyushu. Geographically, Dazaifu was

the front line for Japan’s diplomacy and defense, as well as a primary

gateway to the Asian continent.  

Itoshima

Itoshima is located next to Fukuoka City, with its north side facing the

Genkai Sea.  It has beautiful beaches and an intricate coastline created

by dynamic wave activity. A plain and several low mountains lie

between the coastline in the north and the Seburu Mountain Range in

the south, creating a serene a ranquil landscape.

Yanagawa

Yanagawa is a beautiful canal town featuring flat fields that face the

calm Ariake Sea. The area was originally created through the

reclamation of the shallow sea, with a network of canals constructed

for daily life and agriculture.

Once a castle town of the Tachibana Domain, Yanagawa is famous

today for its scenic canal boat cruises and delicious eel cuisine.

Munakata & Fukutsu

Munakata Region is located in the western part of Fukuoka Prefecture,

facing the Genkai Sea. It is home to beautiful coastal scenery and sacred

sites designated as a UNESCO World Heritage, titled “Sacred Island of

Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region.

Asakura

Asakura is located in the south of Fukuoka Prefecture and spreads

across the Chikugo Plains of the Chikugo River basin. It is a thriving

agricultural area and possesses natural scenery that is rich and relaxing.

The area also includes the tranquil Harazuru Onsen resort on the river

and the historical Akizuki Castle Ruins.

Ukiha

The most enjoyable experience is fruit picking throughout the year.

Ukiha is blessed with nature, where many orchards spread out at the foot

of the Mino Mountain Range. Yoshii, located in the center of Chikugo,

flourished as a post town during the Edo period. Today, there are a lot of

sake breweries in the area.

Yame

Known as the home of Japanese green tea, Yame is a tranquil rural region

famous for its tea cultivation and traditional crafts. For a truly special

experience, we recommend tasting Gyokuro tea – the highest grade of

Japanese tea – cultivated in the beautiful Hoshino Village.

Saga

Saga Prefecture is situated on the Saga Plain, which stretches from the f

oothills of Mount Seburi down to the Ariake Sea in the south.

The region is home to the Yoshinogari Ruins, where rice cultivation in

Japan first began 2,400 years ago. Furthermore, the area made a great

contribution to the Japanese Industrial Revolution, serving as the starting

place of Japan’s modernization and industrialization.

Karatsu & Yobuko

Karatsu and Yobuko, located on the Higashi Matsuura Peninsula in

northwestern Saga Prefecture, have flourished since ancient times as a

vital hub for trade with mainland China.

Yobuko is renowned for its fresh, translucent squid sashimi. 

Takeo & Ureshino

Takeo, boasting a 1,200-year history, is located in western Saga, while

Ureshino is a renowned hot spring resort in the southwestern part of

the prefecture.

Arita

Arita is located in northern Saga Prefecture and is surrounded by

mountains. It was the first place in Japan to produce porcelain in the

early 17th century and is known as the birthplace of Japanese porcelain.

These precious pieces are famous for their bright, elegant designs

painted on the translucent white porcelain.

Imari

Imari is best known for Imari porcelain, which boasts a 400-year history.
The city borders Arita to the south and embraces the natural harbor of Imari

Bay. Nearby Okawachiyama is a famous pottery village; with its more than

30 kilns, it is a highly recommended place to visit.

Kashima & Tara

Kashima is located approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Saga City.

The main sightseeing spot is Yutoku Inari Shrine, and visiting the local

sake breweries is also highly recommended.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki City became Japan’s first international port city when its port

opened in 1571. As a result, it developed a unique blend of European,

Chinese, and Japanese cultures. The city offers many tourist spots each

with profound historical significance. Nagasaki served as Japan’s

gateway to foreign countries, the first area where Christianity spread,

and a key player in Japan’s industrial modernization. Sadly, it was also 

the site of the atomic bomb used in WWII.

Unzen

Unzen is a picturesque Onsen resort located on the Shimabara Peninsula

and surrounded by the Ariake Sea. It is situated at an altitude of 700

meters within the Unzen National Park. The scenery of Unzen Jigoku

(hells) offers an otherworldly atmosphere, with white steam rising over a

wide area. The natural beauty of Unzen can be enjoyed year-round.

Shimabara

Shimabara consists of two cities on the Shimabara Peninsula: Shimabara

City on the east side and Minami-Shimabara City in the south. The region

offers various attractions, including beautiful nature, relaxing Onsen, the

historic castle town of Shimabara, and Christian pilgrimage sites in

Minami-Shimabara, such as the Hara Castle Ruins and the Holy Mary

Kannon.

Sasebo & Huis Ten Bosch

Sasebo is located on the Kitamatsuura Peninsula and is famous for the

Kujukushima Islands, a beautiful area of numerous small islands often

called the “99 Islands.” Taking a cruise through these islands is a relaxing

and reinvigorating experience. Another must-visit attraction is Huis Ten

Bosch, a theme park modeled after a Dutch village. It faithfully

reproduces the charming streets and architecture of the Netherlands,

even including a stunning recreation of the Huis Ten Bosch Palace.

Hirado

Hirado holds a significant place in Japanese history as the first port

where Portuguese ships arrived in 1550. Shortly after, St. Francis Xavier

visited the same year, and Christianity was introduced to Japan here.
In the 1580s, the Portuguese established a trading post, soon followed

by the Dutch and the British. Hirado is located in northwestern Nagasaki

Prefecture, facing the Genkai Sea. The region is mainly composed of

the Kitamatsuura Peninsula, Hirado Island, and Ikitsuki Island, which

are connected by the Hirado Bridge and the Ikitsuki Bridge.

Kumamoto

Kumamoto is the third-largest city in Kyushu, ideally located in the

center of the island with the Aso region to the east and the Ariake

Sea to the west. The city is home to Kumamoto Castle, renowned

as one of Japan’s three premier castles. Visitors can also enjoy

shopping and local delicacies at the Shimotori shopping street,

one of the largest arcade districts in Japan.

Aso 

The Aso region boasts one of the world’s largest calderas, formed

by four periods of massive volcanic activity in ancient times. Within

the caldera lie the Five Peaks of Aso, including Mt. Nakadake-an

active volcano where visitors can view the crater up close

(subject to volcanic conditions). Daikanbo Peak, located on the

outer rim, is a must-visit spot that offers breathtaking panoramic

views of the five peaks and the serene green plains stretching below.

Amakusa

Amakusa is an archipelago consisting of numerous islands located

west of Kumamoto. The region features lush green landscapes and

unique geological formations, earning it the designation of a

“Japanese Geopark.” Visitors can enjoy various marine activities

such as dolphin watching and boat tours, as well as fresh seafood

and other local delicacies. Amakusa also holds profound historical

significance, particularly regarding its Christian heritage and

World Heritage sites.

Hitoyoshi

Hitoyoshi is a historic castle town situated along the Kuma River.

Often called Kyushu’s “Little Kyoto,” it is renowned for its Onsen

resorts, ancient castle ruins, and thrilling river boat tours.
Visitors can also explore fascinating limestone caves, discover

the region’s rich steam locomotive heritage, and visit local shochu

distilleries.

Takachiho

Located just south of the Aso region, Takachiho offers both

dynamic nature and a serene spiritual experience. The

breathtaking Takachiho Gorge was formed by ancient volcanic

activity from Mt. Aso. This spectacular, deep, V-shaped gorge

features impressive columnar joints, carved out over millennia

by the erosive flow of the Gokase River.

Hyuga

Hyuga is a bay-front city facing the Hyuga-nada Sea, famous for

its excellent surfing and beautiful seascapes. The spectacular

scenery features artistic columnar rock formations, sculpted by

years of weathering and the powerful, constant waves.

Miyazaki & Nichinan

The Miyazaki and Nichinan region, facing the Pacific Ocean, is

located in a subtropical climate zone. The landscape is stunning,

characterized by a beautiful combination of abundant sunshine

and ocean views. The area offers a variety of attractions, including

ocean resorts, unique wildlife habitats, and many historical and rel

gious sites such as ancient castles and seaside shrines.

Kirishima

The Onsen resort region is located at the foot of the Kirishima

Mountains. Kirishima Jingu Shrine is one of the most beautiful and

mystical shrines in Kyushu, completely surrounded by a deep forest.
Visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails offering spectacular mountain

views, and then relax in the area’s volcanic hot springs.

Kagoshima

Kagoshima is the southernmost major city in Kyushu. From here,

you can see Sakurajima Island and its active volcano, with plumes

of smoke and steam constantly rising across Kagoshima Bay.
The city prospered as a castle town during the Edo period, and

today, Tenmonkan serves as its largest shopping district.

Sakura-jima Island

Sakurajima is the iconic symbol of Kagoshima. Plumes of smoke

and steam can be seen rising almost every day from the active

craters of Minamidake. Formerly after a massive lava flow filled the

channel between them. a true island, it became connected to the

Osumi Peninsula in 1914 After a short ferry ride from the mainland,

visitors can access several observation points that offer stunning

views of the volcano.

Ibusuki & Satsuma peninsula

Ibusuki is a renowned Onsen resort famous for its unique natural

sand steam baths along the shores of Kinko Bay. Located at the

southern tip of the Satsuma Peninsula, the area offers spectacular

ocean views and is a peaceful rural region known as the “home of

the sweet potato.

Chiran

Chiran is a charming town located in the heart of the Satsuma

Peninsula. Often referred to as “Little Kyoto,” it features a beautifully

preserved historic Samurai district with a collection of traditional

residences and gardens.
Another significant site to visit is the Chiran Peace Museum, which

offers a profound look into the region’s history.

Experience the ultimate in rail travel with the Yufuin no Mori, one of

Kyushu’s most iconic sightseeing trains running between Yufuin and

Hakata.  From the moment you see its elegant emerald green exterior,

you’ll know you’re in for a special journey.

Discover the natural wonders of Kumamoto on the Yusuge-go, a

charming open-air trolley train running between Tateno and Takamori 

stations.  Designed with no windows to let you soak in the refreshing

highland air, this train offers a slow, scenic ride through one of the

world’s largest volcanic calderas.

This attraction utilizes the tracks and facilities of the former Takachiho

Railway. The round-trip journey takes approximately 30 minutes,

covering a 5.1km course from Takachiho Station to the breathtaking

Takachiho Railway Bridge.

The cruise ship takes you exploring Tachibana bay from Nagasaki

port and landing on Hashima island.

Now Hashima is a ruins called “Gunkanjima”, so called after its

resemblance to the silhouette.

Eat exactly like a local. Discover the honest, everyday meals that

fuel Japanese life at hidden neighborhood gems and storied shops

passed down through generations.

Dive into a world of flavor—from the delicate artistry of Sushi and

deeply satisfying bowls of Udon or Ramen to the comforting warmth

of a Donburi rice bowl and slow-simmered Oden. These aren’t just

meals; they are the timeless tastes of Japan.

A taste you have to travel for. Indulge in exquisite dishes crafted from

ingredients unique to this region—from Yanagawa’s traditional steamed

eel and the fresh treasures of the Genkai Sea to the buttery richness of

premium Kyushu Wagyu, such as Aso or Bungo beef.

Don’t miss the legendary Seki Aji and Seki Saba, rare delicacies found

only in these specific coastal waters. These are the soul of the land:

authentic flavors and a local dining experience that stays with you forever.

Experience more than a meal—witness a profound dialogue between

master artisans and the finest seasonal ingredients. Every dish is a

testament to decades of dedication and the fleeting beauty of the present.

We invite you to savor this living art.

Kusasenri-ga-hama

The beautiful prairie of 785,000 square meter in the crater. Spreads in

northern part of Mt. Eboshi that is one of the Aso five Mountains.

A big pond at its center and grazing horses round about make an idyllic

scene.

Mount Naka

Mount Aso is consist of five consecutive mountain located in the Caldera

where is 25 km across north to south and 18 km across east to west.

The most exciting mountain is Mount Naka with an altitude os 1506m

which is the largest active volcano in Japan.

Daikanbo

Daikanbo is located on the northern part of outer edge of the Aso Caldera.

The perfect spot view the northern part of caldera and the Aso five mountains.

The must visiting tourist spot in Aso, Daikanbo  literally means a big

observatory peak.

Aso South Panorama line

The Aso Panorama line is the Aso mountain roads that leads to the

summit of Mount Five mountains. This Panorama line is connected

from Minami-Aso to Aso Five mountains area.

Aso North Panorama line

The Aso Panorama line is the Aso mountain roads that leads to the

summit of Mount Five mountains. This Panorama line is connected

from Aso-city to Aso Five mountains.

Mount Tsurumi

Soaring 1375 metres into the sky, Mount Tsurumi is a breath taking

mountain overlooking Beppu that offers some decent hiking, rare flora

and outstanding vistas.  Visitors can take a ropeway 800 metres up and

in being surrounded by acres of rolling greenery. 

Yamanami Highway

Yamanami Highway is the Prefectural road Route 11 and one of the most

beautiful scenic driving roads in Kyushu. The road is connected Yufuin in

Oita  Prefecture and Minamioguni town in Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture,

the distance is 50 km.

Takachiho Gorge 

A narrow chasm carved through rock by the Gokase River.

Its nearly sheer cliffs are made of slow-forming volcanic basalt columns,

which resemble dragon scales where the stone twisted and flowed

during its formation.

Aso Takachiho road

The route connecting Aso and Takachiho offers a breathtaking transition

from volcanic landscapes to mystical deep gorges.

Cruz Sea

Your wishes come true here. The Cruz Sea is an area of ocean that

appears to have a cross in it when viewed from an observatory.

This cape is known as a ria coast; the “cross shape” was created by

the narrow terrain here being eroded by rivers, resulting in a cross-shaped

sea route.

Umagase

Exciting scenery created by raging wave of Hyuga Sea. The coastline here

is a ria coastline, marked by intricate waterways sandwiched between cliffs. 

The cliffs here are 70m high and the waves’ splashing against them is an

enchanting sight.

Harazuru : The “Double Beauty” Waters

Located along the serene Chikugo River, this resort is famous for

its “Double Beauty” springs, combining two different mineral types

that leave your skin incredibly smooth.

Unzen : A Volcanic Sanctuary in the Clouds

Set in a high-altitude national park, Unzen offers dramatic “Hell”

landscapes with hissing steam and a rich history as Japan’s first resort

for international travelers.

Beppu: The Onsen Capital of the World　

Boasting the highest discharge rate in Japan, Beppu is an energetic city

where steam rises from every corner. Explore the colorful “Seven Hells”

and experience incredible thermal variety.　

Yufuin : Sophisticated Serenity at the Foot of Mt. Yufu

A refined resort town blending chic art galleries, stylish cafes, and high-end

ryokans. It offers a tranquil escape with breathtaking mountain views.

Aso : Rejuvenation Amidst Volcanic Grandeur

Experience the healing power of the earth inside one of the world’s largest

calderas.  Aso’s springs are surrounded by vast grasslands and majestic

volcanic peaks.

Ibusuki: The Unique Natural Sand Steam Bath　

Famous for its world-unique “Sunamushi” (Natural Sand Steam Bath) on the

beach. Clad in a yukata and buried in geothermally heated sand, it’s the

ultimate detox experience.

The castle is not only one of Japan’s three greatest castles. Although

the 2016 earthquakes caused extensive damage and destroyed

several historic structures, restoration work has been progressing at a 

remarkable pace ever since. It now stands as a powerful symbol of

the region’s resilience and recovery.

Karatsu Castle is called Dancing Crane Castle. The Castle,

which stands beside Karatsu Bay, is unusual in that the stonework

rises directly out of the water, using the ocean as a natural moat.

Originally built by the legendary strategist Kuroda Kanbei, Nakatsu

Castle is famous for its unique seawater moat drawn directly from

the Seto Inland Sea. Explore the stunning contrast of its stone walls,

where old and new techniques meet, and climb to the top for a

panoramic view of the city and the sea.

Kitsuki Castle is known as the smallest castle in Japan, perched on a

plateau overlooking the Morie Bay. The view from the top offers a

stunning panorama of the ocean and the surrounding valleys.

Stands on a hill guarding Hirado Port and the Hirado Strait, which

used to be part of an important trade route between Japan and the

Asian mainland. The original fortress was built in 1599 by the local

Matsura Lord.