7-10 Day Kyushu Itinerary: Japan’s Underrated Island Region

Looking for a tried-and-tested Kyushu itinerary to avoid crowds found in the major cities of Japan? After my first visit to the Kyushu region, I quickly realised this is one of the most underrated destinations in the country — so much so, I had to visit twice in one year from Australia to see its beauty in different seasons!

I’ve been exploring The Land of the Rising Sun almost biannually for the past decade (and written all about it on my Japan travel blog). I must say, the untouched charm of Kyushu features some of the most incredible natural scenery I’ve ever seen. And you’ll soon see for yourself, too.

As with all my travel guides, this itinerary for Kyushu in 7 days takes travel times and logistics into consideration to help keep expectations realistic. While I personally started with two base cities and explored surrounding areas as day trips from them, you may wish to spend overnight in some places — I’ll explain why as we go.

If you’re wanting an easy-to-follow Kyushu travel itinerary for 7-10 days that utilises both car and train to cover well-known areas and hidden gems overlooked by foreign visitors (plus tips for driving), read on for more!

How to get to Kyushu from mainland Japan

Tokyo to Kyushu

As bullet trains will take over 6 hours, the most time efficient option from Tokyo is to fly. Flight time from Tokyo Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT) airports to airports in Kyushu is around 2 hours. Airports in Kyushu include:

• Kumamoto (KMJ)
• Fukuoka (FUK)
• Nagasaki (NGS)
• Miyazaki (KMI)
• Kagoshima (KOJ)

TIP: I recommend flying into Nagasaki, the scenery is breathtaking (not to mention an incredible sight landing on the small island!)

Kyoto/Osaka to Kyushu

• Flight time from Kyoto or Osaka to airports in Kyushu is 1 hour 20 mins.
• Bullet trains will take around 2 hours 45 minutes from Kyoto or Osaka to reach Fukuoka. 

Hiroshima to Kyushu

• The Tokaido-Sanyo shinkansen (bullet train) is the most time efficient option from Hiroshima, at just over an hour to reach Fukuoka.

7-10 Day Kyushu Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Home to several of Japan’s active volcanoes that have been manipulating the landscape for millions of years, the striking reminders of Mother Nature’s power are never far away throughout Kyushu in Japan.

Believed to be the location where the Goddess of the Sun was created and where Japan’s Emperors were descended from since ancient times, the alluring facets of Kyushu are woven into a fabric rich in history and pristine beauty. 

Fast forward to more modern times to the Edo Period (1603 – 1868), Japan closed itself off to outside world for 220 years. During this time, Dejima Island in Nagasaki was created to do business with Dutch traders, leaving remnants of this time still able to be seen today.

So, how many days do you need in Kyushu? My Kyushu 7 day itinerary will cover these facets, as well as visit the world’s largest night illumination event. It will also provide options for you to turn it into a Kyushu 10 day itinerary if you wish to extend your time!

 
With that said and done, let’s get started with the one week itinerary for Kyushu Japan!

DAY 1: Fly into Nagasaki & Huis Ten Bosch

Welcome to Kyushu! The first day of our Kyushu itinerary is dedicated to Huis Ten Bosch, home to the world’s largest winter illumination event.

But no matter the time of year, this Dutch theme park celebrates the lengthy trade connection between Japan and the Netherlands. You’ll learn more about this in Nagasaki city later. It is such an impressive sight and one of the most fun places to visit in Kyushu!

TIP: Unless travelling with children, I don’t think most visitors need to spend a full day at Huis Ten Bosch. Tickets are discounted after 3pm so that’s what I personally did. Buy Huis Ten Bosch tickets in advance here.

Nagasaki Airport to Huis ten Bosch

Huis Ten Bosch is located in Sasebo, about 1 hour north of Nagasaki Airport by express bus. Purchase a ticket from the machine and head to Platform 2. Timed with arriving flights, the bus takes you directly to the theme park entrance. Super convenient!

Things to do at Huis Ten Bosch

TIP: Read more details in my full Huis Ten Bosch review, filled with plenty of tips for your visit!

• Pass through the Welcome Gate & admire the working windmills amongst gardens of flowers in Adventure Town.
• Feel like you’re at a Dutch town square in Attraction Town, take part in the many virtual reality activities & ride Japan’s first 3-storey merry-go-round.
• Feel like you’re at a teamLab exhibition in the colourful buildings of the Fantasia City of Lights area.
• Grab a bite to eat in the Amsterdam City area and be blown away at the beautiful Museum of Glass.
• Head up the Domtoren Observation Platform for views over the park in Tower City or from the White Ferris Wheel.
• Venture into the Art Garden as the sun sets to watch the night illuminations come to life.
• Don’t miss the special Kingdom of Lights performance during the winter months!

DAY 2: Arita

With four centuries of history to uncover and located in Saga Prefecture, Arita is prized as the birthplace of porcelain in Japan.

Dedicated to local craftsmen, its main attraction is Tozan Shrine with a unique blue and white torii gate standing proudly on a hillside.

It’s the perfect place immerse yourself in amongst Edo Period architecture, lazily stroll around the town and even pick up different kinds of exceptionally crafted white porcelain. The viewpoints over Arita below are not to be missed, either!

Sasebo to Arita

From Huis Ten Bosch Station, take the local JR Omoura line to Haiki Station, then switch to the JR Sasebo Line to Kami Arita Station, 45mins. This journey is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Kyushu Pass.

Things to do in Arita

TIP: Read more details in my Arita day trip itinerary! 

• Feast on a delicious lunch showcasing a modern twist on locally-made porcelain at Arita Porcelain Lab.
• Explore the Tonbai Wall Alleys, made from 400-year old fireproof bricks (and see what other ceramics you can find embedded in the walls!)
• Take a look through the easily missed Arita Ceramic Museum, only one of three in the entire word dedicated to pottery.
• Admire the craftsmanship of the iconic blue porcelain torii at Tozan Shrine.
• Take in sweeping views over the town from the elevated Lee Sam Pei Monument and learn about Korea’s role in the Japanese porcelain industry.
• Finish your one day Arita itinerary by taking the lovely walk to Arita Station and find the ceramic features hiding in plain sight.

DAYS 3-4: Nagasaki

Nagasaki had been on my long list of places to visit in Japan for several years and let me tell you, it absolutely exceeded my high expectations.

While Nagasaki unfortunately shared the same fate as Hiroshima during WWII, today this beautiful harbour city is filled with unforgettable viewpoints and rich history.

Sasebo to Nagasaki

From Huis Ten Bosch Station, take the JR Seaside Liner to Nagasaki Station, 75mins. This journey is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Kyushu Pass if you have either.

Things to do in Nagasaki city

TIP: Read more details in my 2 days in Nagasaki itinerary!

• Be humbled by the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park & Fountain of Peace (and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum if you’re able).
• See the remarkable one-legged torii of Sanno Shrine, which split in half due to the force of the atomic blast.
• Admire the beauty and resilience of Sanno Shrine’s giant camphor trees, which sprouted green shoots the following year after the bombing.
• Explore more sweeping views over house-covered hillsides from the Mimami-Yamate district (and sample its delicious custard pudding!), as well as visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Oura Catholic Church.
• Eat your way around Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, one of Japan’s 3 largest alongside Yokohama and Kobe. Don’t miss Confucius Shrine with its beautiful scholar sculptures with faces said to resemble anyone who visits!
• Stroll along Meganabashi Bridge, dating back to 1634. It’s known as “spectacle bridge” to locals due to its reflection appearing to take on a pair of glasses.
• Finish your 2 day Nagasaki itinerary by taking the scenic cable car up to Mount Inasa to watch the sunset over the city, before slowly transitioning into one of the world’s only three “Million Dollar Night Views” alongside Hong Kong and Shanghai.

DAY 5: Kumamoto

Tomorrow we’ll pick up the car and begin our exciting day trips from Kumamoto. In the meantime for today after arriving in Kumamoto, we’ll spend most of our time exploring its expansive castle grounds, the main draw card for the city.

While a major earthquake in 2016 destroyed some parts of Kumamoto Castle, it is fascinating to see and is one of Japan’s top 3 castles alongside Matsumoto and Himeji. The main keep is a reconstruction, however much of the castle has stood the test of time in its original condition.

Nagasaki to Kumamoto

• From Nagasaki Station, take the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen to Takeo-Onsen Station. Switch to the Express train to Shin-Tosu Station, then take the Kyushu Shinkansen to Kumamoto Station, around 2 hours.
• Alternatively, you can drive from Nagasaki to Shibamara and take a ferry over to Kumamoto but this can take longer.

Things to do in Kumamoto

Here are some things to add to your one day Kumamoto itinerary:

• Pick up plenty of locally crafted foods and handicrafts around the old Josaien Kumamoto Castle Shops surrounding the castle. If timed right, you may even catch a samurai performance.
• Make your way through Kumamoto Castle Museum inside the castle. There are fourteen areas inside that explore:
  • Projection mapping of damage caused to the castle in the 2016 quake
  • Interactive construction techniques of the castle’s stone walls
  • Trying on Japanese armour and clothes from the Sengoku and Edo Periods
  • Learning about the Satsuma Rebellion
  • Model replicas of Kumamot Castle made from Lego and wood
  • Plus many more things to experience, details on the official website.
• Shop for more Japanese souvenirs along Shimatori Shopping Arcade.
• Keep an eye out for Kumamon, this beloved black bear is Kumamoto Prefecture’s mascot and can be found almost everywhere you look. Appearing on snacks, merchandise and even cars, he’s the most popular mascot in the country. I especially loved seeing his surprised little face on the airport TV when it came time to board my flight at the end of this Kyushu itinerary!

DAY 6: Takachiho

And now begins our Kyushu driving itinerary! Today we’ll uncover one of the most beautiful places in Japan I’ve had the pleasure of visiting in Miyazaki Prefecture – the Takachiho area.

This is a very spiritual area with origins tied to the founding kami (gods) of Japan, so it is an important site for local prayer. While some foreign tourists do make it to Takachiho Gorge, they completely overlook a nearby site that is equally as beautiful.

TIP: Read my guide for things to know when driving in Japan as a tourist, including the car rental process, what you’ll need in advance, navigation, parking and much more!

Kumamoto to Takachiho

2 hours east of Kumamoto by hire car on the 218 highway, 77 kms.

Things to do in Takachiho

TIP: Read more details in my itinerary for a Takachiho Gorge day trip!

Here are some things to add to your one day Takachiho itinerary:

• Don’t miss the dazzling turquoise waters flowing through Takachiho Gorge. Having been on my bucket list for years, this natural gem did not disappoint! It’s impossible to take a bad photo here, but other intriguing things for me were the volcanic rock formations and the crystal clear ponds nearby. TIP: Book your boat hire a week in advance through their website as they are quite popular and sell out. 
• Take the breathtaking hike alongside a mossy river to Takachiho Amano Iwato Shrine (Amanoyasukawara Shrine). Legend says Amaterasu, the Sun goddess, once became so enraged by her brother she hid herself into this cave using a boulder as its door, sending the world into darkness. Eventually, a dancing deity lured her out of hiding (more below) and the boulder door was launched to Nagano where you can still see it today!
• Walk across the Himuka Myth Road to the East Sanctuary (Higashi Hongu) of Amano Iwato Shrine, where a statue of Ame no Uzume no Mikoto (the deity who lured Amaterasu) rotates to music and 7 sacred cedar trees are aligned on a cliff edge. Amaterasu is the most the important kami in all of Japanese mythology.
• Either stay until 8pm to catch the Takachiho Kagura, a sacred ritual dance held at Takachiho Shrine. Or, drive back to Kumamoto with crater views of Mount Aso through the incredibly scenic Aso-Kuju National Park, a must for your Kyushu self drive itinerary.

DAY 7: Fukuoka

Your 7 day itinerary for Kyushu would conclude here, but please read on to the additional days to see why I highly recommend extending your time!

As I absolutely adore Japanese temples and shrines, I did spend the majority of my time in Fukuoka at Nanzo-in Temple rather than exploring the city itself. You may recognise the enormous 41-metre reclining Buddha statue the temple is known for.

Nanzo-in is 30 mins drive east of Fukuoka. However if you prefer, I’ve listed some ideas for things to do in Fukuoka city itself too. 

TIP: Before 1889, Fukuoka was known as Hakata, which is where the city’s train station hub gets its name.

Kumamoto to Fukuoka

1hr 40 mins north of Kumamoto by hire car on the E3 highway, 109 kms.

Things to do in Fukuoka

Here are some things to add to your 1 day in Fukuoka itinerary:

• For something different, start off at Civic Disaster Emergency Centre to learn more about natural disasters in Japan and how to prepare for them. It’s free, you can sit in a retired rescue helicopter, and I had to ride in its earthquake simulator for fun (it was much less scary than the real earthquake I encountered in New Zealand!)
• Try the famous Hakata Ramen for lunch in Canal City, or feast on snacks from the popular yatai (food stalls) Fukuoka is known for.
• Head up Fukuoka Tower for amazing views over the city.
• Visit the floating gazebo in picturesque Ohori Park.
• Admire the stunning reclining Buddha at Nanzo-in Temple. There is more to the temple than this statue and exploring further is worth the time:
  • Pass through the Seven Gods of Good Fortune tunnel.
  • Purchase an omikuji (fortune paper) and try your luck at throwing small feathered balls into barrels to make a wish come true.
  • Take a look at the Daikokuten Hall and climb the staircase up past the waterfall for a closer look at the stone statues.
  • Marvel at the fierce-looking statue of the God of Fire.
  • See the tree struck by lightning which is now believed to house a kami (god).
  • Pick up some locally-made specialties along the indoor Nakamise Street.
  • TIP: Shoulders, knees and tattoos need to be covered to enter Nazno-in. There are free shawls available at the temple office to borrow so please be respectful at this sacred site.
  • NOTE: Photography is not allowed in all areas, please remember to “be invisible” and adhere the corresponding signs.

DAY 8: Yanagawa

In my guide to Japan destinations off the beaten path, I’ve shared the things to see and do in the “Little Venice of Japan,” Kurashiki… And here we have Yanagawa, known as the “Little Venice of Kyushu!”

Built by hand over 400 years ago, the area’s 470 kilometres of canals were originally a defence system for Yanagawa Castle. They were also used to transport samurai and trade goods.

Today, the boatmen’s gentle singing fills the air as they paddle visitors through the still waters to melodies made popular by a local poet from the Meiji-era (1886 – 1942). Yanagawa is a real gem, acting as a picturesque time capsule from centuries past.

Kumamoto to Yanagawa

1hr 15 mins north of Kumamoto by hire car on the E3 highway, 61 kms.

Things to do in Yanagawa

TIP: Read more details in my itinerary for a Yanagawa day trip!

Here are some things to add to your one day Yanagawa itinerary:

• Don a traditional woven hat and enjoy a 70 minute boat ride around the canals to admire the old town from the water. Cost: Adults 1700 yen each. The boatmen skilfully navigate shallow waters and incredibly low-lying bridges, which is part of the fun!
• TIP: The queues for English-speaking boat rides were over an hour long during my visit, with the requirement to stand the entire time. A ticket system would have been better. I opted to skip that for a Japanese-speaking boat ride with a 15 minute wait instead which was also lovely, however I did miss some commentary about the local landmarks our boatman pointed out.
• Either catch the free shuttle bus back to where you boarded the boat or leisurely wander back on foot, taking in the sights of little shops and cafes as you go. Walking back takes around 1 hour. 
• Practise your Japanese phrases for tourists with locals! Here in Yanagawa, I’ve never had so many obachan and ojisan keen to speak to me about why I was visiting Japan whilst I was strolling beside the canals. 
• Collect an omamori from Mihashira Jinja shrine, the arched bridge near its entrance a lovely sight.
• Catch the Nakayama Oto wisteria festival in April or in early November, take part in the Hakushu Festival which celebrates the area’s beloved poet. By evening, the canals are illuminated by lantern lights from wooden boats gliding along.
• Try some unagi, Yanagawa’s famous local specialty. Served with rice and a secret sauce families have passed down for generations, this eel dish is more delicious than it may sound (it tastes like fish). 

DAYS 9-10: Kagoshima

Welcome to Kagoshima, Kyushu’s southernmost city and prefecture capital. Dominating the landscape and visible from many viewpoints is moody Mount Sakurajima, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes.

While I had hoped for clear skies around Mt Sakurajima, she decided to rain ash upon the city during the day of my visit. But don’t let this put you off – locals just pop up an umbrella to go about their day!

Kumamoto to Kagoshima

• 2 hours south of Kumamoto by various trains.
• 2hr 30mins by hire car on the E3 highway. I opted for the hire car even though it takes a bit longer because it is handy to have the car to get around in Kagoshima.

Things to do in Kagoshima

Here are some things to add to your one day Kagoshima itinerary:

• Start off at Kagoshima Sengan-en, former residence of the powerful Shimadzu clan family centuries ago with Mt Sakurajima its magnificent backdrop. Grab a map to stroll through each of the interesting gardens and shrines, as there are a few sights of significance. Cultural experiences here include:
  • Traditional Shihan Mato long-bow archery (so much fun!)
  • Satsuma Kiriko crystal cutting
  • Dressing up in samurai armour
  • Painting Satsuma pottery
  • Bamboo crafts, plus more experiences at Sengan-en’s official website.
• Sample some delicious Kagoshima wagyu for lunch downtown, which rivals Kobe and Hida beef.
• Head up to Shiroyama Park Observation Deck for magnificent views of Mt Sakurajima.
• Visit the Kagoshima City Museum of Art.

TIP: If you plan on spending the night in Kagoshima on your Kyushu holiday, take a look at Shiroyama Hotel Kagoshima. I almost decided to stay here, but opted to do a day trip to Kagoshima instead. The views of Mt Sakurajima from your private in-room onsen (hot spring) would be a magnificent way to end your trip!

More things to do in Kyushu Japan

Now we’ve finished with my Kyushu travel guide, are you wanting to expand your Kyushu road trip itinerary even further?

• See the Seven Hells of Beppu during one day in Oita Prefecture, an incredible geothermal site. This is similar to Wai-O-Tapu on the north island of New Zealand.
• Visit the fairytale themed Yufuin Floral Village and enjoy soaking in onsen (hot springs).
• Walk amongst palm trees and beaches of Miyazaki city’s coastline, a surfer’s delight and once a popular domestic honeymoon destination. The view from Udo Shrine over the ocean looks incredible.

Private & public transport used in this Kyushu itinerary 7 days – 10 days

Here are a few things to know about the public and private transport used when following this Kyushu itinerary:

• If you opt to include the Nagasaki, Huis Ten Bosch and Arita parts of this Kyushu itinerary, you won’t need a rental car for those days. The JR train lines and Kyushu Shinkansen (bullet train) are perfect for getting around without the need to find parking in these busier spots.
• To hire a rental car, I personally picked up mine at Toyota Rent-A-Car at Kumamoto Station and selected to return it to Kumamoto Airport for this Kyushu itinerary.
• The JR Kyushu Rail Pass doesn’t pay off for this itinerary, however if you prefer to have it instead of purchasing individual tickets you can purchase a JR Kyushu Pass in advance here, or a full Japan Rail Pass here if you’re spending longer in Japan and it works out for you. 
• You’ll need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to drive in Japan. These are a translation of your driver’s licence and can only be obtained in your home country beforehand. For my friends in Australia, use the AAA official website. In the UK, you can apply at your post office, or apply online for the United States and online for Singapore.
• Japan is one of the 76 countries that drive on the left hand side of the road, remember to always stick to it!
• When hiring a car, it’s easy to add an ETC card (Electronic Toll Collection) to your rental for a few hundred yen. This will save you fumbling around for change to pay at tolls on highways, and there can be a lot. Just pay the bill for any tolls when returning your car.
• Parking on the side of the road isn’t really a thing in Japan as there are designated parking areas. Usually you just need to pay a few hundred yen at the vending machine within the carpark.
• Most drivers are calm and accommodating towards others when it comes to merging and overtaking. Locals also drive sensibly above the speed limits. I never encountered speed cameras, mobile speed cameras or highway patrols on the roads like I frequently do in Australia.

Concluding this Kyushu Japan itinerary for 7-10 days 

To answer the question of “Is it worth going to Kyushu?”, by now I’m sure you’ll agree with a resounding yes that it is! Whether you choose to spend 7 days in Kyushu or extend it to 10 days, you won’t have to rush around and change hotels each night, while uncovering a side to Japan that most first-timers completely overlook in favour of generic experiences.

You’re guaranteed to “blend in” at some of Japan’s most beautiful temples and viewpoints, appreciate shinrin yoku in exquisite natural beauty, learn fascinating history from centuries past and partake in local cultural experiences – all without the major crowds that are overwhelming tourist attractions in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.

By utilising both a rental car and trains with my Kyushu free and easy itinerary, you’ll experience the best of both worlds. Take advantage of the convenience of each to lessen your worries and maximise your time exploring!

If you enjoyed this ultimate guide to Kyushu island, read more of my articles on Japan… Be sure to save my Japan packing list for later, do’s and don’ts of Japanese etiquette, how to start planning a trip to Japan, learn some basic Japanese phrases for tourists with my free cheat sheet, and even how to rent portable wifi in Japan — I have every step of your Japan planning journey covered from my multiple visits.

Feeling social? Join my free Japan Off the Beaten Path Facebook Group or follow along Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok and Instagram for more travel tips and inspiration for “blending in” in Japan and beyond!

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