Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto
History & Culture, Off the Beaten, Nature & Wildlife
Many regions in Japan are renowned for history and culture; and Kyushu is one of them. Kyushu is located nearest to the Asian mainland and was the international gateway to Japan. Therefore, it has developed its unique culture over the years. From ancient to modern history, learn all Kyushu has to offer, from the lords of Dazaifu to Samurai of Kumamoto and World War II. A private session with an Arita pottery master will give you’re a rich experience of culture.
Car Transfer: Airport to Hotel with en route Sightseeing
Meet your driver at the airport and transfer to hotel with en route sightseeing. Upon check in, enjoy the evening at leisure.
Fukuoka Half Day Tour
Explore Fukuoka as your stepping stone into Kyushu and learn about Fukuoka’s distinctive local culture. Begin in Gion for its historical shrines and Buddhist temples, including Shofukuji, Japan’s first Zen temple. In April, Maizuru Park would be a prime spot for Cherry Blossom viewing. While you’re in the park, do not miss Fukuoka Castle Ruins.
Optional Craft Experience: Make Yame Tesuki Paper and Lacquer Chopsticks
Crafting with Yame Tesuki Japanese paper is one of the oldest cultural traditions in Kyushu. Apply this ancient method to make your own, one-of-a-kind postcards. In addition, you will create your own pair of chopsticks by applying a lacquer coating technique used on Japanese Buddhist altars.
Train Transfer: Fukuoka – Dazaifu
Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and accompany you on the train journey (approx 30min). If you prefer, a private car and driver can be arranged for this transfer.
Dazaifu Walking Tour (2hr)
This scenic walking tour starts at Dazaifu Tenmagu Shrine, dedicated to Michizane Sugawara, a 9th century politician and scholar deified and worshipped as the Shinto god of literature and learning, before heading to 7th century Kanzeon-ji Temple, a former mega-temple that played a key role in the history of Buddhism in Japan. It finishes with time to explore the Dazaifu Government Office Ruins – the political centre of Japan’s western capital.
After this tour, your guide will accompany you on the train journey and ensure your safe return to the hotel. If you prefer, a private car and driver and be arranged for this transfer. Upon return to the hotel, enjoy the evening at leisure.
Car Transfer: Fukuoka to Saga with en route Sightseeing in Arita
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Saga with en route sightseeing in Arita.
Fukuoka – Arita (approx 1hr 30min)
Arita – Saga (32min)
Arita Porcelain Park Tour
Arita Porcelain Park is one of the most fascinating sites in Kyushu. Designed in the style of a traditional German village, it features a massive reproduction of Zwinger, a palace in Dresden, the major focus is on porcelain, Arita’s signature product. For a hands-on experience on a potter’s wheel, proceed to a nearby pottery studio for a private session with a pottery master. Reward yourself after this session with a Soba noodle meal, hand-kneaded by the same pottery master. Your completed work will take about 15 days to cure and fire; and will be couriered to your home.
Car Transfer: Hotel to Takeo Onsen Train Station
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Takeo Onsen Train Station to catch Two Stars 4047 train to Nagasaki Train Station.
Train Transfer: Saga – Nagasaki
Enjoy this sightseeing journey on Two Stars 4047 train (approx 3hr), which is equipped with a range of comfortable and well-decorated cars. You can also enjoy a carefully curated selection of the region’s best local specialities to tempt your tastebuds, while enjoying the lovely scenery passing you by. Some of these sights are Ariake Bay, Omura Bay and Port of Nagasaki.
Car Transfer: Train Station – Hotel
Meet your driver in Nagasaki Train Station for transfer to hotel. Upon check in, enjoy your evening at leisure.
Full Day Dejima and Nagasaki Tour
Meet your driver, who will be at your disposal for the day, at the hotel lobby. At the end of this enriching day, your driver will ensure your safe return to the hotel.
This tour will begin in Dejima, a man-made island constructed to segregate the Portuguese residents from the Japanese population. Next proceed to Nagasaki Peace Park, located near the hypocenter of the atomic bomb explosion. Take a stroll along Teramachi Street, lined by many exotic shires and temples. End this day on a memorable note on Nagasaki Ropeway and Mount Inasa, voted top 3 night view in the world.
Optional: Nagasaki History Immersion
History Buffs may wish to spend time in Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum or learn more about Nagasaki’s Christian history in Twenty Six Martyrs Monument and Museum; and Basilica of the Twenty Six Holy Martyrs of Japan – the oldest Christian church in Japan.
Car Transfer: Hotel to Shimbara Port
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Shimbara Port (approx 1hr 22min) to catch the ferry to Kumamoto Port.
Ferry Transfer: Shimbara Port to Kumamoto Port
Sail across the Ariake Sea from Nagasaki to Kumamoto (approx 30min) and enjoy the spectacular sea view. Sure beats sitting in traffic.
Car Transfer: Kumamoto Port to Kumamoto castle
Your driver will meet you in Kumamoto Port for transfer to Kumamoto Castle for sightseeing.
After dropping you off at Kumamoto Castle, your driver will continue to your hotel with your luggage.
When sightseeing concludes, you may return to your hotel by a short walk. If required, driver and car can be arranged for return transfer to hotel.
Half Day Kumamoto Tour
Begin at the 400 year old Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s three major castles. Located within the castle, lies Kato Shrine, where military commander Kiyosama Kato, who constructed the castle and helped develop the castle town is enshrined. In the outermost area, lies Old Hosokawa Gyobu-tei House, former residence of high-ranking Samurai. In November, you can admire the beautiful scenery of the autumn colours. Once trodden by Samurai headed towards the castle, Sakuranobaba Johsaien is where you can now enjoy local street food and get a souvenir.
Optional Kumamoto Samurai Experience: Spirit of Miyamoto Musashi (100min)
This is highly recommended for those who wish to deeply experience the history and spirituality of Kumamoto Samurai. As Miyamoto Musashi is renowned as Japan’s foremost swordsman, a Samurai Master will tailor a program for you, according to your fitness level and experience to delve in Samurai martial arts. The Samurai master will also impart teachings and philosophy of Miyamoto Musashi and the Samurai spirit while enjoying Matcha and traditional Japanese sweets.
Car Transfer: Hotel – Airport
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Fukuoka airport (approx 1hr 40min).
Miyako Hotel Hakata • Fairfield by Marriott Saga Ureshino Onsen • Nagasaki Marriott Hotel • Hotel Nikko Kumamoto
With the concept “hotel of green, water, and light,” our landmark hotel located in front of Hakata Station features a natural hot spring with a waterfall flowing down from the roof. (Rooms: 242)
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Comfortable spaces and warm hospitality welcome guests to Fairfield by Marriott Saga Ureshino Onsen. Unwind in simple yet comfortable room in a modern western style with Japanese flair. (Rooms: 84)
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A short walk from the Shinkansen platform to the hotel entrance, from where a lift takes guests directly to the 7th floor lobby. This bright and open space features stunning panoramic views of Mount Inasa and the harbour. All 207 beautifully appointed guestrooms benefit from stunning views as well. (Rooms: 207)
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Hotel Nikko Kumamoto is located in a wonderful city, renowned for its pure spring water and unspoiled nature. The guest room offers a panoramic view of the mountains of Aso from the east and Kumamoto Castle from the west.
The interior, which makes use of the texture of wood, creates a relaxing space. Through their welcoming hospitality, your visit to Kumamoto will be a fulfilling and memorable one. (Rooms: 191)
The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka • Wataya Besso • Garden Terrace Nagasaki Hotels and Resorts • The Blossom Kumamoto
Situated in the heart of downtown in the main tower of the Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City complex, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka is a sophisticated retreat with views across Hakata Bay, six dining venues that complement the city’s renown as a lively food capital, and playful references to the local textile art throughout its spaces. Conveniently accessed by air, land, or sea, this oasis of luxury can be reached in less than fifteen minutes by car or public transport from Fukuoka Airport, the bullet train-serviced Hakata Station, and Hakata Port. (Rooms: 167)
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This vast space of more than 65,000 square meters is reminiscent of an art museum. The famous Ureshino Onsen is one of the best hot spring waters in Japan and is renowned for its quality and the beautiful, traditional Japanese culture. Guests will enjoy the precious times spent with loved ones surrounded by nature and the sounds of the streams and trees each season of the year. A traditional Japanese Sukiya style guest room.
All guest rooms at Suimeisou, including the VIP room "Senshin", which was relocated from a historic villa, are equipped with a cypress bath, and there are also rooms with open-air baths.
Our hotel occupies the 9th to 12th floors surrounding the courtyard. Our guest rooms offer scenic views of Kumamoto in every direction: Mt. Aso to the east; Mt. Kinpo to the west; Kumamoto City downtown area at a short distance; and the Ariake Sea farther away.
View MoreKindly call us at (852) 2885 2181 if you require any immediate assistance.
Call us at +852 2885 2181 or email us at enquiry@intriqjourney.com to start planning for a holiday that is completely tailored to your preferences.
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