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Home > Japan > 8 DAYS KYUSHU HIGHLIGHTS

8 DAYS KYUSHU HIGHLIGHTS

Fukuoka, Beppu, Yufuin, Kurokawa, Takachiho, Kumamoto

History & Culture, Off the Beaten, Nature & Wildlife

Highlights

  • Kyushu is renowned for having the most sightseeing trains in Japan, enjoy this unique experience onboard Yufuin no Mori or Aru Ressha
  • Volcanic activity has blessed Kyushu with unique natural wonders from Jigoku Mori “Hells” to natural hot springs
  • Admire and explore Takachiho Gorge and Mount Aso the way you wish – by hiking, boating or in a chauffeur driven car
  • In a private session with artisans, observe how wooden Ya-kagura masks are carved
  • Be inspired by the Samurai spirit in Kumamoto, home to many notable Samurai

Kyushu is a region blessed with history, culture and natureVolcanic activity from 10,000 years ago shaped its unique landscape, which takes shape in the form of Takachiho Gorge and Mount AsoIt also sprang forth natural phenomena like Beppu’s hot springs and Jigoku Meguri “Hells”.  Soak in some of these sights on a memorable sightseeing train ride, which has recently gain popularity in Kyushu.  Awaken the Samurai spirit in Kumamoto, home to Kumamoto Castle where Samurai once stood guardAll these highlights will be yours to experience in this tour.

From

HKD 28,990 Per Person

8 Days 7 Nights

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 01 Arrival in Fukuoka

Arrival in Fukuoka
Fukuoka
Nil

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 cultureBegin in Gion for its historical shrines and Buddhist temples, including Shofukuji, Japan’s first Zen templeIn April, Maizuru Park would be a prime spot for Cherry Blossom viewingWhile 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.

Day 02 Fukuoka

Fukuoka
Fukuoka
Breakfast included

Train Transfer: Fukuoka – Dazaifu 
Your guide will meet you 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.

Day 03 Fukuoka / Beppu

Fukuoka / Beppu
Beppu
Breakfast included

Train Transfer: Fukuoka – Beppu on Yufuin no Mori 3  
Take a short walk along an underpass from your hotel to Hakata Station to board Yufuin no Mori 3 sightseeing train to Beppu (approx 3h 15min). If required, a porter will assist you with your luggage along the walk.  
 
Onboard Yufuin no Mori 3, enjoy local delicacies as refreshments and souvenirs unique to the train are available. Sit back and relax on comfortable seats and lounges as the train passes by sights like Minou Mountains and Jion-on-taki Fall. 
 
Families with children may choose the Aru Ressha train (approx 3hr 10min). The design of the interior and exterior of this train is inspired by whimsical and dreamy fairytales – truly a train from a childhood storybook come to life. Young ones and those with a sweet tooth will surely be tantalised by the included onboard menu, which includes 2 types of sweet treats. 
 
If you prefer, a private car and driver can be arranged for this transfer.

Car Transfer: Train Station to Hotel with en route Sightseeing 
Meet your driver at Beppu Train Station for transfer to hotel with en route Jigoku Meguri

Jigoku Meguri Hell’s Tour 
Beppu’s Jigoku-also known as the Seven Hells of Beppu-got the name from the mysterious and temperamental springs here. Boiling water and gas bubbled up from the land so violently that people in ancient times loathed its presence. You can witness the same expulsions of gas, iron oxide-rich steam and bubbling hot mud that have continued to spook guests and locals since the beginning of time. Experience all seven hells, each with distinctive characteristics. One of the hells is an “alligator hell”, so be sure to visit its reptilian residents. You may also try egg and pudding steamed in these natural hells.  

Day 04 Beppu / Yufuin / Kurokawa

Beppu / Yufuin / Kurokawa
Kurokawa
Breakfast, Dinner included

Car Transfer: Beppu – Kurokawa with en route Sightseeing in Yufuin 
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Kurokawa (Mount Aso) with en route sightseeing in Yufuin. 
Beppu – Yufuin (approx 40min) 
Yufuin – Kurokawa (approx 1hr 40min) 
 
This evening, in Kurokawa, be sure to spend some time relaxing in the hotel’s Onsen or explore the quaint surroundings of the hotel. 

Yufuin Day Trip 
Begin this day trip at Kononoe Yume Suspension Bridge, Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. It presents panoramic scenes of the verdant countryside, waterfalls and the valley below. In November enjoy beautiful autumn colours. Thereafter, embark on some nature appreciation and sightseeing by hiking. As part of this tour, 2 hiking options are available for you to choose from.

  • Hiking Option 1 (Easy): Yufuin Tourism Walk 
    For a more leisurely hike, choose the Yufuin Tourism Walk (4.5km, approx 1hr30min round trip, elevation gain 70m, beginner level). You will pass the main street of town, Yunotsubo Street to reach the highlight – Lake Kinrin. As hot springs flow into this lake, the water temperature is high throughout the year, creating a beautiful phenomenon of steam rising from the surface.  
  • Hiking Option 2 (Intermediate): Climb Mount Yufu-dake 
    For a more challenging hike, climb the 1,583m Mount Yufu-dake (approx 2hr 30min round trip, elevation gain 883m). The trail to the top zig zags up through lovely deciduous tree forests. Higher up the trees fade away and the glorious views open up across Yufuin. Nearer the top the path steepens but reaching the mountain’s peak is rewarded with a grand 360-degree panorama across Kyushu to Beppu Bay and Kunisaki.

Day 05 Kurokawa

Kurokawa
Kurokawa
Breakfast, Dinner included

Mount Aso Day Trip 
Meet your driver, who will be at your disposal for the day, at the hotel lobby. After today’s awe-inspiring exploration, your driver will ensure your safe return to the hotel. 
 
On this day trip you will explore the Mount Aso and its surrounding, which has been influenced by this volcano’s seismic activity. Mount Aso has a huge caldera with active volcanoes inside, including Nakadake crater and Komezuka volcanic cone. The drive up the mountain is one of the most beautiful roads in Japan, with breathtaking views of the mountains of the Mt. Aso range on one side and vast ocean vistas on the other. 
 
Besides Mount Aso itself, there are other gems nearby worth exploring, which are included in this tour. 

Visit to Nabegataki Waterfall 
At Nabegataki Waterfall, you can stroll amid the beautiful nature. Walk behind the cascade for a refreshing experience and see how the water has carved the rock over the centuries.  

Oshitoishi Hill Exploration 
Oshitoishi Hill is an area known as a sacred place and power spot. When the weather is clear you can enjoy a panoramic view from the top of the hill. You will find many big stones beautifully placed on the hill, which look as if they must have been placed there by some ancient civilization – there are numerous cracks, scars from lightning strikes, and erosion patterns on the surface of the stones that look like ancient writing and carvings. Truth is, they are entirely natural – the creation of the great volcano, Mt. Aso.  

Colours of the Season Appreciation at Kusasenrigahama 
Kusasenrigahama is a flat plain that spreads over the foot of Mt. Eboshidake. The gorgeous pastures where wild horses can be spotted, change colour with the season – deep green in summer, golden in autumn and silver in winter. Kusasenrigahama have inspired numerous songs and poems.  

Day 06 Kurokawa / Takachiho

Kurokawa / Takachiho
Takachiho
Breakfast, Dinner included

Car Transfer: Kurokawa – Takachiho with en route Sightseeing 
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Takachiho (approx 1hr 15min) with en route sightseeing. After today’s sightseeing, your driver will ensure your safe return to the hotel.  

Takachiho Day Trip 
The highlight of this day trip is Takachiho Gorge, formed over 100,000 years ago after eruptions from Mount Aso. it is an area rich with nature, scenery, adventure and mystical legends. There are a few ways to admire the gorge and Manai Falls, you can rent a rowboat or hike. As part of this tour, 2 hiking options are available for you to choose from.  

  • Hiking Option 1 (Easy): Gokase River Course 
    The Gokase River course (1km, approx 45min) is an easy hike, suitable for the entire family, which winds through flowing water and greenery. At the end of this course, you will arrive at the gorge and Manai Waterfall.  
  • Hiking Option 2 (Intermediate): Takachiho Course 
    Avid and experienced hikers can choose Takachiho Course (12.3km, elevation gain 200m, approx 5-6hr). This course first will pass Takachiho Shrine, draping branches and huge trees. The mid-point is the gorge and Manai Falls, where you may take a break on a rowboat. Continue to Mukaiyama Shrine, where green tea fields grow and quench your thirst with a cup of Maruono green tea. End off in Kamadase Market, where you can reward yourself with a good meal and local delicacies of Takachiho.  

Optional: Takachiho Packrafting Tour (3hr) 
In this packrafting tour with an expert guide, you will paddle an inflatable packraft along the Gokase River to a hidden waterfall. On the way, you will also visit Hattai-Ryugu Shrine. All equipment will be provided (wet pants, aqua boots, life jackets and helmet) and no prior water sport experience is required. Please bring a change all clothes. This activity is suitable for guests above 13 years. 

Ya-kagura Performance (1hr) 
Ya-kagura simply means “night kagura” in Japanese. Kagura is a sacred dance rooted in shamanism, which celebrates the gods of Shinto. Kagura dances are performed across Kyushu Island, where the gods of Shinto were believed to initially have descended from the heavens. In Takachiho, Ya-kagura has been performed for over 800 years.  

Optional: Private Visit to Kagura Mask Studio 
If you appreciate the arts, you will enjoy this private visit to the Wood Carving Artisan, where you will observe how the wooden masks used in the Ya-kagura performance are carved. In Takachiho, only two craftsmen, who are father and son, are skilled in this craft, which has been passed down from generation to generation.

Day 07 Takachiho / Kumamoto

Takachiho / Kumamoto
Kumamoto
Breakfast, Dinner included

Car Transfer: Takachiho – Kumamoto with en route Sightseeing 
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Kumamoto with en route sightseeing. 
After dropping you off at Kumamoto Castle, your driver will continue to the hotel with your luggage. When sightseeing concludes, you can return to the hotel by a short walk. If you prefer, a private car and driver can be arranged for this transfer from Kumamoto Castle to hotel. Upon check in, enjoy your evening at leisure.  

Half Day Kumamoto Tour 
Begin your day at Kumamoto Castle, which has a history of 400 years and is famous for being one of Japan’s three major castles. Located within Kumamoto Castles, lies Kato Shrine, where 16 century military commander Kiyosama Kato, who constructed the castle and helped develop the castle town is enshrined. In the outermost area of Kumamoto Castle, is the site of 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 some local street food and get a souvenir to remember Kumamoto Castle.

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.  

Day 08 Kumamoto / Departing Fukuoka

Kumamoto / Departing Fukuoka
Nil
Breakfast included

Car Transfer: Hotel – Airport 
Meet your driver at the hotel lobby for transfer to Fukuoka Airport (approx 1hr 40min) 

Hotels & Tour Price

Category 1

Indicative Cost Per Person (HKD)

Minimum 2 Pax HKD 46,490
Minimum 4 Pax HKD 28,990

Miyako Hotel Hakata • Morinoyu Resort • Yamanoyu Kurokawa • Solest Takachiho Hotel • Hotel Nikko Kumamoto

Fukuoka

Fukuoka

Miyako Hotel Hakata

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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Beppu

Beppu

Morinoyu Resort

Morinoyu is the hot-spring resort hotel where you can experience the green, silent, highland nature of Beppu. Its guest rooms are spacious and comparable with metropolitan city hotels but with magnificent natural views. All rooms are furnished with Simmons mattresses and premium amenities for your enjoyment. (Rooms: 353)

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Kurokawa

Kurokawa

Yamanoyu Kurokawa

Yamanoyu Kurokawa is a traditional Japanese hot-spring inn hidden away in the mountains, where you can forget the passage of time and calm your body and mind in its variety of indoor and outdoor baths. It houses two restaurants - a traditional Japanese-style Kaiseki restaurant and an Izakya-style restaurant where food is grilled in front of you. (Rooms: 8)

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Takachiho

Takachiho

Solest Takachiho Hotel

A modern, intimate hotel located near to the Takachiho shrine and gorge. (Opened: 2018; Rooms: 201)

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Kumamoto

Kumamoto

Hotel Nikko Kumamoto

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)

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Category 2

Indicative Cost Per Person (HKD)

Minimum 2 Pax HKD 53,980
Minimum 4 Pax HKD 36,680

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka • Terrace Midobaru • Kurokawaso • Takachiho Kamigakure Ryokan • Kumamoto Hotel Castle

Fukuoka

Fukuoka

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka, only three minutes’ walk from Hakata Station, the gateway to Fukuoka and the rest of Kyushu. With magnificent restaurants serving the season’s finest flavors, and meticulous service for all who enter.

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Beppu

Beppu

Terrace Midobaru

Overlook the beautiful city of Beppu at Terrace Midobaru, a modern haven nestled in serene green hills.
Your private room awaits, with sweeping panoramic views of the sparkling bay and the warm, healing waters of your own personal onsen bath.

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Kurokawa

Kurokawa

Kurokawaso

Boasting 6 different hot spring baths, Kurokawa-So is a traditional ryokan accommodation nestled in a tranquil valley along the river. It features some Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami (woven-straw) flooring.

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Takachiho

Takachiho

Takachiho Kamigakure Ryokan

Located about 8 minutes’ drive from the Takachiho Gorge, this ryokan has a total of eight detached rooms, all equipped with their own elegant and tasteful baths supplied with sacred hot water drawn from the Tamadare Falls deep in the gorge. Both dinner and breakfast are Japanese-style meals taking advantage of local ingredients.

Kumamoto

Kumamoto

Kumamoto Hotel Castle

Kumamoto Hotel Castle is located in downtown Kumamoto City, a verdant city and home to Kumamoto Castle. We offer highly personalized, impeccable service to make you feel at home.

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Category 3

Indicative Cost Per Person (HKD)

Minimum 2 Pax HKD 71,980
Minimum 4 Pax HKD 53,990

The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka • Kannawaen • Takafue • Shinsen • The Blossom Kumamoto

Fukuoka

Fukuoka

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka

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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Beppu

Beppu

Kannawaen

As the steam rises to the skies, a unique elegance lights up the star-filled heavens. It is as if you can reach up and touch the sky. As the seasons interweave, this is a place to escape from ordinary life, forget time and create a memory that is all your own. We will provide to you our utmost customer service as you enjoy a special moment with us here in Beppu, rich with its nature-blessed hot springs.

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Kurokawa

Kurokawa

Takafue

Takefue maintains a refined rustic style, the farm-type buildings all black beams and straw-and-plaster stucco. Interiors are likewise rustic, but with modern amenities and huge windows giving access to the lovely surrounding forest. The onsen hot springs are generated by the same geological processes that keep nearby Mt. Aso rumbling. There are numerous ryokan in the neighborhood, but the bamboo forest effectively muffles all sounds from outside the grounds, preserving the feeling of deep-forest privacy.

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Takachiho

Takachiho

Takachiho Ryokan Shinsen

A distinguished member of The Ryokan Collection. Shinsen is a discreet traditional hideaway with quaint rooms dressed in cypress wood and a private garden. The esteemed lady of the house also serves as the in-house Sommelier, ensuring the perfect match of wines with luxurious, seasonal cuisine. (Rooms: 15)

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Kumamoto

Kumamoto

The Blossom Kumamoto

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.

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COST INCLUDES:

  • Accommodation on twin sharing basis
  • Meals as stated
  • Tours as stated in private basis by English speaking guide 
  • Transfers as stated 

COST EXCLUDES:

  • International airfare and airport taxes 
  • Beverages in restaurants where meals are included 
  • Travel insurance 
  • Visa (if required) 
  • Personal expenses such as spa, laundry and bar bills 

ENQUIRE NOW

Kindly call us at (852) 2885 2181 if you require any immediate assistance.

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