Kyushu

Kyushu Region

Overview & Character

Kyushu, Japan’s southern gateway, is a land of volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, hot springs, and rich cultural history. With warm climate year-round, Kyushu combines natural wonders, historic sites, vibrant cities, and a distinct local culture. From active volcanoes and dramatic coastlines to samurai heritage and world-class cuisine, Kyushu offers experiences that are adventurous, immersive, and deeply authentic.

Areas of Kyushu

Fukuoka & Kitakyushu
Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu, is known for its lively food scene, including tonkotsu ramen and fresh seafood. Canal City offers shopping and entertainment, while Ohori Park and Fukuoka Castle ruins provide scenic urban escapes. Kitakyushu features industrial heritage sites, Mojiko retro district, and access to the scenic Kanmon Straits.

Nagasaki
Nagasaki blends European and Japanese history. Highlights include Glover Garden, Oura Church, and Dejima — reflecting its international trade legacy. Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum provide historical insights, while nearby Hashima Island (Gunkanjima) offers dramatic abandoned island scenery. The city’s Dutch and Portuguese heritage influences local cuisine and architecture.

Kumamoto
Kumamoto is famous for Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s largest and most impressive castles, and Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a classical Japanese landscape garden. Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, dominates the landscape, offering hiking, panoramic views, and unique volcanic landscapes.

Kagoshima & Satsuma
Kagoshima, often called the “Naples of the Eastern World,” sits under the constant presence of Sakurajima Volcano, an active volcano visible from the city. Nearby Sengan-en Garden showcases samurai heritage and beautiful landscapes. Kagoshima’s local cuisine includes kurobuta (black pork) and shochu, a distilled spirit unique to the region.

Oita & Beppu
Oita is famous for Beppu, Japan’s premier hot spring destination, with steam vents, mud baths, and traditional ryokan. Yufuin is a charming onsen town offering boutique stays, art galleries, and mountain views. Oita’s landscape combines volcanic activity with serene lakes and coastal scenery.

Miyazaki
Miyazaki offers subtropical beaches, lush greenery, and cultural sites. Takachiho Gorge features dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, alongside Shinto shrines and traditional mythology. Aoshima Island, with its unique “Devil’s Washboard” rock formations, is a popular coastal attraction. Miyazaki also produces delicious mangoes and local seafood.

Saga
Saga is known for its traditional ceramics, particularly in Arita and Imari, and historic sites such as Yoshinogari Ancient Ruins. The region combines gentle countryside, rolling hills, and coastal charm, making it ideal for cultural tourism and relaxed exploration.

Highlights & Experiences in Kyushu

Walk through Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji Jojuen Garden.
Visit Fukuoka’s food streets and historic shrines.
Explore Nagasaki’s European-influenced districts and Peace Park.
Hike or admire Mount Aso and Sakurajima Volcano.
Relax in Beppu and Yufuin hot springs.
Discover Takachiho Gorge and Aoshima Island in Miyazaki.
Experience traditional ceramics in Saga and samurai heritage in Satsuma.

Food & Drink

Kyushu is a culinary treasure, famous for tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka, shochu in Kagoshima, black pork in Satsuma, and fresh seafood throughout. Oita and Beppu offer local ingredients paired with hot spring experiences. Nagasaki fuses European flavors into unique dishes like champon and castella sponge cake. Miyazaki is celebrated for mangoes, beef, and tropical produce.

Why Visit Kyushu?

Kyushu is a region of contrasts — volcanic landscapes and serene beaches, historic towns and modern cities, hot springs and culinary delights. It offers adventure, relaxation, culture, and gastronomy in one diverse, welcoming region. From dramatic natural scenery to immersive cultural experiences, Kyushu captures the spirit of southern Japan.