Kyushu Tours



This is Kyushu.


 An amazing part of Japan that has incredible nature and unbelievable views.

Our hope is to show people how amazing and impressive the special and rather untapped region of Japan really is.  I am sure you will agree with our unique itineraries and attention to every facet of our tours.

Here are just a few of the ports that we cover with the Kyushu region and the relevant Shore Excursions for each one.


1) Kagoshima International Cruise Terminal:  Kagoshima Prefecture



 


Kagoshima has something for everyone.  Firstly, it has great weather all year long.  There are so many historical and traditional sites to enjoy and then you have the cultural and nature attractions that will blow your socks off.

SHORE EXCURSIONS:


The following tour has been specifically complied to suit shore excursions.  They are tailored to the ships arrival and departure times and can be customized to the clients liking. All requests are taken seriously and will be implemented into the itinerary where possible. Most shore excursions are between 7 to 9 hours in duration.

At present the main shore excursion that I do on a regular basis is as follows:


Kagoshima Nature and History Tour:

Tour Itinerary:  8 to 10 hour Full day Tour

1) Meet guide at terminal building exit doors 


2) Drive southwest for 45 minutes to Chiran and visit the Samurai Residence Gardens and surrounding areas.

Check out the link here.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/2KUYBmRPL3tmFLtF9


3) Continue on to the Chiran Peace Museum and contemplate the angst and heartfelt goodbye letters from the Kamikaze pilots to their families before their pending suicide missions. Click here to see a link. Full report coming soon.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/s3NjqMd898b45cKw6


4) Visit the Saraku Sand Baths in Ibusuki. This will be an experience that you will remember forever.

 Bathing in hot Volcanic sand will invigorate every fiber of your body. Click here for a link.

 http://ibusuki-saraku.jp/ and https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q1qFD7EQZ7FyJ6G76

             

NB: Please let us know if this Sand Bath/ Onsen (Japanese Hot Springs) experience is not on      

your agenda and we will swap it for another experience/ attraction. The Sand Baths are a fully clothed experience however the traditional Hot Spring afterwards involves public nudity. I know that some people will find this cultural experience something that they will find too invasive.



5) Head to the Karafune Ravine whilst exploring the infamous Ikeda Lake, which is well known to have a Loch Ness type monster living in its waters. Also produces huge Eels that are enjoyed by the locals. We will have lunch here at one of the many restaurants. Japanese and Western food options are available. Recommend the amazing Somen Noodle restaurant. Click the link here. 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/qQ3PM8EdzXy7XWju7



6) After lunch we will go and check out the incredible beauty of the Ryugu Shrine and the Nagasakibana Cape, offering sprawling views of the picturesque coastline. Check out the link. 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ish7mRZfkRZy97LLA



7) A rather long but scenic drive back to Kagoshima City to view the beautiful Sengan Gardens and its wonderful location to see the Sakurajima Volcano in all its glory. On the premises we will have the opportunity to window shop for famous Satsuma Glassware and maybe even buy a product or 2?

Check out this link.

https://www-senganen-jp.translate.goog/?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja

and

https://satsumakiriko-co-jp.translate.goog/?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja



8) Return to port no later than 5:00 p.m.



Please check on this map below how far and how many places we will get to enjoy on our day together:






2) Aburatsu/ Nichinan Cruise Terminal: Miyazaki Prefecture



 


Like Kagoshima above, Aburatsu on the Nichinan Coast is blessed with nature. In fact, if I had a chance to live anywhere in Japan it would absolutely be here in Miyazaki Prefecture. The coastline is magnificent, its beauty unparalleled (on a clear day of course) to anywhere in Japan let alone the world.  It is absolutely a hidden treasure that must be seen thru the eyes of someone who has been there and done that.

I am sure a private tour of this area will leave you with many memories that will last forever.

At present the main shore excursion that I do on a regular basis is as follows:


Miyazaki Nature and History Tour:

Tour Itinerary:  8 to 10 hour Full day Tour


1) Meet guide at terminal building exit doors 


2) Drive north for 25 minutes to Udo Shrine to see one of the most unique spiritual places in Kyushu and arguably in the whole of Japan. The location and the scenery will amaze you.

Check out the link here.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/8ArJY1poZn3qXA2U6


3) Continue on to the Horikiri Pass and see the Devils Washboards from a unique vantage point to preview our next attraction.

Check out the link here:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/G8X2UkmBzPFTHGDR9


4) A short hop to Aoshima Town, where we will have a few hours to explore the beach, the shrine, the devils washboards and the subtropical forests as well as the Botanical Gardens. We will also grab lunch here at one of the many eateries on the foreshore. This will be an experience that you will remember forever, especially for the nature lovers.. Click here for the links.

https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e8005.html

https://aoshima-jinja.jp/2018/07/16/hello-world/#

https://maps.app.goo.gl/oTBRyiuY4sqkLFLi6


https://www.kankou-nichinan.jp/english/



5) Drive approx. 45 minutes to Obi Town whilst exploring a famous Old Castle town of the region. We will have time to go to the Museum, see the remains of the castle and Samurai Residences as well as wandering around the many shops including the old Ito Samurai House that has been converted into a cafe where we will enjoy some traditional Japanese green tea or coffee whilst enjoying the ambience.


Check out these links below:


https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ui6wLZDc8vxmFG557


https://maps.app.goo.gl/NkEJq5RRBVPgCaHj7


https://www.itotei.com/hajimari


https://maps.app.goo.gl/5Scm22D6rYwahmy27



6) Final attraction of the day is a quick visit to the Nichinan Sake Brewery Hall.  A perfect chance to sample and buy some traditional Japanese spirits.


https://maps.app.goo.gl/tToTcS7ixogA6f5t7



7) Return to port no later than 5:00 p.m.



Please check on this map below how far and how many places we will get to enjoy on our day together:







3) Kumamon Port Yatsushiro: Kumamoto Prefecture



 


This region of Kyushu doesn't have as many attractions to see but that doesn't mean that you have to settle for second best.  Major cultural and natural attractions such as the Takachiho Gorge, one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Japan are highly rated on this tour.

We will attempt to make an itinerary to suit everyone's interests and tastes.

Kumamoto Nature and Culture Tour:

Tour Itinerary:  8 to 10 hour full day Tour


1) Meet guide at terminal building exit doors 


2) Drive east for nearly 2 hours to see one of the most beautiful spiritual scenic place in Kyushu and arguably in the whole of Japan. The location and the scenery will amaze you.

Check out the link here.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/apgvkyYuDDFg6x5u8


3) Continue on to the Takachiho Shrine and feel the energy from this famous power spot.

Check out the link here:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wk1RWQc39i8nJGmi9


4) A short hop to Takachiho Gorge, where we will have about 2 hours or so to explore the area including time for a sit down lunch. The colors and the natural element of this region will make the long drive fully worth it. This will be an experience that you will remember forever, especially for the nature lovers. Click here for the link.

https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2024/03/takachiho-shrine-and-gorge-takachiho.html



5) Drive approx. 15 minutes to the Amani Iwato Shrine which is where Japanese mythology believes this is the cave where the Japanese Gods created Japan. The walk from the Shrine to the Cave is about 10 minutes in duration but the scenic views are amazing. Chick here for the links:


https://maps.app.goo.gl/5bDWo14qMD7jw89M6


https://amanoiwato-jinja.jp/en/



6) Final attraction of the day is a quick visit to the Takachiho Shochu Brewery.  A perfect chance to sample and buy some traditional Japanese spirits before our long drive back to the Port Terminal.


https://maps.app.goo.gl/dJ4rLgqvaaKNg7Sr5




7) Return to port no later than 5:00pm or at least 1 hour before our scheduled departure.



Please check on this map below how far and how many places we will get to enjoy on our day together:






Multi day tours around Kyushu:


Here are a few of the Tours we provide for the Kyushu Market:
1)  Private 2 Days / 1 Night Tour of Western Kyushu:

This tour will allow you to see most of the sights around Fukuoka, Saga and Nagasaki Prefectures. Many locations will be visited and time will not be a factor as customers will be able to stay at a specific attractions for as long or as short a time as they desire. The accommodation chosen will be either a Traditional Japanese Ryokan (Japanese Hotel) or a Western Style Hotel. All accommodations are of the highest class and definitely an experience that won't be forgotten quickly.

Light refreshments and drinks as well as lunch are provided in a relaxed environment within an air conditioned vehicle. Dinner and breakfast are provided for in the chosen accommodation facility and lunch is also provide on Day 2 as well. One will be extremely satisfied once the tour is finished.  Beautiful locations, amazing accommodations and delicious foods will be enjoyed for a once in a lifetime travel experience! General pick up times are 9am and drop off times at 4 to 5pm the following day.





Comfort and safety is paramount

Here is a typical 2 day/ 1 night Kyushu Tour:

DAY 1:

Pick up at the International Port Terminal/ Hakata Station and or local hotel.  If you are arriving at the Fukuoka Airport, this link below will give you some great background information.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2018/10/fukuoka-airport-fukuoka-prefecture.html

Head up to Kagami Lookout well above the Black Pine Forests to get an amazing 180 degree view of the Genkai Sea far below:  Please click on this link to see more information on the Kagami Lookout.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2019/09/kagami-lookout-in-karatsu-saga.html

Drive through the impressive Black Pine Forests of Karatsu.  Please click below to see on a map.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Niji+No+Matsubara+Pine+Grove/@33.4438528,130.0030761,15z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sBlack+pine+Karatsu!3m4!1s0x3541d7c5afdabd47:0x5c7bb964cbf3f085!8m2!3d33.4460749!4d129.9940136

Drive west to Karatsu to check out the magnificent Karatsu Castle in Saga Prefecture.
Please click on this link to see more information about Karatsu Castle.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2020/08/karatsu-castle-saga-prefecture-kyushu.html

Then we head to the incredible Arita Porcelain Park that borders Saga and Nagasaki Prefecture.  Please click on the link for more information.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2012/06/arita-porcelain-park-nagasaki_29.html

The next location is an incredible cultural experience at the Umegae Sake Brewery where we will have the chance to try some Japanese Sake and other liquors and learn all about the making process.  Please click on the link for more info.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2019/01/umegae-sake-brewery-nagasaki.html


Then we will continue on to Nagasaki City where we will stop at the Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum.  Please click on the 2 links below to learn more about these attractions.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2012/06/nagasaki-peace-park_15.html
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/07/nagasaki-atomic-bomb-museum_11.html

After this a quick stop at the Inasayama Lookout to see a 360 degree panoramic view of Nagasaki City and its surrounding area far below.  More information can be obtained below in the link.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2015/05/mount-inasayama-daytime-nagasaki.html

Finally we will head to our final location of the day, Obama Town and experience the famous Obama Foot Baths either before dinner or after breakfast the next day which are both included in the Tour Pricing.  More info about Obama can be seen below.
More information about your accommodation options can be seen in this post below.
Overnight stays will either be in the Seaside Obama Town or up in Mountain areas of Unzen staying at a Traditional Japanese Inn, called a Ryokan in Japanese.
Luxury experiences are available as well as the normal run of the mill types.
I am sure whatever you choice you will be enthralled by the superb Japanese Omotenashi (Hospitality) and their Kaiseki (Japanese Banquet style) cuisine.


DAY 2:

If you choose to stay in Obama overnight we will head up the mountain to Unzen and check out the following locations, more information in the links below can be seen.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2012/12/unzen-volcano-nagasaki_21.html
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/12/unzen-jigoku-hells-nagasaki_2.html


Down the mountain we go, on to the other side of the Shimabara Peninsular to check out what is on offer for the sightseeing buffs in Shimabara City. Please click on these links below for more info.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/09/shimabara-castle-nagasaki_30.html
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/08/volcano-damaged-houses_28.html
We will jump on the Isahaya Bay Dike Road and see the 2 following sites.  Please click on the links below to see more information.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2014/09/isahaya-bay-dike-road-nagasaki_12.html
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2013/04/unique-nagasaki-bus-stops_28.html


Next we will stop along the Ariake Sea coastline and investigate this amazing scene of nature, the floating Torii Gates of Oouo Shrine.  Click on the link below for more relevant information.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2020/04/floating-torii-gates-of-oouo-shrine.html


The next stop is at one of the 3 most famous Inari Shrines in Japan. The Yutoku Inari Shrine in Saga Prefecture is an amazing place to discover and explore.  Full report coming soon.  Please link on the map below for details.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2021/03/yutoku-inari-shrine-kashima-saga.html

After the Yutoku Inari Shrine, a change of pace will result in a brief but interesting stop at the Takeo City Library where we will enjoy the building architecture and ambience.  Full report coming soon.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Takeo+city+Library/@33.1927104,130.0058336,14z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x354028f83d354b6b:0x5e28c9bd0c5ed120!8m2!3d33.1890771!4d130.0236836


On our way back to Fukuoka we will stop briefly at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine for a Shinto Blessing.
Please click the link below for more information on this attraction.


Finally we will head back to Fukuoka City and our last attraction of the day will be the Fukuoka Port Tower.  Please click on the link for more information.


You will be dropped off at your pre arranged location to conclude the tour.



Japanese Gardens are always a feature
2)  Private 3 Days / 2 Night Tour of Western and Central Kyushu:
This tour will allow you to see more of the sights around Northern and Central Kyushu.  Not only Fukuoka, Saga and Nagasaki Prefectures but Kumamoto, Miyazaki and Oita Prefectures as well.

Many locations will be visited and time will not be a factor as customers will be able to stay at a specific attractions for as long or as short a time as they desire. The accommodation chosen will be either a Traditional Japanese Ryokan (Japanese Hotel) or a Western Style Hotel. All accommodations are of the highest class and definitely an experience that won't be forgotten quickly.

Light refreshments and drinks as well as lunches are provided in a relaxed environment within an air conditioned vehicle. Dinner and breakfast are provided for in the chosen accommodation facility and lunch is also provided on both days. One will be extremely satisfied once the tour is finished.  Beautiful locations, amazing accommodations and delicious foods will be enjoyed for a once in a lifetime travel experience! General pick up times are 9am and drop off times at 4 to 5pm the following day.

A traditional Ryokan can be part of the experience


Here is a typical 3 day/ 2 night Kyushu Tour:


DAY 1:

Pick up at the International Port Terminal/ Hakata Station and or local hotel.  If you are arriving at the Fukuoka Airport, this link below will give you some great background information.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2018/10/fukuoka-airport-fukuoka-prefecture.html

Head up to Kagami Lookout well above the Black Pine Forests to get an amazing 180 degree view of the Genkai Sea far below:  Please click on this link to see more information on the Kagami Lookout.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2019/09/kagami-lookout-in-karatsu-saga.html

Drive through the impressive Black Pine Forests of Karatsu.  Please click below to see on a map.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Niji+No+Matsubara+Pine+Grove/@33.4438528,130.0030761,15z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sBlack+pine+Karatsu!3m4!1s0x3541d7c5afdabd47:0x5c7bb964cbf3f085!8m2!3d33.4460749!4d129.9940136

Drive west to Karatsu to check out the magnificent Karatsu Castle in Saga Prefecture.
Please click on this link to see more information about Karatsu Castle.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2020/08/karatsu-castle-saga-prefecture-kyushu.html

Then we head to the incredible Arita Porcelain Park that borders Saga and Nagasaki Prefecture.  Please click on the link for more information.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2012/06/arita-porcelain-park-nagasaki_29.html

The next location is an incredible cultural experience at the Umegae Sake Brewery where we will have the chance to try some Japanese Sake plus other liquors and learn all about the making process.  Please click on the link for more info.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2019/01/umegae-sake-brewery-nagasaki.html


Then we will continue on to Nagasaki City where we will stop at the Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum.  Please click on the 2 links below to learn more about these attractions.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2012/06/nagasaki-peace-park_15.html
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/07/nagasaki-atomic-bomb-museum_11.html

After this a quick stop at the Inasayama Lookout to see a 360 degree panoramic view of Nagasaki City and its surrounding area far below.  More information can be obtained below in the link.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2015/05/mount-inasayama-daytime-nagasaki.html

Finally we will head to our final location of the day, Obama Town and experience the famous Obama Foot Baths either before dinner or after breakfast the next day which are both included in the Tour Pricing.  More info about Obama can be seen below.
More information about your accommodation options can be seen in this post below.
Overnight stays will either be in the Seaside Obama Town or up in Mountain areas of Unzen staying at a Traditional Japanese Inn, called a Ryokan in Japanese.
Luxury experiences are available as well as the normal run of the mill types.
I am sure whatever you choice you will be enthralled by the superb Japanese Omotenashi (Hospitality) and their Kaiseki (Japanese Banquet style) cuisine.


Day 2:

If you choose to stay in Obama overnight we will head up the mountain to Unzen and check out the following locations, more information in the links below can be seen.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2012/12/unzen-volcano-nagasaki_21.html
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/12/unzen-jigoku-hells-nagasaki_2.html


Down the mountain we go, on to the other side of the Shimabara Peninsular to check out what is on offer for the sightseeing buffs in Shimabara City. Please click on these links below for more info.
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/09/shimabara-castle-nagasaki_30.html
https://www.tour-nagasaki.com/2011/08/volcano-damaged-houses_28.html

Now, for the interesting part of the tour and our trip across the Ariake Sea from the Shimabara Port to the Kumamoto Port which is a highlight in many ways that you will see in the posts below.

After disembarking from the Kumamoto Port we will take a rather long drive but picturesque never the less to Takachiho Town, deep in the confines of Miyazaki Prefecture.
Check out this link below of the highlight destinations in Takachiho.


Leaving Takachiho and heading to Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture.
The landscape is extraordinary with many incredible lookouts along the way of the picturesque beauty below. The Aso No 1 Volcanic Crater will amaze and disturb you all at the same time.  Being this close to real nature is a surreal feeling.
Please click on the link below for more information.


Tonights accommodation will be either the Minami Aso area (prices are very reasonable) for Japanese traditional and Western styled hotels otherwise the high end prized and very pristine region of Kurokawa Hot Springs (Onsen) region deep in the Kumamoto countryside will be an option.
Hotel accommodation will be chosen by the client.
Options include the following:
Please check the links below:


Day 3:

From either Minami Aso or Kurokawa Onsen will will head to our first attraction of the day.
The Kokonoe Suspension Bridge is an incredible find that you will either love or hate depending if you are ok with heights?
Please click here for more information.

After this spine tingling location we will head to a much more tranquil location, namely Yufuin.
A tranquil Hot Spring resort in the pristine countryside of Oita Prefecture.
Please click the link below for more information.

A quick stop in Beppu may allow a few different experiences but probably the most iconic is the lookout view from the Yukemuri Observation deck.
Please check this link below

Lets now head to the Usa Shrine. The sheer size of the Shrine will impress you to no degree. Be prepared for a walk though.
Click this link below:

Another interesting and unbelievable attraction will ensue.  
The Ao no Domon tunnel carved by the lone Buddhist Priest is an example of the discipline and attention to details that the Buddhist world projects.
Link is included below:

We have a couple of options on our next location:
Beer lovers can choose the Sapporo Beer factor Tour
Link is here:
Otherwise we can check out the traditional and very cultural shopping street called Mameda.
Link here:

Now we will head back to Fukuoka and can check out a few sights along the way depending on time and energy levels:
These can be:
1) Tosu Outlet Mall
Link here:

2) Dazifu Tenmangu Shrine
Link included below:

3) Nanzoin Temple
Link included below:

4) Costco Fukuoka
Link included below:


Finally, return back to your hotel for a well deserved rest after your adventures halfway around Kyushu.






Samurai Cosplay Time




The popular Shimabara Castle

Walking around the Unzen Hell Ponds


















Ahhh, that is better!  Foot bath heaven.


The sights and smells of the Unzen Hell Ponds with the sulfur and steam is all part of the experience.








Our day tours out of Fukuoka to other Prefectures in Kyushu and Honshu will create lasting memories:



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