Japan Road Trip: Kyushu Edition

Wander Yakushima’s ancient cedar forests before sailing to Ibusuki’s soothing sand baths.
Take in sweeping views of Sakurajima’s active volcanic peak across Kagoshima Bay.
Drive Kyushu’s coastline to Miyazaki’s sea cliffs and shrine-lined headlands.
Explore Takachiho Gorge’s sheer walls and waterfalls, then unwind in Kurokawa and Beppu’s hot springs.
Conclude in Fukuoka with coastal strolls, street-side ramen and space to reflect on the journey.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,278 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,278 Reviews

Trip Features

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Rural Charm

Highlights countryside settings rich in character, culture, and tranquillity.

Unique Accommodation

Incorporates distinctive stays that add personality and memorable flair.

Road Trips

Independent, self-driving road trips that offer extra freedom.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Rural Charm

Highlights countryside settings rich in character, culture, and tranquillity.

Unique Accommodation

Incorporates distinctive stays that add personality and memorable flair.

Road Trips

Independent, self-driving road trips that offer extra freedom.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Osaka

DAY

Day at leisure in Osaka

DAY

Travel from Osaka and arrive in Yakushima Island

DAY

Drive the Ring Road and Explore Yakushima Island

DAY

Take the ferry from Yakushima Island to Ibusuki

DAY

Ibusuki's Famous Sand Bath and take the train to Kagoshima

DAY

Kagoshima and Sakurajima Island Exploration

DAY

Drive to Miyazaki via the Kirishima Highlands

DAY

Miyazaki Coastal Shrines and Scenic Viewpoints

DAY

Drive from Miyazaki to Takachiho Gorge

DAY

Drive from Takachiho Gorge to Mt. Aso to Kurokawa Onsen town

DAY

Explore Hot Springs in Kurokawa

DAY

Drive from Kurokawa to Yufuin and Beppu

DAY

Take the train from Beppu to Fukuoka

DAY

Depart from Fukuoka

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Osaka

Transfer

Osaka Kansai International Airport to Osaka - Dotonbori & Namba

Your Accommodation

Zentis Osaka

Zentis Osaka is situated where the picturesque, riverside area of Dojimahama and the high-end business entertainment district of Kita-shinchi meet. Nakanoshima, an islet home to some of the city’s premium attractions – including the Osaka Science Museum and the National Museum of Art. Osaka Station, the city’s main rail hub, is a mere five-minute taxi ride away. Our 212 guestrooms present intelligently designed, functional spaces in which to rest, relax and get re-inspired.

Duration

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

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DAY

Day at leisure in Osaka

Enjoy the day as you wish. If you would like to arrange an activity, excursion, or other experience, please contact your Goway Destination Specialist.

DAY

Travel from Osaka and arrive in Yakushima Island

Transfer

Osaka - Dotonbori & Namba to Osaka Itami Airport

Multi Day Tour

Arrive on Yakushima Island

Arrive on lush, mystical Yakushima, known for its ancient cedar forests and misty mountains. Pick up your rental car - having your own wheels is the best way to explore the island's remote trailheads and coastal viewpoints. Take a leisurely coastal drive to your accommodation, stopping at seaside lookout points along the way. Settle in early and enjoy the quiet pace of island life.

Your Accommodation

Yakushima Iwasaki Hotel

Yakushima Iwasaki Hotel is a refined resort nestled amid Yakushima's lush mountains, offering guests a serene retreat with spacious rooms inspired by Yaku-cedar. The hotel features a relaxing mineral hot spring, a recessed swimming pool with panoramic forest views, and a fitness center, making it ideal for both rest and activity. With its two restaurants, bar, and attentive service, it's a comfortable base for exploring the island's natural heritage and world-heritage forests.

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DAY

Drive the Ring Road and Explore Yakushima Island

Multi Day Tour

Drive the Ring Road and Explore Yakushima Island

Set out on the scenic Yakushima Ring Road, which circles the island and links many natural highlights. Consider short hikes such as: Yakusugi Land with easy - moderate trails among centuries-old cedars, Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, inspiration for the animated film Princess Mononoke, or Toroki Falls, one of the few waterfalls that drops directly into the sea. Driving the full loop offers constant views - rugged coastline, mossy forests, and monkeys lounging roadside. End your day with an onsen soak at your hotel.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Yakushima Iwasaki Hotel

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DAY

Take the ferry from Yakushima Island to Ibusuki

Multi Day Tour

Take the ferry from Yakushima Island to Ibusuki

Enjoy a relaxed final morning on Yakushima before departing the island. Consider a short coastal walk near Isso Beach, a visit to the Yakusugi Museum to learn about the island's ancient cedars, or a quick stop at Senpiro Falls for sweeping valley views. After your sightseeing, return your rental car and make your way to the ferry terminal. Board the ferry to Ibusuki, on Kyushu mainland. The ferry ride is only 75 minutes. Upon arrival in Ibusuki, transfer to your hotel in Ibusuki by taxi and prepare for an ultra-unique wellness experience.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Ibusuki Shusuien

Ibusuki Syusuien is an elegant ryokan perched along the coast of southern Kyushu, blending tranquil Japanese aesthetics with warm hospitality. The inn features lush garden views, indoor and open-air hot springs, and a unique sand-footbath for relaxation. Guests are treated to award-winning kaiseki cuisine that highlights seasonal Kagoshima ingredients in a serene, traditional atmosphere.

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DAY

Ibusuki's Famous Sand Bath and take the train to Kagoshima

Multi Day Tour

Ibusuki's Famous Sand Bath and take the train to Kagoshima

Experience the iconic Ibusuki sand bath, where attendants bury you in naturally heated black sand - deeply relaxing and surprisingly revitalizing. After rinsing off, have a light lunch of local specialties like satsuma-age fish cakes. In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Kagoshima, a city renowned for its waterfront views and the striking presence of Sakurajima Volcano.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Shiroyama Hotel Kagaoshima

Shiroyama Hotel Kagoshima is a luxurious hillside retreat offering breathtaking views of Sakurajima Volcano and Kagoshima Bay. Guests can enjoy elegantly appointed rooms, relaxing hot spring baths, and fine dining that highlights local cuisine. Its serene location provides a perfect balance of tranquility and easy access to Kagoshima’s cultural and natural attractions.

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DAY

Kagoshima and Sakurajima Island Exploration

Multi Day Tour

Kagoshima and Sakurajima Island Exploration

Pick up your rental car and begin by exploring some of Kagoshima's signature attractions, starting with the beautiful Sengan-en Garden. Afterward, drive to the ferry terminal and take the short 15-minute ride to Sakurajima, the active volcanic island that defines Kagoshima's skyline. Once there, walk the Nagisa Lava Trail, stop by the Yunohira Observatory for sweeping crater views, and unwind at the roadside footbaths naturally heated by volcanic activity. Return to Kagoshima City and stop at a local bar or specialty shop for a whisky tasting, where you can sample Japan's refined small-batch whiskies - some distilled right in Kyushu. For dinner, savor the region's famous black pork or a hearty bowl of spicy Kagoshima ramen, then round out the evening with a visit to a shochu shop. Kagoshima is renowned as the "kingdom of shochu," home to more than 113 distilleries across the prefecture.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Shiroyama Hotel Kagaoshima

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DAY

Drive to Miyazaki via the Kirishima Highlands

Multi Day Tour

Drive to Miyazaki via the Kirishima Highlands

Travel along the expressway toward Miyazaki City, with a recommended stop in Kirishima. This region offers plenty to explore, from the scenic Kirishima Mountain Range and its Hot Spring Village - known for soothing open-air baths - to the historic Kirishima Shrine and the picturesque Maruo Falls, fed by natural hot-spring waters. Continue on to your beachfront hotel in Miyazaki for a relaxed and restful evening.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

ANA Holiday Inn Resort Miyazaki

The ANA Holiday Inn Resort Miyazaki sits right on the Pacific coast in beautiful Aoshima, surrounded by lush gardens and offering sweeping ocean views - just a short walk to the iconic Aoshima Shrine. With three on-site restaurants, a relaxing hot spring, and beach-front marine activities like surfing and paddleboarding, it’s an ideal seaside retreat for both adventure lovers and those seeking peaceful relaxation.

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DAY

Miyazaki Coastal Shrines and Scenic Viewpoints

Multi Day Tour

Miyazaki Coastal Shrines and Scenic Viewpoints

Spend the day discovering Miyazaki's beautiful mix of beaches, nature, and coastal scenery - with a cultural detour inland for a unique black vinegar tasting. Begin by heading to Aya-Machi, a peaceful town known for its pristine forests and traditional craftsmanship. Stop at a local black vinegar brewery to learn about the centuries-old kurozu fermentation process and enjoy a tasting of richly flavored vinegars made in clay jars using natural spring water. After your visit, drive south along the Nichinan Coast, where rugged cliffs, palm-lined roads, and crashing waves create one of Kyushu's most stunning routes. Stop at scenic viewpoints and roadside stations as you go. Explore Obi, a charming historic town often called the "Little Kyoto" for its preserved samurai streets and castle town atmosphere. Continue on to the must-see Udo Shrine, dramatically set within sea-carved cliffs overlooking the Pacific. Finish with a visit to Aoshima Island and Aoshima Shrine, a tropical-feeling island connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

ANA Holiday Inn Resort Miyazaki

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DAY

Drive from Miyazaki to Takachiho Gorge

Multi Day Tour

Drive from Miyazaki to Takachiho Gorge

Head inland into the mountain valleys of the northern Miyazaki prefecture. Upon reaching Takachiho, marvel at the volcanic cliffs and emerald river that cut through the gorge. Rent a rowboat for an iconic view of Manai Falls, then walk the riverside trail. In the evening consider attending a traditional Yokagura dance performance at Takachiho Shrine.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Solest Takachiho Hotel

Nestled just a short walk from Takachiho Shrine in a landscape steeped in myth and natural beauty, Solest Takachiho Hotel offers a modern, serene escape. The interior design merges sleek, contemporary style with elements of nature, creating a relaxing retreat. At its on-site restaurant, guests can enjoy dishes crafted from high-quality regional ingredients - including rice harvested from Takachiho’s terraced rice fields - all while soaking in the calm ambiance of this mountain town.

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DAY

Drive from Takachiho Gorge to Mt. Aso to Kurokawa Onsen town

Multi Day Tour

Drive from Takachiho Gorge to Mt. Aso to Kurokawa Onsen town

Continue driving through peaceful mountain roads toward Kurokawa, one of Japan's most atmospheric hot-spring towns. Along the way explore Mt. Aso, home to one of the world's largest volcanic calderas. Drive across the sweeping grasslands of Kusasenri, visit the Aso Volcano Museum, and - if conditions allow - approach the crater rim for views of the steaming caldera. Then continue onto Kurokawa Onsen.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

Your Accommodation

Kurokawa Onsen Shinmeikan

Kurokawa Onsen Shinmei-kan is nestled in the peaceful countryside of Kumamoto, surrounded by forested hills and the calming atmosphere of one of Japan's most charming hot spring towns. The property offers a traditional retreat where guests can soak in relaxing baths and enjoy the tranquil natural views. Visitors can also savor seasonal Japanese cuisine at the on-site restaurant, with the serene setting enhancing the overall experience.

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DAY

Explore Hot Springs in Kurokawa

Multi Day Tour

Explore Hot Springs in Kurokawa`

Spend the day exploring Kurokawa. Strolling the wooden bridges, ryokan lanes, and forest onsen. Many travelers purchase the onsen-hopping pass for multiple baths in different inns - each with its own scenic style.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

Your Accommodation

Kurokawa Onsen Shinmeikan

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DAY

Drive from Kurokawa to Yufuin and Beppu

Multi Day Tour

Drive from Kurokawa to Yufuin and Beppu

Drive north through rolling countryside toward Yufuin, a charming artsy hot-spring town beneath Mt. Yufu. Explore cafes, boutiques, and the footpath around Lake Kinrinko. Continue on to Beppu, famous for its open-air baths and "hells" (jigoku) geothermal pools. Drop off your rental car and spend the rest of the day exploring Beppu.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Hotel Shiragiku

Located in the heart of Beppu, Hotel Shiragiku invites travelers to experience the timeless charm of Japanese hospitality surrounded by serene gardens and soothing hot springs. Guests can unwind in luxurious indoor and open-air baths fed by Beppu's famous natural onsen waters, or enjoy the ultimate relaxation in rooms featuring private semi-outdoor baths. Every stay is elevated by exquisite kaiseki cuisine crafted from the finest Kyushu ingredients, offering a true taste of local culture and indulgence.

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DAY

Take the train from Beppu to Fukuoka

Multi Day Tour

Take the train from Beppu to Fukuoka

Later this morning, board the train to Fukuoka, your final stop in Kyushu. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your own pace, and in the evening, head to the famous yatai food stalls to enjoy Hakata ramen, mentaiko, yakitori, and other local favourites.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station

Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station is located just a one-minute walk from JR Hakata Station, making it a prime base for exploring Fukuoka. The hotel blends contemporary design with Japanese warmth “nukumori”, offering rooms equipped with high-quality Simmons beds and modern amenities. Guests can unwind in its quiet rooftop garden, stay active with the 24-hour gym, and enjoy dining across seven restaurants and a cozy café-bar.

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DAY

Depart from Fukuoka

Multi Day Tour

Fukuoka Departure

Make your own way to the airport for your departure flight. Fukuoka Airport is only a 5-10 minute transfer from Hakata Station.

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Takachiho Gorge

Ibusuki Sand Bath

Shinto Shrine, Miyazaki

Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine Trail

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

Fukuoka

0°C / 0°F

0mm / 0.0"

City 832Occasional Showers

29°C / 85°F

64mm / 2.5"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,278 Reviews

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Lori Mezzomo and the team at Goway Travel are fantastic! Lori helped plan a 3-week Australia trip for our family of 5. Our teenage boys enjoyed exploring Sydney, Uluru, Cairns and the Gold Coast. Highlights included a Sydney Harbour Bridge walk, sunrise hike around Uluru, snorkeling with turtles on the Great Barrier Reef, and surfing on the gold coast. Lori did a fantastic job of creating an itinerary that was engaging for our teenage boys and relaxing for the parents... not an easy task! We miss Australia and would gladly book again with Lori Mezzomo and Goway Travel.Blair

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Swati was fantastic! She worked with us to create the perfect Greece trip, and handled all the details to make it a worry-free experience.Jtv

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Michael at Goway Travel was great to work with. We were planning a pre-trip with him prior to a group tour. He worked with us to hit the special places we wanted to visit and things we wanted to do. The accommodations arranged exceeded our expectations. Local guides were all amazing. This was the third trip we booked through Goway, and we will definitely book with them again in the future David Picka

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Goway Travel has South Pacific travel Consultant and they are all very experienced. ALICE was the agent who took care of my travel to Australia and she suggested best hotel accommodations excursions and worked within my budget. I had wonderful trip without any problems. Alice was very helpful and we are planning another trip will contact her.Saral

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Alice Teramoto Put together a perfect trip to Aitutaki and Rarotonga. The tours she included added to the experience. She was the glue to combine the complete package and would highly recommend her services.Valued Customer

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We just came back from a wonderful trip to Portugal. From the time I contacted Goway until now, I have been more than satisfied with our experience. Our agent Michael put together a 8 day package with all the requirements we had asked for. The 8 day trip went so seamless & took all the stress off us travelling in Portugal. Michael not only listened to what we wanted, but he was so quick to respond to all of our calls, emails & concerns. The transfers, hotels & tours he arranged were the best. We would highly recommend Goway. I can hardly wait to book our next adventure with Goway. Cathy

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Michael Keon from Goway Travel made our family trip to Greece memorable. Michael was a call or email away when planning our Greece trip and worked with us on our tight budget. Every detail was worked out for us before we got on the plane. Shout out to Nico, one of our drivers in Mykonos and all the great expeditions we went on. I highly recommend Goway Travel to plan your next vacation adventures. Jacqueline G. Jacqueline Garrett

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I just returned from a wonderful trip to Sweden and Norway. I had the good fortune of working with Michael Keon who helped me plan and customize an interesting and balanced itinerary. All of the logistics went well, flights, transfers, hotels in great locations, travel between destinations, fjord safaris, cruises and guided tours with knowledgeable guides to inform and make the experience even more memorable. Michael was responsive to all of my questions and made it so easy to both prepare for and ultimately enjoy the trip. Looking forward to planning the next one!Gail

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Just got back from a fabulous safari holiday in Tanzania. The trip was amazing! Exceeded my expectations. The people, the local team at Sense of Africa, the food, the accommodations (Karibu camps: Elephant Springs+Lion’s Paw and Sametu), the safari from the sky (hot air balloon)… I can keep going. Perfect way to celebrate my 50th bday. Thanks again to Alice Teramoto and Goway for making this happen! Truly a trip of a lifetimeKARISSA CARRASQUILLO

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Steve Hope

Team Lead

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You should try a Zen meditation session. Imagine slipping into a silk kimono for the day—carefully tied by an expert dresser, every fold precise, every colour chosen to suit the season. It’s a ritual that feels as personal as it is timeless.

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Steve Hope

Team Lead

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What do I love about Japan? In a word - EVERYTHING. The incredible contrast that Japan offers - new/innovative vs old/traditional, the warm and welcoming people, the incredible rich culture, the culinary wonders awaiting around every corner, the cleanliness, efficiency and safety. It's one of the best places to visit in Asia in my opinion.

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Patrick Carleton

Destination Specialist

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Every season offers something to fall in love with, but autumn feels especially magical—fewer tourists, crisp weather, and foliage that rivals the famous blossoms.

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Insider Benefits

Japan Road Trip: Kyushu Edition

Trip Features

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

Arrive in Osaka

Day at leisure in Osaka

Travel from Osaka and arrive in Yakushima Island

Drive the Ring Road and Explore Yakushima Island

Take the ferry from Yakushima Island to Ibusuki

Ibusuki's Famous Sand Bath and take the train to Kagoshima

Kagoshima and Sakurajima Island Exploration

Drive to Miyazaki via the Kirishima Highlands

Miyazaki Coastal Shrines and Scenic Viewpoints

Drive from Miyazaki to Takachiho Gorge

Drive from Takachiho Gorge to Mt. Aso to Kurokawa Onsen town

Explore Hot Springs in Kurokawa

Drive from Kurokawa to Yufuin and Beppu

Take the train from Beppu to Fukuoka

Depart from Fukuoka

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive in Osaka

Day at leisure in Osaka

Travel from Osaka and arrive in Yakushima Island

Drive the Ring Road and Explore Yakushima Island

Take the ferry from Yakushima Island to Ibusuki

Ibusuki's Famous Sand Bath and take the train to Kagoshima

Kagoshima and Sakurajima Island Exploration

Drive to Miyazaki via the Kirishima Highlands

Miyazaki Coastal Shrines and Scenic Viewpoints

Drive from Miyazaki to Takachiho Gorge

Drive from Takachiho Gorge to Mt. Aso to Kurokawa Onsen town

Explore Hot Springs in Kurokawa

Drive from Kurokawa to Yufuin and Beppu

Take the train from Beppu to Fukuoka

Depart from Fukuoka

Departures

Terms and Conditions

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Most Popular Time to Travel

Know when to go.

Our Commitment

Why Travel with Goway?

What do the experts say?

Steve Hope

Steve Hope

Patrick Carleton

Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.