Kyushu Train Trip: Sit Back and Explore

Begin your journey with a warm welcome upon arrival in Fukuoka. A member of our team will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, providing assistance along the way with purchasing train tickets for the days ahead. Once settled in, enjoy some free and easy time to explore the city at your own pace, whether that means sampling local street food, strolling through leafy parks, or simply unwinding after your flight.

Leave the bustle of the city behind as you journey into the peaceful countryside of Takeo. Explore the tranquil beauty of Mifuneyama Rakuen, a vast garden set against forested hills, renowned for its seasonal colors and serene walking paths. After a relaxing local lunch, continue to Keishu-en, a refined Japanese garden celebrated for its elegant design and connection to tea culture. In the afternoon, travel by train to the historic port city of Nagasaki, where your cultural journey continues.

Spend the day exploring Nagasaki, a city shaped by both international influence and deep historical significance. Visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park for a moving and thoughtful experience, followed by a taste of the city’s iconic champon noodles for lunch. In the afternoon, step into the past at Dejima, a former Dutch trading post that offers insight into Japan’s early connections with the outside world. Later, relax on a comfortable train ride back to Fukuoka, reflecting on a day rich in culture and history.

Embark on a scenic day trip to Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns. Travel by express train and enjoy a tour around the area’s iconic “hells,” dramatic geothermal hot springs known for their vibrant colors and bubbling activity. Highlights include the striking blue waters of Umi Jigoku. After a leisurely lunch, ride the Beppu Ropeway for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the late afternoon, return to Fukuoka by train, relaxed and inspired by the region’s natural wonders.

Set off by train to the historical city of Kumamoto, where your first stop is Suizenji Jojuen, a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden. Stroll through its peaceful paths, admire the miniature Mount Fuji, and enjoy the traditional aesthetics. After a relaxing lunch, continue on to Kumamoto Castle, one of Kyushu’s most impressive fortresses, famed for its elegant stone walls and rich samurai heritage. Later in the day, hop back on the train and head south to Kagoshima, arriving in time to settle in and soak up the city’s laid-back atmosphere.

Spend the day discovering the beauty and history of Kagoshima. Begin with panoramic views from Shiroyama Observation Park, where the city unfolds beneath you and Sakurajima volcano dominates the skyline. Continue on to Sengan-en, the stately former home of the Shimadzu clan, set against a stunning natural backdrop. Enjoy time to explore the elegant gardens, traditional architecture, and local craft shops, with a leisurely lunch on-site. In the afternoon, return by train to Fukuoka, carrying with you the charm and heritage of southern Kyushu.

Enjoy a relaxed and unstructured day in Fukuoka, perfect for unwinding or indulging in some last-minute exploration. Spend your time shopping in the city’s vibrant retail districts, browsing everything from department stores to boutique craft shops. Sample local delicacies at your own pace, from sizzling street food stalls to cozy ramen joints. With no set schedule or transport required, this free and easy day is yours to enjoy however you please.

After hotel checkout, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. The tour may be over, but the memories will last a lifetime. Thank you for choosing Kyushu Journeys for your Best of Kyushu Tour—we hope to welcome you again one day!