Discover Kyushu’s landscapes, culture, and history at your own pace. With this tour, you’ll get to drive through the island of Kyushu and experience all the magic the island has to offer.
Self-driven tours offer freedom and flexibility, letting travelers explore at their own pace, customize itineraries, visit unique spots, and make spontaneous stops. This approach fosters adventure and a deeper connection with the destination’s landscape and culture.
Tailor your itinerary to suit your interests, passions and pace.
While we will plan your itinerary for you, you can go at your own pace.
We will make sure your navigation is ready for you to use to make your trip hassle-free, and support you along the way
Start your journey with a warm welcome at Fukuoka Airport before setting off to stroll through a charming old town, where history lingers in every alley. Step back in time as you explore nostalgic Japanese shops from a bygone era, then marvel at an exquisite collection of handmade traditional dolls. In the afternoon, make your way onward to the dramatic “Hells of Beppu”—a surreal landscape of steaming geothermal wonders. Cap off your day with a soothing soak in a natural hot spring onsen, the perfect reward for a day of discovery and driving.
Begin your day with a visit to unique traditional crystal-growing huts, where age-old techniques still sparkle. Then head to a breathtaking suspension bridge offering a bird’s eye view of the lush valley below. Enjoy a scenic countryside drive through tranquil rural landscapes before arriving at a mystical riverside cave shrine tucked into nature. As the sun sets, experience a captivating performance of comical yet poignant traditional dance at a 1,900-year-old shrine—a perfect blend of history, culture, and charm.
Set out on a scenic stroll through the stunning Takachiho Gorge, where sheer cliffs and emerald waters create a magical atmosphere. Continue your adventure with a drive up to an active volcano crater—an awe-inspiring glimpse into the raw power of nature. Wrap up the day with a visit to majestic Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic castles, rich in history and resilience.
Begin your day with a refreshing ocean ferry ride, then step into history as you explore the haunting remains of houses buried by volcanic eruptions. Continue on to vibrant Nagasaki, where culture, cuisine, and international influences blend beautifully. As night falls, ride the ropeway to a spectacular mountaintop viewpoint and take in one of Japan’s most dazzling nightscapes.
Start the day with a powerful and reflective visit to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park, honoring history and hope. Then journey onward to a wonderful ryokan—your traditional Japanese inn for the night. Unwind with both indoor and outdoor onsen bathing, renowned for its mineral-rich, high-quality waters. In the evening, indulge in an unforgettable multi-course kaiseki dinner, a true feast for the senses.
Begin your day with a hands-on green tea making class, learning the art and tradition behind Japan’s iconic beverage. Then head to the enchanting Village of the Secret Kilns, nestled in the hills and steeped in pottery heritage. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through charming pottery shops, where each piece tells a story. In the late afternoon, take in sweeping views from a scenic ocean overlook (weather and season permitting). Return to Fukuoka city for a relaxed, free-and-easy evening to explore, dine, or simply unwind at your own pace.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before spending a free and easy day in Fukuoka city. Explore its vibrant shopping streets, discover local eats, or simply soak in the laid-back urban charm at your own pace.
After hotel checkout, enjoy your transfer to the airport. While the tour comes to an end, the memories will last a lifetime. Thank you for choosing Kyushu Journeys to experience the Best of Kyushu—we’re honored to have shared this adventure with you.
A self drive tour is our most popular option, blending comfort and flexibility at an approachable price.
From the above itinerary, an 8 day / 7 night tour for 4 people: ¥230,000 per person
The above is only an estimate. We customize each tour to fit your needs and expectations, so please reach out to us for your personalized quotation.
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At Kyushu Journeys, we believe your travel experience should be as unique as you are. Whether you envision a meticulously planned group tour, a private guided adventure, or the freedom of independent exploration, we’re here to craft the perfect itinerary for you. Let us handle the details, so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories.
Your trip begins with a personal meet & greet service and a detailed daily itinerary, complete with restaurant recommendations to enhance your journey. Enjoy seven nights of comfortable accommodation with breakfast, including one night in a traditional onsen ryokan—a Japanese-style inn featuring natural hot spring baths—and a special kaiseki dinner. A rental car with English GPS and full insurance is included for six days, along with support for ferry reservations if needed. A private taxi transfer to Fukuoka Airport is arranged for your departure. Throughout your trip, you’ll have access to a WhatsApp helpline for language support and 24-hour telephone assistance for any emergencies.
We arrange a rental car with English GPS and provide simple navigation coordinates for every stop on your journey—no need to input Japanese addresses. You’ll also get Google Map links for backup. Our staff will meet you on arrival, escort you to the car, and show you how everything works, including the GPS.
Absolutely! We offer customizable itineraries to suit your preferences and interests. Just let us know what you have in mind.
If road conditions or weather cause disruptions, our team is available via WhatsApp to help with live rerouting. We can also make restaurant bookings (Kyushu cuisine is a highlight!) and check that the places and activities you plan to visit are open as expected.
See what our travelers say about their unforgettable journeys with us.
Ride Kyushu’s premier scenic roads on a self-guided asphalt adventure designed for riders. Experience iconic routes like Aso’s Milk Road unencumbered, thanks to our dedicated luggage support vehicle that meets you at each stop. Ideal for solo riders or groups of friends seeking a technical, road-focused journey with full itinerary planning and logistics handled.
