Ready to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the heart of Japan? Northern Kyushu, a region brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty, awaits! This 8-day, 7-night itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure through Fukuoka, Oita, and Kumamoto!!
Fukuoka
Weather: Fukuoka enjoys a humid subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild, wet winters.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, around 15-20°C (59-68°F), with occasional rain.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. Expect frequent thunderstorms.
Autumn (September-November): Comfortable temperatures, around 15-25°C (59-77°F), with clear skies and less humidity.
Winter (December-February): Mild temperatures, around 5-15°C (41-59°F), with occasional rain and some snowfall.
Tips:
Pack for all seasons: Even within a single trip, you may experience a range of temperatures.
Stay hydrated: Fukuoka's humidity can be intense, especially in summer.
Public transportation: Fukuoka has an excellent public transportation system, including subways, buses, and ferries.
Food: Fukuoka is known for its delicious ramen, Hakata-style ramen, and seafood.
Shopping: Fukuoka offers a wide range of shopping options, from department stores to traditional markets.
Beppu
Weather: Beppu shares a similar climate with Fukuoka, but with slightly cooler temperatures due to its location on the coast.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, around 10-18°C (50-64°F), with occasional rain.
Summer (June-August): Warm and humid, with temperatures reaching 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Autumn (September-November): Comfortable temperatures, around 15-22°C (59-72°F), with clear skies and less humidity.
Winter (December-February): Cool and wet, with temperatures around 5-12°C (41-54°F).
Tips:
Onsen: Beppu is famous for its hot springs, known as "Jigokudani" (Hell Valley). Don't miss the opportunity to experience this unique aspect of the city.
Hiking: The surrounding mountains offer beautiful hiking trails with stunning views.
Seafood: Beppu is known for its fresh seafood, especially crab and shrimp.
Beppu Tower: Ascend the Beppu Tower for panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
Yufuin
Weather: Yufuin has a cooler climate than Fukuoka and Beppu, with a distinct four-season change.
Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, around 10-18°C (50-64°F), with occasional rain.
Summer (June-August): Warm and humid, with temperatures reaching 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Autumn (September-November): Crisp and cool, with temperatures around 10-20°C (50-68°F), offering beautiful fall foliage.
Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, with temperatures around 0-10°C (32-50°F).
Tips:
Onsen: Yufuin is known for its charming onsen (hot springs) and ryokan (traditional inns).
Lake Kinrinko: Take a stroll around the serene Lake Kinrinko, known for its reflection of the surrounding mountains.
Yufuin Onsen Street: Explore the charming Yufuin Onsen Street, lined with shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Hiking: The surrounding mountains offer beautiful hiking trails with stunning views.
Kumamoto
Weather: Kumamoto has a humid subtropical climate, similar to Fukuoka but with slightly warmer summers and colder winters.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, around 12-20°C (54-68°F), with occasional rain.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher.
Autumn (September-November): Comfortable temperatures, around 15-25°C (59-77°F), with clear skies and less humidity.
Winter (December-February): Cool and wet, with temperatures around 5-15°C (41-59°F).
Tips:
Kumamoto Castle: Visit the iconic Kumamoto Castle, a symbol of the city and a significant historical landmark.
Food: Kumamoto is known for its delicious horse meat (basashi), ramen, and Kumamoto-style curry.
Shopping: Explore the vibrant Joto-machi Shopping Street and Shimo-machi Shopping Street, discovering local treasures.
Aso Volcano: Take a day trip to the majestic Aso Volcano, a breathtaking natural wonder.
Aso Volcano
Weather: Aso Volcano has a cooler climate than the surrounding cities, with a distinct four-season change.
Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, around 5-15°C (41-59°F), with occasional rain.
Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny, with temperatures reaching 20-25°C (68-77°F).
Autumn (September-November): Crisp and cool, with temperatures around 5-15°C (41-59°F), offering beautiful fall foliage.
Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, with temperatures around -5-5°C (23-41°F).
Tips:
Hiking: The Aso Volcano offers many hiking trails with stunning views of the volcanic landscape.
Aso Nakadake Crater: Visit the active Aso Nakadake Crater, an awe-inspiring sight.
Aso Farm Land: Enjoy the picturesque scenery and local produce at the Aso Farm Land.
Aso Volcano Museum: Learn about the region's volcanic history at the Aso Volcano Museum.
Hotel:
Flight: Check Here
Day 1: Fukuoka's Urban Charm
Touch down in Fukuoka International Airport and prepare to be swept away by the city's vibrant energy. Check into the modern Hotel Third Place Hakata and fuel up at Yakiniku no Gyutai Honjin Yodobashi Hakata Store (MAP) (JPY 900 - 2,500) indulging in delicious Japanese BBQ.
Recommended: All-you-can-eat Wagyu beef, Assorted meat platterm, Grilled offal, Japanese-style side dishes.
Next, stroll through the serene Ohori Park (MAP) (approx. 22mins), renting a swan boat or rowboat (JPY 800 - 1,600) for a picturesque experience.
Recommended: Stroll around the scenic pond, Rent a swan boat, Explore the Fukuoka Castle ruins.
As the sun sets, dive into the bustling Fukuoka Yatai (MAP) (JPY 450 - 2,000) approx. 17 mins walk from Ohori Park, sampling street food delights like gyoza and kushiyaki.
End the day with a relaxing ride on the Nakasu Water Bus (MAP) (JPY 800 - 1,500), soaking in the city lights from a unique perspective.
Day 2: Island Escapes and Shopping Spree
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Tanyu Hakata Gyutan (MAP), savoring the local specialty of beef tongue. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 780-1,800) (To Next Destination: Approx. 1 Hour 25 Minutes)
Recommended: Gyutan (Beef tongue), Motsunabe (Hot innards stew)
Embark on a scenic journey to Nokonoshima Island Park (MAP), a haven of natural beauty with stunning ocean views and the charming Love Kannon statue. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 500 - 1,500) (To Next Destination: Approx. 58 Minutes).
Recommended: Enjoy the seasonal flower fields, Visit the Nokonoshima Camp Grounds, Try the local Noko Burger, Explore the retro-style buildings, Participate in pottery-making or coloring workshops.
After lunch at the park, head to Marinoa City Fukuoka (MAP), a haven for shopaholics with a wide array of brand outlets. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 2,000-4,000) (To Next Destination: Approx. 52 Minutes).
Just had a causal dinner at the food court, indulging in local flavors. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 800-900)
Day 3: Beppu's Volcanic Wonders
Experience the unique charm of Beppu, a city known for its volcanic hot springs. (To Next Destination: Approx. 1 Hour 21 Minutes) Check into your hotel and grab a delicious croissant from il FORNO del MIGNON Hakata Station Store (MAP). (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 150-200)
Ascend the Beppu Tower (MAP) for panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 400-800) (To Next Destination: Approx. 11 Minutes Walk)
Recommended: Visit the observation deck, Enjoy the panoramic city views, Experience the tower’s history.
Treat yourself to a seafood donburi lunch at Kaisen Idutsu (MAP). Recommended: Fried Foods/Tempura (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 1,500-2,000) (To Next Destination: Approx. 31 Minutes)
Then, embark on the Beppu Hell Tour (MAP), exploring the fascinating volcanic hot springs and their unique colors. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 400-2,200) (To Next Destination: Approx. 2 Hours 27 Minutes).
Conclude the day with a satisfying dinner at Oyama Gyu-chanko (博多もつ鍋 おおやま 本店) (MAP), savoring the local beef specialty, a flavorful stew with beef or pork intestines. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 2,000-3,000)
Back To Hotel (Approx. 18 Minutes)
Day 4: Yufuin's Tranquility and Onsen Indulgence
Wake up to the picturesque views of Yufuin, a charming town known for its hot springs and natural beauty. (To Next Destination: Approx. 2 Hours 8 Minutes).
Enjoy breakfast at Panya Mutsuka Dou Kafe (MAP) and embark on a leisurely walk through the town, exploring the Yufuin Onsen Street (MAP) and the serene Kinrinko Lake (MAP).(Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 500-1,300) (To Next Destination: Approx. 7 Minutes Walk).
Recommended: Explore Yufuin Floral Village, Relax by Lake Kinrin, Shop on Yunotsubo Street, Enjoy local treats like Bungo Beef and roll cake, Visit art museums, Soak in the hot springs.
Lunch at Yufu Mabushi Shin (MAP) offers a taste of local cuisine. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 2,000-5,000).
Finally, check into the charming Yufuin Onsen Hinoharu Ryokan and indulge in a relaxing onsen experience.
Day 5: Fukuoka's Shopping and Culinary Delights
Return to Fukuoka and check into the Hotel Hokke Club Fukuoka. (To Next Destination: Approx. 2 Hours 44 Minutes) (To Next Destination: Approx. 21 Minutes Walk).
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Ganso Hakata Mentaijuu (元祖博多めんたい重) (MAP), savoring the local specialty of cod roe. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 2,500-4,000) (To Next Destination: Approx. 6 Minutes Walk).
Recommended: Mentaiko Donburi (明太子丼): The signature dish, featuring generous portions of mentaiko (spicy cod roe) on rice.
Mentaiko Udon (明太子うどん): Udon noodles with mentaiko and other toppings.
Mentaiko Fried Rice (明太子炒飯): A flavorful fried rice dish with mentaiko.
Mentaiko Pasta (明太子パスタ): Pasta dishes with various mentaiko sauces.
Explore the bustling Tenjin Underground Street (MAP), a shopper's paradise with a wide array of stores and restaurants. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 3,000-5,000) (To Next Destination: Approx. 12 Minutes Walk).
Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at Hakata Hanamidori (MAP), enjoying the traditional Japanese hot pot. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 3,000-5,000).
Recommended: Mizutaki: The centerpiece of their menu, served with tender chicken pieces and special sauce. Chicken Karaage: A popular alternative for those who prefer something other than raw chicken, it’s a crispy and juicy deep-fried chicken dish. Hanami Egg Creme Brulee: A unique dessert option that combines traditional Japanese flavors with a classic Western dessert.
Back To Hotel. (Approx. 18 Minutes).
Day 6: Kumamoto's Historical Charm
Embark on a journey to Kumamoto, a city steeped in history. (To Next Destination: Approx. 1 Hour 32 Minutes) Check into your hotel and enjoy a quick breakfast at Comecome Burger Hakata Ekimae (MAP).
(Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 700-1,000).
Immerse yourself in the historical significance of Kumamoto Castle (MAP) and explore the surrounding Kumamoto Castle Park. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 300 - 800) (To Next Destination: Approx. 22 Minutes).
Recommended: Cherry Blossom Viewing: If you’re there during late March or early April, the castle grounds with around 800 cherry trees are a sight to behold. Sakuranobaba Josaien: At the foot of the castle, this area offers a historical castle town experience with shops and restaurants.
Museum Wakuwakuza: For a deeper understanding of Kumamoto’s history and culture, visit the interactive exhibits here.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Jukusei Wagyuuyakiniku Mizuki (熟成和牛焼肉MIZUKI) (MAP), savoring the local beef specialty. If you are a meat lover, this is your choice!! (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 5,000 - 8,000) (To Next Destination: Approx. 11 Minutes Walk).
Explore the vibrant Kamitori Shopping Street (MAP), discovering local treasures. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 3,000-5,000) (To Next Destination: Approx. 4 Minutes Walk).
Ascend the Kumamoto City Hall Observatory (MAP) for stunning panoramic views of the city. (To Next Destination: Approx. 9 Minutes Walk).
Recommended: Panoramic Views, Sunset Watching, Cultural Insight.
Conclude the day with a satisfying dinner at Katsuretsutei (勝烈亭) (MAP), enjoying the local specialty of pork cutlet. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 2,000-3,000).
Recommended: Atsuage Kurobuta Roast-katsu Zen: Thick Berkshire pork loin cutlet. Fillet-katsu Zen: Thick fresh tenderloin cutlet. Ebi Katsu Zen: A combination of fried shrimp and pork cutlet for those who enjoy a variety of flavors.
Back To Hotel. (Approx. 1 Hour 26 Minutes).
Day 7: Aso Volcano's Majestic Beauty
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at TRAINDOR Bakery (MAP) before embarking on a day trip to the magnificent Aso Volcano. (To Next Destination: Approx. 1 Hour 19 Minutes) (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 200-300)
Explore the Aso Volcano Museum (MAP) to learn about the region's volcanic history. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 600 - 1,200) (To Next Destination: Approx. 10 Minutes Walk).
Hike to the Kusasenri Plateau (MAP), enjoying stunning views of the volcanic landscape. (To Next Destination: Approx. 15 Minutes Walk)
Venture to the Aso Nakadake Crater (MAP), experiencing the awe-inspiring power of nature. (To Next Destination: Approx. 1 Hour 5 Minutes).
Enjoy lunch at the Kusasenri View Restaurant (MAP), surrounded by picturesque scenery. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 1,500-2,500) (To Next Destination: Approx. 1 Hour 27 Minutes).
Conclude the day with a satisfying dinner at Ramen Ichiran, savoring the local ramen specialty. (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 800-1,200)
Day 8: Fukuoka's Culinary Farewell
Return to Fukuoka and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Embark on a final exploration of the city, visiting the bustling Karato Market (MAP) (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 1,000-2,000) for fresh seafood and local products.
Explore the Kyushu Railway Memorial Museum (MAP), (Per Person Consumption: Approx. JPY 300 for Ticket), a fascinating journey through the history of railway in the region.
Finally, head to Fukuoka Airport for your departure, carrying with you memories of an unforgettable journey through Northern Kyushu.
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