7-Day Best of Kyushu Cultural Highlights Tour

Embark on a culturally enriching 7-day journey through the charming Southern Japan! Go beyond the usual tourist destinations, discover the majestic treasures of Kyushu, and get to see Japan from different perspectives. Take in the boundless natural beauty of Kyushu’s natural paradise, get a glimpse into the rich and dynamic local culture, and even delight yourself with scrumptious Japanese culinary specialities. Without a doubt, one of the ultimate Kyushu adventures!

Tour Highlights

• Experience the best cultural highlights of Kyushu in 7 days

• Pay homage to the Nagasaki atomic bombing victims at the Nagasaki Peace Park

• Get an insight into former Dutch Trade Post in Dejima District

• Admire the historic Western-style mansions in Glover Garden

• Marvel at the magnificent Hells of Beppu

• Explore the Samurai Districts in Kitsuki

• Discover the Village of Secret Kilns

• Taste delicious Japanese culinary specialties

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Fukuoka

Arrive at Fukuoka Airport. Your local guide will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel. Take time to freshen up and enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure.

Day 2

See the Charming Fukuoka

Make your way through the historic port town of Hakata. Once the largest trade port city in Japan, get an insight into Hakata’s significant role in Japan’s foreign trade relations as you step into the nostalgic streets lined with temples and shrines as well as traditional local stores of the bygone era. You will also visit the most famous handmade doll shop in Hakata and get an opportunity to paint the doll yourself as a souvenir. 

Day 3

Explore the Historic Nagasaki

Begin the day with a trip to the lovely port city of Nagasaki. As one of the cities in the world to experience a nuclear attack, visit the historical Nagasaki Peace Park and pay tribute to the victims of the second atomic bomb attack during the World War II. You will also get a glimpse into Japan’s foreign trade relations as you explore the illustrious Dejima District featuring the remnants of the former Dutch Trade Post. Continue to the amazing Glover Garden, one of the popular destinations showcasing the prosperous foreign trade relations of Japan, and admire the magnificent Western-style mansions of former Western residents of Nagasaki. Then, head to the most famous and oldest standing Christian Church in Japan. See the consequential Oura Catholic Church designated as national treasure and admire its contemporary European architectural features. 

Day 4

Discover the Breathtaking Takachiho Gorge

Start the day with a ferry ride to Kumamoto and drive east to Takachiho. The quaint town of Takachiho is associated with myths and legends. Hear fascinating stories from your knowledgeable guide as you make your way through the enchanting Takachiho Gorge to enjoy its picturesque scenic landscapes, including the Manai-No-Taki Falls. 

See the Legendary Amano Iwato Shrine

Continue to one of the most visited and famous destinations in Southern Japan, the mystical Amano Yasukawara. Best known as the cave where the Sun Goddess Amaterasu hid herself, be amazed at the captivating natural beauty of the cave. Then, enjoy a comical yet traditional Yokagura Dance performance and discover how the dance brought back the light into the world. You will also hear more interesting tales surrounding Amaterasu and the enchanting cave. 

Day 5

See Picturesque Hells of Beppu

Journey to the celebrated Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri). Although the hot springs are for viewing purposes rather than bathing, the popular Hells of Beppu is designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. Marvel at the spectacular natural hot springs featuring distinct characteristics from colors to scenic views to hydrothermal activities. 

Catch Sight of the Wild Japanese Macaques at the Takasakiyama Monkey Park

Enjoy a scenic drive to Mt. Takasaki, where you will take a monorail up to the observation deck. See the wild Japanese macaques up close and observe how they behave in their natural habitat.

Explore the Historic Samurai Districts in Kitsuki

Immerse yourself into the nostalgic charm of ancient Japan as you make your way through the impressive Samurai Districts of Kitsuki featuring picturesque slopes and beautifully preserved samurai residences. You will also get an insight into the life of a samurai and listen to fascinating stories about the noble Japanese warriors. 

Day 6

Discover the Spectacular Village of Secret Kilns

Unravel the hidden imperial kilns on an interesting trip to the charming Village of Secret Kilns. See the lovely Nabeshima Hanyo Park, admire the impressive stands of brick chimneys and kilns, and enjoy the breathtaking scenic landscapes around the village. Afterwards, you can browse through various pottery shops offering premium porcelain, exquisite tablewares, and other souvenir items. 

Enjoy a Delightful Sake Tasting Experience

Continue to one of the famous Sake Breweries in Kyushu. Tour the facility, get an insight into the sake traditional production process, and enjoy a pleasant sake tasting experience. You will also get to know the story behind the success of the brand. Then, head back to Fukuoka and enjoy at your own leisure before heading back to your hotel. 

Day 7

Depart from Fukuoka

Check out from the hotel after breakfast. With the help of the local guide, transfer to Fukuoka Airport for your journey back home.

Inclusions

• Airport Transfers

• 6 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (6)

• Lunch (5)

• Dinner (3)

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

• Admission Fees and Activities as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights

• Local Hotel Tax

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Visas

• Travel Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• This tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

• A moderate amount of walking is involved; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Arrival time at each location may vary depending on the season and the day of the week due to traffic conditions.

• If there is insufficient time for all attractions on the itinerary, the tour guide will adjust the length of time spent at other attractions. 

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on road conditions.

• The departure airport transfer is only available on the last day of the tour. If you plan to stay additional night(s) after the tour, please inform us to provide airport transfer instructions in advance.

• Please note that on days in which no activities are planned, you are free to explore at your leisure; all activities and purchases will be at your own expense. You will have your tour guide's mobile number in case of emergency.