Take subway/taxi to Hakata Station then JR Ltd. Express Sonic / transfer to Oita/Beppu. The combined journey takes ~2.5–3 hours depending on connections — this gets you to Beppu the same afternoon so you're settled before the ceremony day.
Check into a family-friendly hotel or ryokan (pick one with family baths if possible) and drop luggage; ryokans typically have 3pm check-in but confirm with your reservation.
Try a local public onsen such as Hyotan Onsen or reserve a private family bath at your ryokan to loosen up after travel — many are open into the evening (check each facility’s hours).
Enjoy a jigoku-mushi (hell-steamed) meal in Kannawa or at a listed steam-house where vegetables, seafood and eggs are steamed using geothermal steam — a local specialty and fun for kids.
Attend the graduation ceremony — confirm the venue and arrival time in advance so the family is there on time; plan transport from your hotel to the venue.
Visit the famous hot-spring ‘hells’ (Jigoku Meguri) such as Umi Jigoku and Chinoike Jigoku — colorful geothermal ponds and easy walking circuits; these are open roughly 8:00–17:00 (check each site).
Take the ropeway up Mt. Tsurumi for panoramic views over Beppu Bay — typically open ~9:00–17:00 (seasonal). Great photo opportunity and gentle walks at the top.
Stroll the shopping streets near Beppu Station or relax in public foot-baths (ashiyu) — many shops open by 9–10 and close early evening; confirm shop hours for specific stores.
A picture-postcard lake with mountain reflections and a pleasant craft/cafe village nearby — shops open typically from ~9:00–10:00 to late afternoon; great for relaxed family walks and photos.
Try a cozy café near the lake for soba or curry, and sample B-speak’s famous roll cake (good for a family treat) — cafés usually open by mid-morning and close in early evening.
Browse pottery, local crafts and small galleries along Yufuin’s main street — a relaxing way to experience the town’s artisan side; many shops close ~17:00.
Stay overnight at a family-friendly ryokan with private or family baths — enjoy an onsen soak and a kaiseki-style dinner at the inn (confirm meal time and private bath booking).
Traditional multi-course dinner at your ryokan showcasing local ingredients — a great cultural experience for the whole family; dinner times are usually set by the inn (often 18:00–19:30).
Longer rail journey (~3–3.5 hours) combining local lines and limited express/transfer at Oita or Tosu; start early to maximize time in Kumamoto and check timetables for smooth connections.
Try local Kumamoto-style tonkotsu ramen (garlic oil flavor) at a popular ramen shop near the station; many ramen shops are family-friendly and open midday.
Explore the restored castle keep and grounds — the castle complex is a highlight of Kumamoto and usually open 9:00–17:00 (confirm seasonal hours); allow time for the museum and grounds.
A tranquil Japanese strolling garden that recreates the 53 stations of the Tokaido; perfect for relaxed family photos and short walks. Typical hours are 9:00–17:00.
Enjoy regional dishes like horse sashimi (basashi) if adventurous, or choose family-friendly pubs/ restaurants in the downtown shopping area; many places open until 21:00.
Short 15–20 minute ferry ride to Sakurajima (ferry runs frequently) and visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center and scenic observation points; ferry hours and visitor center hours typically operate through daytime — check for volcanic alerts before visiting.
Beautiful samurai-era garden with bay views, historic buildings and pottery displays; Sengan-en is family-friendly and usually open 9:00–17:00 — allow a couple of hours to explore.
Relax at Ohori Park’s large pond and Japanese garden — great for kids to run and for family photos; parks are open all day but facilities may have limited hours.
A large shopping and entertainment complex with shops, canal shows, family attractions and an indoor play area — many shops open 10:00–21:00 but check specific store hours.
Experience Fukuoka’s famous outdoor yatai food stalls (seasonal & weather dependent) for casual local food, or choose a family-friendly riverside restaurant; yatai operate in evenings (often 18:00–23:00).
Shop specialty stores at Hakata Station (ramen, sweets, souvenirs). Many shops open from around 8:30–9:00; leave room for packing and transit to the airport.
Allow at least 2–3 hours before an international flight: travel time from central Hakata to the airport is ~15–25 minutes by subway or taxi; adjust timing for your airline’s check-in requirements.