Start your trip in Fukuoka, the largest city on Kyuushuu Island. Visit Nakasu, the city's bustling nightlife district where you'll find endless bars and restaurants with delicious local cuisine. Take a stroll in Ohori Park, a large park with a lake in the middle of the city.
Take a day trip to Nagasaki to learn about its dark history at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park, commemorating the victims of the atomic bombing. Don't miss the famous Glover Garden, a historic park with stunning views of the city.
Visit Kumamoto Castle, one of the most impressive castles in Japan which was extensively damaged by the 2016 earthquake but open in 2023. Go to Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a traditional Japanese garden that is a designated place of scenic beauty.
Explore Aso-Kuju National Park, famous for its active volcano Mount Aso. Take a scenic drive on the Aso Milk Road, and stop at the various hot springs Kurokawa Onsen or Uchinomaki Onsen for a relaxing afternoon. Stay overnight in Minamioguni-machi or Aso-shi.
Beppu is famous for its hot springs and the Hell Tour, a tour that takes you through the various hot springs that bubble up from underground. Don't miss the Takegawara Onsen, a traditional bathhouse with sand baths. Stay overnight in one of the hot spring hotels.
Head south to Miyazaki where you can relax on the beautiful Aoshima Beach or hike the Takachiho Gorge, a narrow chasm that cuts through the landscape. Visit the Udo Jingu Shrine, a mountain-top shrine that overlooks the ocean. Stay overnight in Miyazaki City.
End your trip in Kagoshima, a city famous for its hot springs and stunning views of Sakurajima, an active volcano. Explore the city's history at the Reimeikan Museum or take a stroll down the Senganen Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden. Take the ferry to Sakurajima to experience its geothermal activity.
Trains are the most efficient way to travel around Kyuushuu. It is recommended to purchase a Japan Rail Pass beforehand to save money. Japan's extensive road networks also make it convenient to rent a car. Overall, transportation costs can be kept reasonable in Japan by using various passes and deals available.
If you have more time, consider adding Nagasaki's Chinatown and Sakura Island, a remote island known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees. If you have less time, prioritize places that interest you the most.
Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) is the main airport on Kyuushuu island. It is located approximately 9 miles from the city center and offers both domestic and international flights. There are shuttle buses available to take you to and from the airport.