Ultimate December Road Trip Through Kyushu: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita

Day 1: Explore Fukuoka

Fukuoka, Japan on December 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ippudo

Start your day with a rich bowl of ramen at the famous Ippudo, known for its Tonkotsu broth.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ohori Park

Stroll through Ohori Park, a picturesque green space featuring a large pond and walking trails, perfect for relaxation.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

Explore the historical ruins of Fukuoka Castle, offering beautiful views over the city from its elevated position.
JPY0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Yatai Stalls

Indulge in local street food at the famous Yatai food stalls, offering everything from yakitori to oden.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kushida Shrine

Visit Kushida Shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and the famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
JPY0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Canal City Hakata

Shop and explore Canal City Hakata, a large complex that includes shops, restaurants, and an entertainment area.
JPY0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Shin Shin

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Shin Shin, another renowned ramen shop that locals adore.
JPY1200, 1 hour
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Day 2: Saga Day Trip

Saga, Japan on December 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at St. Marc Cafe

Grab a delightful breakfast with sweet breads and coffee at St. Marc Cafe.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Saga Castle Park

Visit the beautiful Saga Castle Park, featuring gardens and historic buildings that tell the story of the region.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nagoya Cochin

Try some local chicken dishes at Nagoya Cochin, known for its tender and flavorful poultry.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Mitsuse Cheese Village

Experience cheese making at the Mitsuse Cheese Village, where you can sample handmade cheeses.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Yoshinogari Historical Park

Explore Yoshinogari, an ancient settlement site, offering insight into Japan’s prehistoric culture.
JPY400, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Kagura

Finish off your day with a meal at Kagura, serving up exquisite Japanese cuisine.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventures in Nagasaki

Nagasaki, Japan on December 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de l'Opera

Savor a European-style breakfast of pastries and coffee at the charming Cafe de l'Opera.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Glover Garden

Visit Glover Garden, a beautiful open-air museum showcasing Western-style mansions and stunning harbor views.
JPY620, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Oura Catholic Church

Explore Oura Catholic Church, a significant historical church that reflects Nagasaki's rich international history.
JPY300, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Shikairou

Try Nagasaki's famous Champon at Shikairou, a must-visit for noodle lovers.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Nagasaki Peace Park

Reflect at the Nagasaki Peace Park, commemorating the victims of the atomic bomb with monuments and sculptures.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Mount Inasa

Take a cable car to Mount Inasa for breathtaking views of Nagasaki, especially stunning at sunset.
JPY1200, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kasuga

Enjoy dinner at Kasuga, known for its fresh seafood and local dishes.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Kumamoto

Kumamoto, Japan on December 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kawakamian

Have a traditional Kumamoto breakfast at Kawakamian, famous for its local delicacies.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kumamoto Castle

Visit the iconic Kumamoto Castle, thought to be one of Japan's most impressive castles with beautiful views.
JPY500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shin Shoya

Savor Kumamoto ramen at Shin Shoya—rich broth and tender noodles make it a local favorite.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Walk around Suizenji Jojuen, a traditional Japanese garden with teahouses and scenic landscapes.
JPY400, 2 hours

4:00PM

Contemporary Art Museum Kumamoto

Explore this modern museum featuring innovative exhibits from local and international artists.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ikoi

Enjoy dinner at Ikoi with its casual atmosphere and local Kumamoto dishes.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Hot Springs in Oita

Oita: Beppu and Yufuin, Japan on December 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yufuin Flown

Start your morning in Yufuin with creative pastries and coffee at the quaint Yufuin Flown bakery.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Beppu Hells Tour

Explore the unique hot springs of Beppu on the 'Hells Tour', a fascinating showcase of geothermal features.
JPY2000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tofu no Sato

Enjoy a healthy lunch at Tofu no Sato, specializing in tofu-based dishes.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Yufuin Onsen

Relax in Yufuin's famous onsen, soaking in hot springs with picturesque mountain views.
JPY1500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Kinrin Lake

Take in the serene beauty of Kinrin Lake, especially beautiful at sunset as the water mirrors the sky.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kamekichi

Dine at Kamekichi, known for its kaiseki meals that showcase local ingredients.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return to Fukuoka

Fukuoka, Japan on December 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Marugame Seimen

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Marugame Seimen, famous for its udon noodles.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

Stop by Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of scholarship, featuring beautiful gardens.
JPY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Uomura

Try the freshest seafood at Uomura while listening to the soothing sounds of the nearby river.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Shopping at Tenjin Underground City

Shop around at Tenjin Underground City, a vibrant hub of stores and boutiques.
JPY0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Nanzoin Temple

Visit Nanzoin Temple, known for its reclining Buddha and tranquil atmosphere.
JPY0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Koushi Banya

Cap off your trip with a traditional meal at Koushi Banya, famous for its grilled meats.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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