Looking for an unforgettable adventure through Japan’s stunning Kyushu island? Look no further! Our 11-Day Kyushu Self-Drive Itinerary covers the best of the island – from vibrant cities and tranquil hot spring towns to rugged coastlines and lush mountains. Including the awe-inspiring Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes! So, join us in exploring Kyushu!
Date visited: Nov-2023
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Kyushu: The Perfect Island for a Self-Drive Adventure
Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island, is an ideal destination for a round-island self-drive adventure. Known for its diverse attractions, Kyushu boasts everything from vibrant urban hubs like Fukuoka to breathtaking natural wonders such as Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan.
The island is also famous for its relaxing hot spring towns, including Beppu and Yufuin, where travelers can unwind after a day on the road. Driving through Kyushu allows you to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems like coastal villages, ancient shrines, and scenic mountain routes. With its warm hospitality, delicious local cuisine, and stunning scenery, Kyushu promises an unforgettable road trip experience.
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11-Day Kyushu Self-Drive Itinerary
Here’s our tried-and-tested 11-day Kyushu self-drive itinerary, crafted from our firsthand experience during our November 2023 trip.
Day 1 (Fukuoka)
#1: Kushida Shrine 櫛田神社 (Google map)
Located in the heart of Fukuoka city, this Shinto shrine was built in 757. It hosts the largest annual religious festival in the city, Hakata Gion Yamakasa.
#2: Nakasu Yatai Yokocho (Food Stalls Street) (Google map)
Within a short walking distance from Kushida Shrine, the small inland island of Nakasu is home to one of the most recognisable icons of Fukuoka, open-air food stands.
“Yatai” refers to food stands, while “Yokocho” refers to alleyways. Nakasu Yatai Yokocho (Food Stalls Street) is the most popular yatai in Fukuoka
Day 2 (Fukuoka)
#1: Nanzoin Temple 南蔵院 (Google map)
Nanzoin is a Buddhist temple in the town of Sasaguri, Fukuoka. It is home to the biggest (41m length) bronze Reclining Buddha statue in the world.
#2: Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine 太宰府天満宮 (Google map)
Dazaifu Tenmangu is a Shinto Shrine in Dazaifu that is dedicated to Tenjin, the deified form of Michizane. Of the hundreds of Tenmangu Shrines in Japan, Dazaifu Tenmangu is considered among the top two most important. The shrine is popular among Japanese students and many visit it to pray for success in their upcoming exams.
For more details on Fukuoka, click here.
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Day 3 (Beppu)
#1: Umi Jigoku 海地獄 (Google Map)
Also known as “The Sea Hell”, Umi Jigoku is the most famous of the seven hells in Beppu. The name is derived from its main cobalt blue geothermal pool, which resembles the turquoise colour of the ocean. This unique colour is due to the natural presence of iron sulfate in the water.
#2: Chinoike Jigoku 血の池地獄 (Google Map)
One of the oldest natural hot springs in Japan, Chinoike Jigoku translates to “Blood Pond Hell”. The name comes from the vivid red colour of its main geothermal pool, which is due to the natural presence of iron oxide and magnesium oxide.
#3: Global Tower (Google Map)
It is one of the few non-geothermal-related attractions in the city. Opened in 1994, Global Tower is located near the city centre. A sleek tower soaring into the city skyline, it has a 360-degree observation deck 100m above ground. Offering a panoramic view of the bay, city and inland mountain range.
For more details on Beppu, click here.
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Day 4 (Yufuin)
#1: Yufuin 湯布院 (town) (Google Map)
Located at the foot of Mount Yufu and a mere 40 minutes drive from Beppu, Yufuin is one of the most popular highland hot spring towns in Japan. Approximately 400m above sea level, Yufuin is photogenically blessed with the charming Mount Yufu serving as the backdrop from most parts of the town.
Other than the numerous ryokans (many with hot spring baths) dotting the lovely town, the main street in Yufuin is filled with cafes, boutiques and various retail outlets.
#2: Aso-Kuju National Park Sagiridai Overlook 狭霧台 (Google Map)
Situated on the slopes of Mount Yufu, this small roadside viewing terrace offers a panoramic view of Yufuin town and the surrounding mountain ranges.
#3: Tengu Waterfall 天狗の滝 (Google Map)
A mere 3-minute drive from Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi, Tengu is a small waterfall located a stone’s throw from the road. Most visitors stop here for a quick meal in the eye-catching roadside restaurant that comes with ample parking and a souvenir shop, without realising the waterfall next to it.
#4: Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi 九重“夢”大吊橋 (Google Map)
“Yume” translates to “dream”, while “otsuribashi” translates to “suspension bridge”. Opened in Oct-2006, Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi is the biggest crowd-puller in Kokonoe district. 390m long and 173m above the valley, it is the highest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan and offers breathtaking views of the gorge and nearby waterfalls.
For more details on Yufuin, click here.
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Day 5 (Mount Aso)
#1: Makinoto Observatory 牧ノ戸展望台 (Google Map)
Makinoto Observatory, situated in the Aso-Kuju National Park in Kyushu, Japan, offers stunning panoramic views of the Kuju Mountain Range. This scenic spot is trendy for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas, as well as the vibrant autumn foliage.
#2: Yamanami Highway Observatory やまなみハイウェイ展望台 (Google Map)
A small but excellent vista point along the scenic Yamanami Highway which connects Beppu to Mount Aso. It offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the iconic Mount Aso and Kuju Mountain Range. It is an ideal stop for those exploring the picturesque landscapes of the region.
#3: Daikanbō Lookout 大観峰 展望所 (Google Map)
Hands down the MOST scenic point in our Kyushu road trip!
At an altitude of 936m, Daikanbo is the highest point of Mt. Aso’s northern outer rim, providing a panoramic view of the five peaks within Mt. Aso’s massive caldera and the surrounding rolling hills. It is a popular destination for tourists and photographers, offering one of the best spots to appreciate the grandeur of Aso’s volcanic terrain. A MUST-SEE in Kyushu!
#4: Aso Nakadake Crater 阿蘇中岳 火口 (Google Map)
When the volcanic activity is low and there’s no toxic smoke, visitors can drive up to the craters! Here, visitors can witness the dramatic landscape of the craters, which often includes steaming fumaroles and a vibrant, turquoise volcanic lake. The area offers a unique and close-up experience of volcanic activity, making it a fascinating destination.A unique experience! Another must-see!
#5: Kusasenrigahama 草千里ヶ浜 (Google Map)
Located along the route to Nakadake Craters, Kusasenrigahama (Kusasenri Plateau) is an expansive grassland in the highlands of Mt. Aso. The plain offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanic peaks and is characterized by its rolling green fields dotted with grazing horses and cattle. Excellent spot for photography and a must-see!
#6: Kusasenri Observatory 草千里展望所 (Google Map)
A short walk/drive from Kusasenrigahama, Kusasenri Observatory is an elevated viewing platform offering splendid panoramic views of Kusasenrigahama and the distant Nakadake Craters. As with all sites at Mount Aso, this is another must-see view!
For more details on Mount Aso, click here.
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Day 6 (Kumamoto)
#1: Kumamoto Castle 熊本城 (Google Map)
The crown jewel of Kumamoto City.
Kumamoto Castle, situated in Kumamoto City on Japan’s Kyushu island, is a prominent historical landmark. Built-in the early 17th century by the feudal lord Kato Kiyomasa, the castle is renowned for its imposing black-and-white facade, extensive stone walls, and sophisticated defensive features, making it one of Japan’s most formidable fortresses.
#2: Suizenji Jojuen Garden 水前寺成趣園 (Google Map)
Suizenji Jojuen Garden is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese landscape design. It was built at the current site because of its spring-fed pond, which has clean water that is excellent for tea.
For more details on Kumamoto, click here.
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Day 7 (Sakurajima)
#1: Tarumizu Yuttarikan Roadside Station (Google Map)
Tarumizu Yuttarikan Roadside Station is a popular seaside rest stop just before entering Sakurajima. It offers scenic views of the island and Kinko Bay, making it a great spot for travellers to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
#2: Ushineo Bridge 牛根大橋 (Google Map)
Ushineo Bridge is a striking bridge connecting Sakurajima and the mainland. The bridge is known for its impressive design and scenic surroundings, making it a notable landmark in the region.
#3: Sakurajima Visitor Center (Google Map)
The Sakurajima Visitor Center is an informative facility in Nagisa Park. It offers interactive exhibits and educational displays about the island’s volcanic activity, geology, history, and natural environment.
#4: Sakurajima Nagisa Park Foot Bath 桜島溶岩なぎさ公園足湯 (Google Map)
Located adjacent to Sakurajima Visitor Center. Nagisa Park Foot Bath is a popular and free seaside hot spring foot bath located in Nagisa Park.
#5: Karasujima Observatory 烏島展望所 (Google Map)
Located on the west side of the island, Karasujima Observatory is encircled by a vast lava plain which is now covered with black pine trees. Before the 1914 eruption, Sakurajima used to be an isolated island named “Karasujima”. This observatory was built as a reminder of the former island.
#6: Yunohira Observation Deck 湯之平展望所 (Google Map)
373m above sea level on the North Peak of Sakurajima, Yunohira Observation Deck is the highest publicly accessible point on the volcano.
The observation deck offers stunning views of the rough surface of the smoking South Peak, Kinko Bay and Kagoshima City. On clear days, it provides an unobstructed view of the entire bay area and beyond. A must-see spot in Sakurajima.
#7: Arimura Lava Observation Deck 有村溶岩展望所 (Google Map)
A scenic viewpoint on the southern side of Sakurajima, the observation deck is located on a small hill in the black lava field created by the great 1946 eruption.
#8: Kurokami Buried Shrine Gate 黒神埋没鳥居 (Google Map)
The Kurokami Buried Shrine Gate is a fascinating historical site on Sakurajima. It became famous after a massive eruption in 1914, which caused large amounts of volcanic ash and lava to flow into the surrounding area and half-bury the Torii gate. Only the upper part of the gate remained visible.
For more details on Sakurajima, click here.
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Day 8 (Takachiho)
#1: Amaterasu Railway 高千穂あまてらす鉄道 (Google Map)
The Amaterasu Railway is a scenic, tourist-focused railway located in Takachiho Town. This unique railway operates on a short track that is a remnant of the former Takachiho Railway.
The railway is now run as a tourist attraction. Offering open-air rides on small trolley cars, providing passengers with breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and the towering Takachiho Gorge.
#2: Takachiho Gorge 高千穂峡 (Google Map)
Takachiho Gorge, known for its dramatic cliffs, serene waters, and deep cultural significance, is probably the most famous site in Miyazaki Prefecture.
#3: Manai Falls 真名井の滝 (Google Map)
Manai Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Takachiho Gorge. The 17-meter-high waterfall is a key attraction in the mystical and scenic Takachiho region. Fed by the Gokase River, the waterfall plunges into the narrow, basalt-lined gorge, creating a picturesque scene of cascading water against sheer, volcanic rock walls. Though not the tallest/biggest, some view it as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan.
For more details on Takachiho, click here.
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Day 9 (Yanagawa and Yutoku Inari Shrine)
#1: Yanagawa 柳川市 (Google Map)
Yanagawa (Fukuoka Prefecture), often called the “Venice of Kyushu”, is a picturesque city famous for its network of canals. These canals, originally built during the Edo period (1603–1868) as part of a defence system and irrigation for rice paddies, are now the city’s main attraction.
For more details on Yanagawa, click here.
#2: Yutoku Inari Shrine 祐徳稲荷神社 (Kyushu, Japan) (Google Map)
Yutoku Inari Shrine is considered one of Japan’s top three shrines dedicated to Inari. The shrine is renowned for its vibrant red architecture, set against the lush backdrop of a forested mountain.
For more details on Yutoku Inari Shrine, click here.
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Day 10 (Nagasaki)
#1: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum (長崎原爆資料館)(Google Map)
The museum is dedicated to commemorating the tragic events of August 9, 1945, when an atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki during the closing days of World War II. It serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of nuclear weapons and advocates for global peace and nuclear disarmament.
#2: Hypocenter Park (爆心地公園)(Google Map)
The park marks the exact spot beneath where the atomic bomb detonated in 1945. It is adjacent to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.
#3: Peace Park Nagasaki (長崎平和公園)(Google Map)
Located near Hypocenter Park and the atomic bomb museum, Peace Park Nagasaki is a serene and symbolic space dedicated to promoting world peace and commemorating the victims of the nuclear bombing.
#4: Suwa Shrine (諏訪神社)(Google Map)
A 17th-century shrine reached via a 277-step stone staircase, Suwa Shrine is one of Nagasaki’s most important and historic Shinto shrines. The shrine sits atop a hill overlooking Nagasaki and has been a central place of worship and community gatherings for centuries.
#5: Inasa-yama Park (稲佐山公園)(Google Map)
Beautiful park located on the slopes of Mount Inasa.
#6: Mt. Inasayama Observatory (稲佐山山頂展望台)(Google Map)
Widely recognised as one of Japan’s top three night views (city views). Mount Inasa is a 333m high mountain close to Nagasaki’s city centre.
For more details on Nagasaki, click here.
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Day 11 (Fukuoka)
#1: Raizansennyoji Taihioin Temple 雷山 千如寺 大悲王院 (Google map)
Founded in 178 by an Indian Buddhist monk named Seiga, the temple was dedicated to imperial worship during the Mongol invasions of Japan in the Kamakura period. It is also known as the Kannon of Raizan due to its impressive statue of the goddess of compassion, embellished with 1000 arms and hands, with an eye engraved in each palm.
#2: Sakurai Shrine Futamigaura Torii 櫻井神社 海中大鳥居 (Google map)
A 45-minute drive from central Fukuoka city, Sakurai Shrine Futamigaura Torii has one of the 100 most beautiful sunset views in Japan. Approximately 150m from the beach, two giant rocks (joined by a shimenawa rope) and a magnificent white torii gate have attracted many visitors from both domestic and international. The rocks are popular for their representation of marital happiness and matchmaking.
For more details on Fukuoka, click here.
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Our other travel blogs on Kyushu, Japan:
Our other travel blogs on Japan:
- Shirakawa-go in Winter
- Okinawa Travel VLOG 2019
- 11-Days Free & Easy Itinerary for Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hakone
- Tokyo Free & Easy Guide
- Osaka Free & Easy Guide
- Kyoto Free & Easy Guide
- Hakone Free & Easy Guide
- 4 Great Tips for your Japan Holiday
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