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Summary

This travel guide offers a comprehensive itinerary for exploring Kyushu, Japan, over 7 to 10 days. From the bustling city of Fukuoka to the natural wonders of Beppu's hot springs, Aso's volcano, and Kagoshima's Sakurajima, travelers can experience a blend of urban excitement, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Each destination provides unique attractions, from historical temples and vibrant shopping centers to geothermal wonders and volcanic adventures.

Day 1-3: Exploring Fukuoka

Begin your Kyushu adventure in Fukuoka, experiencing its unique blend of city life, historical sites, and natural beauty.

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Canal City Shopping Centre

A must-visit for its impressive water show, diverse shopping options, and delightful dining experiences. The water show at 8pm is a mesmerizing spectacle that shouldn't be missed, featuring perfectly timed fountains and captivating projections that tell a beautiful story over the entire building.

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Tips

Catch the water show at 8pm for a memorable and enchanting experience that perfectly captures the essence of Fukuoka's vibrant city life.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 92-282-2525
🌐   Website: https://canalcity.co.jp/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 1 Chome-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0018, Japan
🔗   Profiles: Instagram YouTube X (Twitter) Facebook

Tocho-ji Temple

Renowned for its striking red pagoda and the awe-inspiring large Buddha statue, Tocho-ji Temple offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Fukuoka's rich cultural heritage. During the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, the temple comes alive with vibrant celebrations and traditional performances, providing a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

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Tips

Visit during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival to witness the temple adorned in colorful decorations and immerse yourself in the lively festivities.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 92-291-4459
🌐   Website: https://www.tochoji.net/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 2-4 Gokushomachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0037, Japan

Fukuoka Tower

As the city's tallest building, Fukuoka Tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city, making it a must-visit for breathtaking vistas and memorable sunset experiences. The observation deck at 134m provides an ideal vantage point to admire the city's skyline and the surrounding natural beauty.

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Tips

Best visited during sunset for a truly magical and picturesque view of Fukuoka, allowing you to witness the city's transition from day to night in a captivating display of colors.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 92-823-0234
🌐   Website: http://www.fukuokatower.co.jp/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 2 Chome-3-26 Momochihama, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0001, Japan
🔗   Profiles: Instagram Facebook

Ohori Park

A tranquil oasis nestled within the bustling city, Ohori Park offers a serene retreat with its picturesque lake and lush greenery. Visitors can revel in the peaceful ambiance while admiring the beauty of the terrapins and giant carp that gracefully inhabit the serene waters, adding a touch of natural wonder to the park's serene surroundings.

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Tips

Look out for the terrapins and giant carp in the lake, and take a leisurely stroll around the park to immerse yourself in the serene and idyllic atmosphere.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 92-741-2004
🌐   Website: https://www.ohorikouen.jp/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Japan, 〒810-0051 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Ohorikoen, 公園管理事務所
🔗   Profiles: Instagram X (Twitter)

🌋 Day 4-5: Beppu's Hot Springs

Experience the unique hot springs of Beppu, from the colorful 'hells' to steam baths and sand baths.

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🌋 Jigoku Hot Springs

A collection of spectacular multi-colored hot springs, each with its own unique characteristics and colors, creating a mesmerizing natural display.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Japan's scariest hot springs - BEPPU | Japan travel guide", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4aD_YzMRZ8", "channel": { "name": "We Go East"}, "published_date": "Mar 11, 2022", "length": "12:29" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Exploring the Hells of Beppu, Japan", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lgdx-hOjZ90", "channel": { "name": "Livy Travels"}, "published_date": "Dec 20, 2023", "length": "14:03" }</div>

Tips

Don't miss the 'Tornado hell' for its regular eruptions, a captivating sight that showcases the raw power of nature.

🌋 Steam Kitchen Jigokumushikobo Kannawa

Embark on a culinary adventure at the Steam Kitchen, where you can savor delectable dishes cooked using natural hot steam, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience amidst the geothermal wonders of Beppu.

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Tips

Suitable for both vegetarians and meat-eaters, this unique dining experience allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying a delicious meal.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 977-66-3775
🌐   Website: http://jigokumushi.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Japan, 〒874-0041 Oita, Beppu, 風呂本5 風呂本 風呂本5組

🌋 Hot Spring Sand Bath

Indulge in a unique wellness experience by trying the hot spring sand bath, where you can immerse yourself in warm sand with reputed health benefits, providing a rejuvenating and relaxing escape.

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Tips

While it may not appeal to everyone, the hot spring sand bath offers a distinctive way to unwind and revitalize, making it a worthwhile consideration for the adventurous traveler.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 977-66-5737
🌐   Website: https://www.city.beppu.oita.jp/sisetu/shieionsen/detail9.html
📍   Address: Shoningahamacho, Beppu, Oita 874-0023, Japan

🌋 Day 6-7: Aso Volcano Adventure

Explore the natural beauty of Aso with its vast volcano, hiking trails, and serene countryside.

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🌋 Aso Volcano

Aso Volcano is the largest active volcano in Japan, known for its stunning crater lake and breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. The aqua blue lake within the crater is a sight to behold, although it may be closed at times due to toxic gas fumes. The area offers various tourist activities such as horse riding and museums, but the best way to experience the volcano's beauty is by taking a picnic or embarking on one of the scenic hiking routes.

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Tips

The weather around Aso Volcano can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to check the forecast before visiting and aim to go early for the best chance of a clear view. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the potential closure of the crater lake due to toxic gas fumes and plan their visit accordingly.

⛩️ Local Buddhist Temples

The local Buddhist temples in Aso offer a serene and spiritual experience, providing insight into the traditional spiritual practices of the region. These peaceful temples serve as a tranquil retreat, especially after the unfortunate collapse of the main gate and offering hall of Aso Shrine in the 2016 earthquake. Exploring these temples allows travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and find solace in their tranquil surroundings.

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Tips

As an alternative to the Aso Shrine, which was affected by the earthquake, visiting the local Buddhist temples provides a unique opportunity to connect with the spiritual heritage of the area and witness the resilience of the local community.

Travel Information
📍   Address: 2120-2, Otohime, Aso, Kumamoto 869-2226, Japan

🌋 Day 8-10: Kagoshima and Sakurajima

End your journey in Kagoshima, with a visit to the iconic Sakurajima Volcano and other local attractions.

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🌋 Sakurajima Volcano

Sakurajima volcano, an active volcano, offers not only spectacular views but also natural hot springs, providing a unique and rejuvenating experience for visitors.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Sakurajima Volcano MASSIVE Eruption LIGHTNING and ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpuBgCxj6zY", "channel": { "name": "Beautiful Volcano Sunrise and Sunset Eruptions"}, "published_date": "Feb 16, 2024", "length": "3:01" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Japan's Sakurajima volcano erupts now! Volcano spews ash ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ler4Cw-N2s", "channel": { "name": "Evolution Crisis"}, "published_date": "Feb 8, 2023", "length": "1:44" }</div>

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Tips

Take the ferry for a close view of the volcano and explore the island by bus or bike to fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty.

🌸 Sengan-en Garden

Sengan-en Garden, a beautiful Japanese landscape garden built in the 1700s, holds historical significance and exudes a serene ambiance, making it a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and cultural enrichment.

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Tips

Although an entry fee applies, the serene landscape and historical significance of Sengan-en Garden make it a worthwhile investment for a peaceful and enlightening experience.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +81 99-247-1551
🌐   Website: https://www.senganen.jp/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 2 hours
📍   Address: 9700-1 Yoshinocho, Kagoshima, 892-0871, Japan
🔗   Profiles: X (Twitter) YouTube Instagram Facebook