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Tour four fascinating areas of southern Japan: Yakushima, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Nagasaki
Kyushu Tourism Organization
Feel the power of the earth in this comprehensive tour of southern Kyushu, from the ancient island forest of Yakushima to the dramatic volcanic landscape of Unzen. Travel seamlessly by plane, train, and ferry to access the best of Kyushu’s diverse landscape, formed over millennia by powerful natural forces.
Yakushima is 60 km south of the southernmost tip of Kyushu. The forests here are said to have inspired the landscapes of one of Japan’s world-famous animated films. The interior of the island is covered in dense, mossy forest, with rivers and waterfalls fed by frequent rainfall. There are hiking trails ranging from beginner level to advanced, with the most popular hike being to the lush Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine. Guided hikes and rest huts along the way are also available.
To the east of Nagasaki, Unzen Onsen is a hot spring resort town that became popular among local and foreign visitors in the Meiji era (1868-1912), when Nagasaki's foreign settlement was established. Panoramic paths lead visitors through approximately 30 “hells" - pools of scalding-hot water and bubbling gas with a sulfuric odor emerging from fissures in the bedrock - all located around the Unzen hot spring resort area. When they're not crossing steaming rocky areas, the paths will lead you through patches of luxuriant nature. Many stray cats that seem at ease around the hells will probably accompany you on your stroll.
This route includes a tour of a traditional castle in Kumamoto Prefecture and an early morning visit to the lively fish market of Kagoshima City.
How to get there
From Haneda Airport, fly to Fukuoka Airport (about 2 hours), change planes and fly to Yakushima Airport (about 1 hour 10 minutes), then drive to the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine (about 30 minutes).
Miyanoura, Yakushima-cho, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima-ken
