A Journey Through the History, Nature, and Culture
Embark on a 7 to 13-day adventure through Japan’s captivating central Kyushu region, where history, culture, and natural wonders converge in a journey that offers something for a wide range of travelers.
Starting on the west side of the island from the resilient city of Nagasaki, steeped in poignant modern history, we head south and then east, visiting volcanic Unzen, then castle town Kumamoto by ferry, then on to the natural landscapes of Mt. Aso and Takachiho, through to the geothermal Onsen of Beppu, this tour offers a diverse range of experiences highlighting the true essence of Japan’s southern islands.
Begin your exploration in Nagasaki, where the remnants of a tumultuous past meet hopeful modern day. Visit the important Peace Park and delve into the rich heritage of Oura Church and Glover Garden. Travel through the bubbling sulfur springs of Unzen Hells and the picturesque port of Shimabara before making your way to the spiritual heart of Kyushu in Aso and Takachiho. Stroll along the enchanting Takachiho Gorge, witness a lively Kagura performances, and experience Japan’s mythological roots firsthand.
Continue to Beppu, a town famed for its natural hot springs and culinary delights. Indulge in Jigoku Mushi—foods steamed by volcanic heat—visit the famous "hells," and immerse yourself in local craftsmanship through a bamboo lantern workshop. End your journey with a foodie tour, savoring local delicacies that capture the unique flavors of Beppu. Perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts, this tour offers an unforgettable immersion into the heart of Kyushu.
KEY FEATURES
Nagasaki’s Historic Sites: Explore the Peace Park, Oura Church and Glover Garden.
Unzen Hells: Discover one of Japan’s most famous volcanic hot spring areas.
Experience a traditional Kagura dance performance unique to rural Japan
Takachiho Gorge: Walk through breathtaking scenery along the iconic gorge
Beppu’s Onsen Delights: Visit Umi Jigoku and Onibozu springs and join a bamboo lantern workshop.
Local Culinary Experiences: Savor the regional flavors of Kyushu with special foodie tours in Beppu and other local eateries including a traditional 'Hell' Steamed lunch.
Inclusions
Accommodation: comfortable hotels (with the option of traditional Japanese inns on certain days), including dinner at the hotel in Takachiho.
Transportation: All pre-bookable bus, ferry, and train transfers as per itinerary.
Guided Tours: Expert-guided tours in Nagasaki, Unzen, Takachiho, and Beppu.
Meals: Daily breakfast, selected lunches including a Hell Steaming lunch, and a Beppu evening foodie tour.
Cultural Experiences: Admission to the Atomic Bomb Museum, Kagura dance performance, Onsen Museum, and Space Beppu Bamboo Lantern Workshop.
Availability
All-year round
Itinerary
7-13 days
A 13-day / Extensive Exploration Through the History, Nature, and Culture
Length : 12 nights, 13 days Pricing Tour : TBC *Single Supplement : TBC
Welcome to Nagasaki: A Journey Through Reflection and Recovery
Arrive in the historic city of Nagasaki and begin your exploration of this culturally rich and resilient destination.
For a deeper understanding of Nagasaki’s pivotal role in world history, we offer an optional visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum. This sobering yet inspiring museum offers a poignant look at the impact of the atomic bomb and the city’s remarkable recovery, making it an essential stop for those seeking to reflect on the past and the importance of peace.
DAY
1
Discover Nagasaki: A Day of History, Culture, and Scenic Beauty
Start your day with a comfortable, short bus ride from your hotel to the serene Peace Park, a peaceful memorial to reflect on Nagasaki's history. After a brief transfer and a scenic 30-minute ride, arrive at the picturesque Oura Church area—home to Japan’s oldest standing Christian church and a symbol of resilience.
Enjoy a delightful local lunch before diving into a cultural exploration of Oura Church, the breathtaking views from Glover Garden, and the charming Arcade Street filled with shops and unique finds. From here, take a leisurely 20-minute walk or a short bus ride to the historic Dejima Island, once Japan’s gateway to the world and a symbol of international exchange.
Return to your hotel at your leisure, carrying memories of Nagasaki’s rich history and scenic wonders.
DAY
2
Nagasaki to Unzen: Depart the city for our first taste of the volcanic wilds
Begin your day with a scenic bus ride departing from Nagasaki Station and after a relaxing 2-hour journey, arrive at the fascinating Unzen Hells, a geothermal marvel filled with steaming hot springs and bubbling sulfur pits.
DAY
3
Explore Unzen Hells: A Day of Natural Wonders
Begin your day with a scenic bus ride departing from Nagasaki Station and after a relaxing 2-hour journey, arrive at the fascinating Unzen Hells, a geothermal marvel filled with steaming hot springs and bubbling sulfur pits.
DAY
4
Journey to Kumamoto: A castle town with a long history
Experience a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation, concluding your day in Kumamoto.
Savor a delicious breakfast before departing by bus, with a short 20-minute ride to Shimabara Port, where you'll board the ferry for a tranquil 1-hour journey across the waters to Kumamoto Port.
DAY
5
Inland from Kumamoto to the Mt. Aso area: From historic castles to ancient volcanic central Kyushu
Experience a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation, concluding your day in Kumamoto.
Savor a delicious breakfast before departing by bus, with a short 20-minute ride to Shimabara Port, where you'll board the ferry for a tranquil 1-hour journey across the waters to Kumamoto Port.
DAY
6
Explore the Mt. Aso area: Volcanoes and wild nature await
Explore the wider Aso area today.
Mount Aso, located in Kumamoto Prefecture on Japan's Kyushu Island, is one of the country's most beautiful natural wonders. As the largest active volcano in Japan and one of the largest calderas in the world, Mount Aso offers a dramatic, dynamic landscape for visitors. The area is best understood for its vast caldera, spanning over 120 kilometers in circumference, and a series of peaks, with Nakadake being the most active crater, often emitting plumes of steam and volcanic gases.
DAY
7
Aso to Takachiho: From one geographic marval to another
Making your way to the scenic Takachiho Bus Center. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Takachiho Village, soaking in the charm of this picturesque locale before savoring a local lunch.
DAY
8
Walk Takachiho: A Day of Myth, Nature, and Tradition
A full day to explore Takachiho.
Embark on a 25-minute walk to the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, where towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters create a magical atmosphere. Continue your journey with a peaceful 20-minute walk to the Kagura area, home to the rich traditions of Takachiho. After exploring, make your way back to your hotel to check in and enjoy a delightful dinner.
As evening approaches, immerse yourself in local culture by registering for the Takachiho Kagura performance, a traditional dance that brings to life ancient Japanese myths. After this captivating experience, take a short walk back to your hotel for a restful night, reflecting on a day filled with natural beauty and cultural heritage.
DAY
9
From Takachiho to Saiki: A Day of Scenic Travel
Begin your journey with a leisurely departure from Takachiho, taking a scenic ride to Nobeoka Station. Upon arrival, explore the city at your own pace with a pleasant city walk, discovering local shops, historical sites, and a delicious lunch at one of Nobeoka’s charming eateries.
After your leisurely city exploration, board an afternoon train from Nobeoka Station for an hour-long ride, offering picturesque views of Japan’s countryside.
Overnight at a unique farmstay this evening.
DAY
10
From Saiki to Beppu: From farmscape to historic onsen city
After breakfast, leave your rural setting and head on by express train to historic onsen hot-spring town Beppu.
Arrive at Beppu Station, where the steamy onsen town awaits with its famous hot springs and welcoming atmosphere, where your adventure continues.
DAY
11
Beppu’s Wonders: Hot Springs, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Start your day with a 20-minute bus ride to the Kannawa area, known for its bubbling hot springs. A 15-minute walk takes you to the ethereal Umi Jigoku and mysterious Onibozu hot springs, famous for their striking beauty and unique natural formations. Continue your journey through Beppu’s rich onsen history at the Onsen Museum, where you'll learn about the town’s famous hot springs culture.
For lunch, indulge in a traditional Hell Steaming (Jigoku Mushi) meal, where your food is cooked using the natural steam of the onsen waters. Afterward, catch a bus for a 30-minute ride to Space Beppu, where you can enjoy a relaxing walking tour or join a creative Bamboo Lantern Workshop, crafting beautiful, glowing lanterns.
End your day with an exciting Evening Foodie Tour, sampling Beppu’s best local dishes and savoring the unique flavors of this famous onsen town. A perfect balance of relaxation, creativity, and culinary exploration!.
DAY
12
The tour ends
Our tour finishes in Beppu, with easy access to Kagoshima, Fukuoka, or towards mainland Japan via Hiroshima.
DAY
13
A 10-day / History, Nature, and Culture Exploration
Length : 9 nights, 10 days Pricing Tour : TBC *Single Supplement : TBC
Welcome to Nagasaki: A Journey Through Reflection and Recovery
Arrive in the historic city of Nagasaki and begin your exploration of this culturally rich and resilient destination.
For a deeper understanding of Nagasaki’s pivotal role in world history, we offer an optional visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum. This sobering yet inspiring museum offers a poignant look at the impact of the atomic bomb and the city’s remarkable recovery, making it an essential stop for those seeking to reflect on the past and the importance of peace.
DAY
1
Discover Nagasaki: A Day of History, Culture, and Scenic Beauty
Start your day with a comfortable, short bus ride from your hotel to the serene Peace Park, a peaceful memorial to reflect on Nagasaki's history. After a brief transfer and a scenic 30-minute ride, arrive at the picturesque Oura Church area—home to Japan’s oldest standing Christian church and a symbol of resilience.
Enjoy a delightful local lunch before diving into a cultural exploration of Oura Church, the breathtaking views from Glover Garden, and the charming Arcade Street filled with shops and unique finds. From here, take a leisurely 20-minute walk or a short bus ride to the historic Dejima Island, once Japan’s gateway to the world and a symbol of international exchange.
Return to your hotel at your leisure, carrying memories of Nagasaki’s rich history and scenic wonders.
DAY
2
Nagasaki to Unzen: Depart the city for our first taste of the volcanic wilds
Begin your day with a scenic bus ride departing from Nagasaki Station and after a relaxing 2-hour journey, arrive at the fascinating Unzen Hells, a geothermal marvel filled with steaming hot springs and bubbling sulfur pits. Explore the mystical landscape and feel the power of nature at one of Japan's most famous volcanic sites.
DAY
3
Onwards to Kumamoto: A lively historic castle town
Experience a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation, concluding your day in Kumamoto!
Savor a delicious lunch in the heart of this natural wonder before departing by bus, with a short 20-minute ride to Shimabara Port, where you'll board the ferry for a tranquil 1-hour journey across the waters to Kumamoto Port.
DAY
4
Explore the Mt. Aso area: Volcanoes and wild nature await
Depart from your hotel with a morning bus ride from Kumamoto Station, making your way to the scenic Mt. Aso.
DAY
5
Walk Takachiho: A Day of Myth, Nature, and Tradition
Head onwards to Takachiho Bus Center. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Takachiho Village, soaking in the charm of this picturesque locale before savoring a local lunch.
After your meal, embark on a 25-minute walk to the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, where towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters create a magical atmosphere. Continue your journey with a peaceful 20-minute walk to the Kagura area, home to the rich traditions of Takachiho. After exploring, make your way back to your hotel to check in and enjoy a delightful dinner.
As evening approaches, immerse yourself in local culture by registering for the Takachiho Kagura performance, a traditional dance that brings to life ancient Japanese myths. After this captivating experience, take a short walk back to your hotel for a restful night, reflecting on a day filled with natural beauty and cultural heritage.
DAY
6
From Takachiho to Saiki: A Day of Scenic Travel
Begin your journey with a leisurely departure from Takachiho, taking a scenic ride to Nobeoka Station. Upon arrival, explore the city at your own pace with a pleasant city walk, discovering local shops, historical sites, and a delicious lunch at one of Nobeoka’s charming eateries.
After your leisurely city exploration, board an afternoon train from Nobeoka Station for an hour-long ride, offering picturesque views of Japan’s countryside.
Overnight at a unique farmstay this evening.
DAY
7
From Saiki to Beppu: From farmscape to historic onsen city
After breakfast, leave your rural setting and head on by express train to historic onsen hot-spring town Beppu.
Arrive at Beppu Station, where the steamy onsen town awaits with its famous hot springs and welcoming atmosphere, where your adventure continues.
DAY
8
Beppu’s Wonders: Hot Springs, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Start your day with a 20-minute bus ride to the Kannawa area, known for its bubbling hot springs. A 15-minute walk takes you to the ethereal Umi Jigoku and mysterious Onibozu hot springs, famous for their striking beauty and unique natural formations. Continue your journey through Beppu’s rich onsen history at the Onsen Museum, where you'll learn about the town’s famous hot springs culture.
For lunch, indulge in a traditional Hell Steaming (Jigoku Mushi) meal, where your food is cooked using the natural steam of the onsen waters. Afterward, catch a bus for a 30-minute ride to Space Beppu, where you can enjoy a relaxing walking tour or join a creative Bamboo Lantern Workshop, crafting beautiful, glowing lanterns.
End your day with an exciting Evening Foodie Tour, sampling Beppu’s best local dishes and savoring the unique flavors of this famous onsen town. A perfect balance of relaxation, creativity, and culinary exploration!
DAY
9
The tour ends
Our tour finishes in Beppu, with easy access to Kagoshima, Fukuoka, or towards mainland Japan via Hiroshima.
DAY
10
A 7-day / Journey Through Kyushu History, Nature, and Culture
Length : 6 nights, 7 days Pricing Tour : TBC *Single Supplement : TBC
Welcome to Nagasaki: A Journey Through Reflection and Recovery
Arrive in the historic city of Nagasaki and begin your exploration of this culturally rich and resilient destination.
For a deeper understanding of Nagasaki’s pivotal role in world history, we offer an optional visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum. This sobering yet inspiring museum offers a poignant look at the impact of the atomic bomb and the city’s remarkable recovery, making it an essential stop for those seeking to reflect on the past and the importance of peace.
DAY
1
Explore Unzen Hells: A Day of Natural Wonders
Begin your day with a scenic bus ride departing from Nagasaki Station and after a relaxing 2-hour journey, arrive at the fascinating Unzen Hells, a geothermal marvel filled with steaming hot springs and bubbling sulfur pits. Explore the mystical landscape and feel the power of nature at one of Japan's most famous volcanic sites.
DAY
2
Journey to Kumamoto: A castle town with a long history
Experience a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation, concluding your day in Kumamoto!
Savor a delicious lunch in the heart of this natural wonder before departing by bus, with a short 20-minute ride to Shimabara Port, where you'll board the ferry for a tranquil 1-hour journey across the waters to Kumamoto Port.
DAY
3
Explore the Mt. Aso area: Volcanoes and wild nature await
Depart from your hotel with a morning bus ride from Kumamoto Station, making your way to the scenic Mt. Aso.
DAY
4
Walk Takachiho: A Day of Myth, Nature, and Tradition
Head onwards to Takachiho Bus Center. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Takachiho Village, soaking in the charm of this picturesque locale before savoring a local lunch.
After your meal, embark on a 25-minute walk to the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, where towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters create a magical atmosphere. Continue your journey with a peaceful 20-minute walk to the Kagura area, home to the rich traditions of Takachiho. After exploring, make your way back to your hotel to check in and enjoy a delightful dinner.
As evening approaches, immerse yourself in local culture by registering for the Takachiho Kagura performance, a traditional dance that brings to life ancient Japanese myths. After this captivating experience, take a short walk back to your hotel for a restful night, reflecting on a day filled with natural beauty and cultural heritage.
DAY
5
From Takachiho to Beppu: A Day of City Exploration and Scenic Travel
Begin your journey with a leisurely departure from Takachiho, taking a scenic ride to Nobeoka Station. Upon arrival, explore the city at your own pace with a pleasant city walk, discovering local shops, historical sites, and a delicious lunch at one of Nobeoka’s charming eateries.
After your leisurely city exploration, board an afternoon train from Nobeoka Station for a 2-hour ride with one transfer, offering picturesque views of Japan’s countryside. Arrive at Beppu Station, where the steamy onsen town awaits with its famous hot springs and welcoming atmosphere, ready to continue your adventure.
DAY
6
The tour ends with Beppu’s Wonders: Hot Springs, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Start your day with a 20-minute bus ride to the Kannawa area, known for its bubbling hot springs. A 15-minute walk takes you to the ethereal Umi Jigoku and mysterious Onibozu hot springs, famous for their striking beauty and unique natural formations. Continue your journey through Beppu’s rich onsen history at the Onsen Museum, where you'll learn about the town’s famous hot springs culture.
For lunch, indulge in a traditional Hell Steaming (Jigoku Mushi) meal, where your food is cooked using the natural steam of the onsen waters. Afterward, catch a bus for a 30-minute ride to Space Beppu, where you can enjoy a relaxing walking tour or join a creative Bamboo Lantern Workshop, crafting beautiful, glowing lanterns.
End your day with an exciting Evening Foodie Tour, sampling Beppu’s best local dishes and savoring the unique flavors of this famous onsen town. A perfect balance of relaxation, creativity, and culinary exploration.
Our tour finishes in Beppu, with easy access to Kagoshima, Fukuoka, or towards mainland Japan via Hiroshima.
