Kyushu & Okinawa – Explore Japan’s Southern Islands
Kyushu and Okinawa, located in the southern reaches of Japan, offer a rich blend of diverse cultures, dramatic landscapes, and warm hospitality. From volcanic mountains and soothing hot springs to turquoise seas and distinctive regional traditions, the region captivates visitors from around the world. With convenient access from Tokyo and Osaka, it is an excellent destination for both first-time travelers and seasoned explorers.
Overview of the Kyushu & Okinawa Region
The region consists of the seven prefectures of Kyushu—Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima—along with Okinawa. Fukuoka is about a two-hour flight from Tokyo, while Okinawa’s main island is roughly two and a half hours away. Kyushu and Okinawa combine urban convenience with abundant natural beauty, offering some of Japan’s most diverse travel experiences.
Recommended Destinations by Prefecture
Fukuoka
Character: Kyushu’s largest urban center, known for its outstanding food culture and historical sites.
Top destinations:
- Dazaifu Tenmangu: A major shrine dedicated to the deity of learning.
- Hakata Yatai (Food Stalls): Fukuoka’s iconic nighttime dining experience.
- Mojiko Retro District: A nostalgic port town lined with classic Meiji- and Taisho-era architecture.
Saga
Character: A region steeped in cultural heritage, from ancient ruins to world-famous ceramics.
Top destinations:
- Arita Porcelain Town: The birthplace of Japan’s renowned Arita ware.
- Yoshinogari Historical Park: A reconstructed ancient settlement offering insight into early Japanese life.
- Ureshino Onsen: A hot spring town celebrated for its skin-softening waters.
Nagasaki
Character: A historic crossroads of international influences and a symbol of peace.
Top destinations:
- Peace Park & Atomic Bomb Museum: A profound reminder of history and a prayer for peace.
- Glover Garden: Western-style residences reflecting Nagasaki’s global past.
- Hashima Island (Gunkanjima): A dramatic abandoned industrial island designated as a World Heritage Site.
Kumamoto
Character: A land shaped by volcanic power, samurai lore, and lush natural landscapes.
Top destinations:
- Kumamoto Castle: One of Japan’s most impressive and historically significant castles.
- Mount Aso: One of the world’s largest caldera volcanoes.
- Kurokawa Onsen: A charming mountain hot spring village known for its rustic ambiance.
Oita
Character: Japan’s premier hot spring destination, boasting the country’s highest number of hot spring sources.
Top destinations:
- Beppu Onsen: Famous for its “hell tour,” showcasing colorful and steaming geothermal springs.
- Yufuin: A scenic hot spring town blending nature, art, and relaxation.
- Kokonoe “Yume” Suspension Bridge: A thrilling bridge offering spectacular valley views.
Miyazaki
Character: A warm, sun-kissed region rich in mythology, natural scenery, and coastal beauty.
Top destinations:
- Takachiho Gorge: A stunning gorge steeped in Japanese myth.
- Aoshima Shrine: A mystical shrine surrounded by ocean and subtropical vegetation.
- Nichinan Coast: A picturesque coastal drive with ocean views.
Kagoshima
Character: A southern land defined by volcanic landscapes, lush nature, and historical depth.
Top destinations:
- Sakurajima: Kagoshima’s iconic active volcano.
- Ibusuki Onsen: Known for its unique sand-bath experience.
- Yakushima: A mystical island and UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for ancient cedar forests.
Okinawa
Character: A tropical paradise with a distinct culture, vibrant traditions, and some of Japan’s clearest waters.
Top destinations:
- Shurijo Castle Ruins: A site reflecting the legacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: Home to the famous tank where whale sharks glide majestically.
- Ishigaki & Miyako Islands: Renowned for crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving.
How Your Trip Comes Together
When you begin discussing a private trip with your family or friends, feel free to contact MaximTravelers at any time. We are happy to assist you.
Tell us about your preferred destination, dates, trip length, number of travelers, budget, and any other requests by filling out the travel preference questionnaire on our inquiry page.
We will make a follow-up consultations as needed via email or online meeting such as Zoom.
We will prepare an initial trip proposal for you. Using this as a starting point, we will gather
additional requests and make revisions as needed until the final version is completed.
Once you agree to the proposal, please fill out the travel application form (we will send you
the link) and return it together with the required deposit.
| Trip Price per Person | Deposit Required (per person) |
|---|---|
| Under ¥150,000- | ¥20,000- |
| ¥150,000–¥299,999 | ¥30,000- |
| ¥300,000 or more | ¥50,000- |
If your application is made within 1 month of departure, the full trip price is due at the time
of booking.
Your contract is considered confirmed once we receive your deposit.
We will then send you a written contract detailing your trip.
Please pay the remaining balance by bank transfer by the due date stated in the contract.
(For security reasons, we do not accept cash payments or credit cards. Thank you for your understanding.)
If you must cancel your trip, the following cancellation fees will apply:
| Cancellation Timing | Fee |
|---|---|
| 30 days to 1 day before departure | 20% of the trip price |
| 2 days before departure | 50% of the trip price |
| After departure or no-show | 100% of the trip price |
Please note: If flights, hotels, tickets, or other arrangements have already been booked at the time of cancellation, any fees required to cancel those reservations will be charged separately.
We will send your final travel itinerary (“Travel Guidebook”) approximately one week before departure. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime.
On the day before departure, we will send an e-mail to the group representative for final confirmation.
On your departure day, please arrive at the meeting point on time.
We wish you a wonderful and safe journey!
Explore Other Regions of Japan
Hokkaido
Tohoku
Kanto
Chubu
Kansai
Chugoku
Shikoku
Kyushu & Okinawa