Japan Private Tour (JPN008) Southern Kyushu: Fukuoka - Beppu

We will meet and welcome you at Fukuoka Airport at the scheduled time.

We then travel to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, the most famous ancient Shinto shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture and a true symbol of Fukuoka and the Kyushu region. The shrine enshrines the deity of learning, Sugawara no Michizane. Michizane was a brilliant scholar, politician, and writer, highly revered by the Japanese people and well-known nationwide during 800 - 900 AD. Because of this, the shrine is widely popular among students who come to pray for academic success. Inside the grounds, there are three highlights: the statue of Michizane's ox, the bridge over the Shinji-ike Pond to purify oneself, and the Romon Gate, the shrine's historic main gate.

In the afternoon, we take you on a 105 km journey to Yufuin, a charming, easy-to-explore little town ideal for travelers. Nestled in a valley in Oita Prefecture, Yufuin is famous for its delicious food and the tranquil atmosphere around Kinrin Lake.

We take you for a leisurely stroll along Yunotsubo Street, a small street brimming with an old-world Japanese atmosphere. Both sides are lined with numerous souvenir and local specialty shops. Along the way, there are lovely spots offering scenic views of Yufuin. We also recommend stopping by the Totoro Ghibli House, a shop featuring merchandise from Studio Ghibli anime, including Totoro himself.

At the appropriate time before sunset, we take you to enjoy the sunset atmosphere along the shores of Kinrin Lake. The highlight of this lake is the steam from hot springs rising above the clear waters (the hot spring mist is visible mainly during autumn and winter). With its scenic ambiance, the lake is one of Yufuin's most famous attractions.

hotel Overnight Yufuin

In the morning, we continue exploring Yufuin, taking you into a fairy-tale world at Yufuin Floral Village. The village features countless charming photo spots, with shops and houses beautifully decorated with flowers. Enjoy your free time soaking in the village's lovely atmosphere.

We then travel to Beppu, located just 20 km from Yufuin. Beppu is a charming resort town suitable for all ages and world-famous for its onsens. You can visit Beppu year-round, as the town boasts a variety of outstanding attractions ranging from hot spring geysers and onsens to scenic beaches.

We take you to visit the Eight Hells of Beppu. Beppu is home to the largest number of natural hot springs in Japan. The hells include Umi Jigoku (bright blue pond), Oniishibozu Jigoku (mud bubble pond), Shiraike Jigoku (silver pond), Kamado Jigoku (cooking pot hell), Oniyama Jigoku (crocodile hell), and Yama Jigoku (rock mud pond). The other 2 hells are located in the Shibaseki district: Chinoike Jigoku (red blood pond) and Tatsumaki Jigoku (spouting geyser), located not far away. Each hell has its own unique characteristics and distinct colors. Admission to all 8 hells is 2,100 yen for adults, or 400 yen per hell if visited individually.

If time permits, we take you to visit Beppu Park, a public park filled with diverse tree and plant varieties. During the cherry blossom season, this park is a popular spot for both visitors and Beppu locals to view the sakura blooms.

We then return to Yufuin for another overnight stay.

hotel Overnight Yufuin

In the morning, we head to Aso, a town located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. Rich in natural beauty, it is a very popular driving destination thanks to scenic routes like the famous Aso Milk Road. Along the way, there are several charming viewpoints; if you wish to stop for photos, simply let your driver know.

Next, we take you to the town's best viewpoint, the Daikanbo Viewpoint. From here, you can take in panoramic views of Mount Aso and the five peaks of Aso. The viewpoint also features shops and restaurants welcoming visitors.

Continuing south, we bring you to Kusasenri, a vast grass plain set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Here, you can truly take in the majestic scale of the mountain, evoking an atmosphere reminiscent of the scenic landscapes of Norway.

Afterwards, we visit Aso Farm Land, a charming theme park and resort nestled on a mountain at an elevation of 1,800 feet. The park is divided into 3 zones: Village Zone, Royal Zone, and Dream Zone. Admission is free, though fees apply for certain rides and attractions.

We then return to Fukuoka, a distance of 135 km taking approximately 2 hours.

hotel Overnight Fukuoka

In the morning, we tour central Fukuoka. We take you to pick fresh, sweet strawberries straight from the vine at Chikushino strawberry farm. If your travel dates fall outside the strawberry season, the itinerary can be adjusted accordingly.

We then visit Nanzoin temple to pay respects to the world's largest bronze reclining Buddha statue, measuring 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and weighing 300 tons. Many visitors come here to pray for good fortune and luck.

Next, we head to Marine World Uminonakamichi, where you can marvel at over 20,000 marine animals across 450 species, watch underwater fish feedings, and even try feeding marine animals yourself. In addition to the underwater feeding shows, the aquarium offers many exciting activities, such as dolphin shows, hands-on starfish encounters, and sea lion shows.

Afterwards, we take you shopping at Canal City, a massive shopping complex in the heart of Fukuoka. Featuring numerous brand-name stores, restaurants, and a cinema, you will have free time to shop and explore at your leisure.

Next, we take you to enjoy panoramic views of Fukuoka from Fukuoka Tower. Standing 234 meters tall in the Momochihama area of Fukuoka, it is the tallest seaside tower in Japan, completed in 1989 (B.E. 2532). You can take in 360-degree views from this tower. Admission is 800 yen per person.

hotel Overnight Fukuoka

In the morning, we take you to visit Tochoji Temple, also known to many as Nangakuzan. Built in 806 AD during the Heian period by Kobo Daishi, a renowned monk of that era, the temple is highlighted by its impressive 5-story red pagoda as well as a historic hexagonal wooden hall built in 1992.

In the afternoon, enjoy shopping at Tosu Premium Outlets, located in Tosu City in eastern Kyushu. This is a factory-outlet hub featuring a wide variety of brand-name goods, with

over 150 leading international and Japanese brands, giving you free time to shop.

Before returning to Fukuoka, we take you to visit Kora Taisha Shrine, a local Shinto shrine featuring a peaceful atmosphere and classical Japanese architecture. The shrine is surrounded by large trees, making it especially lush and shady.

In the evening, we visit Tenjin Central Park, a relaxing gathering place for Fukuoka locals. Afterwards, take a stroll through the Nakasu district, a charming nightlife area where traditional Japanese street food carts called “yatai” (Yatai Food Stalls) line the banks of the Naka River near Seiryu Park—a unique atmosphere well worth visiting.

hotel Overnight Fukuoka

If your return flight is in the evening, you can customize your schedule today as you wish, as Fukuoka has plenty of exciting shopping spots left to explore, such as Marinoa City Fukuoka, Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall, and Kawabata Shopping Arcade.

We then transfer you to the airport 3 hours before departure for your safe flight back to Bangkok.