
35 Popular Tourist Spots in Kyushu: Packed with Diverse Attractions!
The Kyushu region, consisting of seven prefectures, is full of diverse attractions, including breathtaking scenery woven by rich nature, historical buildings and townscapes that showcase its culture and hot spring resorts that soothe both body and mind.
Not only that, but each prefecture, led by Fukuoka, boasts delicious local gourmet specialties, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of culinary delights between sightseeing.
With so many attractions, we’d like to introduce some of the most popular tourist spots in Kyushu. If you're unsure where to explore in Kyushu, be sure to use this as a guide.
What Is Kyushu Like?
Located in the southwest of Honshu, the Kyushu region consists of Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Oita, Kumamoto, Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures.
Although Kyushu is now divided into eight prefectures, it was historically split into nine areas, which is why it retains the name "Kyushu" (meaning "nine provinces").
Due to the influence of two warm ocean currents, the region has a relatively high average temperature. However, there can be significant temperature differences between the northern and southern areas.
Kyushu is also home to many volcanoes, including one of the world's largest calderas (a massive depression formed by a volcanic eruption), making its volcanic landscapes a major highlight.
Additionally, due to its active volcanic activity, Kyushu is home to many hot spring resorts, accounting for approximately 35% of Japan’s natural hot springs.
Beyond its mountains, Kyushu also features rivers and coastal areas, with breathtaking scenic spots scattered throughout the region. Visiting its remote islands offers the chance to experience untouched nature up close.
Located at the shortest distance between Japan and the Korean Peninsula, Kyushu has a long history of cultural exchanges with the peninsula. As a result, the area has historical buildings influenced by Korean culture, as well as archaeological sites that reflect this historical connection.
Furthermore, Kyushu is a paradise for food lovers, with Fukuoka leading the way as a gourmet hotspot. Each prefecture boasts its own delicious local specialties, making food another major attraction of the region.

When Is the Best Season to Visit Kyushu?
Kyushu, with its diverse attractions, is a destination that can be enjoyed in any season. If you want to fully appreciate its natural scenery, spring and autumn are the best times to visit.
In spring, the region comes alive with vibrant colors as cherry blossoms, tulips, wisteria and other flowers bloom across various locations.
In autumn, breathtaking scenic spots are adorned with stunning autumn foliage, creating a picturesque and atmospheric landscape to enjoy.
Kyushu Recommended Wear by the Season
- Spring (March - May): Light jacket and thin sweater
- Summer (June - August): Light clothing, short sleeves
- Autumn (September - November): Light jacket, coat
- Winter (December - February): Coat, wool suit, thick sweater or jacket
How Do We Get to Kyushu?
Each prefecture in Kyushu has its own airport, and when including the remote islands, there are around 20 airports in total.
As a result, air travel is the primary means of access from other regions of Japan. Some airports operate regular international flights, making Kyushu easily accessible from overseas as well.
For those traveling from the Kansai region, the Sanyo Shinkansen runs from Shin-Osaka Station to Hakata Station in Fukuoka, providing a convenient alternative to flying.
Major Transportation Options for Kyushu Sightseeing
When traveling around Kyushu’s tourist spots, the main modes of transportation are trains and buses.
Except for some remote islands and certain areas, public transportation provides convenient access without any major difficulties.
Additionally, since the Kyushu region has a Shinkansen network, using the Kyushu Shinkansen or the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen allows for quick travel between Fukuoka, Saga, Kumamoto, Kagoshima and Nagasaki.
5 Popular Tourist Spots in Fukuoka: A City Full of Diverse Attractions
Located in the northernmost part of Kyushu, Fukuoka serves as the gateway to the region, thanks to Fukuoka Airport, which operates international flights, and Hakata Station, a major Shinkansen hub.
As the most developed prefecture in Kyushu, Fukuoka—particularly Fukuoka City—is a bustling urban center that rivals Tokyo and Osaka.
At the same time, Fukuoka is blessed with abundant natural surroundings, including the sea, mountains and rivers, offering visitors the chance to enjoy both city life and outdoor activities in nature amidst stunning landscapes.
There are many nationally famous local gourmet dishes, as well as historical and cultural sites, offering a wide variety of ways to enjoy the region.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the most popular tourist attractions in Fukuoka.
1. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Dazaifu Tenmangu is the head shrine of 10,000 different shrines across Japan dedicated to the spirit of Sugawara Michizane. Sugawara was an acclaimed scholar who was deemed innocent posthumously after being exiled to Dazaifu by Kyoto’s Imperial Court.
The main hall was built over his grave and has been preserved as a sacred site of Tenjin worship for over 1100 years.

2. Fukuoka tower
This landmark in Fukuoka City was built as a monument of 1989 Asia Pacific Expo (Yokatopia). It is 234m-tall and the top floor has an observation area with a 360-degree panorama over Fukuoka City.

3. Mojiko Retro
Moji Port was opened in the early Meiji Period and prospered in international trade. Nostalgic architecture, built from the Meiji into early Showa Periods, are still standing today. It is a fun area to meander.
First, visit JR Mojiko Station. In 2019, the 105th year since its opening, repair and preservation work was completed and the 2-story wooden building was restored into the state in the Taisho Period.

4. Marine World Uminonakamichi
Marine World Uminonakamichi, opened in 1989, is an aquarium that exhibits about 350 species and 30,000 organisms under the theme of "Kyushu's Sea”. After a major renovation in 2017, 90% of the tanks were replaced, including the 7-meter-deep open-ocean tank. The new tanks reproduce the sea of Kyushu more realistically and allow visitors to observe the ecology of living creatures in a form closer to nature.

5. Kushida Shrine
This head shrine is said to have been built in the 8th century. Residents in Hakata call it “Okushida san.” Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival declares the arrival of summer to the City of Hakata in July, and is dedicated to this shrine. On the premises, the impressively decorated yamakasa (float) is on display throughout the year except for June.

5 Popular Tourist Spots in Saga: Enjoy the Nature, History and Culture of Japan!
Located to the west of Fukuoka, Saga is blessed with abundant nature, as it is bordered by the sea to the north and south and is home to many mountains.
The region is known for its magnificent natural landscapes, including the nationally designated special place of scenic beauty, Niji no Matsubara (Rainbow Pine Grove), and the delicious local specialties made from fresh seafood and mountain ingredients.
Saga also has many tourist spots where you can experience Japan's history and culture, such as shrines, temples and castles, allowing you to fully enjoy the country's natural beauty and historical heritage.
One of the highlights of the region is Takeo Onsen (hot spring), which boasts a 1,300-year history. Be sure to visit this place, along with the other popular tourist spots we will introduce.
1. Yoshinogari Historical Park
Yoshinogari Historical Park is a specially designated historical site of Japan.
Spanning a total area of 117 hectares, Yoshinogari Historical Park is one of the Japan’s largest historic ruins from the Yayoi Era (5c. B.C. - 3c. A.D.) moat-encircled settlement.
The ruins were discovered during an excavation in 1986.

2. Yutoku Inari Shrine
This shrine is one of Japan’s great Inari shrines along with Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto and Kasama Inari Shrine in Ibaraki. In 1687, Hizen Kajima Domain's lord, Nabeshima Naotomo, was marrying Kazanin Manko-hime from Kyoto, when she requested the deity, Inari Okami, who the imperial court offered prayers to, to be imparted and this shrine was built.

3. Karatsu Castle
A retainer of Hideyoshi Toyotomi and the first lord of Karatsu, Hirotaka Terasawa, had completed its building for 7years in 1602. Many lords from the Kyushu area helped this construction and old materials used in the Nagoya castle were used. The castle looks like a crane's body and the pine trees stretching from the east to west look like its wings, which was given its nickname to Maizuru castle (a dancing- crane castle).

4. Mifuneyama Rakuen
Mifuneyama is the symbol of Takeo Town. With its cliff in the background, Nabeshima Domain’s 28th Takeo lord, Nabeshima Shigeyoshi spent three years building a garden. This garden with a path encircling a big pond was completed in 1845. It can contain 10 Tokyo domes, boasting a vast 123-acre ground.

5. Niji no Matsubara
Along the Karatsu Bay, a pine grove stretches in the shape of a rainbow. This national special scenic spot started when Karatsu Domain’s first lord, Terazawa Hirotaka began planting as a protection against wind and tide in the early 17th century. Roughly 1 million pine trees form a 4.5km-long and 500m-wide grove. It is one of the three most scenic pine groves in Japan along with Miho and Kii’s pine groves.

5 Popular Tourist Spots in Nagasaki: Discover the Charm of Its Foreign Atmosphere and Natural Beauty!
Nagasaki borders Saga to the east and is surrounded by the sea on the other three sides. It has the largest number of islands in Japan and boasts the second-longest coastline in the country.
The stunning view of islands floating off the coast along the intricately winding ria coastline is a unique characteristic of Nagasaki.
Nagasaki also has a rich history as an international trade port, and the influence of European and Chinese cultures can be strongly felt in its architecture and food.
In addition to strolling through the exotic streets filled with international charm, be sure to explore the popular tourist spots we will introduce.
1. Glover Garden
This outdoor museum preserves the residential area of the merchants who came to Nagasaki from overseas more than 160 years ago. The Garden stands on a hill overlooking Nagasaki Port, dotted with intriguing places to see.

2. HUIS TEN BOSCH
This is the largest theme park in Japan, with beautiful European-like cityscapes and a canal that leads to the sea. The park is decorated with seasonal flowers and illuminations and has a wide range of the latest attractions. The park is also filled with excitement and a moving experience through a variety of events.

3. Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort
Kujukushima is a complex structured haven including the labyrinth like Ria coast and 208 islands. Kujuku refers to the number “99”. The Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort is at the entrance of the coast. Here, you can enjoy marine sports such as cruising, marine sports, aquariums and zoos.

4. Gunkanjima (Hashima Island)
Hashima, also known as “Gunkanjima” or “battleship island”, is an uninhabited island that sits approx. 18km off the port of Nagasaki.
With the island’s surrounding concrete breakwater wall and multi-story apartment complex inside, the island was nicknamed “Battleship Island” for its apparent resemblance to Battleship Tosa.

5. Mt. Inasayama Observatory
At 333m above sea level, this observatory stands at the top of Mt. Inasayama at the center of Nagasaki City. The observatory with a cafe and restaurant offers a view over Nagasaki Bay, Unzen, Amakusa and Goto Islands.

5 Popular Tourist Spots in Oita: Enjoy Spectacular Views and Hot Springs!
Located southeast of Fukuoka, Oita is known for having the highest number of hot springs and the largest volume of hot spring water in Japan. The region is home to many hot spring resorts.
Among the most famous are Beppu Onsen and Yufuin Onsen, though there are many other attractive hot spring areas to explore as well.
The beautiful natural landscapes are also one of the attractions, so it is recommended to plan a sightseeing itinerary centered around the hot spring resorts. You can enjoy views of the rich nature from outdoor baths or visit breathtaking spots around the hot spring areas.
By referring to the popular tourist attractions we will introduce here, you can create a travel plan that will allow you to fully experience the charm of Oita.
1. Yufuin Onsen
Yufuin Onsen is a hot spring resort at the foot of Mt. Yufu at the heart of Oita Prefecture. There is no big hotel and many inns are tranquil Japanese style, which are popular among women visitors. The abundant hot spring is ranked 2nd on the water supply in the nation. Thanks to the many source springs, inns do not have to cluster, but are comfortably spaced. The sources are mainly alkaline simple springs. The soft water is effective for neuralgia, chills, fatigue, etc.

2. Kokonoe “Yume” Otsurihashi
This is a large, 777-meter-high suspension bridge for sightseeing that spans the Kyusuikei Valley near the Kumamoto Prefecture border at the foot of the Kuju Mountain Range. The 173-meter-high, 390-meter-long suspension bridge, Japan's tallest pedestrian bridge, offers a thrilling view of the surrounding valley and is a popular observation spot.

3. Beppu Onsen
Beppu onsen is the collective name for all of the hot springs across Beppu City in Oita Prefecture. With 2,847 different springs that produce about 130,000 kiloliters of spring water every day, its ranked among the highest of hot springs in Japan. Beppu Onsen is divided into 8 areas and is also called Beppu Hatto or Bappu Onsenkyo. The many different springs offer different water properties and colors, so you won’t want to miss the chance to visit as many different hot springs as possible.

4. Oita Marine Palace Aquarium Umitamago
Umitamago is an aquarium facing Beppu Bay, and its theme is "Getting close to animals," so it is a popular spot for visitors who want to get up close and personal with dolphins, walruses, and other marine animals.

5. Kinrin Lake
Kinrin Lake is one of many popular tourist spots in the hot springs town of Yufuin. The lake sits under Mt. Yufu and as such was called takemoto-no-ike (lit. “lake under the mountain”) for years. However, it was renamed to Kinrin, or “golden scales”, by Mori Kuso in 1884 when he saw the golden glimmering scales of fish as they swam at sunset.

5 Popular Tourist Spots in Kumamoto: Feel the Breath of Great Nature!
Located almost in the center of Kyushu, Kumamoto is known as the "Land of Fire" due to Mount Aso, one of the world's most famous active volcanoes, and the "Land of Water" because of its abundant water sources.
The awe-inspiring natural landscapes of the majestic mountains, including volcanic activity and calderas, are a must-see.
In addition, there are countless attractions, such as one of the “Three Great Castles of Japan” and local delicacies like Kumamoto ramen and horse sashimi.
Now, let us introduce some of the most popular tourist spots in Kumamoto.
1. Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle is the famous castle built by Kiyomasa Kato in 1607. It was built using the latest, cutting edge techniques at the time and was the setting of many important moments in Japan’s history.

2. Kurokawa Onsen
This hot springs village sits along the same river that waters the rice paddies between the northern mountains of Aso. The entire hot springs area is designed seamlessly with nature, with each hilltop inn and connecting halls a separate annex that attaches to the next mountain hill.

3. Mount Aso
A true symbol of Kumamoto, the Land of Fire, Mount Aso stands as one of Japan’s most iconic volcanic landscapes.
Located in the Aso region of Kumamoto Prefecture, Mount Aso is not a single peak but a series of mountains, including the five peaks known as "Aso Gogaku", which stretch east to west in a breathtaking mountain range. Broadly speaking, the term Mount Aso also encompasses the outer rim of the caldera and the vast crater basin that surrounds it.
While its majestic and powerful presence is a sight to behold, one of the most remarkable highlights of Mount Aso is the opportunity to visit its active crater, offering an up-close look at the raw force of nature.

4. Suizenji Jojuen Garden
It is a stroll garden with spring water that Tadatoshi, the first lord of the Hosokawa clan, created after building a teahouse here where subsoil water from the Aso Mountains gushed forth. Tsunatoshi, the third lord of the Hosokawa clan, later created a large-scale garden that was named "Jojuen" after a poem by Tao Yuanming.

5. Kumamon Square
Kumamon is the mascot of Kumamoto and cutely named as such the Prefecture’s Sales and Happiness Manager. You can find him all across Kumamoto, pointing out some of its best attractions. He’s so popular that Kumamon related merchandise is said to be reaching a cumulative total of 1 trillion yen. At this spot you’ll find the office of this amazing mascot, and if you time it just right, you might even get a chance to meet him.

5 Popular Tourist Spots in Miyazaki: Discover Stunningly Beautiful and Mystical Landscapes!
Located to the south of Oita, Miyazaki is known for its beautiful and mystical natural landscapes.
Since it is the setting of Japanese mythology, there are many spots and events where you can experience mythology and traditional culture.
Miyazaki's warm climate, coupled with its coastal location, creates a tropical resort-like atmosphere. With many resort hotels available, you can relax and be rejuvenated by the stunning natural surroundings.
With a resort hotel as your base, why not explore the unique charm of Miyazaki by visiting the popular tourist attractions that we will introduce?
1. Takachiho Gorge
Takachiho Gorge is a narrow v-shaped chasm made over thousands of years by the Gokase River’s erosion of Mt. Aso’s volcanic rock.
This spectacular place is surrounded by cliffs that average 80 meters in height (reaching up to 100 meters) and extend along for 7 kilometers.
Takachiho Gorge has been designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty.

2. Udo Shrine
This unique shrine sits inside a cave found along the cliffs facing the sea. The shrine is known for safe childbirth, children, marriage as well as property for fishermen and those headed out to sea.
Udo Shrine and its surrounding area are designated as a National Scenic Beauty.

3. Aoshima Shrine
Aoshima is a small island of 1.5km in circumference, which is connected with a 150m-long bridge to the main island. The whole island is Aoshima Shrine’s ground. As a holy island, no one was allowed to visit here. The whole premises are covered with areca trees and other sub-tropical plants in a very Miyazaki-like tropical scenery.

4. Amanoyasukawara
Amanoiwato Shrine in Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture enshrines the "Amanoiwato" - the cave where the sun goddess Amaterasu is believed to have hidden, a significant episode in Japanese mythology. About a 10-minute walk along the Iwato River from its Nishihonganji (West Main Shrine) will lead you to "Amanoyasukawara." This location is said to be where the eight million deities gathered to discuss how to coax Amaterasu out of the cave.

5. Florante Miyazaki
This botanical garden is filled with seasonal flowers and hosts events in every season. The grounds are beautifully maintained with lawns and various themed flower gardens. A wide range of plants are grown in the greenhouse, and gardening advice is available.

5 Popular Tourist Spots in Kagoshima: Unwind with History, Nature and Delicious Delights!
Located at the southernmost tip of Kyushu, Kagoshima is made up of the mainland and many surrounding islands.
The region’s charm lies in its grand natural beauty, including Sakurajima, an active volcano that symbolizes Kagoshima, and the World Natural Heritage Site Yakushima Island.
Not only that, but this prefecture is also filled with various attractions, including streets that preserve its history as a prosperous castle town, hot spring areas where you can experience unique bathing methods, local cuisine and shochu (a type of distilled spirit).
Here, we will introduce the must-see tourist attractions in Kagoshima to fully experience all the charm this region has to offer!
1. Yakushima
Located about 60km south-southwest of Cape Sata in Kagoshima Prefecture, Yakushima was registered as a World Natural Heritage site in 1993. The island, with a circumference of 132km and an area of 505 square kilometers, is full of mountains over 1,000m high, including the highest peak in Kyushu, Miyanoura-dake, which is 1,936m high. 90% of the island is covered with forests, earning it the nickname "Alps on the Sea".

2. Ibusuki Onsen
The city of Ibusuki, settled at its perch on the southern tip of the Satsuma Peninsula in Kagoshima Prefecture, is a destination brimming with hot springs and over 1,000 unique spring sources across the city. This unique geothermal area was once shaped by volcanic activity, remaining today as a hub for traditional hot spring baths and the globally rare "sand bath" found only in Ibusuki.

3. Kirishima Jingu Shrine
Kirishima-Jingu is a shrine that represents southern Kyushu. Founded in the 6th century, it boasts a deep and ancient history.
Kirishima-Jingu was transferred to its present location over 500 years ago, after repeatedly burning down and being rebuilt due to Mt. Kirishima’s eruptions.

4. Sakurajima
Sakurajima is an active composite volcano located in Kagoshima Bay. It is a symbol of Kagoshima, and part of Kirishima-Yaku National Park. The volcano began to form around 26,000 years ago, and it has had 17 major eruptions. Sakurajima used to be an island, as its name suggests (shima means island), but the lava flow from the 1914 eruption filled the strait between Sakurajima and the mainland, connecting it to the Osumi Peninsula. Even in the present day, Sakurajima has small-scale eruptions nearly daily.

5. Sengan-en
Sengan-en is a Japanese garden made for the Shimadzu family estate by Mitsuhisa Shimadzu in 1658. The grounds boast a sprawling 50,000 square meters in total.
The garden itself uses the “borrowed scenery” technique, incorporating Kagoshima’s coveted spots like the volcano Sakurajima and Kinko Bay as a natural backdrop. Chinese influences are dotted across the garden, nodding at the Shimadzu Family’s international influence and trade via the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Kyushu Dishes to Enjoy Alongside Sightseeing
Kyushu is home to many nationally famous local delicacies. Blessed with the sea, mountains and rivers, it is a treasure trove of various gourmet dishes that make the most of fresh seafood and mountain delicacies.
For example, Hakata Ramen is known for its rich, milky pork bone broth and thin, straight noodles. Yobuko Ika (squid) is renowned for its exceptional transparency, texture and sweetness, making it incredibly popular.
Another unique dish is “tori ten,” a type of chicken fritter that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, offering a delicious and addictive texture. Each prefecture in Kyushu has its own enticing local gourmet specialties waiting to be discovered!
If you're planning to travel around Kyushu, it's a great idea to learn about the local specialties in advance and create a travel plan that allows you to taste the unique dishes of each region.
For that, we highly recommend checking out this article, which selects and introduces the best local foods from each of Kyushu's seven prefectures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kyushu Sightseeing
Q
Can we tour the Kyushu region without using a car?
Yes, except for some remote areas, you can easily explore Kyushu using public transportation alone.
Q
What are some recommended scenic spots in Kyushu?
In addition to Yakushima, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in Kagoshima, Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki is another must-see scenic spot.
Wrap-up
In this article, we've introduced popular tourist spots from each of the seven prefectures that make up Kyushu. However, there are many more fascinating attractions that we couldn't cover. If a particular prefecture caught your interest, we recommend diving deeper and exploring its hidden gems.