KYUSHU

Kyūshū – The Land of Volcanoes and Hot Springs

Kyūshū, Japan’s southernmost main island, is a land of dramatic volcanic landscapes, rejuvenating hot springs, and deep samurai history. It is often considered the birthplace of Japanese civilization, home to ancient shrines, castles, and some of the country’s most important historical sites. The island’s warm climate, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural scenery make it a destination filled with adventure, history, and relaxation.

• Fukuoka: The largest city in Kyūshū, Fukuoka is a lively metropolis famous for its yatai street food stalls, modern shopping areas, and historical sites like Tōchō-ji Temple, which houses Japan’s largest wooden seated Buddha statue. The city is also known for hosting the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival, featuring impressive racing floats.

Interesting Facts About Kyūshū

• History: Kyūshū played a crucial role in Japan’s early history as the gateway for cultural exchange with China and Korea. The city of Nagasaki has a long history of foreign influence and is home to Dejima, a former Dutch trading post, and Glover Garden, which showcases Western-style homes from Japan’s early international trade era.
• Temples & Shrines: Dazaifu Tenman-gū, near Fukuoka, is one of Japan’s most famous shrines, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship, attracting students who pray for academic success. In Kagoshima, the Sengan-en Garden features a scenic shrine with views of Sakurajima, an active volcano.
• Nature: Kyūshū’s volcanic landscape is one of its defining features. Mount Aso, Japan’s largest active volcano, is located in the Aso-Kujū National Park, surrounded by rolling grasslands and steaming geothermal vents. The Unzen Onsen area near Nagasaki is known for its hot springs and eerie “hell” landscapes created by volcanic activity.
• Food: Kyūshū is famous for tonkotsu ramen, a rich and creamy pork-bone broth noodle soup that originated in Fukuoka. Kurobuta (black pork) from Kagoshima is a prized delicacy, known for its tender texture. The region is also home to karashi mentaiko, spicy cod roe, which is a popular local specialty.
• Activities: Kyūshū is one of Japan’s best places to experience onsen (hot springs). The town of Beppu is home to over 2,000 hot springs, offering everything from sand baths to steam baths. Visitors can also explore Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient cedar forests that inspired the setting for Princess Mononoke.

Kyūshū’s combination of volcanos, rich samurai history, and some of Japan’s best food and hot springs makes it a destination filled with unique and unforgettable experiences.