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Kyūshū Region

Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Ōita, Miyazaki, Kagoshima, Okinawa

Yu-Island-Kamiamakusa-Kumamoto-Japan

Yu Island: Exploring Kumamoto’s Secret Cat Island & History

January 18, 2026 / Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyūshū Region

Discover a hidden coastal paradise at Yu Island (Yushima, 湯島), Kumamoto’s famous “Cat Island” floating in the serene Ariake Sea (有明海). Spanning just 4 kilometers in circumference, this tranquil car-free retreat is home to a feline population that famously outnumbers its human residents, making it a dream destination for animal lovers and photographers alike. Beyond […]

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Yufuin-no-mori to yufuin and Beppu in Kyushu

How to Ride the Yufuin no Mori: Booking, Route, and JR Pass

January 5, 2026 / Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyūshū Region, Ōita Prefecture, Transportation in Japan

Experience the ultimate in Japanese rail luxury with a journey on the Yufuin no Mori (ゆふいんの森), one of Kyushu’s most iconic and beloved sightseeing trains. This elegant, emerald-green “forest train” connects the bustling city of Fukuoka (Hakata Station, 博多駅) to the charming hot spring village of Yufuin, before heading to the famous Hells of Beppu. The

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Jigoku Mushi Kōbō Kannawa’s Delicious Vegan Options

December 30, 2025 / Cultural Experiences & Activities, Kyūshū Region, Ōita Prefecture, Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Spots

Experience the ancient art of “hell-steaming” at Jigoku Mushi Kōbō Kannawa (地獄蒸し工房 鉄輪), one of Beppu’s most iconic culinary landmarks. Located in the heart of the historic Kannawa Onsen district, this interactive cooking facility allows visitors to harness the Earth’s natural geothermal energy to steam fresh, local ingredients using centuries-old techniques. Whether you are a

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Yufuin Travel Guide: Onsen, Cafes, and Best Things to Do

January 5, 2026 / 100 Landscapes of Japan, Autumn Foliage, Cherry Blossom, Hidden Gems, Kyūshū Region, Ōita Prefecture, Onsen/Hot Spring

Nestled in a verdant river basin at the foot of the twin-peaked Mount Yufu, the charming town of Yufuin (由布院 or 湯布院) is one of Kyushu’s most beloved hot spring retreats. Unlike the bustling geysers of neighboring Beppu, Yufuin offers a tranquil, “boutique” onsen experience characterized by misty morning views of Lake Kinrinko, and the whimsical,

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Siesta Organic Cafe Vegan Set Menu Yufuin Oita Japan JPG

The Ultimate Guide to Yufuin’s Vegan and Vegetarian Cafés

October 12, 2025 / Kyūshū Region, Ōita Prefecture, Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Spots

Planning a trip to the charming, picturesque onsen town of Yufuin, but wondering where to find delicious meat-free meals? It can be a challenge to find dedicated vegetarian and vegan options in some parts of Japan, but we’ve got you covered! This guide will take you through the best cafés and restaurants in Yufuin that

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Paint Your Candle at Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop

September 30, 2025 / Activities, Cultural Experiences & Activities, Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyūshū Region

If you are after some traditional-style souvenirs near Tsuruga Castle, consider getting one of the Japanese decorated candles from Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop (ほしばん絵ろうそく店) in Nanukamachi. Like some areas in Japan that receive heavy snowfall, Aizu also has traditionally decorated candles. These candles make great souvenirs and don’t cost too much! In addition to the

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Vegan Restaurant in Fukuoka Japan - Genmai Onigiri Hitoyasumi

Where to Find the Best Vegan Food in Fukuoka: A Local’s Guide

December 1, 2025 / Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyūshū Region, Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Spots

Planning a trip to Fukuoka City and wondering where to eat? As a vegetarian or vegan, finding delicious and authentic food can be a challenge in Japan. But the good news is, Fukuoka has a growing vegan food scene! From traditional Japanese dishes made with plant-based ingredients to international cuisine, the city has a couple

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Ainoshima – A Guide to Kyūshū’s Most Famous Cat Island

September 6, 2025 / Fukuoka Prefecture, Hidden Gems, Kyūshū Region, National Historic Site

Ainoshima Island (相島) is a cat island in Fukuoka Prefecture. It is one of our favorite cat islands in Japan. The small heart-shaped island is around 7.5 km off the coast of Shingū Town (新宮町), north of Fukuoka City. The island that once hosted up to 500 Korean emissaries is now one of the world’s

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