Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Ōita, Miyazaki, Kagoshima, Okinawa
When you visit Japan for the first time, Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka are probably the cities on your itinerary. For your second trip, consider flying into the Kansai region and out of Fukuoka this time!
Yufuin (由布院 or 湯布院) is an onsen resort town in Ōita Prefecture in northern Kyūshū. Unlike most onsen towns in Japan, this resort, backed by the scenic twin-peaked Mt. Yufu, has a wealth of boutiques, trendy cafes, and small museums. The small town, therefore, cleverly appeals to all types of travelers. Whether you are a …
Yufuin – Experience the Most Unique Onsen Resort in Japan Read More »
JR Kyūshū, a part of the wider Japan Rail group, runs the most sightseeing trains in Japan. One of these trains is Yufuin no Mori (ゆふいんの森), which means “The Forest of Yufuin”. Just like its name, the train was built to reflect the many charms of Yufuin, a hot spring town in Ōita Prefecture (大分県) surrounded …
Yufuin no Mori – The Most Elegant Sightseeing Train to Beppu and Yufuin Read More »
From ancient times, the people who lived in Beppu (別府) in Ōita Prefecture suffered from the heat generated by volcanic activities. Crops could hardly be grown on the field, causing serious food shortage problems. And because the terrifying landscapes shaped by volcanic activities are nowhere to be found elsewhere in Japan, various myths and legends …
A Tour to the Hells of Beppu – Japan’s Scariest Onsen Town Read More »
When you come to Beppu, a city that has a lot of steam coming out of the hot spring underground, you won’t want to miss steaming your own meal for yourself using that natural, mineral-rich steam! One of the restaurants that provide this experience is Jigoku Mushi Kōbō Kannawa (地獄蒸し工房 鉄輪). You will be able …
Jigoku Mushi Kōbō Kannawa’s Delicious Vegan Options Read More »
Heading to Fukuoka City and looking for some interesting shrines and temples to visit? If so, you are in luck! Fukuoka has quite a few unique shrines and temples, some of which you can participate in traditional rituals. Here is a list of our favorites!
Fukuoka City, the main transportation hub of Kyūshū, is best known for its Yatai stalls. But what many aren’t aware of is the city has a couple of great spots perfect for cherry blossom hunting. And the good news is some of them are just in the city center!
North of Fukuoka’s city center, Shika Island (志賀島) is a great weekend getaway in Fukuoka. The island, which has a circumference of around 11 km, is one of the top destinations for the locals to enjoy nature, hot springs, and beach activities. To many Japanese, though, their stereotype of Shika Island is probably a historically …
The Stunning Shika Island & Japan’s First National Treasure Read More »
There are a couple of cherry blossom destinations in Fukuoka’s city center, but what about fall foliage in Fukuoka? The autumn foliage in the precinct of Momiji Hachimangū Shrine (紅葉八幡宮) in the city center makes its name worthy. From late November to early December each year, the maple trees (or Momiji in Japanese) from the …
Momiji Hachimangū Shrine and the Stunning Fall Foliage Read More »
If you practice zen or meditate regularly, you might be interested in Shōfuku-ji, the first Zen temple in Japan. The temple is also a spot in Hakata that will excite all cat lovers!