Day 1. Kagoshima — Gateway to a Volcanic World

Welcome to Kagoshima - the air is laced with the scent of sulfur, and ash trails from Sakurajima volcano often streak the sky — a dramatic backdrop visible from all around the city. Check into the hotel and unwind in the hot springs at the foot of the volcano - the perfect cure for travel fatigue — and your first real taste of Japan.

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Day 2. Lava Fields, Samurai, and the Sengan-en Gardens

This morning, take a short 15-minute ferry ride to the heart of volcanic power — Sakurajima, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. Ancient lava fields, hot springs, and orange groves spread out beneath its smoking crater create a surreal landscape. Next, visit Sengan-en, the former residence of the powerful Shimazu samurai clan. Stroll through terraced gardens overlooking the bay — a journey back to the Edo period. Then, step into the samurai village, where traditional homes, quiet tea moments, and the spirit of a bygone era await.

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Day 3. Yakushima — Island of Forest Spirits

Today, we travel to the mystical island of Yakushima (approx. 3 hours). Covered in ancient mossy forests, this otherworldly place inspired the iconic film Princess Mononoke. Here, trees whisper in the wind and the mist seems to breathe. We’ll explore Yakusugi Land, home to thousand-year-old cryptomeria trees. Time slows down here. Worries vanish. In the evening, return to your hotel and soak in the healing thermal waters.

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Day 4. Turtles, Waterfalls, and Dream Forests

Start the morning on the beach, where sea turtles sometimes come ashore — a magical sight if you're lucky. Or venture into the enchanted Shiratani Unsuikyo forest. Velvet moss blankets the tree trunks, streams run through twisted roots, and the path feels like one walked by ancient spirits. In the evening, take a ferry and travel to Saga Prefecture (approx. 3 hours).

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Day 5. Yoshinogari — Where History Comes to Life

Step into ancient Japan at the Yoshinogari Archaeological Park. This isn’t a museum — it's a fully reconstructed Yayoi-era village with thatched roundhouses, defensive moats, and watchtowers. You’ll feel the life of people who lived here over 2,000 years ago.

 

Day 6. Nagasaki — Gateway to the World

Today we head to Nagasaki (approx. 2 hours), a city once open to foreign ships while the rest of Japan remained isolated. Visit the Museum of Christianity in Japan, buddhist temples influenced by Chinese architecture, and stroll through old European quarters still bearing Portuguese and Dutch traces.

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Day 7. Yufuin — Art, Mountains, and Hot Springs

Next stop: Yufuin, a charming resort town at the foot of Mount Yufudake. Art, nature, and relaxation blend into a single experience. Explore cozy galleries, sip coffee in fragrant cafés, shop in craft boutiques, and soak in mountain-view onsens. Time slows here — and that’s the point. Travel time: approx. 3 hours.

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Day 8. Beppu — Capital of Steam and Geysers

A short journey (1 hour) takes you to Beppu, one of Japan’s most unique hot spring towns. The earth literally boils here — geysers, steaming lakes, and natural wonders abound. Spend the day exploring and enjoying the onsens at your own pace.

 

Day 9. The Seven Hells and a Sand Onsen

Discover Beppu's “Seven Hells” — geothermal hot springs in every color of the rainbow. Then, experience a sand bath: hot sand is gently poured over you, and you melt into the warmth of the earth itself.

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Day 10. Takachiho — Where Gods Descended

We journey to Takachiho (approx. 2.5 hours), a land steeped in myth. According to legend, this is where the creation of Japan began. It was here where the sun goddess hid in a cave, and the first sacred dance was performed to lure her out. Expect turquoise rivers running through dramatic gorges, boat rides beneath waterfalls, and visits to mystical shrines. In the evening, rest in a peaceful mountain ryokan.

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Day 11. Immersed in Legend

Begin the day with a walk through the gorge and explore all the legendary sites. In the evening, visit Takachiho Shrine and witness the traditional kagura ritual dance — a living connection to Japan’s ancient spiritual heart.

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Day 12. Farewell, Kyushu

Morning transfer to the airport and departure. But Kyushu — with its volcanoes, mossy forests, geysers, and living legends — will stay with you forever.