What is the Kyushu area?

The Kyushu area is located in the southernmost part of Japan. It's beautiful nature, hot springs, deep history, and unique cultural diversity. Historically, the gateway to Asia because of its location near Korea and China. Nagasaki was one of the few places open to foreign trade during Japan’s period of isolation. And the cities are friendly, and there is delicious food. It’s easy to access both Japan and other parts of Asia.

The 7 Prefectures of Kyushu

FUKUOKA

Fukuoka is located in the northern part of Kyushu and serves as a major transportation hub both domestically and internationally. It is considered the gateway to Kyushu and Asia.

FOOD

Fukuoka is famous for its delicious food. Surrounded by the sea, Fukuoka offers an abundance of fresh seafood. The region is also rich in agricultural products, and is especially famous for fruits such as Amaou strawberries, pears, and grapes. Many local farms offer fruit-picking experiences, allowing visitors to enjoy seasonal flavors with ease.

Fukuoka is also known as a “food paradise”, where you can enjoy local specialties like Tonkotsu ramen, Udon, and Motsunabe( beef or pork offal hot pot)

One unique aspect of Fukuoka’s food culture is the"Yatai"( street food stalls). The rows of Yatai lighting up the night have become a beloved part of the city’s evening scenery. These food stalls are a popular attraction, drawing many visitors as a must-see and eat spot in Fukuoka.

SIGHTSEEING

There are many sightseeing spots in Fukuoka. Fukuoka is home to historic landmarks such as Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and Mojiko Retro, where visitors can feel the rich sense of history and tradition. 

The region has also evolved into a key industrial center, with significant government and administrative institutions situated here.

There are many traditional festivals in Fukuoka. For example, Hakata Dontaku and Gion Yamakasa.

Hakata Dontaku is one of the biggest festivals held in Japan. Gion Yamakasa has been recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the Japanese government.

Fukuoka offers many places where you can easily enjoy nature. 

Despite being an urban area, it features beautiful landscapes that make use of its natural geography, including large parks, Momochihama Beach, and Uminonakamichi. You can also enjoy mountain activities, such as visiting ranches or exploring Mt. Abura- it’s not just about the sea.

All of these spots are conveniently located within 30 minutes from the city center.

HISTORY

Fukuoka has long served as a gateway to Asia, with strong historical ties to China and Korea. The port town of Hakata flourished through international trade in ancient times. In the 13th century, Fukuoka became the battleground of the Mongol invasions, promoting the construction of coastal stone defenses. During the Edo period, the Kuroda clan ruled the region and built Fukuoka Castle. In modern times, the samurai town of Fukuoka and the merchant town of Hakata were merged into the city. Today, Fukuoka continues to thrive as a major urban center, known for its blend of history, culture, and innovation - and for its role as Japan’s modern getaway to Asia.

SAGA

Saga is located in the northwestern part of Kyushu. It is a quiet yet culturally rich area where visitors can enjoy nature, history, traditional crafts and delicious food. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking authentic Japanese experiences away from the big cities.

FOOD

Saga is known for its thriving agriculture, producing high- quality brand rice, onions, and strawberries. It also ranks number 1 in Japan for seaweed(nori) production, and is famous for fresh seafood like squid. 

Dago-giru is a traditional soup made with dumplings called “dago”.The soup is rich and comforting, and it reflects the local, home-style cooking of rural Kyushu. It is especially popular during the colder months.

Sicilian Rice is a local Saga specialty with no direct connection to Sicily. It typically consists of a bed of warm rice topped with stir-fried beef, fresh salad vegetables, and mayonnaise or dressing. It’s a unique fusion dish that’s colorful, satisfying, and full of local flavor. It’s commonly served at cafés and casual restaurants in Saga.

Saga Beef is one of Japan’s top brands of wagyu beef, known for its fine marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. It comes from specially raised Japanese Black cattle and is ranked among the highest grades of beef in the country. Saga Beef is often served as steak, shabu-shabu, or yakiniku, and is highly prized both domestically and internationally.

SIGHTSEEING

Visit Yoshinogari Historical Park, one of Japan’s largest archaeological sites from the Yayoi period, where ancient life comes alive. Explore the town of Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, and enjoy shopping at the famous Arita Pottery Fair.

Relax in Ureshino Onsen or Takeo Onsen, both known for their healing waters and traditional charm.

For nature and excitement, the Saga International Balloon Festaーone of Asia’s largest hot air balloon events.ーfills the autumn skies with color and joy.

If you want to seek a peaceful spot, Saga is the perfect place to experience authentic Japan, away from the crowds.

HISTORY

Saga has a rich and fascinating history. It is home to the Yoshinogari Ruins, one of Japan’s largest ancient settlements from the Yoyoi period(300 BC-300AD), offering a glimpse into early Japanese civilization.

During the Edo period, Saga was ruled by the Nabeshima clan under the Saga Domain. The region became a center for science, education, and Western technology, producing many important figures such as Ōkuma Shigenobu, a future Prime Minister of Japan. 

Today, Saga is known for preserving its cultural heritage, including Arita and Imari porcelain, and innovation coexist.

NAGASAKI

Nagasaki is located in the westernmost part of Kyushu. It is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Surrounded by the sea and home to over 600 islands, Nagasaki offers a unique blend of Japanese and international influences.

FOOD

Nagasaki has developed a unique food culture that blends Japanese, Chinese, and Western influences, thanks to its long history of international exchange. It is a region where you can experience history and diverse cultures through its food.

Champon is believed to have originated in the Meiji period, when Chinese immigrants in Nagasaki created the dish to serve affordable, nutritious meals. Because of its Chinese roots, the city is home to many Champon restaurants and a vibrant Nagasaki Chinatown, both of which are very popular with tourists.

Sara- udon features either crispy fried thin noodles or thicker, softer noodles, topped with a savory stir-fried mixture of pork, seafood, and vegetables in a thick sauce.

Castella is a sweet sponge cake originally brought to Japan by Portuguese traders in the 16th century. It has a moist, fluffy texture and has become one of Nagasaki’s most iconic traditional sweets.

SIGHTSEEING

Nagasaki has many Western-style buildings because it used to be a major gateway for international trade. That’s why it has so many unique tourist spots, even compared to other parts of Kyushu.

Glover Garden and Dejima are historical sites where visitors can learn about Nagasaki’s past as a center of international trade. At Huis Ten Bosch, you can experience a recreation of a Dutch town, allowing you to feel as if you’ve stepped into another world while also connecting with global history ー all without leaving Japan.

Once a thriving coal mining community, Gunkanjima ー officially called Hashima ーwas home to over 5,000 people in the 1950s, making it one of the most densely populated places in the world. Abandoned since 1974, the island now stands as a dramatic collection of crumbling concrete buildings in the sea. Its battleship-like shape gave rise to the nickname “ Battleship Island.” In 2015, Gunkanjima was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its role in Japan’s industrial revolution.

Nagasaki was the second city in the world to suffer an atomic bombing, on August 9, 1945. Peace Park was built near the hypocenter to commemorate the victims and to send a message of peace to the world. The park features the iconic Peace Statue, the Hypocenter Monument, and the Fountain of Peace. Visitors can take a quiet moment to reflect on the past and the importance of peace.

Located next to the park, the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum provides a powerful and emotional look into the aftermath of the bombing. Through photographs, survivor testimonies, artifacts, and historical records, visitors learn about the horrors of nuclear weapons and the impact of war. The museum serves as a reminder of the past and a call for a world free of nuclear arms.

HISTORY

Nagasaki has long been Japan’s gateway to the world. In the 16th century, it welcomed Portuguese traders and Christian missionaries, becoming a center of international exchanges.

During Japan’s isolation period, Nagasaki remained the only port open to foreign trade through Dejima, a small island for Dutch and Chinese merchants.

On August 9, 1945, it was devastated by an atomic bomb. 

Nagasaki is now home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remains a city where cultures meet and history lives on.

KUMAMOTO

Kumamoto is located in the center of Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island. Known for its spectacular nature, rich history, and unique local cuisine, Kumamoto is a destination full of charm and discovery.

FOOD

Kumamoto’s food culture is known for its bold yet refined flavorsーa unique culinary identity that reflects the spirit of Kyushu. Shaped by its rich natural environment of mountains, rivers, and sea, as well as the influence of samurai traditions, Kumamoto has developed a distinctive local cuisine unlike any other.

Kumamoto is one of Japan’s top regions for horse meat, and basashi, or raw horse meat sashimi, is a local delicacy. Served thinly sliced with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, it’s high in protein, low in fat, and a traditional dish often served for special occasions.

Karashi Renkon is a popular local side dish made by stuffing lotus root with mustard miso, coating it in batter, and deep-frying it. It’s often paired with local sake.

Ikinari Dango is a traditional sweet consisting of sweet potatoes and red bean paste wrapped in a simple wheat dough and steamed. The name “Ikinari” means “quick” or “easy”, and it reflects the simple, homemade style of this comforting dessert.

Kumamoto ramen features a rich pork bone broth( tonkotsu) and is famous for its unique roasted garlic oil (māyu), which adds a deep, aromatic flavor. 

SIGHTSEEING

Kumamoto offers a wide variety of attractive destinations where you can enjoy nature, history, culture, and relaxation.

One of Japan's most iconic castles, Kumamoto Castle was originally built in the early 1600s. Known for its massive stone walls and unique architectural design.

Mount Aso is a stunning active volcano located in central Kyushu, and it boasts one of the largest calderas in the world. Its dramatic landscapes include vast grasslands, volcanic craters, and picturesque rural scenery. You can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and even horseback riding on the open plains of Kusasenri.

Kurokawa Onsen is one of Japan’s most charming and atmospheric hot spring towns. This area features traditional ryokan( Japanese inns) with open-air baths surrounded by forests and rivers. 

HISTORY

In 1637, the Shimabara-Amakusa Rebellion broke out as a response to the persecution of Christians and heavy taxation under the Tokugawa shogunate. A young Chiristian leader named Amakusa Shirō rose up and led the rebellion, turning the Amakusa region into a fierce battleground. After the rebellion was crushed, the shogunate enforced an even stricter ban on Christianity. However, remnants of the hidden Christians (Kakure Kirishitan)ーsuch as underground churches and historical sitesーcan still be found in the area today.

OITA

Oita is located in the northeastern part of Kyushu. It’s famous as Japan’s number one hot spring region. The cities of Beppu and Yufuin are especially popular, attracting visitors from across Japan and abroad.

FOOD

Oita is a culinary treasure blessed with rich nature, fresh seafood from the sea, and delicious produce from the mountains.

Toriten is a home-style chicken tempura dish beloved by the people of Oita. It is a local favorite that even appears in school lunches.

Seki Aji and SekiSaba, premium brand fish caught in the clear waters of the region. Another local specialty is Ryukyu, a dish made by marinating fresh local fish in soy sauce and other seasonings. 

Oita is also home to Bungo Beef, a high-quality wagyu produced within the prefecture. It is prized for its fine marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. It is commonly enjoyed as steak, sukiyaki, or shabu-shabu.

Additionally, the area is known as the heartland of barley shochu, a smooth, easy-to-drink distilled spirit with a clean taste.

SIGHTSEEING 

Oita is home to some of Japan's most famous hot springs, including Beppu and Yufuin. Relax in natural hot spring baths surrounded by beautiful scenery, and experience traditional Japanese onsen culture.  

Beppu Jigoku is a walk through Beppu’s mysterious and colorful hot spring spots known as the “Seven Hells”( Jigoku). 

Each “hell” features dramatic boiling water, steam vents, or bubbling mud in vivid colors. It’s a fun and educational experience unlike any other hot spring tour in Japan.

Kokonoe “ Yume” Otsurihashi is the longest and highest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan, stretching 390 meters across and standing 173 meters high. Located in the scenic town of Kokonoe, this breathtaking bridge offers panoramic views of waterfalls, deep valleys, and forested mountains. 

Visit the Kyushu Natural Zoological Park African Safari, one of Japan’s largest safari parks. Drive through the park in your own car or take a jungle bus to see lions, giraffes, elephants, zebras, and more up close. You can also enjoy interactive areas where you can feed small animals or ride ponies. A family-friendly adventure for all ages.

HISTORY

Oita has a rich and diverse history, playing an important role in Japan’s religious, cultural, and international development. Once known as Bungo Jingu Shrine, the head shrine of over 40,000 Hachiman shrines across Japan. This shrine held great influence during the Nara period, often connected to the imperial court. During the Sengoku period, Oita was ruled by Otomo Sorin, a Christian daimyo. Under his rule, the region saw early contact with Europe, including Portuguese trade and Christian missionary work. It continues to be a place where nature, food, history and hospitality come together in harmony.

MIYAZAKI

Miyazaki is located on the southeastern coast of Kyushu. It’s known for its mild climate, stunning coastlines, and deep ties to Japanese mythology. With abundant sunshine year-round, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies alike.

FOOD

Miyazaki is making a paradise for food lovers. With thriving agriculture, livestock farming, and fishing, the local cuisine reflects both traditional and quality ingredients.

Chicken- Nanban is a must-try local dish that blends sweet, sour, and savory flavors in perfect harmony. Tender fried chicken is coated in a special sweet vinegar sauce, then topped with rich and creamy tartar sauce. 

Thanks to its warm climate and long hours of sunshine, Miyazaki is a fruit paradise. The region produces some of Japan’s most flavorful and luxurious fruits.

SIGHTSEEING

Miyazaki offers elements of mythology, nature, and tropical resort charm, making it a perfect place to relax while experiencing Japan’s history and culture.

Takachiho Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder carved by the Gokase River. Towering volcanic cliffs surround the emerald-green waters, creating a dramatic and peaceful landscape.

This Gorge is not only visually stunning, but also steeped in Japanese mythologyーsaid to be the site where the gods descended to earth.

Just off the coast of Miyazaki City lies Aoshima, a small, palm-fringed island known for its unique rock formations called the “Devil’s Washboard”( Oni no Sentakuita). At the heart of the island is Aoshima Shurine, dedicated to deities of love and marriage. Surrounded by lush subtropical plants and set in a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for couples and spiritual seekers.

HISTORY

Miyazaki has deep connections to Japanese mythology and ancient history, and it has long played an important cultural and regional role.

It is said to be the island of Tenson Kōrin ( the descent of the heavenly grandson), a story found in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. 

Takachiho is believed to be the place where Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, descended to earth.

KAGOSHIMA

Kagoshima is located at the southern tip of Kyushu and is blessed with natural heritage sites such as Sakurajima and Yakushima. It is also rich in history and culture, and is known as the former center of the Satsuma Domain.

FOOD

Kagoshima is famous for its unique and flavorful local cuisine, influenced by its warm climate and rich cultural history.

Kagoshima Kurobuta( Black Pork) is renowned for its tender texture and sweet, rich flavor. Often served as shabu-shabu or tonkatsu.

Satsuma-age is a local favorite made from freshly ground fish mixed with vegetables and lightly fried. These savory snacks are perfect hot or cold－great with a glass of shochu or as a quick bite on the go.

Surrounded by the ocean, Kagoshima is a paradise for seafood lovers. Enjoy the region’s rich bounty through local specialties such as kibinago sashimi( silver-stripe round herring), 

pole-and-line caught bonito, and a variety of seasonal fish.

Shirokuma( white bear) cools down with this colorful and refreshing dessert. It is shaved ice topped with condensed milk, fruits, and jelly ー a must-try summer treat that originated right here in Kagoshima.

No visit to Kagoshima is complete without a taste of imo shochu. Distilled from sweet potatoes, this local spirit has a rich aroma and deep flavor. Try it straight, on the rocks, or with hot water－and find your favorite way to enjoy it.

SIGHTSEEING

Sakurajima is the iconic volcano of Kagoshima. Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Kagoshima city, Sakurajima is one of Japan's most active volcanoes and a true symbol of the region. Enjoy dramatic landscapes, soothing natural footbaths, and lava trails that offer panoramic views of the bay and city. 

Yakushima is a mysterious island of ancient forests. Step into another world on Yakushima, a lush subtropical island covered in centuries-old cedar trees. Hike through mystical forests to see the legendary Jōmon Sugi, relax under beautiful waterfalls, and experience nature in its purest form. Perfect for eco-travelers, hikers, and anyone seeking serenity and inspiration.

Ibusuki Onsen is one of Japan's famous natural sand baths. Ibusuki is home to a one of a kind wellness experience: sunamushi onsen, or natural sand baths. Lie down by the seasides as warm volcanic sand is gently piled over your body ー a relaxing treatment said to improve circulation and relieve fatigue. 

HISTORY

Kagoshima is a region with a deep historical background and rich cultural heritage. When it comes to famous historical figures from Kagoshima, Saigō Takamori and Ōkubo Toshimichi are the most well-known. They were key figures in the Meiji Restoration. They helped overthrow the shogunate and support the new government. Saigō represented the samurai Rebellion, while Ōkubo promoted modernization and laid the foundations of modern Japan.

CONCLUSION

Each prefecture in Kyushu has its own unique charm. Compared to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, the population is smaller and there are fewer foreigners, making it an ideal environment for learning Japanese. 

You can also enjoy cultural exchange experiences that may be harder to find in big cities. If you’re looking for a calm setting where you can connect with people and enjoy nature while experiencing a different culture, Kyushu is definitely worth considering. 

Recommend for…

🌟Anyone who wants to connect with real Japanese life in a local community

🌟Reconnect with nature lovers 

🌟Ideal for anyone curious about Japan’s cultural and historical roots

*Image for illustration purposes only.