Tour Itinerary
Inclusions
Pack Free Fully Supported Walking Experience
• Walk Pack Free with only a light day pack
• Daily luggage transfers between all destinations
• Private vehicle transfers throughout Kyushu, no public trains
• Flexible walking options available each day
Wow-mazing Cultural Experiences
- Explore Beppu’s Jigoku Mushi geothermal cooking culture
- TAO no Oka Drum and Dance Performance
- Visit Onta Pottery Village and observe centuries-old ceramic traditions
- Wine tasting experience in the Kuju Highlands
- Soak in Nagayu Onsen, renowned for its mineral-rich therapeutic waters
Carefully Selected Accommodation Across Kyushu
- 2 nights at Fujiya Hotel Beppu or similar
- 2 nights in Yufuin Shuhoukan or similar
- 1 night at the Blossom Hakata Premier,
Meals Featuring Regional Kyushu Cuisine
• 4 dinners showcasing seasonal local produce
• 5 breakfasts
• 5 selected regional lunches including Jigoku Mushi cuisine
Expert Local Guides
• Professional English-speaking local guides
Day 1: Arrival Day Beppu
Getting There: Guests make their own way to Oita, the gateway to the Kunisaki Peninsula and Beppu’s famous hot spring region in Kyushu. Oita Airport offers regular domestic flights from Tokyo (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes) and Osaka (approximately 1 hour). From Oita Airport it is around a 50-minute transfer by airport bus or private vehicle to Beppu, one of Japan’s most renowned onsen towns and the starting point for your journey through the Kunisaki region.
ITINERARY: Today you arrive in Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns, located on the eastern coast of Kyushu. Upon arrival at your accommodation, take time to settle in and begin soaking up the unique atmosphere of this historic hot spring town, where steam rises from streets and traditional bathhouses throughout the Kannawa district. This evening, we gather for a welcome dinner featuring seasonal Japanese cuisine, a wonderful introduction to the flavours of Oita Prefecture. After dinner, you may wish to relax in the hotel’s soothing onsen baths and unwind after your journey.
Day 2: Steam, Culture and Views from Mount Tsurumi
WALK GRADE: Approximately 6 km, including village walking and a short summit trail, easy to moderate grade
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Guests may choose to enjoy the ropeway ascent and summit viewpoints only, or join the optional walk to the summit depending on comfort and energy levels.
ITINERARY: Today begins with a leisurely walk through the historic Kannawa district of Beppu, known for its steaming streets and centuries-old hot spring culture. As we wander through this traditional neighbourhood, you will notice how geothermal activity shapes daily life here. Steam drifts from vents beside temples, bathhouses and small local shops, creating a landscape where nature and community exist side by side. One of the most fascinating traditions you will see is Jigoku Mushi, a cooking method that uses natural geothermal steam. Locals have prepared food this way for generations, placing baskets of fresh vegetables, seafood and eggs into steaming pits heated by volcanic energy. We pause here to enjoy lunch, tasting these simple yet flavourful dishes prepared using the region’s natural hot spring steam. In the afternoon, we leave the town behind and travel to the slopes of Mount Tsurumi, where the Beppu Ropeway carries us high above the city. As the cable car climbs the mountain, sweeping views open out across Beppu Bay, the coastline and the wider landscapes of Kyushu. From the upper station, guests can stretch their legs on a gentle trail leading toward the summit, where seasonal alpine plants and fresh mountain air create a striking contrast to the geothermal scenery experienced earlier in the day. Later, we return to Beppu, where the evening centres on local cuisine and the flavours of Oita Prefecture. Dinner is a beautifully prepared multi-course Japanese meal showcasing regional seafood and seasonal ingredients. Afterwards, relax back at Fujiya Hotel and enjoy another soothing soak in the onsen baths.
Day 3: Nagayu Onsen, Kuju Highlands and Arrival in Yufuin
WALK GRADE: Approximately 2 km of relaxed village and countryside walking, easy grade
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Today follows a gentle pace with optional short walks and plenty of time to enjoy the wellness and cultural experiences along the way.
ITINERARY: Today, we depart Beppu and travel inland towards the expansive landscapes of the Kuju Highlands. This region of central Oita Prefecture is known for its open valleys, volcanic mountains and quiet farming communities that sit far from the bustle of the coastal cities. Our first destination is Nagayu Onsen, a peaceful hot spring village famous for its rare naturally carbonated mineral waters. For generations, people have travelled here to experience the restorative qualities of these unique springs. There is time to wander through the village and soak up the tranquil atmosphere while learning about the wellness traditions that have long shaped life in this rural part of Kyushu. Continuing through the highlands, we arrive at Kuju Winery, where vineyards stretch across gently rolling hills beneath wide mountain skies. A relaxed walk through the estate introduces the story of winemaking in this emerging wine region. Afterwards, we enjoy a tasting of local wines paired with a countryside lunch highlighting fresh produce from the surrounding area. In the afternoon, we visit TAO no Oka arts and cultural centre, dramatically positioned within the Kuju landscape. Our journey then leads us to Yufuin, widely regarded as one of Japan’s most charming mountain towns. Nestled beneath the distinctive peaks of Mount Yufu, the village is known for its peaceful streets lined with artisan boutiques, small galleries and inviting cafés. There is time to explore at leisure before we check in to Yufuin Shuhoukan, a welcoming ryokan offering traditional tatami rooms and relaxing onsen baths. This evening we gather for a beautifully presented Japanese dinner showcasing seasonal ingredients, mountain vegetables and fresh local fish. After dinner, you may wish to unwind in the soothing hot spring baths, continuing the region’s long tradition of relaxation and wellbeing.
Day 4: Hiking Mount Yufu and Exploring Yufuin
WALK GRADE: Mount Yufu return hike, approximately 5 km, moderate grade with gradual ascent
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Guests may choose to walk a shorter section of the Mount Yufu trail or continue further depending on comfort and conditions.
ITINERARY: This morning, we venture into the mountains surrounding Yufuin for a walk on the slopes of Mount Yufu, the striking twin-peaked volcano that forms the dramatic backdrop to the village. Revered locally as the guardian of Yufuin, the mountain offers one of the region’s most rewarding short hikes. Our trail leads gradually upward through woodland and open hillsides, where the landscape reveals wide views across the valley below. As the path climbs higher, glimpses of Yufuin’s patchwork countryside and distant ridgelines emerge, providing a sense of the vast volcanic terrain that defines this part of Kyushu. The route winds through areas of alpine vegetation and seasonal wildflowers, with opportunities to pause and take in the peaceful mountain scenery. After reaching our turning point, we descend along the same trail, enjoying new perspectives across the surrounding farmland and forests before returning to Yufuin. The afternoon is yours to experience the village at a relaxed pace. Yufuin is known for its artistic spirit and gentle atmosphere, with charming streets lined with independent boutiques, small museums, galleries and inviting cafés. You may wish to browse local crafts, sample regional treats or simply enjoy the calm rhythm of this mountain town. For those wanting to fully embrace Yufuin’s renowned hot spring culture, the onsen at Yufuin Shuhoukan offers a perfect place to relax after the morning’s hike. This evening we gather once more for a beautifully presented Japanese dinner, featuring seasonal ingredients such as fresh sashimi, grilled specialties and locally grown vegetables, a fitting celebration of your time exploring the landscapes and traditions of Kyushu.
Day 5: Historic Hita and the Pottery Traditions of Onta Village
WALK GRADE: Approximately 3 km of relaxed cultural walking, easy grade
ITINERARY:
This morning we leave the mountains behind and travel north into the historic town of Hita, once an important centre of trade during Japan’s Edo period. Our visit focuses on Mameda-machi, a beautifully preserved merchant quarter where white plaster storehouses, wooden townhouses and traditional shopfronts still line the streets. As we stroll through this atmospheric district, the architecture and narrow lanes offer a glimpse into the prosperous commercial life that once flourished here. From Hita we continue into the countryside to Onta Village, a small community renowned throughout Japan for its distinctive pottery tradition. Onta ware has been produced here for centuries using methods that remain largely unchanged. Clay is still crushed using large wooden hammers powered by flowing water, and pottery is shaped and fired using techniques passed down through generations of artisans. Walking through the village offers the chance to observe these processes and understand the craftsmanship behind this celebrated folk art. In the afternoon we travel onward to Hakata in Fukuoka, marking our transition from rural Kyushu back to the energy of the city. On arrival we check in to The Blossom Hakata Premier, a stylish and comfortable hotel located in the heart of Hakata. The evening is free for you to explore at your own pace. Hakata is famous for its lively food culture, and this is a wonderful opportunity to discover local restaurants, sample regional specialties or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of one of Kyushu’s most dynamic cities.
Day 6: Departure Day
ITINERARY: After breakfast at the hotel, your journey comes to an end in Hakata, Fukuoka. Depending on your onward plans, you may wish to take advantage of Hakata’s excellent transport connections for your departure or continue exploring the city at your own pace. We say farewell to new friends as this memorable exploration of Kyushu’s landscapes, culture and traditions draws to a close.
