Welcome, adventurous souls, to a whirlwind journey through the breathtaking island of Kyushu! Renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, soothing hot springs, and delectable cuisine, Kyushu magnetizes tourists globally.
But the real charm lies off the beaten track in Kyushu, in the heart of this enthralling region. Today, we’re making a case for the less-traveled road, an epic journey that will evaluate your endurance, stimulate your senses, and leave you yearning for more.
Distance between north and south of Kyushu
出典：JR九州路線図
One of the four main islands in Japan, Kyushu, is a vast island with a total area of about 36,782 square kilometers and a coastline length of about 3,888 kilometers.
For example, from Hakata Station in the north of Kyushu to the destination of Kagoshima Chuo Station on the Kyushu Shinkansen (the red line on the map above), you can travel in just an hour and a half without any stops.
However, this is merely “traveling” through the western side of Kyushu and does not constitute a complete “trip.” Looking at this map, it becomes clear that just traveling on the Kyushu Shinkansen does not equate to “traveling in Kyushu.”
Additionally, traveling east and west in Kyushu can be facilitated by conventional railway lines, but as the map shows, the areas where JR lines run in the vast region of Kyushu are limited.
The real charm lies off the beaten track in Kyushu
The area around Hakata and Kagoshima, where the Kyushu Shinkansen runs, is, of course, home to many charming tourist destinations. However, it is no exaggeration to say that the true appeal of Kyushu lies in areas where JR railway lines do not run.
For example, to visit places like Takachiho-go Shiibayama GIAHS and the Kunisaki Peninsula, as we also showcase at INAKAdventure, relying on JR railways is not an option.
Even for those traveling to Japan, if they do not want to follow the same tourist routes as others and seek an enchanting journey that allows them to deeply understand Japanese life, they may be even more inclined to explore places where it is difficult to use public transportation.
Navigating Unspoiled Areas of Kyushu
So, how can one truly experience Japan and Kyushu to the fullest?
The Means of Transportation is Crucial
Many travelers visiting Kyushu consider renting a car from the nearest Shinkansen station or arranging for a taxi with a driver. In fact, some people have mistaken our company, INAKAdventure, for providing such services and have made inquiries.
However, driving in unfamiliar areas raises safety concerns, especially in Kyushu’s narrow mountain roads where passing oncoming vehicles can be challenging.
In Japan, where traffic drives on the left, it would be even more difficult for those accustomed to driving on the right to navigate while relying solely on Japanese-language directions.
What about hiring a taxi with a driver then? While it may ensure a smooth journey to the destination, the allure of the trip is significantly diminished without a knowledgeable local guide at the arrival point.
While many tourist destinations have guides available, if you aim to visit non-touristy places, the driver may simply drop you off there. The true charm of Japan and Kyushu can only be understood through the guidance of a knowledgeable guide. Planning the trip is Crucial.
Planning is more important
When it comes to fully experiencing the charm of Kyushu, planning is more important than the means of transportation.
Many travelers believe they can enjoy themselves if they reach their chosen destination, but as mentioned earlier, Kyushu is vast, and relying on public transportation to understand its allure is difficult. In such circumstances, efficient planning is essential.
Without a well-thought-out plan that considers the available days and the best way to navigate the region, time will quickly slip away.
At INAKAdventure, we place great emphasis on trip planning. We assemble the travel itinerary based on our customers’ desires, carefully considering when and where they can go. Therefore, our approach goes beyond simply arranging transportation and dropping off at the destination.
We excel in planning, consulting with our customers, making suggestions for captivating places unknown to non-locals, and providing guidance throughout the journey.
Conclusion
After your exhilarating journey draws to a close, the memories we’ve created will linger on. The vibrant landscapes, historical landmarks, mouthwatering delicacies, and warm hospitality of Kyushu are sure to leave an impression.
Your journey is more than just a travel itinerary; it’s an exploration of culture, heritage, and heartwarming hospitality that will exceed your expectations and redefine your perception of Japan.
Kyushu’s untamed beauty and rich history are a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Japanese culture and its people. A visit to this island leaves one with a profound respect for its heritage and an insatiable desire to explore more.