Kyushu's Hidden Treasures

Welcome to Nagasaki! Upon arrival at Nagasaki Airport, a private transfer will take you into the heart of this historic city. Once you’re settled, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. Wander through the charming streets, absorbing Nagasaki’s unique atmosphere, where Japanese and Western influences harmoniously coexist. Visit nearby landmarks like Glover Garden or immerse yourself in the vibrant sights and sounds of Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown for an evening snack. Alternatively, simply relax and soak in the city’s peaceful ambience as you unwind and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

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Discover Nagasaki’s cultural and historical heritage on a private guided tour. Start at the Peace Park, reflecting on the city’s resilience. Visit Glover Garden, an open-air museum with colonial-era homes and harbour views, then explore Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, the oldest in Japan. In the afternoon, experience a traditional tea ceremony, learning matcha preparation and etiquette. Finish with a hands-on Castella-making workshop, where you’ll craft the famous sponge cake, a legacy of Nagasaki’s Portuguese connections.

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Travel from Nagasaki to Arita, a town known for its porcelain craftsmanship. Take the Shinkansen and enjoy the changing landscapes along the way. In Arita, try a hands-on pottery experience, either painting intricate designs or moulding clay, to learn about the town’s long history of ceramics. In the evening, check-in to your hotel. Dinner is a shojin-ryori meal, a plant-based Buddhist cuisine made with seasonal ingredients. (B,D)

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Explore Arita’s rich porcelain heritage on a private guided tour of its historic craftsman village. Walk along cobbled streets lined with traditional workshops, where artisans continue a 400-year-old tradition of porcelain-making. Observe each stage of the process, from shaping raw clay to glazing and hand-painting intricate designs. Visit kilns that have produced fine ceramics for centuries and browse galleries showcasing both classic and contemporary Arita porcelain. Along the way, there are opportunities to purchase unique handcrafted pieces, offering a lasting connection to this renowned craft. (B,D)

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Take the Shinkansen to Fukuoka, a city that harmonises modern innovation with traditional charm. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure. Visit the Tenjin Underground Shopping Mall, an extensive network of boutiques, cafes, and speciality stores. This shopping haven offers everything from high-end fashion to local crafts, providing a taste of Fukuoka’s urban vibrancy. In the evening, choose from various attractions or enjoy the comfort of your hotel, where you can relax after a day of exploration. (B)

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Today, experience the vibrant energy of Fukuoka with a private guided tour. Begin your day at Canal City, a striking blend of shopping, entertainment, and dining, set along a series of canals. Take your time exploring the unique boutiques and sampling local snacks. Afterwards, head to Ohori Park for a more peaceful experience. Enjoy a walk around the scenic lake, surrounded by lush greenery and quiet paths, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. As evening approaches, immerse yourself in Fukuoka’s street food culture with a Yatai food tour in Nakasu. These open-air food stalls offer a variety of local dishes, including Hakata ramen, yakitori, and fresh seafood. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and savour authentic flavours before returning to your hotel. (B,D)

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Travel to Kunisaki, a region known for its spiritual significance and rich history. Start with a guided pilgrimage trek that blends Shinto and Buddhist traditions, taking you through sacred sites hidden within the lush landscapes of the Kunisaki Peninsula. Follow ancient forested paths and explore temples, learning about the spiritual heritage of the area. Afterwards, visit a historic samurai district for a walking tour, where you can explore well-preserved architecture and hear stories from the samurai era, offering insight into the noble lifestyle of Japan's past. Conclude your day with a stay at Ryoan Fukinoto, a peaceful temple offering traditional tatami rooms. Take the evening to relax in the tranquil environment, reflecting on the day’s cultural discoveries. (B)

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Start the day with a comfortable express train ride to Beppu, a town known for its hot springs. Once there, take some time to relax or explore the town's geothermal features, including the Hells of Beppu. This collection of unique hot springs, with everything from vibrant turquoise pools to bubbling mud ponds, provides an intriguing look at the region’s volcanic landscape. In the evening, check-in at the Sally Garden Inn Yanagiya, a traditional hot spring lodge. Stay in a Nest Japanese-style room, where rustic decor meets modern amenities, offering a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. (B)

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Travel to Aso, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. As you journey through, enjoy sweeping views of expansive green plains and towering peaks. Upon arrival, experience Jigoku-Mushi, a unique cooking method where meals are prepared using natural geothermal steam, offering an authentic taste of local cuisine. Later, enjoy a Yakiniku BBQ, featuring locally sourced meats and vegetables grilled to perfection. Spend the evening at the Kosugi Resort, where your glamping accommodation blends outdoor adventure with modern comfort, providing a relaxing and memorable stay in the heart of nature. (B,D)

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Experience the beauty of Mt. Aso’s landscapes on a guided e-bike tour, cycling through expansive grasslands, ancient shrines, and scenic trails that reveal the mountain’s rich 13,000-year history. As you explore, your guide will share insights into the area’s volcanic origins and its cultural significance, enhancing your understanding of the region. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Shabu-Shabu dinner, where you’ll cook thinly sliced meat and fresh vegetables in a flavourful hot pot broth, providing an interactive and enjoyable dining experience. (B,D)

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Start the day with a scenic journey to Kagoshima, known as the "Naples of the East" for its stunning coastal views and the active Sakurajima volcano. Upon arrival, dive into the region’s history with a samurai learning tour at Sengan-en, a beautifully preserved garden and residence offering a glimpse into the samurai way of life, complemented by engaging cultural activities. Afterwards, check-in at Yakakutei Ryokan, a luxury onsen retreat where your Premium Japanese-style Syuuseian room provides a serene space for rest. Relax and unwind in the soothing hot spring baths, rejuvenating after your day’s adventures. (B,D)

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Enjoy a private guided tour of Kagoshima, delving into the city’s rich history and vibrant culinary offerings. Throughout the day, enjoy personalised sightseeing based on your interests, with a deeper exploration of key landmarks and cultural sites. In the evening, take part in a street food tour that showcases the distinctive flavours of Kagoshima, including fresh sashimi, local black pork dishes, and specialities made with sweet potatoes, all highlighting the region’s unique food culture. (B,D)

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