Southern Japan

Southern Japan is warm, green, and full of contrast: modern cities sit next to steaming volcanoes, calm lakes lie beside futuristic malls, and bright beaches are only minutes from lively downtowns. Families enjoy the region because it is easy to navigate, offers many outdoor experiences, and feels more relaxed than Tokyo or Kyoto. Kyushu also has a distinct character, with volcanic cuisine, hot springs, summer festivals, and landscapes that often look like scenes from a Miyazaki movie.

How do you get around South Japan?

Is transportation easy in the South of Japan?

Major cities such as Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Nagasaki have airports with direct domestic flights from Tokyo and Osaka. For travel between cities, the shinkansen is the fastest and most convenient option, especially along the Fukuoka-Kumamoto-Kagoshima line.

Within the cities, you will find efficient public transport: streetcars in places like Nagasaki and Kagoshima, monorails in Kitakyushu, and frequent buses in most urban areas. Ferries connect Kagoshima to Sakurajima several times per hour, which is faster than driving around the bay.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: renting a car is usually the most convenient choice for families. Many natural sights-beaches, mountain temples, coastal viewpoints, and volcanic trails-are difficult or slow to reach by public transport.

When is the best time to visit Southern Japan?

Does the rainy season affect travel?

Late May is generally warm and pleasant. June to early July is the rainy season. During this period you can expect very high humidity-sometimes up to 73% even indoors-frequent showers, lotus flowers in full bloom, and intensely green mountains.

I have experienced this season in Kyushu, and walking outside often feels like stepping into a warm greenhouse. Clothes dry slowly, hair expands in all directions, and a dehumidifier quickly becomes essential. However, the scenery is impressive: hydrangeas everywhere, mist over the hills, and soft light that is ideal for photography.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: if it rains, choose covered markets. Many of them in Kyushu were created specifically to cope with the local weather.

Is summer comfortable?

July and August are hot, but they are excellent months for beaches, festivals, and late sunsets. Local summer dishes such as unagi (eel, rich in vitamins A, B, and E) help combat heat fatigue.

What about autumn and winter?

From September to November, temperatures are comfortable and autumn leaves add strong colours to the landscapes. Winter in Southern Japan is generally mild. Some volcanic areas may have temporary access limits, but hot springs, especially in Beppu, are ideal at this time of year.

What are the best cities in Southern Japan?

1. Fukuoka – the relaxed gateway to the South

Fukuoka is modern, clean, and extremely easy to navigate. Its location close to beaches and its comfortable urban layout make it one of the most family-friendly introductions to Kyushu.

What should you see in Fukuoka?

Ōhori Park (Ōhori Park / 大濠公園):
A large lakeside park with cafés, lotus fields, jogging paths, playgrounds, boat rentals, a Japanese garden, and the ruins of Fukuoka Castle. Walking around the lake takes about 50-60 minutes. Families appreciate the swan-shaped boats and the wide, shaded paths.

Coastal beaches:
Located about 30 minutes from the city center, offering quick access to sand and sea.

Shikanoshima Island:
A coastal island with bike routes and fresh seafood options.

Tsutaya Bookstore:
A well-designed space with cafés and comfortable seating areas.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: visiting Ōhori Park around 17:00 offers the best experience. The light is soft, the temperature drops, and the water reflects the colours of sunset. I have visited many times, and it consistently feels like one of the calmest moments in the city.

2. Beppu – Japan’s hot spring capital

Beppu is one of the most distinctive destinations in Southern Japan. It is visually dramatic, playful, and full of geothermal activity, which makes it especially appealing for families.

What can you do in Beppu?

Hot sand baths:
A relaxing experience where visitors are gently covered with naturally heated sand.

Mud baths:
Warm, mineral-rich baths that offer a unique type of onsen experience.

Steam-cooking experiences:
Steam from the geothermal vents is used to prepare vegetables, eggs, and dumplings. It is simple, interactive, and enjoyable for both children and adults.

The Seven Hells of Beppu (Jigoku):
A group of colourful geothermal pools created by volcanic activity. These sites are for viewing rather than bathing and are excellent for photography.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: steam cooking is particularly suitable for families. It is fun to prepare food together, and it offers a lighter alternative to fried dishes, especially during the hot season.

3. Kumamoto – castles, gardens, and Aso mountain water

Kumamoto offers a balanced mix of history, green spaces, and family-friendly attractions. Its castle, gardens, and connection to Mount Aso make it a meaningful stop in Southern Japan.

What is there to do in Kumamoto?

Kumamoto Castle:
A massive and beautifully reconstructed castle, known for its impressive architecture and large grounds.

Waku Wakuza Museum:
An interactive museum that introduces visitors to local history and culture in an accessible and engaging way.

Suizenji Garden:
A peaceful traditional garden fed by natural spring water from Mount Aso. It has shaded paths, quiet ponds, and open spaces suitable for families needing a break from humid days.

Workshops with traditional Japanese sweets:
Short, hands-on experiences where visitors can try making classic Japanese confectionery.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Suizenji Garden is an ideal place to slow down on humid days. The combination of shade, water, and easy walking paths creates a pleasant environment for families.

4. Arita – the birthplace of Japanese porcelain

Arita is the historic center of Japan’s porcelain industry. It combines craftsmanship, heritage, and hands-on experiences that make it especially interesting for families.

What can you see in Arita?

Porcelain studios and old kilns:
Workshops and kiln sites that show the foundations of porcelain production in Japan.

19th-century streets:
Preserved areas with historical buildings and small specialty shops.

Walls and fences decorated with porcelain shards:
A distinctive feature of the town, reflecting centuries of ceramic craftsmanship.

Porcelain torii gate:
A rare and visually striking torii gate made entirely of porcelain, located at a local shrine.

Museums and pottery workshops:
Interactive spaces where visitors can learn about local techniques and participate in creative activities.

Porcelain Park:
An area with factories and a themed visitor complex dedicated to the region’s porcelain culture.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: children especially enjoy the workshops where they can paint their own small plate or cup. It’s a memorable activity and a unique souvenir from Arita.

5. Kagoshima – the city living beside an active volcano

Kagoshima is one of the most memorable destinations in Southern Japan. The constant presence of Sakurajima Volcano creates a striking backdrop and gives the city a unique atmosphere.

Why is Kagoshima unforgettable?

Sakurajima is visible from many parts of the city and erupts lightly on a regular basis. When walking along the coastal boulevard, the volcano often appears extremely close, creating a dramatic landscape that families remember long after their trip.

What to do in Kagoshima?

Visit Sakurajima via ferry:
The ferry runs frequently and provides a fast connection between the city and the volcano.

Explore lava fields and volcanic footbaths:
Short walking paths take you through old lava formations, and free footbaths offer warm volcanic water with views over the bay.

Industrial heritage museums such as Shūseikan:
A UNESCO-listed site showcasing the region’s early industrial history.

Black-sand beaches and subtropical greenery:
These landscapes reflect Kagoshima’s volcanic environment and add to its distinctive scenery.

Observe local life:
Special ash-collection bags throughout the city show how residents adapt to occasional ash fall.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: be prepared for fine volcanic ash on days when Sakurajima is more active. A simple hat or umbrella helps make it a minor inconvenience rather than a disruption.

Natural attractions you shouldn’t miss in Southern Japan

Ōhori Park (Fukuoka)
Ōhori Park covers 398,000 m² and is built around a calm lake with three islands and stone bridges. Families enjoy renting swan boats, photographing lotus flowers in summer, walking shaded paths, and visiting both the Japanese Garden and the Fukuoka Art Museum. The park includes cafés, clean facilities, playgrounds, and plenty of seating. On clear days, turtles and large koi fish are easy to spot.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: arrive early on weekends. By around 10:00, the park becomes significantly busier.

Mount Iimori (Fukuoka)
A small, accessible mountain with soft trails and gentle ropes for support, ideal for beginners and families. Views open quickly along the path. At the base, a shrine offers free walking sticks for hikers. I have used them myself, and they make the climb easier and more enjoyable.

Mount Aso (Kumamoto)
The huge volcanic crater of Mount Aso is a defining natural feature of Kumamoto. It shapes the area’s water sources, gardens, and local climate, and is considered one of Kyushu’s key natural highlights.

Beaches of Fukuoka
After the rainy season, the water becomes clear and turquoise, making the beaches an excellent choice for a short, refreshing break during city days.

Kitakyushu coastline: Mojiko & Kanmon Strait
Mojiko Retro offers wide sea views across to Honshu, with late-19th-century architecture rare in Japan. The pedestrian bridge and relaxed port atmosphere are enjoyable for families. Nearby Kokura provides a castle, riverfront walks, monorail rides, and bright shopping arcades that are especially appealing to children.

Sakurajima Volcano (Kagoshima)
Sakurajima’s lava fields, hot footbaths, eruption viewpoints, and black beaches create striking landscapes that children remember vividly. The city uses special ash-collection bags due to frequent volcanic activity.

Practical advice for families visiting Southern Japan (Kyushu)

Renting a car is the most convenient way for families to reach beaches, mountains, and volcanic areas comfortably. During the rainy season, carry a small towel and a waterproof bag for your phone, as humidity is high and sudden showers are common. It is helpful to plan indoor alternatives such as covered markets, bookstores, or cafés.

Visiting Ōhori Park at sunset offers cooler temperatures and beautiful views over the lake. In Kagoshima, be prepared for occasional ash fall-simple items such as wipes or a hat make a noticeable difference. For hikes, take advantage of the free walking sticks available at shrine entrances, especially at Mount Iimori.

During summer, cooling wipes and sprays sold in convenience stores are very effective for dealing with heat and humidity. When traveling with children, it is best to plan shorter activity days, allowing time for rest. Choosing parking areas close to water-whether along Kagoshima’s coastline, Ōhori Lake, or the Mojiko waterfront-adds natural ventilation and improves comfort.

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5-Day Self-Drive Itinerary: South Japan for Families

Day 1 – Fukuoka & Ōhori Park (Ōhorikōen, Fukuoka)

10:00-13:00 – Ōhori Park (Ōhori-kōen)
Begin with a relaxed walk around the lake (about 1-1.5 hours), including the central islands, the Japanese Garden, and the playground areas. Renting a boat and making photo stops can add additional time.

13:00-14:00 – Lunch
Have lunch at a café inside the park or just outside the entrance. A one-hour break keeps the pace comfortable for families.

14:00-18:00 – Maizuru Park & Fukuoka Castle Ruins (Fukuoka-jō ato)
Walk 10-15 minutes from Ōhori Park to the castle grounds. Explore the ruins, lotus ponds, and seasonal flowers. Plan for 2-3 hours with time for photography and short rests.

Day 2 – Kitakyushu: Mojiko Retro (Mojikō) & Kokura

10:00-13:00 – Mojiko Retro Port
Drive from Fukuoka to Mojiko (around 1.5 hours). Stroll along the retro waterfront, cross the pedestrian bridge, and visit the old customs building and observation area. Allow 2-3 hours.

13:00-14:00 – Lunch
Choose a simple meal such as seafood or curry in the harbour area to stay close to the promenade.

14:00-18:00 – Kokura
Drive 20-30 minutes to Kokura. Visit Kokura Castle and walk along the riverfront. The surrounding shopping arcades, with bright storefronts and game centres, are especially enjoyable for children. Plan around 3 hours.

Day 3 – Beppu Hot Springs & “Hells”

10:00-13:00 – Beppu “Hells” (Jigoku)
Drive from Fukuoka or Kitakyushu to Beppu (about 2-3 hours). Visit several of the colourful geothermal ponds. Each stop takes around 20-30 minutes, totalling 2-3 hours with transfers.

13:00-14:00 – Lunch
Try onsen-steam cooking: vegetables, eggs, and dumplings prepared using natural geothermal steam.

14:00-18:00 – Family onsen & city walk
Choose a family-friendly bath for a 1-2 hour visit, followed by an easy walk through central Beppu for snacks and small local shops.

Day 4 – Kumamoto & Suizenji Garden (Suizenji Jōjuen)

10:00-13:00 – Kumamoto Castle (Kumamoto-jō)
Drive from Beppu to Kumamoto (around 2.5 hours). Explore the reconstructed castle grounds and the adjacent Waku Wakuza area. Two hours is usually enough for a full visit.

13:00-14:00 – Lunch
Eat near the castle, where many quick options are available, such as noodles or rice bowls.

14:00-18:00 – Suizenji Garden (Suizenji Jōjuen)
Drive 15-20 minutes to Suizenji Garden. Walk around the pond, observe the spring water from Mount Aso, and let children feed the koi carp. The garden visit takes around 1.5-2 hours.

Day 5 – Kagoshima & Sakurajima Volcano (Sakurajima)

10:00-12:00 – Drive to Kagoshima & ferry to Sakurajima
From Kumamoto, drive about 3 hours to Kagoshima, then cross the bay by a short ferry ride to Sakurajima.

12:00-14:00 – Lava fields & volcanic footbath
Walk along the lava trails and enjoy a free volcanic footbath with wide bay views. Plan for 1.5-2 hours including photo stops.

14:00-15:00 – Lunch
Have a simple lunch on Sakurajima or return to Kagoshima’s port area.

15:00-18:00 – Kagoshima Seafront & city walk
Stroll along the seaside promenade with black-sand views and subtropical greenery. Finish the day in a nearby shopping street for souvenirs and light snacks.

Traveller reviews about South Japan

1. Emily Parker (visited 2024)
   I spent five days in Kyushu with my children in July 2024, and the combination of beaches, green parks, and volcanic scenery felt almost magical. Ōhori Park became our favourite place in Fukuoka-wide paths, a large lake, and swan boats that kept the kids busy. The humidity was intense, but everything looked fresh and bright after the rain. It’s an ideal region for slow, family-friendly travel.
2. Daniel Harris (visited 2023)
   Kagoshima and Sakurajima left a strong impression. Even without an eruption on the day we visited, walking along the black-sand coast with the volcano in the mist was unforgettable. The city is easy to navigate, and the ferry ride is quick. Just be prepared for sudden ash fall-it really happens.
3. Sarah Mitchell (visited 2021)
   Our family trip to Beppu in 2021 was one of the most unique experiences we’ve had in Japan. The steam-cooking stations were surprisingly fun-my kids enjoyed preparing eggs in geothermal steam. The “hells” are colourful, unusual, and very easy to visit in a short amount of time.
4. Adam Collins (visited 2019)
   Kyushu in early summer feels like a scene from a Studio Ghibli movie. I remember hiking near Fukuoka just after a rain shower-hydrangeas everywhere, mist over the hills, and the sound of cicadas. The humidity was challenging, but the greenery made it worthwhile. We used free walking sticks from the shrine before climbing Mount Iimori, which helped a lot.
5. Olivia Bennett (visited 2025)
   We visited Kitakyushu in spring 2025, and Mojiko Retro turned out to be a wonderful surprise. The waterfront promenade, old port buildings, and gentle sea breeze made it a perfect family walk. Afterward, we continued to Kokura, where the monorail and bright shopping streets kept the children entertained.
6. Michael Adams (visited 2018)
   Ōhori Park was larger than I expected and quickly became a highlight of our time in Fukuoka. We walked the full lake loop in about an hour, enjoyed iced coffee near the water, and spent time on the central islands. The Japanese Garden offered a peaceful break. Arriving early helps avoid crowds later in the day.
7. Laura James (visited 2022)
   Beppu was a major highlight of our Kyushu road trip. The constant steam rising from vents all over the town made the atmosphere feel alive. We tried the sand bath, which sounded unusual but was extremely relaxing. The geothermal “hells,” especially the bright blue pond, were fun for our teenagers. It was easy to balance nature, food, and light activities.
8. Jason Miller (visited 2024)
   Kumamoto was a refreshing stop. The castle grounds are spacious, and Suizenji Garden felt like a quiet pocket of nature inside the city. We visited in November 2024 when the weather was perfect for slow walking. The spring ponds and the miniature Mount Fuji inside the garden fascinated our children.

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

Plan Ōhori Park (Ōhori-kōen) for early morning or late afternoon.
I have walked the full lake loop many times, and the light around 17:00 is excellent for photography. Mornings are quieter and give children more space to run.

Use covered shopping arcades on rainy days.
During Kyushu’s rainy season, humidity is high and sudden showers are common. I often spend time in Fukuoka’s covered markets-many were originally created to help residents stay active during constant rain. They are practical and keep the day enjoyable without getting wet.

Carry cooling wipes and sprays in summer.
Kyushu’s heat feels stronger because of humidity. Local cooling towels and sprays provide quick relief, especially for children who get warm quickly during walks.

At Mount Iimori (Iimori-yama), take the free walking sticks from the shrine.
I have used them myself. Although the trail is not difficult, the sticks help children stay confident and make the climb feel like a small adventure.

In Kagoshima, be prepared for ash from Sakurajima.
I have been caught in ash fall unexpectedly, and a hat or a pack of wipes makes the situation easy to manage. It does not ruin the day but is easier when prepared.

Combine Mojiko Retro and Kokura in one day.
Mojiko Retro is best visited before crowds arrive, offering pleasant sea views and calm promenades. Afterward, the short drive to Kokura provides monorail rides and lively shopping streets that children enjoy.

Try onsen-steam cooking in Beppu.
My children enjoyed preparing food in geothermal steam-it feels like a fun science activity and is lighter than fried cooking. It also gives a pleasant break between visits to the colourful “hells.”

Visit the lotus fields near Fukuoka Castle in June.
I was impressed by how close you can get to the flowers-large leaves, no fences, and excellent photo opportunities even in light rain. It is one of the most striking nature spots in early summer.

Standing before this towering Fudō Myō-ō statue, I felt its power immediately. The flames behind him and his fierce expression made the whole place feel sacred and intense.

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

I visited Southern Japan in late 2024, and every return trip reminds me why Kyushu feels so welcoming for families. What stands out most is how naturally the region blends everyday city life with nature. One morning I walked around the calm lake at Ōhori Park (Ōhori-kōen), watching turtles slip into the water, and only a few hours later I was climbing the first steps of Mount Iimori (Iimori-yama) surrounded by hydrangeas glowing after the rain. During June, the scenery often feels almost unreal-humid, yes, but beautifully cinematic.

When planning for families, I always look for places where children stay engaged. Kyushu makes this surprisingly easy. Mojiko Retro (Mojikō) offers wide promenades and historic port buildings that look like a movie set; Kokura presents a monorail that children enjoy; Beppu turns geothermal activity into a playful adventure; and Sakurajima provides that unforgettable “there is a volcano right there” moment. The only consistent challenge is humidity, especially in early summer, but local cooling sprays and covered markets help manage it well.

Kyushu is a region where nature is always within reach, food is comforting, and travel days feel relaxed rather than rushed. It is an excellent choice for families seeking beauty, variety, and a slower rhythm.

From this viewpoint, I watched Sakurajima rise behind the old tiled rooftops. The mix of calm sea, volcano, and traditional homes felt like a perfect postcard moment.

Price Table – South Japan (Kyushu)

I stood by the water, watching the pavilion reflect perfectly in the pond. The stillness here made me slow down, breathe deeply, and just enjoy the moment.

Traveller questions about South Japan

1. Is the rainy season a bad time to visit Kyushu?
   The rainy season from June to early July brings high humidity and frequent showers, but it also creates very green landscapes with hydrangeas and lotus fields in full bloom. Even cloudy days feel visually impressive.
2. Is Kyushu suitable for families with children?
   Yes. Wide parks, beaches, volcano viewpoints, monorails, geothermal attractions in Beppu, and large promenades in Mojiko and Fukuoka make Kyushu very family-friendly. Many activities require only short walks.
3. Is renting a car necessary?
   Renting a car is strongly recommended. Many natural spots-Sakurajima, beaches, viewpoints, Arita workshops, and mountain trails-are easier and faster to reach by car. It provides significantly more flexibility for families.
4. How long does it take to explore Ōhori Park (Ōhori-kōen)?
   Walking the full lake loop takes about 50-60 minutes. Additional time is needed if you plan to visit the Japanese Garden, playgrounds, bridges, or rent a boat. It works well as a half-day outdoor activity.
5. Is Sakurajima Volcano safe to visit?
   Yes. The volcano erupts regularly but at controlled levels. Viewing areas, trails, and the ferry all operate normally. You may experience occasional ash fall, so carrying a hat or wipes helps.
6. Will children enjoy Beppu’s “hells” (Jigoku)?
   Most families enjoy spending 2-3 hours exploring the colourful geothermal ponds. There are no age restrictions, and the paths are easy to walk. Children often appreciate the steam, bright colours, and stroller-friendly layout.
7. What does summer in Kyushu feel like? (first-hand experience)
   Summer feels hotter because of humidity. Cooling wipes and sprays sold everywhere make a noticeable difference. I typically plan hikes early in the morning and visit beaches later in the day.
8. Are there short hikes suitable for families? (first-hand experience)
   Mount Iimori (Iimori-yama) is an excellent option. It has an easy slope, shaded paths, and free walking sticks available at the shrine. Children usually handle the climb well and enjoy the quick views.

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