Beyond Fukuoka: Sample 5-Day Itinerary using JR Kyushu Rail Pass

Fukuoka might be the face of Kyushu for many travelers, but here’s the thing: it’s just one city in a region that spans over 36,000 square kilometers and includes seven distinct prefectures. That’s a lot of ground—and a lot of culture, cuisine, and jaw-dropping scenery—to pack into a single island. To treat Kyushu as “just Fukuoka” is like watching the trailer and skipping the movie or ordering just the appetizer when there is an entire feast for the taking.

Fukuoka City is a fantastic starting point, no doubt. It’s lively, accessible, and loaded with good food. I mean, it’s hard to disagree when you have your face full of tonkotsu ramen. But zoom out on the map, and you’ll see how small a dot it is compared to everything else around it.

Kyushu is one of Japan’s four main islands, yet it often flies under the radar. It doesn’t boast the constant buzz of Tokyo or the flashy charm of Kyoto. But that’s exactly where its appeal lies. Here, diversity comes naturally. The geography alone is wild in the best way: active volcanoes, steaming hot springs, subtropical coastlines, and lush mountain ranges that shift dramatically as you move from one prefecture to the next. This underrated region has all the right ingredients to be a tourism powerhouse, so plan a visit as soon as you can because it’s only a matter of time before it becomes crazy popular.

The best part: you can visit all seven prefectures conveniently, thanks to its impressive railway system and a cost-efficient pass: the JR Kyushu Rail Pass.

BEFORE THE TRIP

If you plan on traveling to multiple destinations throughout Kyushu, make sure to purchase a JR Kyushu Rail Pass before flying to Japan. This pass comes in 3 main types:

• Northern Kyushu: 3 days, 5 days
• Southern Kyushu: 3 days only
• All Kyushu: 3 days, 5 days, 7 days

If you want to go as far as Miyazaki and Kagoshima, then the All Kyushu variant is for you. This pass will grant you access to local trains, limited express trains, Kyushu Shinkansen (Hakata – Kagoshima-chuo) and Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen (Takeo-onsen – Nagasaki). For more information about these passes, check out this page!

Upon arrival, exchange your online voucher with the actual pass. The most convenient place to do this is the JR Kyushu Rail Pass Exchange Counter at Fukuoka Airport. It’s easy to find. Upon emerging in the Arrival Hall from the baggage carousel area, turn left. You’ll see a lane of counters, but the one you need is at the very end.

The counter is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If your arrival time is outside these operating hours, you can claim your pass at Hakata Station instead.

But is it really possible to visit all seven Kyushu prefectures in five days using this pass? Yes, of course. How do we know? We’ve just done it very recently. And in this article, we’re going to show you exactly how.

DAY 0: ARRIVAL IN FUKUOKA

If you’re coming from the Philippines, the most budget-friendly flights are offered by Cebu Pacific, which flies directly from Manila to Fukuoka daily. CEB uses a brand new A321neo for their Manila-Fukuoka flights, and our most recent journey with them has been delightful.

When booking with Cebu Pacific, you’ll be presented with three options: GoBasic, GoEasy, and GoFlexi. Both GoEasy and GoFlexi come with seat selection and check-in baggage allowance. But if you think there’s a chance your plans could still change, go with GoFlexi so you could easily cancel your flight, convert it to Travel Fund, and book another flight in the future.

We’ve been flying with Cebu Pacific to Fukuoka for years now, and it’s always a great experience. But it’s only on our most recent trip that we got to try their new in-flight meals. But their beef adobo and chicken char siu really impressed us and are perfect for the Pinoy palate. Book with Cebu Pacific here!

The flight arrives in Fukuoka at 7:00 PM. You can take the bus or the cab to your hotel and check in. Then spend the night enjoying exactly what this city is known for: FOOD! Fukuoka is where Japan’s obsession with tonkotsu ramen began. This is the home of rich pork-bone broth, served steaming hot and slurp-worthy. But what really sets the city apart is its rare street food culture. While most of Japan leans toward sit-down dining, Fukuoka keeps things casual and lively with its iconic yatai —- open-air food stalls that pop up after sundown. Locals flock to them for after-work bites, cold drinks, and easy banter.

Or if you want something less cozy, you can try other ramen spots in the city like Shin Shin, Hakata Issou Honten, and Canal City’s Ramen Stadium.

Call it a night because you’re gonna be spending your day early tomorrow.

Where to Stay: THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier is a stylish hotel situated between the JR Hakata Station (just a 7-minute walk from the station!) and Nakasu River, which makes it a good base to explore the city. It features 238 rooms designed with traditional Hakata textiles and modern comforts.

The attention to detail here is very thoughtful. We particularly liked its Japanese-style bathtub using Towada stone (*only on selected floors), a rare volcanic ash rock found exclusively in Mount Yakushi-mori in Akita Prefecture. It gave us a feeling that we are in an onsen, even though we’re just in our hotel room! And since we stayed in a HAKATA Premium King Room, we also enjoyed the mist shower which had a relaxing effect.

Guests can also indulge at its restaurant serving Kyushu-inspired dishes made from local ingredients and complimentary men’s and women’s baths including sauna with Fukuoka cultural themes and a fitness room, too.

DAY 1: OITA

Today, our first destination is Yufuin Onsen in neighboring Oita Prefecture. But before you get too excited about where you’re going, you should also consider how you’re getting there. In style, preferably.

Yufuin No Mori

You see, JR Kyushu has some of the most beautiful trains in Japan, and one of them is Yufuin No Mori, a special forest-themed nostalgia-filled train that can take you to Yufuin. It connects Hakata Station to Yufuin and Beppu in Oita. Since its debut in 1989, this train has attracted countless travelers with its elegant design and immersive travel experience. Even I gets fascinated by it because it makes me feel like I’m in a steampunk anime when I’m on it.

Inside, it has a warm wooden motif, creating a natural and inviting atmosphere. It is also equipped with window-facing seats for optimal sightseeing. We also got to try the snacks sold in the buffet car, which sells regional specialties, including bento boxes crafted by local chefs, Yufuin’s renowned sweets, and desserts like kabosu ice cream. Kabosu is a type of citrus fruit (similar to calamansi but less sour). We totally became obsessed with their kabosu sorbet!

Yufuin Onsen

From Yufuin Station, travel on foot to Yu No Tsubo, Yufuin’s main street, lined with cozy cafés, playful attractions, and boutique shops selling everything from handmade sweets to whimsical souvenirs. It’s the kind of place where you can wander without a plan—and still end up with a full camera roll and a bag of local treats. Some standout stops include Yufuin Floral Village, a themed attraction inspired by European countryside charm. There’s even a corner styled after Heidi in the Alps.

Another worthy stop is the Yufuin Showa Museum is a retro-themed attraction that recreates life in Japan during the Showa era (1926–1989), especially the 1950s and ’60s. It features over 20 evocative exhibits, including old-school classrooms, candy shops, and vintage electronics, that visitors can interact with, making it a fun, immersive throwback experience.

Follow the signs and eventually, you’ll reach Lake Kinrin, a small, tranquil pond often veiled in mist, formed where hot and cold springs meet. Its still, glassy surface reflects the surrounding landscape like a painting, occasionally rippling as golden-hued fish glide just beneath. It’s this glowing illusion at sunset that earned the lake its name: Kinrin, meaning “golden scale.”

This was our second time visiting. The first time was in autumn, and it was magical. Trees are clad in shades of crimson and amber. Be sure to pause on one of the charming pedestrian bridges nearby—it’s the perfect spot to take in the view (and snap a few photos you’ll definitely want to post).

After this, walk back to Yufuin Station and catch another train (Yufu Limited Express, in our case) to one of Japan’s most iconic hot spring destinations – Beppu.

Beppu

Beppu is famous for offering just about every kind of onsen experience you can imagine. But its most unique attraction? The Hells of Beppu, a collection of hot springs that are meant for viewing, not bathing.

In Japan, these dramatic geothermal spots are called jigoku, or “hells,” not because they’re scary, but because of the boiling waters, rising steam, and otherworldly colors that give them an intense, almost supernatural vibe. There are several of these “hells” scattered mainly across the Kannawa and Shibaseki districts. You can visit them on a self-guided tour or join a sightseeing group to hit all the highlights in one go.

And while you’re exploring, don’t miss out on the local specialty: jigokumushi, or “hell-steamed” dishes! The pudding is a fan favorite—soft, sweet, and cooked by the natural steam from the hot springs.

But if you’d rather relax, go to Takegawara Onsen instead. Established in 1879, it is renowned for its distinctive karahafu (curved gable) roof, added during a 1938 renovation.

But more than the architecture, people come here to experience unique bathing experiences. You can choose between a traditional hot spring bath and the rare sand bath (sunayu). In the sand bath, guests don a yukata and are gently buried up to the neck in naturally heated sand, promoting relaxation and detoxification.

You can spend the night here in Beppu if you so wish, but you can also proceed to Oita City so it’ll be easier for you the next morning.

Where to Stay: JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Oita offers an excellent stay right next to JR Oita Station, which is just a minute walk from the ticket gates. All rooms are on the 9th floor or higher, enabling a view not just of Oita City but also the mountains and Beppu Bay on the horizon! It’s especially gorgeous at sunset!

Design-wise, it blends modern comfort with Japanese styles using wood, fostering a warm, homey ambiance. But one of the highlights is the rooftop hot spring, City Spa Tenku, where guests can enjoy even more stellar panoramic views of the city. You’ll also find an open-air onsen, a full-fledged sauna, and a healing spa (bedrock bath), which you can experience for an additional fee. All these will give you luxurious rejuvenating and healing time, especially after a full day of sightseeing.

Dining at the on-site restaurant features seasonal Japanese cuisine with a tranquil vista of a peaceful garden. Its convenient location makes it an excellent base for exploring Oita and the surrounding areas.

Guests holding a JR Kyushu Rail Pass can enjoy special preferred rates at the hotel. To avail of this benefit, reservations must be made by phone, and the pass must be presented at check-in. Please note that these special rates are subject to availability and may vary depending on the date.

DAY 2: MIYAZAKI

At Oita Station, we boarded the Limited Express Sonic 3 train to Nobeoka Station in Miyazaki Prefecture. Travel time was roughly two hours. Then we took the bus to Takachiho Bus Center, where we caught another bus to Iwato Bus Stop, which is just beside our first destination for the day.

Amano Iwato Shrine & Amano Yasukawara

Miyazaki Prefecture is one of Kyushu’s underrated gems — a place where dramatic coastlines, lush mountains, and deep-rooted mythology all come together. And it is most evident at Amano Iwato Shrine, dedicated to that very cave where Amaterasu is said to have hidden called Amano Yasukawara.

The shrine complex is tucked away in a serene forest by the river, maintaining a mysterious and sacred atmosphere. To get here, you’ll be climbing down a gorge and crossing the river on a short but incredibly picturesque arch bridge.

The shrine is often visited during the early morning or late afternoon when the light filters through the trees, creating an almost otherworldly ambiance. It also hosts seasonal festivals celebrating the myths and legends tied to Amaterasu.

Keep an eye on your watch while you’re here as you’ll need to catch the next bus back to Takachiho Bus Stop. From here, you can walk or take a cab to our lunch stop.

Chiho no Ie

Chiho no Ie is a historic restaurant located at the entrance to Takachiho Gorge. Established in 1955, it is renowned as the birthplace of nagashi somen, a unique dining experience where diners catch thin somen noodles as they flow down a bamboo chute filled with cold spring water. This method was inspired by the traditional practice of cooling boiled noodles in the fresh waters of nearby Tamatare Falls. You then dip the noodles in a flavorful shiitake mushroom-based broth.

It’s a fun way to eat delicious noodles. But don’t worry, anything you fail to catch is collected in a strainer bowl at the end of the bamboo. You can still eat that so nothing really goes to waste.

Once you’re full and happy, it’s time for the main event.

Takachiho Gorge

A visit to Takachiho Gorge is like stepping into a living painting. This narrow, 7-kilometer volcanic canyon was carved out by the Gokase River cutting through layers of basalt rock, creating dramatic cliffs that soar 80 meters high on either side. The gorge’s signature feature is the stunning Manai Falls, a 17-meter cascade that spills down into emerald-green waters below.

You can take in the vista from various lookout points along the cliffside or on the bridge straddling the gorge. But you can also go closer by is by renting a rowboat and paddling along the calm river, letting you get up close to the basalt cliffs and waterfalls. It’s an experience both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

It is recommended that you reserve online prior to your visit to guarantee a slot. While there are same-day tickets available, according to the staff that we talked to, often these tickets sell out as early as 10 or 11AM.

Once done, make your way back to Takachiho Bus Center. If you still have the energy, you can travel on foot, but be aware that it’ll be mostly uphill. You can also hail a taxi, as an alternative.

At Takachiho Bus Center, you can catch a bus to Takamori Station, where you’ll transfer to Minami Aso Railway to Tateno Station. Then, you’ll be switching trains again to Aso Station. Spend the night at a hotel in this area. And oh, by the way, you’re now in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Where to Stay: Fairfield by Marriott Kumamoto Aso offers modern accommodations just right in front of Aso Station, a convenient base for exploring the natural beauty of the region including Mount Aso, Daikanbo, and Kusasenri.

The hotel features 93 well-appointed rooms, each equipped with Simmons beds, rain showers, free Wi-Fi, and essential amenities such as mini-fridges and electric kettles. While there is no on-site restaurant, guests can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea in the 24-hour lobby lounge, which also offers a microwave, toaster oven, and vending machines. A reservation-only breakfast box featuring local ingredients is available. And it’s also within walking distance to several izakaya and convenience stores.

With its blend of comfort, convenience, and access to local attractions, Fairfield by Marriott Kumamoto Aso is an excellent choice for visitors to the area.

DAY 3: KUMAMOTO & KAGOSHIMA

Rise and shine early because we’ll be taking on two main destinations today, starting with Kusasenri in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Kusasenri

Kusasenri is a sweeping grassland plateau located on the slopes of Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture. It’s part of the larger Aso Kuju National Park, which surrounds one of the world’s largest active volcanic calderas – the Aso Caldera. The plateau sits right near Mount Nakadake, an active volcano. From Kusasenri, you get a perfect view of the smoking crater (when access isn’t restricted due to volcanic activity), creating a striking contrast between lush nature and raw geological power. There’s also a museum, café, and observatory nearby.

The Aso Caldera looks vibrantly verdant in spring and summer as grass covers the ground, providing sustenance to the prized akaushi (literally meaning “red cow” in Japanese), a specific breed of Japanese Brown cattle, sought-after for its high-quality beef with balanced marbling. It’s one of the four main Wagyu breeds in Japan, alongside the more famous Kuroge Washu (Japanese Black).

In autumn, the area turns golden-brown. I’ve seen them both now, and both sights are breathtaking for me. Last time, we were at Daikanbo on the opposite side of the ridge.

Aso Boy!

The Limited Express Aso Boy! is a quirky and fun sightseeing train connecting Kumamoto and Miyaji via the scenic landscapes of Mount Aso. Designed with families in mind, it offers a unique travel experience that combines comfort, entertainment, and breathtaking views. It’s very child-friendly.

Car 3 has parent-child seating arrangement (next to each other). There’s also a play area for kiddos and a mini-library. The café on board was named after its mascot, which is a black dog named Kuro.

Both ends of the train feature large windows, providing passengers with expansive views of the surrounding landscapes. This was our second time taking this train, but this time we were lucky we got to have the front row seats. And oh, good food, too, especially the akaushi beef bento.

After terminating at Kumamoto Station, switch to a shinkansen (bullet train) bound for Kagoshima Chuo Station. Yes, bullet trains are also operated by JR Kyushu. And yes, we’re now heading to Kagoshima Prefecture.

Sengan-en

At Kagoshima Chuo Station, transfer to a local train on the JR Nippo Main Line going to the newly inaugurated Sengan-en Station, opened only in March 2025. As soon as we hopped off, our attention was stolen by its magnificent, towering neighbor – Mt. Sakurajima. Yes, right on the platform, we could already gawk in awe at the view of one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, as well as Kinko Bay. In fact, it had just erupted on the day before we arrived and on the day of our visit, the volcano was still spewing ashes, demonstrating the grandeur and power of nature.

Across the street, just a short walk away, lies Sengan-en, a celebrated and historic seaside garden and villa complex built in 1658 by Shimadzu Mitsuhisa, a powerful daimyo and the 19th head of the Shimadzu family, who reigned over part of Kyushu for around 700 years. Covering some 50,000 square meters, it features ponds, bamboo groves, shrines, and pathways that artfully incorporate the majestic Sakurajima as natural backdrop.

At the heart of the garden lies the House（Iso Residence), originally constructed in 1658 blending Japanese and Chinese culture. Inside, visitors can explore preserved rooms that once hosted dignitaries, including royalty and diplomats, reflecting the clan’s wealth and cultural connections. We particularly liked sitting by the mansion’s tsubo-niwa, the traditional courtyard, just admiring its little pond. And from many of its porches, we also got a good look at the Sakurajima dominating the view.

The residence isn’t the only building worthy of a visit here. Within the complex is the Kagoshima World Cultural Heritage Orientation Centre narrating the history of the site including that of the nearby ruins of cannon factory. It played such a big role in Japan’s shipbuilding, iron casting and the Meiji industrial revolution as a whole, that it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A faithful model of one of the factories at its peak is showcased inside, and from here, you can also see the actual site outside.

If you want to learn more about the history here, we recommend you visit the History Museum Shoko Shuseikan, which is located next to Sengan-en.

But the highlight of our visit was our first attempt at kyūdō (traditional archery)! Yes, here at Sengan-en, you can learn the basics at a guided session. For every session, you will be handed five arrows, and your goal is to hit the target at the other end of the room. It’s similar to the archery we are more familiar with, but a bit more challenging. The key difference is the stance. Instead of standing, you’re on your knees with your body slightly twisted to face the target. It took some getting used to, but we were able to hit the target with our first few arrows, so yay!!!

After stretching our arm and shoulder muscles Legolas-style, head back to Kagoshima Chuo Station. Here, make a decision on where to spend the rest of the day and night. Here are some of our recommendations:

• Kagoshima City is worth exploring. Since you’re already here, might as well get to know the city better. The bustling Tenmonkan district comes alive after dark, featuring a variety of izakayas, themed bars, and karaoke lounges. For a more relaxed evening, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the active Sakurajima volcano from the Shiroyama Observatory, or take a ride on the illuminated Amuran Ferris Wheel atop Amu Plaza Kagoshima, offering a romantic perspective of the city lights.
• Kumamoto City is also along the way to your next destination, which makes it an ideal stop. Explore the vibrant Shimotori and Kamitori arcades, where lively izakayas, karaoke bars, and jazz lounges create a bustling atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, enjoy riverside strolls along Shirakawa River, attend seasonal events like the Shirakawa Night Market, or savor local delicacies like the garlic-loaded Kumamoto ramen.

You can even turn around and head back all the way to Fukuoka City, if you so please.

DAY 4: NAGASAKI

Our Day 4 is all about Nagasaki, one of my favorite cities in Kyushu (and Japan as a whole). It’s unique, certainly different from any other Japanese city mainly because of its complicated history. It’s the only city that remained open to foreigners when the country was in isolation. Western and Chinese influences seeped deep into its heritage in the most unexpected and poignant ways. We’ve also learned about it in Grade School as a city devastated by an unimaginable wartime tragedy.

But today, Nagasaki is a place of quiet beauty and cultural depth, with charming European-style architecture, peaceful churches, and a reflective spirit that lingers in its museums and memorials. For Filipinos, especially Catholics, you’ll find a stronger connection here than any other city in Japan. Here, the life of St. Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint, is showcased in many of its corners.

If you’re coming from Fukuoka City (Hakata Station) or Takeo Onsen (Takeo Onsen Station), you can hop onto a Limited Express KAMOME train to Nagasaki Station and start walking around.

Nagasaki City Attractions

This morning itinerary offers a profound exploration of Nagasaki’s historical and cultural tapestry, reflecting its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Here are some of the sites you can easily visit on foot in the city center of Nagasaki:

• Nakamachi Catholic Church, just a six-minute walk from Nagasaki Station. Built in 1897 on the site of a former prison where Christians were once held, the church stands as a testament to resilience. Inside, admire the beautiful stained glass windows crafted by Milano Grassi. Outside, in its garden, stand the statues of the 16 martyrs including San Lorenzo Ruiz.
• Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument on Nishizaka Hill, also a short walk away. This poignant site commemorates the 1597 execution of 26 Christians. (The 26 martyrs is a different group from the 16 martyrs. Over 400 martyrs in Japan have been beatified but only these two groups, 42 in total, have been canonized as saints by the Vatican.) This museum houses many historical documents and artifacts like the “Maria Kannon” statue and original letters from St. Francis Xavier, offering deep insights into the history of Christianity in Japan.



• St. Philip’s Church (Nishizaka Church), adjacent to the monument, often referred to as Japan’s mini-Sagrada Familia. Designed by architect Kenji Imai, the church features twin towers and colorful mosaics inspired by Gaudí. Inside, in a niche to the right, you’ll find bone relics of St. Paul Miki, St. James Kisai and St. John de Goto.



• Oura Cathedral, Japan’s oldest existing wooden Gothic-style church, built in 1864 by French missionaries. Designated as a National Treasure, the church is renowned for the “Discovery of the Flock,” where hidden Christians revealed their faith to Father Petitjean after centuries of persecution. The Christian Museum next to it is also worth a stop if you have more time.



• Glover Garden, just next to the Cathedral. This hillside park offering panoramic views of Nagasaki Harbor. Explore the former residence of Thomas B. Glover, the oldest existing Western-style wooden house in Japan, and stroll through gardens adorned with seasonal flowers. The site also features other Meiji-era Western residences, providing a glimpse into the lives of foreign settlers who contributed to Japan’s modernization. You can also enjoy a great view of the harbor from here.

If you get hungry before or after your stop in Oura Cathedral, you can sample Nagasaki’s local dishes at any of the dining establishments at its base. For budget travelers, you’ll find street food and small eateries lining Glover Street. But if you want a proper lunch at a full-service restaurant, one of the favorites among tourists is ANA Crowne Plaza Nagasaki Gloverhill’s in-house Restaurant Pave, which specializes in a blend of Western-style cuisine and local Nagasaki dishes, including champon, Turkish rice (Toruko rice), and sara udon, crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Two Stars 4047

To get to our next stop, since we’re carrying a JR Kyushu Rail Pass, how about we level up our train game? Meet the Two Stars 4047, a luxurious sightseeing train operated by JR Kyushu. This handsome train can take you on a scenic journey between Nagasaki Station and Takeo-Onsen Station in Saga Prefecture.

Launched in September 2022, it provides travelers with a leisurely alternative to the high-speed Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen, showcasing the coastal beauty of western Kyushu . The train’s name, “Two Stars 4047,” symbolizes the connection between the two prefectures (Saga and Nagasaki) and references the train models used: KiHa 40 and KiHa 47 series cars. Renowned industrial designer Eiji Mitooka, known for his work on other JR Kyushu trains, crafted the train’s elegant white and gold exterior and its warm, wood-accented interior.

The train operates two distinct routes daily:

• Morning Route: From Takeo-Onsen to Nagasaki via the Ariake Sea coastline, offering expansive sea views.
• Afternoon Route: From Nagasaki to Takeo-Onsen along Omura Bay, renowned for its tranquil waters.

Comprising three cars, the train features:

• Cars 1 and 3: Reserved seating with various configurations, including booth and sofa seats, some facing large panoramic windows.
• Car 2 (Lounge 40): A communal space with comfortable seating, a buffet bar offering local snacks, drinks, and sweets, and opportunities to purchase souvenirs. You can also indulge in regional delicacies, such as bento boxes featuring Saga beef (available on the morning route) and freshly baked Nagasaki soufflés (available on the afternoon route). Additionally, the train offers cultural experiences. On our ride, we got to sample the various types of green tea produced in nearby Ureshino in Saga.

But we won’t go all the way to Takeo Onsen. We’ll be alighting at Huis Ten Bosch Station for a much-needed and much-deserved theme park stop!

Huis Ten Bosch

Meet one of Japan’s three largest theme parks by land area!

Located in Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, this sprawling European-style wonderland is designed to look like a little piece of the Netherlands, complete with windmills, tulip fields, canals, and full-scale replicas of Dutch buildings. The name itself means “House in the Forest,” and it’s modeled after a royal palace in The Hague.

But this isn’t just some small replica village. It’s a vast 152-hectare park that feels like stepping into a European fairytale, all without leaving Japan. You can see the extent of its boundaries by climbing to the top of the Domtoren, its tallest building.

Beyond the picturesque scenery, you’ll find digital art museums, projection mapping shows, theme park staples like a giant Ferries wheel and multi-tier carousel, and seasonal events like massive illumination displays in winter and flower festivals in spring. When we visited, a 1-Million Roses exhibit takes the centerstage.

You can explore by bike, canal cruiser, or just wander on foot — and many visitors dress up in period costumes to match the ambiance. It’s especially popular for families, couples, and even solo travelers looking for something unexpected and photogenic.

Your time here will reach a crescendo at the Shower of Lights, a nightly show featuring fireworks display exploding in sync with a musical fountain and illuminations. On our visit, there was even a live musical performance of Katy Perry’s Firework.

It is entirely possible to visit Huis Ten Bosch on a day trip, but to save yourself from the hassle of last trip schedules and travel times, we recommend spending a night on-site.

Where to Stay: Hotel Okura JR Huis Ten Bosch is a luxurious resort hotel just next to the theme park. It’s impossible to miss because its architecture, inspired by Amsterdam Central Station, is eye-catching and is probably the first structure you’ll see on your way to the park. Yes, it’s just a 5-minute walk from JR Huis Ten Bosch Station and a 2-minute walk to the park entrance, making it highly convenient for visitors.

The hotel features 320 rooms, including both Japanese and Western-style options. It also has a “Kotonoyu” bathhouse with natural hot spring baths, a convenience store, bakery, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Don’t miss their breakfast buffet, which is a feast! Their signature French toast and omelette are immaculate! For their omelette, you can choose the ingredients and it was superb especially with the mentaiko.

DAY 5: SAGA

Saga is perhaps the most underrated prefecture in Northern Kyushu, which is a shame because it has lots to offer curious tourists. Here are some of the sites you might want to consider adding to your itinerary.

• Arita Será, a prominent open-air shopping complex in Arita, best-known for its exclusive focus on Arita-yaki—Japan’s first porcelain, which has been produced in the region for over 400 years. Spanning approximately 66,000 square meters, it houses 22 specialty shops offering a diverse range of porcelain items, from everyday tableware to high-end art pieces. Don’t miss a chance to dine at Gallery Arita, a unique café and restaurant offering a distinctive experience where patrons can select from over 2,500 Arita-yaki porcelain cups and saucers to enjoy their coffee or tea. The menu features a variety of local specialties which include Saga beef, Arita chicken, and godofu, a traditional bean curd.







• Takeo Onsen also offers memorable experiences. You can soak in traditional bathhouses like Motoyu or admire the beautiful Romon Gate and historic Shinkan bathhouse. You can also unwind with a book and coffee at the stylish Takeo City Library, open until late. You can also explore nearby Mifuneyama Rakuen, a historic Japanese established in 1845 by Lord Nabeshima Shigeyoshi as part of his villa. It showcases a harmonious blend of natural landscapes and traditional design, featuring elements like the Haginoo Tea House and the Five Hundred Arhats statues. We didn’t stop here on our most recent Kyushu trip, but we got to see it in full autumn a few years ago, and it was absolutely picturesque!
• Ureshino is also worth a visit. Several cities in Japan proudly claim to be the birthplace of Japanese green tea, but Ureshino has a strong case. The story traces back to Eisai, a Buddhist monk who brought tea seeds from China, believed to have first planted them on Mt. Sefuri in Kanzaki, Saga. From there, tea cultivation spread to nearby Ureshino, which embraced the tradition and elevated it to new heights. Today, this region boasts a vibrant tea culture, with its rolling terraced fields perfectly suited for growing high-quality tea. Green tea is a staple in local cafes and restaurants, offering samplers so you can savor three distinct types of local brews. Ureshino is also famous for its hot springs. Ureshino Onsen’s alkaline waters are reputed for their skin-beautifying properties, making it a favorite destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Scattered throughout the town are around 60 ryokan and other accommodations, each inviting visitors to soak, unwind, and enjoy the soothing atmosphere.

Back to Fukuoka

After exploring Saga, make your way back to Hakata Station in Fukuoka to catch your flight. Or if you still have more time, try to squeeze in a stop at teamLab Forest, an immersive digital art museum located on the 5th floor of BOSS E・ZO Fukuoka, adjacent to the MIZUHO PayPay Dome FUKUOKA.

Created by the renowned art collective teamLab, this permanent exhibition offers a dynamic blend of interactive art, technology, and nature. But what sets it apart from other teamLab sites is its “catching and collecting forest” zone, where you can “capture” virtual animals for “research”. They are added to your digital collection, and you can “release” them back into the environment. The exhibit evolves with the seasons, showcasing different flora and fauna throughout the year.

Some teamLab staples are here too, like the room where you can see your animal or plant drawings come to life.

Better yet, we highly encourage you to stay longer and explore Fukuoka City as well, if you haven’t yet. We’ll be creating a separate article about the places you can visit in Fukuoka so watch out for that.

Is JR Kyushu Rail Pass Worth It?

YES! The more destinations you visit, the more the JR Kyushu Rail Pass becomes valuable. Take a look at our breakdown of costs below for this sample 5-day itinerary:

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass – All Kyushu 5-Day variant costs only JPY 24,000!

Most of these journeys are on a non-reserved seat, with the exception of Yufuin No Mori, Two Stars 4047, and Aso Boy! These sightseeing limited-express trains only have reserved seats on board. They are also very in demand, so we encourage you to secure a seat beforehand. You may reserve online or at the JR Kyushu counter. For only JPY 1500 reservation fee per ride, you can make sure you get the seat you prefer. (On Yufuin no Mori, when traveling from Fukuoka to Yufuin, choose a window seat on the right side to catch the Jion-no-Taki Falls after Amagase Station. On Two Stars 4047, from Nagasaki to Huis Ten Bosch, sit on the left side of the aisle for a great view of the Omura Bay!)

For this sample budget, we’ve included the reservation fees in the computation. Even so, the total cost will be JPY 28,500, which is still just above half of what you would spend on train fares and express fees without a pass. That’s a JPY 20,420 (around PHP 8000) difference! Clearly, the JR Kyushu Rail Pass can give you a lot of savings!

Not only that, with this pass, adventure across all seven prefectures of Kyushu becomes effortless and convenient. Over the course of five days, you can hop on and off trains that connect vibrant cities, tranquil countryside, hot spring towns, and coastal gems—giving you a rich and varied experience of this incredible region. Whether you want to soak in natural beauty, dive into local culture, or savor authentic cuisine, this pass unlocks seamless travel and maximum flexibility. It’s truly the best way to discover everything Kyushu has to offer without worrying about transportation logistics, letting you focus fully on the journey ahead.