Japan & the Scenic South

Overview

Uncover the beauty of the lesser-known island of Kyushu, renowned for its active volcanoes, hot springs and stunning beaches, before exploring the must-see sights of Hiroshima, Kyoto and Tokyo on Japan’s largest island – Honshu.

Highlights:

• Discover the volcanic landscapes of Kyushu, including Mount Aso.
• Cruise the Yanagawa River on a traditional poled boat.
• Relax in Beppu’s famous hot spring onsen.
• Explore iconic destinations like Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Tokyo.

Inclusions:
✔ Fully guided tours with entrance fees
✔ 11 nights in 3+/4-star hotels
✔ 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners
✔ International flights & taxes

Japan & the Scenic South – 13-Day Itinerary

Days 1-2: Fly to Fukuoka

Overnight flight to Fukuoka, Kyushu’s gateway city. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore.

Day 3: Explore Fukuoka

Visit Rakusuien Garden and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Take a cruise on the Yanagawa River.

Day 4: Discover Kumamoto

Tour Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji Garden, a miniature representation of the Edo-Kyoto route.

Day 5: Mount Aso & Beppu

See the vast crater of Mount Aso, then relax at Beppu’s famous hot springs.

Day 6: Beppu & Yufuin

Take a jigoku meguri (hell tour) of Beppu’s volcanic hot springs. Visit Yufuin’s museums and boutiques before returning to Fukuoka.

Day 7: Travel to Hiroshima

Stop at Yamaguchi’s Rurikoji Temple, Iwakuni, and the Kintaikyo Bridge before reaching Hiroshima.

Day 8: Discover Hiroshima

Ferry to Miyajima to visit Itsukushima Shrine. Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.

Day 9: Himeji Castle & Kyoto

Visit Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden. Tour a sake brewery before arriving in Kyoto.

Day 10: Explore Kyoto

See Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion, and stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district.

Day 11: Hakone & Mount Fuji

Ride the bullet train to Atami, cruise Lake Ashi, and take the Hakone Ropeway for views of Mount Fuji. Continue to Tokyo.

Day 12: Tour Tokyo

Visit Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace Plaza, and Shibuya Crossing.

Day 13: Fly to the UK

Depart Tokyo and return home.