Kyushu’s Hidden Nature: Volcanic Wonders, Healing Springs, and Timeless Traditions

Kyushu brings together mountain views, active volcanoes, and quiet onsen towns. Travelling along the way, I saw trees and green hills stretching beyond the land that felt alive and calm at the same time. 

As part of my visit, I explored one of the main themes of the 2025 International Exposition, “Connecting Lives,” and experienced how hot spring towns serve as vibrant communities that foster meaningful connections among people, while also discovering a rich society where people are deeply connected to the majestic natural environment. 

In Beppu and Yufuin, steam drifted through the streets, and hot spring water flowed into open-air baths, surrounded by trees. Locals moved slowly, soaking, resting, and following long-held traditions.  

Jigokumushi

Taste of hell: steamed meat 

At one restaurant in the heart of Beppu’s steaming landscape, Jigokumushi brought cooking straight from the earth. This ancient method uses natural geothermal steam from vents to cook food gently and healthily. Wooden and bamboo steamers held fresh vegetables, soft meat and seafood, which were all slowly cooked over sulfur-rich steam. The steam added deep, earthy flavors and a unique fragrance without any oil or fat, making every bite light but full of flavor. Experiencing and watching my meal cook in nature’s own kitchen was an enchanting experience. Eating it felt like tasting Beppu’s soul.  

River in Yunohira 

Traditional lanterns

Tucked in Kyushu’s misty hills, Yunohira felt like a quiet, healing escape. This tiny village, with just 230 people and an 800-year history, spread out along stone streets and lantern-lit paths beside the soft flow of a river. Its hot springs hold sodium-chloride sulfate waters that ease muscles and calm the mind. I learned that a long time ago you could even drink from special fountains to help digestion or motion sickness. The fireflies that dance here in June light up the night, and locals welcome visitors with warmth and kindness. I particularly enjoyed soaking under the stars in these natural baths.  

Mount Aso’s Nakadake Crater 

Walking down from the crater of Mount Aso 

Driving up a hill, I saw smoke rising from the wide crater of Mount Aso. It seemed alive with power. As Japan’s largest active volcano, it has shaped a surreal landscape. Mount Aso has several volcanic peaks, including Mount Nakadake, which still breaths smoke and steam today. These are parts of Aso Kuju National Park, where green grasslands stretch wide, valleys rest quietly, and steam vents remind you the earth is always moving. I hiked close to the crater’s edge, feeling the ground pulse beneath our feet while watching light and mist change the views. 

Yanagawa: the “Venice of Kyushu” 

Donkobune Cruise 

Yanagawa, known as the “Venice of Kyushu,” is filled with charm and quiet beauty. This southern Fukuoka city stretches across 930 kilometers of canals, once used for farming and now perfect for slow cruises. I rode a donkobune, a flat wooden boat guided by a boatman in traditional wear, which offered a peaceful view of old bridges, willow trees, flowers and quiet homes. Along the way, I felt the city’s deep connection to water and wanted to step off the boat to explore the area. Floating for one hour on the boat under the rain and watching the performance of the boatman was such an enjoyable and unforgettable moment. 

Lord of Hell

①Oita Airport

②Beppu Kannawa

③Yufuin Onsen

④Kurokawa Onsen

⑤Aso

⑥Kumamoto

⑦Yanagawa Punting

⑧Nakasu

⑨Fukuoka

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  About the author

  

  Author: OUN Veasna 
  Profile: OUN Veasna from Cambodia. He works for the Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Cambodia, specializing in trade promotion. In his free time, he enjoys travelling and reading.