Kyushu Train Trip Winter Itinerary

Kyushu Winter Escape: Hot Springs, Warm Flavors, and Scenic Train Rides from Fukuoka

Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island, is known for its hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and comforting cuisine. In winter, the island comes alive with seasonal magic – misty mountains, sparkling illuminations, and soothing onsen baths. With Japan’s efficient train network, it’s easy to travel from lively Hakata to scenic Aso and Yufuin. From castle walks and countryside views to heartwarming local dishes and sweet Amao strawberries, this five-day itinerary invites you to savor Kyushu’s winter charms.

Getting to Kyushu

Kyushu is easily accessible from Osaka or Tokyo via Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen network or a short domestic flight. Travelers can take the Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Hakata in about 2.5 hours while enjoying scenic views along the way. Alternatively, domestic flights from Haneda or Narita International Airports will allow one to reach Fukuoka in roughly 2 hours. Once you arrive, local trains and limited express lines make it easy to explore Kyushu’s diverse cities, hot spring towns, and countryside charm.

Day 1: Fukuoka (Hakata)

Yatai night stalls along the Naka River in Hakata. Photo credit: Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Association

RIDE | Getting around Fukuoka

Begin your Kyushu adventure in Fukuoka, the island’s lively gateway city. From Hakata Station, it’s easy to get around by subway or on foot, with most attractions just a short ride or stroll away.

Comforting winter dishes oden and yakitori. Photo credit: Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Association

EXPLORE | Canal City & Yatai night stalls

Start your day at Canal City Hakata, a colorful shopping and entertainment complex that blends urban energy with leisure. Its open-air canals, seasonal light shows, and wide variety of restaurants and cafés, including spots serving the signature Hakata tonkotsu ramen, make it a must-visit.

As evening falls, head toward the riverbanks near Nakasu, where rows of yatai (street food stalls) come alive. These cozy stalls serve comforting winter dishes such as oden (a light soy-based hot pot with simmered ingredients like eggs, daikon, and fish cakes) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). It’s a lively and authentic way to experience Fukuoka’s street food culture.

Strawberries are a beloved winter specialty of Fukuoka. Photo credit: Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Association

SEASONAL DELIGHT | Winter lights & Amaou strawberries

In winter, Fukuoka glows under festive illuminations, especially around Canal City and Tenjin. It’s also Amaou strawberry season, when the city’s cafés and shops feature this sweet local favorite in desserts and gifts – a true taste of Fukuoka’s winter charm.

Fun fact: The name Amaou comes from the initials of five Japanese words – Amai (sweet), Marui (round), Akai (red), Okii (big), and Umai (delicious).

End your day in Fukuoka City with a restful night’s stay before the journey continues south.

Day 2: Kumamoto (Kumamoto City)

RIDE | Hakata to Kumamoto by Shinkansen

Take the Kyushu Shinkansen from Hakata to Kumamoto, a comfortable 40-minute train ride through quiet countryside views. It’s the quickest and most convenient way to reach Kumamoto, a city known for its impressive castle, friendly locals, and famous mascot, Kumamon.

Kumamoto Castle

EXPLORE | Kumamoto Castle & local highlights

Start your visit at Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. The castle’s dark wooden towers look beautiful against the winter sky, and the surrounding park offers great spots for photos. Just next door, Sakura-no-baba Josaien recreates the atmosphere of the Edo period with traditional-style buildings and streets, making visitors feel like they’ve time-slipped back to the Edo era. The lively area has shops and food stalls where you can try local snacks and enjoy views of the castle. Drop by Kumamon Square to meet the city’s adorable bear mascot – if you’re lucky, you might catch his dance show. Exclusive Kumamon souvenirs and photo spots can also be found here.

Basashi (horse sashimi). Photo credit: Kumamoto Prefecture Tourist Federation

SEASONAL DELIGHT | Winter Comforts of Kumamoto

Warm up with Kumamoto’s favorite dishes such as basashi (horse sashimi) and Akagyu-don (beef bowl). For dessert, enjoy ikinari-dango, a soft mochi filled with sweet potato and red bean paste. After dinner, take a short evening walk around the castle area to round off your day in Kumamoto City.