Continuing from Kyushu Winter Itinerary Day 1 - 2: Fukuoka & Kumamoto

Day 3: Kumamoto (Aso & Kurokawa Onsen)

JR Kyushu's ASO BOY! Photo credit: Kyushu Railway Company

RIDE | Kumamoto to Aso on the Aso Boy!

Hop on board the Aso Boy! Limited Express from Kumamoto to Aso for a scenic one-hour 40-minute ride. This charming train, designed with playful interiors and wide windows, offers great views of the countryside and Mount Aso’s volcanic peaks. From Aso Station, rent a car for the one-hour drive to Kurokawa Onsen, one of Kyushu’s most beautiful hot spring villages.

TIP: If you plan to drive, remember that winter roads can be icy and slippery. Do a bit of research beforehand to travel safely and smoothly. Check the weather forecast, ensure your rental car has winter tires, and always drive slow and carefully. Those new to winter driving may prefer arranging local transport or joining a guided tour.

Aso Volcano. Photo credit: Jet Heli Service

EXPLORE | Aso Volcano & Kurokawa Onsen town

Stop by Kusasenri Grassland for panoramic views of Aso Volcano’s crater and snow-covered peaks. Visit Aso Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, to experience the area’s deep spiritual roots. Then continue to Kurokawa Onsen, a peaceful mountain town where you can take scenic strolls past wooden inns, bubbling streams, and clouds of onsen steam.

SEASONAL DELIGHT | Snowy views & onsen bliss

Winter in Kurokawa is pure relaxation. Soak in a rotenburo (outdoor hot spring bath) surrounded by cool mountain air and snow-dusted trees. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, ending the day in true Japanese style.

Day 4: Oita (Beppu & Yufuin)

RIDE | From Kurokawa to Beppu and Yufuin

Depart from Kurokawa Onsen in the morning and enjoy a scenic drive to Beppu (about 1 hour 15 minutes). After exploring, continue another 35 minutes to Yufuin, where you can return your rental car. The route offers relaxing countryside views and glimpses of Kyushu’s steaming hot spring landscapes.

Umi Jigoko (Hells of Beppu)

Jigoku-mushi, steaming food using natural onsen steam.

EXPLORE | Hot springs, lakeside walks & art

Beppu is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, known for the Hells of Beppu – a series of striking hot spring sites with vivid blue and red pools. Do note that the Hells of Beppu are not for bathing due to their extreme heat. While you can’t soak in them, try jigoku-mushi – a unique way of steaming vegetables, seafood, and meat using natural onsen steam.

Lake Kinrin

Next, travel to Yufuin, a charming onsen town nestled at the foot of Mount Yufu. Take a peaceful stroll around Lake Kinrin, famous for its morning mist and reflections of the surrounding hills. Explore nearby art galleries and museums, along with cozy cafés and boutique shops that line the scenic streets.

SEASONAL DELIGHT | Winter warmth & mountain views

In winter, Yufuin’s lakeside scenery feels extra magical under a soft mist. Indulge in a relaxing soak in a Yufuin Onsen ryokan, enjoying the mountain views and gentle winter air – a perfect close to your countryside escape before heading back to Hakata the next day.

Day 5: Back to Fukuoka (Hakata)

JR Kyushu’s Kanpachi / Ichiroku sightseeing train. Photo credit: Kyushu Railway Company

RIDE | Return to Hakata

After breakfast, take a JR Limited Express train (about 2 hours 15 minutes) back to Hakata. The journey offers relaxing views of mountains and countryside – a peaceful way to reflect on your Kyushu adventure before reaching the city. Alternatively, travelers can also take the Limited Express Ichiroku, another scenic sightseeing train (approx. 3 hours 20 minutes) that runs from Yufuin to Hakata on selected days.

EXPLORE | Shopping & dining in Tenjin

Once back in Hakata, spend some time along Tenjin Nishi-dori, one of Fukuoka’s best areas for shopping and dining. Browse stylish boutiques, pick up souvenirs, or unwind at a local café.

Mentaiko pasta. Photo credit: Fukuoka Prefecture Tourism Association

SEASONAL DELIGHT | Souvenirs & comfort food

Before heading home, enjoy a comforting mizutaki (chicken hotpot), Hakata ramen (which originated in Fukuoka), or try mentaiko (spicy cod roe), often enjoyed with rice or as a topping for pasta – Fukuoka favorites that are perfect for winter. It’s a warm, satisfying finish to your journey.

Mojiko Station in Kitakyushu

Extension 1: Mojiko Retro District, Kitakyushu

If you have extra time, take the JR Kagoshima Main Line from Hakata (about one hour 40 minutes) to Mojiko Station in Kitakyushu. This charming port town is known for its retro architecture, Kanmon Straits views, and hearty local dishes such as Mojiko Yaki Curry and fugu (pufferfish). A leisurely walk around the historic streets makes for a lovely bonus experience before ending your Kyushu trip.

Extension 2: Huis Ten Bosch, Nagasaki

Another option to consider is a side trip to Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki Prefecture, a Dutch-themed park known for its spectacular winter light displays – among the most dazzling in Japan. The 2.5-hour train ride from Hakata makes it an easy and enchanting way to experience the magic of winter in Kyushu.

As your Kyushu adventure ends, may its hot springs, flavors, and scenic rides inspire A Japan For You to explore next.

Return to Kyushu Winter Itinerary Day 1: Fukuoka (Hakata)