Southern Kyushu
Travelling with Domestic Flights
Fly & Explore Southern Kyushu!
With a simple domestic flight and a rental car, explore the natural wonders and rich food culture of Southern Kyushu. From the laid-back coastal vibes of Miyazaki to the onsen-rich landscapes of Kagoshima, let Japan’s domestic network take you further, faster, and discover a different side of Japan!
Southern Kyushu: Miyazaki and Kagoshima
Getting to southern Kyushu is a breeze, thanks to airports in Miyazaki and Kagoshima—all easily reached from major cities like Osaka.
A great way to explore is flying into Miyazaki, then hitting the road by rental car to discover the vibrant sights of Miyazaki and Kagoshima. Check out the itinerary below to see how you can make the most of your southern Kyushu adventure!
■ Access Info
From Kansai International Airport to Miyazaki Airport
The flight from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Miyazaki Airport (KMI) takes approximately 50 minutes.
Miyazaki Airport (KMI)
Upon arrival at the airport, collect your rental car then dive straight into the natural beauty of Miyazaki’s coastline.
Aoshima Island
Just a 15-minute drive from the airport, followed by a short walk across a bridge, Aoshima Island is a romantic getaway known for Aoshima Shrine, a popular spot for couples seeking blessings in love and marriage. Wander hand-in-hand along the scenic coastline, where lush subtropical plants and the unique Devil’s Washboard rock formations create the perfect backdrop for a light, leisurely stroll.
Udo-jingu Shrine
Begin your second day with a 30-minute drive to Udo Shrine, nestled in a dramatic cliffside cave overlooking the sea, a location so unique it’s designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty. Its vivid vermilion hall is set within the cavern itself, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Local Eel for Lunch
For lunch, have some expertly crafted eel dishes made exclusively from fresh Miyazaki and Kagoshima eel! Did you know that Kagoshima and Miyazaki together account for over 60% of Japan’s farmed eel production? You will find a variety of restaurants serving eel in the area such as Unagi Taisei, known for its dedication to quality and tradition.
Izakibana
After a delectable lunch, make your way to Izakibana, a picturesque cape reaching into the Hyuga-nada Sea. Take in the gorgeous ocean scenery, vibrant subtropical plants, and the serene atmosphere at the observatory—an ideal spot for a peaceful coastal walk and creating lasting memories together.
About Izakibana (Website in Japanese)
Cape Toi
Continue south to Cape Toi, a scenic headland where you can spot the Misaki horses, a rare native Japanese breed that roams freely across the grassy slopes. With an ocean vista and wild horses grazing about, it’s a truly unique Southern Kyushu experience.
*Please note: the Misaki horses are wild animals. For your safety and to help protect this natural environment, please observe them from a respectful distance and do not attempt to touch or feed them.
Kirishima Jingu Shrine
Kick off your morning with a touch of myth and beauty at Kirishima Jingu Shrine, a revered site rebuilt in 1715 after volcanic eruptions. The shrine features a vivid vermilion main hall, a National Treasure admired for its ornate and elegant architecture. Do check out our article below for more details on its history and what you can do there!
Ebino Skyline, Ebino Plateau
Take a scenic drive along the Ebino Skyline, a breathtaking mountain route winding through the Kirishima volcanic range. Known for its panoramic sights and scenic stops like Fudo Pond, Onami Pond, and Iodani Onsen, this route was also travelled by Sakamoto Ryoma, a visionary samurai and key figure in Japan’s modernization, during his honeymoon, making it a meaningful journey for couples today.
Sengan-en Garden and lunch
Indulge in a restful moment at Sengan-en, the historic and beautifully landscaped former villa of the Shimazu clan, whose leadership spanned seven centuries in southern Kyushu. Stroll through gardens that transform with the seasons, framed by sweeping views of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay and join in calming activities like the Satsuma Kiriko cut glass workshop. Do check out the area’s local seasonal dishes as well, you can try the elegant on-site restaurant, Ohkatei.
Ibusuki Sand Bath Experience
Make your way to Ibusuki to experience the famous sand steam baths, where natural hot steam gently warms you as you relax buried in warm volcanic sand. This unique and soothing treatment is a must-try in Southern Kyushu, offered at various local facilities.
About Ibusuki Sand Bath Experience
Around Kaimondake
Begin another fresh day at Kaimondake, often referred to as the “Satsuma Fuji.” Rising gracefully along the southern coast, its near-perfect conical form has long drawn comparisons to Japan’s iconic Mt. Fuji. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Kirishima, Sakurajima, Lake Ikeda, and more. In summer, sunflower fields bloom at the mountain’s base, creating a stunning contrast of golden yellow against the dramatic landscape.
Cape Nagasakibana
Head over to Cape Nagasakibana which is nearby Kaimondake, a cape steeped in legend as the departure point of Urashima Taro (from a famous Japanese myth) to the Dragon Palace, earning it the nickname Ryugu-no-hana (Dragon Palace Cape). Visit the charming Ryugu Shrine, dedicated to Princess Otohime, and take in the romantic atmosphere around the Lighthouse of Love.
Chiran Tea
After your morning adventures, take a relaxing break with a cup of Chiran tea, a renowned tea from Minamikyushu, the city that produces the most amount of green tea in Japan. There are many different varieties of Chiran tea, but they are all known for their rich aroma, smooth flavour, and health benefits. It is the perfect refreshment to enjoy while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Chiran Samurai Residence Garden
Step back in time at the Chiran Samurai Residence Gardens, where seven beautifully preserved Edo-period gardens reflect traditional dry landscape style and pond style. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Hahagatake, the stone walls, hedges, and quiet lanes capture the elegant charm of this spot.
About Chiran Samurai Residence Gardens (Website in Japanese)
Jigenji Somen Nagashi
For a fun and refreshing late local lunch, enjoy some chilled somen noodles served on a unique volcano-inspired spinning table, designed to mimic the eruptions of nearby Sakurajima — a quirky, only-in-Kagoshima treat, you can try this out at Jigenji Somen Nagashi!
Kagoshima City
Before ending the day, spend some time exploring Kagoshima City, whether it’s a casual stroll through the lively streets or a bit of local shopping at Tenmonkan. Then, check in and relax for the night at your accommodation in the city.
Kagoshima Airport (KOJ)
After breakfast, drive about 30 minutes from Kagoshima City to Kagoshima Airport (KOJ) for your flight back to Kansai International Airport (KIX). It’s a smooth and convenient journey — but the adventure doesn’t have to end just yet!
Rinku Premium Outlet
From KIX, take a quick 20-minute ride to Rinku Premium Outlets, where you can enjoy some final shopping before returning home to Singapore!
as of 24 July 2025
