Explore the Spirit of Kyushu
Begin your journey to Japan with an immersive exploration of Kyushu, the island of myth and natural wonder. From sacred traditions to volcanic landscapes, discover the deep-rooted spirituality and breathtaking beauty that defines this unique region.
Head of Tours & Transportation
Thursday - 5th FebruaryArrival in Fukuoka
Arrive at Fukuoka International Airport and be greeted by our welcoming team.
Transfer to your hotel in Fukuoka, where you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Optional evening stroll through Tenjin – Fukuoka’s bustling shopping and entertainment district.
Overnight in Fukuoka
Friday - 6th FebruaryTakachiho: Birthplace of Japanese Myth
Early morning departure to Takachiho, a place steeped in Japanese legend.
Visit the sacred Takachiho Gorge, where towering cliffs and emerald waters create a mystical atmosphere.
Experience a Kagura Dance Performance – a traditional Shinto ritual that retells the ancient myths of Japan.
Explore Amanoiwato Shrine, where it is said the sun goddess Amaterasu once hid in a cave, bringing darkness to the world.
Included Highlights:
- Shinkansen ride (bullet train) from Hakata to Kumamoto
- Scenic drive by coach through Kyushu’s mountainous landscapes
- Guided tour of Takachiho Shrine.
- Private performance of Kagura dance at Takachiho Shrine.
- typical Japanese lunch (BENTO box) with local seasonal flavours while enjoying mountainous scenery from the coach
- walk around the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge
- Exploration of the sacred Amanoiwato Shrine and Amanoyasukawara
- Dinner at the accommodation featuring local delicacies
Overnight in Aso
Saturday - 7th FebruaryAso-Kuju National Park: The Land of Fire
Journey to Aso-Kuju National Park, home to Mount Aso, one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world.
Explore Daikanbo Viewpoint for panoramic views of the crater and the spectacular valleys below.
Visit Kusasenri Plateau, where grazing horses roam against the dramatic backdrop of the volcano.
Discover Mount Nakadake, one of Mount Aso’s active craters, where you can witness the steam rising from the earth.
Included Highlights:
- Scenic drive through volcanic landscapes and open grasslands.
- Lunch at a local restaurant serving regional specialities.
- Optional nature walk to explore the unique flora and fauna of the Kusasenri Plateau, a vast grassy plain.
Overnight in Beppu
Sunday - 8th FebruaryBeppu: The Land of Hot Springs
Enjoy Beppu, Japan’s premier hot spring resort town, known for its onsen culture.
Visit the Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri) – a series of spectacular hot springs that are not for bathing but for admiring:
- Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) – a cobalt blue hot spring.
- Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) – a striking red thermal pool.
Enjoy a relaxing foot bath at a public hot spring and witness traditional onsen tamago (eggs cooked in the hot springs).
- Visit Beppy City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Centre, which exhibits centuries-old, culturally important woven bamboo handicrafts.
- Discover Myoban Onsen, whichis the only place in the world where both the manufacturin technique of Yunohana (natural bath salts made from hot spring mineral deposits) and the landscape have been designated as cultural heritage
Included Highlights:
- Entrance to the Hells of Beppu circuit.
- Local guided tour explaining the history and science behind Beppu’s famous hot springs.
- Bamboo Crafts Centre
- Myoban Onsen Yunohana (bath salts) Hut
- Light lunch with local delicacies.
- private transfer to Fukuoka
Overnight in Fukuoka
Included Services Pre Programme:
- Accommodation: 3 nights in handpicked hotels (Fukuoka, Aso and Beppu).
- Transportation: Shinkansen (bullet train) to Fukuoka and to Kumamoto and private coach for all travel within the Pre-Programme itinerary.
- Guided Tours: Expert English-speaking local tourist guides at each destination.
- Meals: Daily breakfast, 3 local lunches, 1 local dinner and selected traditional treats.
- Entrance Fees: All admissions to shrines, hot springs, and national parks.
- Cultural Experiences: Private Kagura dance performance, Bamboo Crafts Centre, Myoban Onsen Yunohana Hut and onsen experience.
Pre Convention Programme for Delegates
Delegates and their accompanying persons will leave the pre-programme after lunch on day 2 (Saturday 07 February) and return to Fukuoka.
Delegates will attend the General Assembly on Sunday 08 February, whilst a special cultural programme has been arranged for their accompanying persons in Fukuoka.
Highlights and Programme Features:
- Two-day cultural experience in Takachiho and Aso
- Expert-guided tours in English on both days
- Half-day programme for accompanying persons on Sunday 08 February to align with the General Assembly schedule
Included Services:
Accommodation:
February 5: 1 night at an official hotel in Fukuoka
February 6: 1 night at a selected hotel in Aso
Meals:
February 6: Breakfast, bento lunch box, and dinner
February 7: Breakfast and buffet lunch with local vegetables
Transportation:
- Private coach and Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Entrance Fees:
- All admissions and participation costs for the guided tours