Welcome back to another dream-chasing trip in Japan! This time, we'll be taking a road trip across the entire Kyushu Island...

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The trip took place in March 2015. The weather was pleasant, neither too cold nor too hot, with a comfortable breeze. The goal of the road trip was to explore the entire island of Kyushu within 7 nights and 8 days. The itinerary included the following cities: Fukuoka, Dazaifu, Yufuin, Beppu, Kurokawa, Aso, Takachiho, Miyazaki, Aoshima, Nichinan, Sakurajima, Kagoshima, Ibusuki, Kumamoto, Ureshino, Nagasaki, Yobuko, and Karatsu (Saga). The route roughly followed a circular path.

Note: This review attempts to gather as many highlights as possible, covering both food and sightseeing. The photos in this post may not be the best quality, as they were taken quite some time ago. They do not focus on camera angles or colors, but I have tried to choose the most useful images for my fellow travelers to help them decide... buy plane tickets to explore Kyushu!! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask, and I will be happy to advise you.

Alright, let's not waste any time... let's go on a trip with "Kyushu Mission"... Alright... for tourists, one device that is almost indispensable for travel these days is Pocket Wifi.

On this trip, I wanted to try something new, so I decided to rent a pocket wifi device from Thailand to bring with me, even though I had already rented one in Japan. (Oops!)

We opted for Japan Wifi (search on Google for various providers). It was affordable and offered delivery within Bangkok. Typically, you can pick up the device at the airport. However, if your flight arrives after 10 pm, a representative will call you 2-3 days before your trip to schedule a delivery by messenger. Airport staff are only available between 2 pm and 10 pm.

Rental fee: 1,365 Baht (7 days)

Deposit of 500 Baht (refundable upon return of the device)

The picture shows all the equipment that came with the purchase. It includes the device itself, a user manual, a charging cable, and a carrying case. The device is compact and easy to carry.

The signal was generally good when used there, although there may have been some areas with poor signal, especially in remote locations. This is understandable.

Here is the translation of the provided text:

Sharing a link for those who are interested (not sponsored). http://www.jp-wifi.com/

At that time, we traveled by Jet Star Airlines from Bangkok to Fukuoka. It was a newly opened route with a good ticket promotion. The travel time was also good, departing late at night and arriving early in the morning, allowing us to continue exploring right away.

Unfortunately, I heard that the airline will be closing this route at the end of this year.

Whoosh! Arrived at Fukuoka Airport. The first thing on the agenda: heading to the post office to pick up a package. (Curious why? Stay tuned!)

Take the Shuttle Bus from the International Terminal to the Domestic Terminal. The bus stop is located in front of the building, making it easy to find.

After exiting the bus at the Domestic Terminal, walk back towards the left following the signs for Terminal 1. The Post Office will be on your right-hand side, located outside the building.

There will be red warning signs like the ones in the first picture…

We came to the Post Office to pick up an "envelope". Let's open the envelope. The envelope contains:

• Pocket Wifi + charger (as previously mentioned, one unit has been rented in Japan)

• ETC card is used to pay for expressway tolls.

• Return all envelopes used for storing items at the end of the trip.

I will follow up on how the car rental process goes.

Let's get to know ETC Card better.

The ETC card resembles a credit card and is used with the ETC device installed in the vehicle.

Therefore, when booking a car, be sure to check the options to see if it says ETC. ETC refers to the ETC device.

To use, insert the card into the ETC device in your car. It will then function similarly to Easy Pass in Thailand, allowing you to use the ETC-designated express lanes for a smooth journey.

Book a car with an ETC device, pocket wifi, and ETC card all in one go on the website. Choose to pick up the ETC card and pocket wifi at Fukuoka Airport.

Advantages of ETC cards:

2. No need to fumble for cash when passing through the checkpoint (but it's not really a hassle anyway).

3. Most importantly, there are discounts at different times when we pass the level.

Disadvantages of ETC cards:

1. You are responsible for the book. If it is lost or not returned, there will be a high fine.

2. Upon booking, the registered credit card will be charged approximately 20,000 baht (I was shocked the first time I booked, what the heck! But the amount will be refunded after 20 days. I can confirm this because this is my second booking).

Note: If you wish to book a car along with an etc card, the period between the booking date and your return date must not exceed 80 days.

Initially, when I booked the car three months in advance, there was no option for etc card. So I emailed the company and received the same response, which forced me to cancel my booking. I then waited until I was within 80 days of my trip and rebooked the car.

The car reservation method has been reviewed in the Okinawa trip. If you are interested, please check the following link...

This time, I chose to rent a car from Budget.

I paid in cash, but they only accept card payments. Haha, awkward!

Payment completed. Please wait for another officer to call you to the car.

The reservation form stated that the car would be a Honda Fit (or Jazz in Thailand), but when I arrived, I was given a Suzuki Swift instead. The staff assured me that the two cars had the same specifications. I was initially surprised, as the Swift is significantly narrower than the Fit. However, I decided to accept the car and continue with my trip.

After a thorough inspection of the vehicle's surroundings, we are ready to embark on our journey. We kindly requested the officer to set the GPS to English for our convenience. When searching for locations, using phone numbers is the most efficient method.

Don't forget to insert your ETC card in the designated slot in the front console.

Our first destination is Dazaifu Tenman-gū Shrine, which is only 15 kilometers from the airport. However, due to heavy traffic today, it took almost an hour to get there. The weather is pleasantly cool, and there are many tourists. Cherry blossoms and plum blossoms are starting to bloom, but they are not yet very visible. (To reiterate, I visited in mid-March.)

There are many souvenir shops and restaurants on the pedestrian street beside the shrine.

I have tried a little bit, as follows:

The first one, I'm not sure what it was, but I saw a long line of Japanese people so I joined it too. 555

Upon tasting, it resembles a pan-fried mochi filled with red bean paste. The chewy texture of the mochi contrasts with the soft, slightly burnt aroma of the exterior. The red bean paste is delicious, and the dish is best served hot.

Many shops on the pedestrian street in front of Dazaifu Shrine sell this type of food, but this shop has the longest queue!

Then...go to another shop with a long queue

This is an ice cream shop with a wide variety of flavors, including some unusual ones like tofu, soba, and black sesame. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by and try a scoop or two! Cones are around 350 JPY.

A must-visit spot for photo enthusiasts is the uniquely decorated Starbucks store, which stands out with its unconventional and eye-catching design.

Oh... I met a group of Japanese gangsters too, they were super cute.

Feeling hungry? It's time for the first day's dinner. There's no better place than Yatai Fukuoka.

Nestled along the banks of the river near Canal City, this local eatery offers a delightful dining experience. With a refreshing ambiance and a cool breeze, it's the perfect spot to unwind. After much deliberation, we opted for this restaurant despite the long queues at other establishments.

Finally found the shop! The owner is secretly delicious too, haha. Since I wanted to try everything, I ordered everything: ramen, barbecue, and oden. I even had some Asahi to add a little flavor, haha.

The first set wasn't enough, so I ordered another plate of grilled ox tongue… It's truly amazing, Japan! Everything is delicious, I'm telling you.

The total price for 3 people for this meal is 6,500 JPY...!!! (Is this the price of a street food stall or something? OMG)

A special treat for Moomin fans…

The shop was packed, so I decided to skip it. Instead, I tried a cup of bubble tea from the Moomin Stand, which was delicious. I enjoyed sipping it slowly, and it came with a cute straw sleeve.

The next day, we continued our journey.

After driving for about an hour and a half from Fukuoka, you will reach Yufuin, a small but charming town.

The day I visited was a Sunday, and it was incredibly crowded and lively. The main attraction is a long pedestrian street called Yunotsubo, lined with famous dessert shops and stylish stores selling souvenirs. It's a photographer's paradise, with beautiful photo opportunities around every corner. You can either stroll along the street or rent a bicycle for a more relaxed experience.

Yufuin Floral Village is a charming miniature village resembling a fairytale land inhabited by dwarfs. Its whimsical design and enchanting atmosphere make it a delightful destination.

Besides stylish shops, Yufuin also boasts the scenic Lake Kinrin and the panoramic Asokuju National Park (Sagiridai Overlook).

Here are some reviews of cute shops in the mountain town of Yufuin.

http://japan-guides.blogspot.com/2013/04/yufuin_8.html

Here is a map of this small town for your reference, in case you need some travel inspiration. (Thanks to this website for the image.)

Let's start with the first shop... Giant Takoyaki!!!

The sauce tastes good, the original flavor is just right. I ordered one and shared it with 3 people. 55555

Price per piece is 420 JPY.

Another highly recommended restaurant is the Korogae restaurant, which seems to have won awards. It offers a variety of fillings to choose from.

Try a plain potato and a potato filled with curry.

Price per piece: 160 JPY

Finally, it's time for the famous roll cake shop in Yufuin, called B-speak.

Upon initially driving past the shop, the queue was incredibly long. However, after finding a parking spot and going to join the queue, it had completely disappeared, much to my surprise. It turned out that the queue had shrunk because the small cake rolls had sold out, leaving only the large ones available. (Most people prefer to buy the small ones for a quick taste, as the size is just right.)

No problem! We must try it anyway, so we ordered one large original flavor for 1,400 JPY.

The packaging is excellent. It comes with dry ice, which allows it to stay outside the refrigerator for approximately 3 hours.

Let's open the box. As you can see in the picture, dry ice is placed at both ends. The box also has a tag indicating the expiration date.

As it is fresh cream, it cannot be stored for long. So, I have to finish it quickly. 55555

I have translated the text for you:

"I've tried it and it tastes good. In my opinion, the meat is tender and the fresh cream is not too sweet. It's great with a cup of hot tea."

Here are some pictures of various shops along the Yufuin pedestrian street. There are many more shops than I expected, and the street is very long. I have only selected a few of the best shops here. We walked until our legs were tired, but it was a lot of fun. We stopped by various shops along the way, and there was a wide variety of things to see.

Note: Parking is very scarce. If you plan to drive, it is highly recommended to arrive early.

Please continue, Mr. Suchart.

Let's take you to some great restaurants. Now, we're moving to Beppu, the city of hot springs.

We had dinner at Jigoku Mushi Kobo, Kannawa.

Visiting Beppu, a city known for its hot springs, wouldn't be complete without trying the local steam-cooked cuisine. The unique experience involves steaming your own food, enjoying it, and then cleaning up afterwards!

The steps are not difficult.

- Please check the menu on the board.

• Select the desired menu item from the "ticket" menu + "ticket" for steaming equipment.

• Take the ticket to the counter to receive fresh produce and a timer.

• Steam the fresh food you have obtained. Wear gloves and steam according to the time required for each type.

• Self-service plates and sauces are available.

• Please remember to wash all the equipment after use.

I would like to order three dishes for tasting: sliced pork, pork rice, and eel rice.

Delicious. No sulfur smell. Three items cost around 4,000 JPY.

Beppu: A City Shrouded in Steam

From a bird's-eye view, Beppu presents a mesmerizing spectacle: a cityscape veiled in a continuous stream of billowing steam, rising from numerous geothermal vents scattered throughout the city.

I visited two or three hot springs in Beppu.

As a personal preference, I am not particularly fond of hot springs, so I did not visit all eight pools. I opted for two pools with vibrant colors that were conveniently located near my accommodation.

The first pond is the Umi Jigoku, a large blue pond. In addition to the blue pond, there is also a faint blood-colored pond. There is also a beautiful garden and a free foot bath.

If you walk all the way in, you will find a small shrine. Overall, this pond is very beautiful.

The next pool we visited was right next to it, Oniishibozu Jigoku, or the mud pool. It looked interesting, so we decided to check it out. The smoke may not have been as strong as the other pools, but the mud was bubbling away like crazy! 5555

The entrance fee for each pool is 400 JPY per person.

However, if you want to visit all 8 pools, there is a package ticket available at a lower price.

For more information, please visit: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4702.html

Following our visit to Beppu, we embarked on a scenic one-hour drive to Kurokawa Onsen, a charming small town renowned for its hot springs. The journey offered glimpses of local life and rural landscapes as we traversed the winding roads.

This city is a must-visit for onsen enthusiasts. You can purchase a discounted onsen pass for three onsen at 1,300 JPY (individual onsen entry costs 500 JPY).

You can wear yukata and walk around the city. It's very cold today... It's great, it's great.

The bakery is a must-visit in Kurokawa Onsen. Their Choux Cream is particularly popular, with many people seen carrying it around. I couldn't resist trying it myself, and I must say, it was delicious. The outer shell was crispy, and the cream inside was rich and overflowing. If you ever find yourself in Kurokawa Onsen, be sure to give it a try.

After dessert, let's move on to savory dishes.

Another recommended restaurant in Kurokawa Onsen is this one (I can't remember the name). The restaurant is located on the corner of the street, next to the landmark bridge. There is a Kumamon bear hanging in front of the store.

The restaurant's signature dish is horsemeat curry rice, so I decided to give it a try.

It looks like a regular curry, but it has meat mixed in with the curry sauce.

The taste is good, the meat is tender, and there is no odor.

Let's continue. Another highlight of this trip…

The journey from Kurokawa Onsen to Mount Aso, an active volcano, offers stunning landscapes. The highlight of the trip is the mesmerizing sight of continuous plumes of smoke billowing from the mountain's peak.

It is important to note that the ropeway leading to the volcano crater was closed during my visit due to safety concerns for tourists. Additionally, the area around the ropeway station was heavily covered in black soot, which caused irritation to the eyes and mouth of visitors.

Another breathtaking spot is the scenic viewpoint just before the ropeway station.

At this point, there will be a place for tourists to ride horses. There will be staff to lead the horses. A small lap costs 1,500 JPY. I tried it... I love it.

At this point, there is a wide hill with a small pond in the center. We can walk up the hill to get a clear view of Mt. Aso.

This place is truly impressive, exceeding all expectations. I would rate it 10/10 without hesitation.

Note: Be warned, prepare warm clothes as it's very cold and windy. My hands are freezing! 5555

Let's continue with the review.

After Mt. Aso, we headed straight to Takachiho Gorge, located in Miyazaki Prefecture.

Here, we will get up close and personal with nature by paddling into a canyon with a cascading waterfall...

Very beautiful. The weather here is perfect. It's cool and comfortable, not cold like Aso!!!

A boat can accommodate 2-3 people. It costs 2,000 JPY for 30 minutes, but the rower needs to be strong. After rowing for a while, your arms will start to get tired. 5555

Note: The waterfall looks very high in the picture, doesn't it? But when I actually saw it, it wasn't that high (in my opinion).

The third day of the trip is almost over. Let me summarize a little bit about driving in Kyushu (as far as I have observed).

1. Khon Kiew shoots faster (than Hokkaido).

2. When approaching the intersection, it is crucial to time the right turn carefully, as oncoming traffic will be released simultaneously. (Wait for the oncoming traffic to clear before turning.)

3. What about the right turn signal? Some intersections have it, but most don't. Oh well!

4. Yufuin

Note: This translation focuses solely on the sentence provided and does not include any additional information or context.

Driving to Yufuin may require patience in finding parking, as the streets are narrow, pedestrian traffic is high, and parking spaces fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

5. Beppu is a mountainous city. The main road into the city descends a mountain, while the road out of the city to the onsen ascends a mountain (a very high one).

6. The road from Beppu to Kurokawa is in good condition and easy to drive.

7. The road from Kurokawa to Aso is flat at first, and then it goes uphill.

8. From Aso to Takachiho, descend the winding mountain road.

9. From Takachiho to Miyasaki, the first part is a local road, driving for about 100 km. The last part is a long expressway.

10. On expressways with two lanes, I've observed that the left lane typically travels at 100 km/h, while the right lane travels at 150 km/h.

11. Speed limit: Locals typically drive 20 km/h above the posted speed limit.

12. On single-lane sections with oncoming traffic, proceed in a queue. There will be sections with two lanes for overtaking at intervals of approximately 2 km, after which the road will revert to a single lane.

13. All roads are paved.

14. In-car GPS navigation using phone numbers or Mapcodes may not always be accurate. It is recommended to double-check with Google Maps before traveling.

From Takachiho Gorge, we spent the night in Miyazaki, another major city on the island of Kyushu.

The city's signature dish is chicken namban, which is available at almost every restaurant.

Upon trying it, it was a (very) large piece of fried chicken drizzled with a sauce that tasted similar to salad dressing, but with something that made it incredibly delicious. 5555

Please serve with a side salad, a small portion of spaghetti, and a bowl of Japanese rice.

I ordered two sets, but one set will be half a burger patty.

Price per plate is 1,010 JPY

Three people had a satisfying meal.

If you have the chance to visit Miyazaki, be sure to try the local cuisine.

Day 4 of the trip.

We departed from Miyazaki City and drove along the eastern side of Kyushu Island, heading towards our first destination, Aoshima Island.

It's a small island just half an hour away from the city. The weather is cold, the wind is strong, and we walked across the island with numb faces. 5555

The island boasts a shrine and a small souvenir shop by the sea. The sunlight hitting the strangely shaped rock formations along the coast makes this small island a beautiful and worthwhile stop.

The next stop on our journey is Udo-jingu Shrine.

A shrine perched on a cliff face, offering breathtaking views.

The drive takes you along a scenic coastal road, offering breathtaking views of the sea.

This shrine is known for granting wishes related to love.

There were also small clay-like balls that we could try throwing on the turtle's back.

From the shrine, we moved a little further, less than 2 km away, to Sun Messe Nichinan.

A cliffside garden by the sea, lined with large Moai statues.

The entrance fee is 700 JPY per person.

To be honest, it wasn't worth it for us because we didn't have much time here, so we only went to see the Moai.

If you have plenty of time, you can take a long walk and enjoy the views at various points. It will be worth it.

Please decide for yourself whether or not you will go.

Okay, here's the translation:

Now, let's move on to another thing I wanted to do, which is driving onto a ferry to cross from Sakurajima to Kagoshima (for those who want to try it, because actually, if you just drive on the expressway all the way, it's faster!!).

Driving from Miyazaki to Sakurajima, you will encounter an active volcano on the island. The volcano has erupted in the past, causing lava flows that connected it to the mainland, making it accessible by car.

Let me translate the sentence for you:

"Let me tell you about the steps involved in taking a car onto a ferry."

- Drive straight to the Sakurajima Ferry Port. There will be a lane for paying the service fee (like an express lane).

- The uncle in the booth will calculate the cost. It comes to 3 people + 1 car for a total of 1,470 JPY.

• Drive straight ahead following the lane. There will be an officer standing to guide you.

• Wait in line until they let you drive onto the ferry. Once you're parked, they will place rocks to block your wheels.

Done. People can now go up and wait in the lobby on the upper deck of the boat.

The boat will arrive in 20 minutes.

If you're interested in trying it out, it could be a great experience.

Here is the ferry schedule for crossing from Sakurajima to Kagoshima. For those who have tried this route, please share your experience.

I have arrived in Ibusuki.

Upon arrival, we immediately rushed to the Soumen Nagashi restaurant for a delicious bowl of flowing noodles!

This is a cold noodle dish, but the highlight is that we have to swing the noodles in a whirlpool before eating them.

The noodles are soft and chewy, very delicious. There are many sets to choose from, with different side dishes such as grilled fish, BBQ pork, pork belly, and raw fish.

Delicious! ^^

The shop is located at the Tosenkyo bus stop.

Open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

After a satisfying meal, let's head out to enjoy the sunset view.

Cape Nagasakibana is another place that exceeded expectations. It is the southernmost tip of Kyushu Island.

A half-hour drive south from Ibusuki City brings you to your destination.

At the tip of Nagasakibana Cape, there is a lighthouse, and the best part is that you can have a full view of Mt. Kaimondake.

The sun was setting as I arrived, creating a beautiful atmosphere. The wind was strong, but there were no other people around, which was a bonus. I passed a tour bus on my way in.

Note: There is also a shrine here for us to pay respects to.

The reason I decided to drive all the way down to the southern tip of Kyushu was for this.

Ibusuki Sand Bath: A Unique Onsen Experience

The Ibusuki Natural Hot Sand Bath offers a unique onsen experience, immersing visitors in warm, black sand on the shores of Ibusuki.

Lying on the beach with sand covering my body for 10 minutes was incredibly enjoyable.

Upon arrival, please proceed to the counter to pay and collect your yukata set for changing. The cost is 920 JPY per person, plus 110 JPY for a small towel (if you bring your own, you do not need to purchase one).

Next, head to the changing rooms to change into your clothes. Please note that underwear is not required. Lockers are available in the changing rooms for your belongings free of charge.

After changing clothes, we headed out to the beach. There were rows of huts along the shore.

Upon entering, the staff will immediately ask you to lie down. You can leave your phone with them to take pictures while you're lying down. Everyone knows the angles. 555

Relax in the onsen for 10-15 minutes.

After that, take a bath and soak in the hot spring for a while, then change your clothes and the ceremony is complete.

It took about 1 hour in total. It was really comfortable. It was very cold outside, but I felt warm after taking a sand bath in the onsen.

Deeply impressed, the trip to Ibusuki was well worth it.

Let's summarize the route...

Day 4 Driving Itinerary: Miyazaki - Aoshima - Sun Messe - Udo Shrine - Mt. Sakurajima - Ferry to Kagoshima - Ibusuki

Morning:

• Start your day in Miyazaki, driving towards Aoshima Island.
• Explore Aoshima Island, known for its unique rock formations and stunning coastal views.
• Visit the Sun Messe Miyazaki, a convention center and entertainment complex.

Afternoon:

• Head to Udo Shrine, a beautiful coastal shrine with a unique cave entrance.
• Drive to Mt. Sakurajima, an active volcano offering breathtaking views.
• Take a ferry from Kagoshima to Ibusuki, enjoying the scenic views of the bay.

Evening:

• Relax and unwind in Ibusuki, known for its natural hot springs and sand baths.

Additional Notes:

• This itinerary is a suggestion and can be adjusted to fit your interests and time constraints.
• Be sure to check the opening hours of attractions and ferry schedules before your trip.
• Enjoy the scenic drive and the diverse experiences this itinerary offers.

The Aoshima - Sun Messe - Udo Shrine route is a scenic local coastal road with stunning views.

After visiting Udo Shrine, we decided to return the same way to access the expressway before entering Miyasaki City. After driving for about 30 km, we returned to the local road as before.

The route to Mt. Sakurajima includes a section through the city, where traffic and red lights can be heavy. Take it slow and steady. Once you leave the city, you can pick up the pace. The final stretch involves descending a hill and joining the coastal road. As you enter the coastal road, the view on your right will be of the erupting volcano. The scenery is truly breathtaking.

From Mt. Sakurajima, follow the road to the ferry pier. You can then board the ferry.

The next day, we will head to Kumamoto for a whirlwind tour.

Today's driving route is Ibusuki - Kagoshima - Kumamoto.

Driving in Ibusuki is generally straightforward due to the abundance of tourist destination signs. However, following GPS instructions can lead to frequent detours onto smaller roads, which can be frustrating.

Departing from Ibusuki, we had lunch in Kagoshima, taking local roads all the way.

From Kagoshima to Kumamoto, there is a long expressway with a toll fee of around 4,000 yen for a distance of 170 km. Be cautious in some sections with tunnels, some of which are 6 km long. The road is mainly downhill, so there is no need to drive too fast. Drive safely!

Take the expressway and drive into Kumamoto City for about 10 km. Expect moderate traffic.

When visiting Kumamoto Castle, there is only one designated parking area located near the castle's perimeter. Look for the English signage indicating the entrance to the uphill parking lot. Once you enter, you can purchase a parking ticket at the booth. The parking lot is spacious and offers affordable parking rates.

Admission to the castle costs only 200 yen, which is even cheaper than a rice ball at 7-Eleven. It's definitely worth it! It's so beautiful.

Tonight's dinner is here. The restaurant's name is Katsuretsutei. I saw many reviews on the website about the deliciousness of the tonkatsu here... So, I have to try it!!! (I saw a sign with awards on it too.)

The shop is located in the Shimotori pedestrian street area.

Upon arrival, please add your name to the queue.

When the table arrived, the staff saw our confused faces and brought us an English menu.

We tried to provide all languages, both spoken and written, and even showed them pictures, but... the employees were still confused. T_T

This set menu offers unlimited refills of vegetables, rice, and soup. It's recommended to order one set per person.

Three sets of dipping sauces are available, as shown in the picture. They include both fatty and lean pork options.

In my opinion, the overall taste is good. The pork pieces are very large, and you may start to feel that it is too much after eating for a while. 5555

If you come to Kumamoto, you must try it.

The next day, we still had one day left in Kumamoto.

Kumamon Square: A Must-Visit for Kumamoto Tourists

Upon arriving in Kumamoto, a visit to Kumamon Square is a must to greet the local mascot, Kumamon.

Located on the 1st floor of the east building of Tsuruya Department Store in downtown Loei.

There will be a show of Kumamon, the bear mascot, at certain times. Please check the schedule before you come. When I went, the show was at 11:00 AM. It's free to watch.

Kumamon is adorable! The dance performance was amazing, and many parents brought their children to watch. We were able to get up close and personal with Kumamon, and at the end, we even got to queue up for a photo with him.

Souvenirs at Kumamoto Castle are more expensive than those outside. It is recommended to buy souvenirs near Kumamoto Castle or Suizenji Garden, which are cheaper and have a wider variety.

Afterward, we took a stroll through the Suizen-ji Garden, which cost 400 JPY per person for entry.

Fish food is available for purchase for those who wish to feed the fish. Take a leisurely stroll. During my visit in mid-March, the cherry blossoms were beginning to bloom. When they are in full bloom, it will be a truly magnificent sight.

In the afternoon, we continued our journey.

From Kumamoto, we drove a long way to Ureshino City in Saga Prefecture, before continuing on to Nagasaki, where we would spend the night. (We will have another full day to explore Saga later.)

Let's stop by Yutoku Inari Shrine to pray for good fortune. It's a unique and beautiful shrine built on a hillside.

This location was once featured in the movie "Timeline" and the series "Saga... I Will Miss You". (Let's follow in their footsteps for a bit.)

Nagasaki Peace Park: A Place of Reflection and Remembrance

As dusk settled, we arrived in Nagasaki. With some time to spare, we immediately visited the Nagasaki Peace Park, a poignant reminder of the city's tragic past.

This site was built to commemorate the victims who died in the atomic bombing.

Note: It's great to come in the evening... there's no one here! 5555

And for our final stop tonight in Nagasaki, we will head up to Mt. Inasa to enjoy the colorful night view of the city.

The weather up here is very cold with strong winds. Please bring warm clothes.

The next morning in Nagasaki.

This morning, I took a walk near Meganebashi Bridge, which is called "Glasses Bridge" when its reflection is seen in the water.

This area features a long stretch of river with numerous bridges crossing it. Visitors can walk along the riverbank below.

Both sides of the river are lined with stones, but there is a heart-shaped stone hidden among them. You have to find it. It's not difficult, but if you look for it for too long, your eyes might get tired!

And nearby, there was an old lady selling flower-shaped ice cream from a cart. So I bought one for 150 JPY. It was delicious. It was cold, but the ice cream warmed me up.

Having found the heart-shaped stone, I embarked on a journey to retrace the steps of the series "Saga - I'll Miss You." During my trip to Kyushu, the series had just concluded, and the tourist destinations featured in the show were still relatively uncrowded. I meticulously planned my itinerary to visit these locations, determined to experience the series' charm firsthand. My journey led me to the following places:

Our first stop on the Saga series trail... I'll miss you, is the Yobuko Morning Market.

A very large seafood market located next to the port of Yobuko.

The seafood here is incredibly fresh.

The market was about to close, but I still managed to catch a glimpse of some interesting things. The market closes at noon.

I came across a stall run by an elderly lady who hadn't packed up yet, so I rushed over and ordered some fresh sea urchin and ark shell with soy sauce for 1,500 JPY.

The oysters are incredibly crispy and fresh, with no fishy aftertaste. A truly delightful experience.

Following the series, we head to Cape Hado, or Hado Misaki. It's a short drive from Yobuko.

Is there anything else I can help you with?

The northernmost tip of Kyushu Island, with a pleasant atmosphere. It is a vast grassy hilltop.

This spot has a lighthouse where you can go down to see fish under the sea, but there is an entrance fee.

After soaking up the atmosphere, we drove back to Yobuko. The whole town was full of squid, so we had to try some.

Crystal clear Ikizukuri (live seafood) from the Genkai Sea in northern Saga! Incredibly fresh, a set costs 2,800 JPY.

The first dish was raw squid sashimi, with tentacles that were still moving.

Once we finished the fresh sashimi, the restaurant kindly prepared the remaining fish for us as tempura. It was truly delicious! When visiting the area, be sure not to miss this opportunity.

This dish is available at almost every restaurant because it is a local specialty. The restaurant even has a tank where you can catch your own squid.

The Saga continues… I will take you on a tour soon. The Kyushu Mission trip will be over in a flash.

Let's continue our trip to Saga.

This is where I've been waiting to come...

Kagamiyama Observatory: Panoramic Views and Coastal Protection

The Kagamiyama Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of Karatsu City. Rows of pine trees separate the sea from the city, acting as a natural barrier against sand drifts. Admission to the observatory is free, but the drive up is somewhat winding. Along the way, you'll find numerous cherry blossom trees, though they weren't in full bloom during my visit.

Truly beautiful.

Some tourists are seen hiking up the mountain, which is very impressive.

The final destination before heading back to Fukuoka today is Karatsu Burger. I saw many reviews saying it was amazing, so I had to try it.

On the way to Karatsu Castle. If you visit this city, you must come here.

Affordable and perfect as a snack break before heading to your next destination...

After ordering food from the truck, customers can sit and wait at the picnic tables under the pine trees. If the tables are full, some people relax in the back of their cars or sit on the side of the road.

Our staff will bring your food directly to your table.

And so, our trip has come to an end. We returned to Fukuoka for one more night to prepare for our flight back to Thailand the next day…

Upon returning your rental car, please remember to include the pocket wifi and ETC card you rented in the provided envelope and send it via post.

Simply drop it in the airport mailbox and you're done. It's easy.

After returning everything, we need to take the shuttle bus to the international terminal. The bus stop is located in front of the domestic terminal, and there are clear signs to guide you. Let's summarize our experiences in the Kyushu Mission.

1. 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart convenience stores in every city have parking lots.

2. Some convenience stores have restrooms and dining areas.

3. The spiciest 7-Eleven lunchbox.

4. When buying a lunch box, the staff will first ask in Japanese if you want it warmed up (guess). Just nod your head, hehe.

5. When entering a restaurant, the most convenient way to order food is to take a picture of the food in front of the store and show it to the staff (sometimes the menu in the store does not have pictures).

6. In Kyushu, people drive fast in the city, but they are still polite and always give way.

8. The service mind of the hotel staff, shops, and restaurants was amazing. I was very impressed.

9. Water dispensers are available everywhere, on every street.

Parking

There is no free parking available. Some accommodations may offer paid parking options, with prices clearly displayed for both hourly and overnight rates.

12. Regardless of the road's narrowness, a pedestrian lane will always be provided.

13. Street food vendors will have designated areas with organized zones.

14. The most expensive meal I had was at a food stall in Fukuoka (it's more for trying than for filling up, haha).

15. A friend told me that the department stores in Fukuoka have a wider selection of products than other stores, especially at JR Hakata.

Kumamon Souvenir Shopping at Suizenji Garden in Kumamoto

16. For the most affordable Kumamon souvenirs, head to Suizenji Garden in Kumamoto.

This concise translation conveys the essential information from the original sentence in a clear and direct manner, suitable for an academic audience.

17. Kumamoto Square offers a limited selection of premium Kumamon products.

18. Kumamon merchandise is not widely available at Fukuoka Airport. It is recommended to purchase any desired items upon encountering them, rather than waiting to buy them at the airport upon departure.

19. Fukuoka Airport offers a wide variety of souvenirs, including local sweets.

20. The seats on Jetstar flights are not very comfortable, so it is recommended to bring your own neck pillow. 555

21. Passengers are allowed to bring snacks, drinks, and food on board. It is recommended to bring your own.

And

This trip was a lot of fun...

Before the end, there is a life-saving product to recommend. This is the helper during the trip to Kyushu!!!

This trip involved a lot of driving and walking, which naturally led to some aches and pains, as expected with our age. 5555

While strolling through a drugstore, I stumbled upon this intriguing product. The packaging's visuals hinted at its potential to address my needs, prompting me to purchase it for a trial run. I began using it to scrub my back before bed from the early days of my trip.

It actually helped! I woke up feeling refreshed and the pain after meals has decreased. 55555

(It may feel a bit hot after applying for a while, so it is recommended not to apply too much!!! Otherwise, it will be too hot to sleep -_-)

In my opinion, this is a great help for this trip. There are many brands, many prices from cheap to expensive.

Kyushu Road Trip: An Unforgettable 7-Night, 8-Day Adventure

Our 7-night, 8-day road trip through Kyushu has come to an end. We explored various cities, including Fukuoka, Dazaifu, Yufuin, Beppu, Kurokawa, Aso, Takachiho, Miyazaki, Aoshima, Nichinan, Sakurajima, Kagoshima, Ibusuki, Kumamoto, Ureshino, Nagasaki, Yobuko, and Karatsu (Saga).

Throughout our journey, we encountered countless new experiences and breathtaking sights, both natural and man-made. While Kyushu may not be as well-known as other parts of Japan, it offers a unique charm and should not be overlooked. Every location we visited held its own special allure.

We appreciate everyone who followed our journey. If you have any questions or need assistance planning your own Kyushu adventure, we're happy to help based on our personal experiences. Remember, this was a road trip, so we may not be able to provide detailed information on public transportation options.

Kyushu, you will be missed! ❤️

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Goodbye... See you in the next review!