This Kyushu self-guided trip, with its vibrant autumn foliage and sunny skies, focused on Dazaifu City, Yufu City, Fukuoka, and Usa City, offering diverse Japanese experiences and stunning natural and cultural landscapes. The itinerary included visits to ancient temples and traditional Japanese architecture, hot springs, delicious food, and close-up animal interactions at a unique zoo – every location was perfect for taking photos!
🗓️Full Itinerary: "Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine → Yufuin Onsen → Kyushu Natural Zoo → Hell Hot Spring Area (Umi Jigoku, Kamado Jigoku) → LaLaport Fukuoka Shopping Center → Robatayaki, Hanami-tori, Shinshin Ramen, Gyujo Nabe"
✨Itinerary & Must-Do Activities:
1. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (Fukuoka)
Highlights: Absolutely stunning autumn foliage, with maple trees blending seamlessly with ancient Japanese architecture in a tranquil atmosphere. Pay homage to the god of learning, purchase amulets for good fortune, and enjoy plum blossom rice cakes along the approach. A perfect blend of cultural and natural beauty, ideal for taking photos.
Address: 4-7-1 Zaifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Business Hours: 06:30-19:00 or 19:30
Travel Tips: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the beautiful morning mist; there are many souvenir shops along the approach to the temple, making it convenient to buy Kyushu specialties; during the autumn foliage season, remember to use a telephoto lens to highlight the autumn leaves and temple views.
2. Yufuin Onsen (Yufu City)
Must-see Highlights: Natural hot springs + dreamy mountain views; small handicraft shops, dessert cafes, and Japanese snacks are nearby. Stroll along Yunotsubo Street and experience the slow pace of life and the autumn mountain atmosphere. Lake Kinrin is also a must-see, especially beautiful when the water is covered with a thin mist.
Address: Kawakami, Yufuin-cho, Yufu City, Oita Prefecture
Business Hours: 09:30-18:00
Travel Tips: We recommend driving or taking the Yufuin no Mori Railway, which is convenient and has a unique charm; there are many shops in the hot spring town, so allow plenty of time to explore.
3. Kyushu Natural Zoo (Usa City)
Highlights: Close-up views of animals (such as giraffes, lions, monkeys, etc.), a top choice for family fun, with highly interactive feeding experiences. The zoo is spacious, combining natural atmosphere with cultural attractions.
Address: 2-1755-1 Minamihata, Anshinin-cho, Usa City, Oita Prefecture, Japan
Opening Hours: 09:30-15:00
Tips: It is recommended to enter early when the zoo is open, as the animals are more active; sun protection is essential, as there is little shade in the guest area; you can buy animal feed and hand-feed the animals.
4. Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) & Kamado Jigoku (Beppu Hell Hot Spring Area)
Highlights: Colorful volcanic geothermal hot springs, various hot spring wonders and steamscapes. Visit the blue Umi Jigoku and red Kamado Jigoku to experience the mysterious atmosphere of the geothermal environment.
Tips: Each hell hot spring has different colors and specialties (such as onsen eggs and hell pudding), and you can sample local snacks. It is recommended to go on a sunny day for the most vibrant water colors.
5. LaLaport Fukuoka
A trendy shopping mall offering a one-stop shop for shopping and dining. With a modern design, it features numerous brands, restaurants, and amusement facilities, perfect for a post-dinner relaxation and final shopping spree.
Trip Tip: Recommended for the last day of your trip or in the evening, making it convenient to buy souvenirs and gifts.
🍜Food Tour:
Robatatayaki, Hanami-ori, Shinshin Ramen, Gyugonobu Nabe
Authentic Kyushu cuisine. Robatayaki features fresh, charcoal-grilled ingredients; Hanami-ori specializes in chicken hot pot with a sweet broth; Shinshin Ramen is a must-try in Fukuoka, often with long queues; Gyugonobu Nabe is rich and layered, reservations are recommended.
🎯Trip Tips Summary:
1. Pack a light jacket for autumn, as it can be cool in the mornings and evenings.
2. Transportation connections in some areas are not very convenient, consider driving or checking bus schedules in advance.
3. Attractions are crowded on weekends and public holidays, arriving early will make it easier to take beautiful photos.
4. There are snack and souvenir shops near most tourist attractions; take your time to explore.
5. Reservations are required for some hot springs and restaurants to avoid a wasted trip.
Related Topics: #KyushuTravel #DazaifuAutumnLeaves #YufuinOnsen #KyushuZoo #FukuokaFood
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