Epic Kyushu Road Trip: Scenic Spots, Cozy Towns & Vibes 🚗🍁

This epic Kyushu roadie went down in autumn 2022—and the recent earthquake in Kyushu totally brought back all those travel feels. Sending all my love to this amazing region! ❤️ photos were taken with IPhone 7 Pro We kicked things off with a self-drive adventure starting in Fukuoka (pro tip: grab your rental car near Hakata Station for max convenience), then cruised through some absolute gems. Trust me, Kyushu’s vibes are unmatched, especially with those fall colors popping. Here’s how the route went: Kikuchi (熊本県菊池市) Our first scenic pitstop! Kikuchi is famous for its hot springs and beautiful countryside. Kikuchi Valley is a must-see—think lush forests and rivers, especially dreamy in autumn. Address: Kikuchi Valley, 1073-1, Shisui-machi, Kikuchi, Kumamoto. Open year-round. Aso (阿蘇市) Next up: Aso! 🌋 The Aso caldera is an insane sight—massive, otherworldly, and absolutely iconic. Mount Aso is one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, and the viewpoints are pure jaw-drop material. Check out Kusasenri for horseback riding and selfie-worthy views! Takachiho (高千穂町) This place is straight-up mythical! Takachiho Gorge is like walking through a fantasy anime—towering cliffs and waterfalls. Row a boat under Manai Falls (so Insta-ready). Address: Takachiho Gorge, Mitai, Takachiho, Miyazaki. Open daily. Nichinan → Miyazaki (日南市/宮崎市) Cruised down the stunning Nichinan Coast to Miyazaki City. Palms, ocean views, and that laidback energy—chef’s kiss! Don’t sleep on the Udo Shrine, carved into seaside cliffs. Udo Shrine Address: 3232, Oaza Miyaura, Nichinan. 6am–7pm. Aoshima (青島) Cute beach town vibes! Aoshima Shrine sits on a tiny island with the wildest rock formations (nicknamed “Devil’s Washboard”). Great spot for a beach stroll. Address: 2 Chome-13-1 Aoshima, Miyazaki City. Open daily. Hyūga (日向市) This city is famous for its epic surfing beaches and peaceful landscape. It’s a great quick stop to relax and soak in the chill Kyushu life. Yufuin (由布院町) Hello, dreamy hot springs and cuddle-ready cafes! Yufuin oozes cuteness with boutique shops and onsens surrounded by mountains. Don’t miss Lake Kinrin at sunrise—total main character energy. Address: Lake Kinrin, Kawakami, Yufuin, Yufu. Always open. Beppu (別府市) Jigoku-meguri (Hell Tour) is wild—steaming, bubbling hot springs like nothing you’ve ever seen! Beppu is THE spot for quirky hot springs. Address: 559-1 Kannawa, Beppu, Oita. Most “hells” open 8am–5pm. Yanagawa (柳川市) Known for its winding canals and river cruise “punting” rides—giving Venice vibes but uniquely Japanese. Try yanagawa unagi (eel rice)—sooo good! Address: 1-6 Sakuramon, Yanagawa, Fukuoka. Sasebo (佐世保市) Last stop! Sasebo is known for American-style burgers and the gorgeous Kujukushima Islands—you can take a boat tour for some next-level views. Plus, check out Huis Ten Bosch for Dutch-style fun. This autumn road trip was literally a core memory. If you want a self-driving adventure jam-packed with hidden gems, onsen chills, and insane scenery, Kyushu is where it’s at. Plan your route, book your ride on trip.com, and let the good times roll! 🚗🍂 Would you road trip here? Drop your fave Kyushu spot below!