Southern Japan Discovery

Discover a different side of Japan on this 12-day journey through the southern islands of Kyushu and Shikoku, where ancient tradition meets breathtaking scenery. Wander historic castle towns, bow before centuries-old shrines and unwind in famous onsen hot-spring resorts, far from the usual tourist trail. Begin in vibrant Fukuoka, the capital of Kyushu, before visiting the revered Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and the canal town of Yanagawa, known as the Venice of Kyushu. Explore mighty Kumamoto Castle, take in the vast caldera of Mount Aso and relax in the onsen town of Beppu. A scenic ferry then carries you across to Shikoku, where you soak in the hot springs of Matsuyama's Dogo Onsen, visit the original Kochi Castle and cross the thrilling Iya Valley vine bridge. Finish among the exquisite landscapes of Takamatsu's Ritsurin Garden before free time in Osaka and its famous Dotonbori district. This package includes return international full-service flights, 10 nights of quality hotel accommodation, daily breakfast and a one-way ferry from Kyushu to Shikoku.

Deal ID: 5626
Duration: 12 Days
Available dates: 18 Oct 2026 - 7 Dec 2027
Destinations: Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Beppu, Matsuyama, Kochi, Takamatsu, Osaka
Rating: 4.6 (37 reviews)

Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Fukuoka. Depart Australia or New Zealand and fly to Fukuoka, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2: Fukuoka. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the lively Yanagibashi Market and Canal City Hakata, with a free afternoon to explore.
Day 3: Fukuoka to Kumamoto. Visit the revered Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and the canal town of Yanagawa before continuing to Kumamoto.
Day 4: Kumamoto. A free day to explore, with the option to visit Mount Aso and its vast caldera.
Day 5: Kumamoto to Beppu. Travel north to the famous onsen town of Beppu, renowned for its steaming hot springs.
Day 6: Beppu to Matsuyama. Cross by ferry to the island of Shikoku and travel to Matsuyama.
Day 7: Matsuyama to Kochi. Soak in the historic Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, before travelling on to Kochi.
Day 8: Kochi to the Iya Valley to Takamatsu. See the original Kochi Castle and cross the thrilling Iya Valley vine bridge en route to Takamatsu.
Day 9: Takamatsu. A free day, with the option to visit the exquisite Ritsurin Garden.
Day 10: Takamatsu to Osaka. Travel to Osaka with free time to explore the famous Dotonbori entertainment district.
Day 11: Osaka to home. At the appropriate time, transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Day 12: Arrive in Australia or New Zealand.

Inclusions: Return international full-service flights, 10 nights of quality hotel accommodation, Daily breakfast, One-way ferry from Kyushu to Shikoku, English-speaking tour guide