All 15 places on this map are pinned at their exact location. Each one comes with a short note on what it is and why it is worth your time. Browsing is free, and with an Ikuzo account you can copy the whole map and reshape it into your own trip.
More places
Fukuoka (Hakata)
The gateway to Kyushu. Yatai food stalls along the river at night, tonkotsu ramen, and the shinkansen to everywhere else.
Ukiha Inari Shrine
91 vermilion torii climbing the hill above the orchards. Superb view over the Chikugo plain.
Okawachiyama, the potters' village
The secret village of Imari porcelain, tucked into a ring of mountains. Kilns, brick chimneys and narrow lanes.
Ōuo Shrine (torii in the sea)
Torii gates planted in the Ariake Sea, revealed or swallowed depending on the tide.
Nagasaki, Gunkanjima cruise
Board here for Battleship Island, the most famous ruin in Japan.
Shimabara Castle
A stop between Nagasaki and Kumamoto, then the ferry across the bay. The story of Japan's hidden Christians.
Kumamoto Castle
The great black castle, restored after the 2016 earthquakes.
Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
A staircase of mossy lanterns under the cedars, one of the most magnetic places in Kyushu.
Takachiho Gorge
Basalt cliffs, Manai Falls and rowboats. Get there at opening time.
Beppu, Kannawa district
Steam rising from the streets, the "hells" and the sand baths. Beppu at its steamiest.
Yufuin
A stylish onsen village at the foot of Mount Yufu. Spend a night in a ryokan with a rotenburo.
Kagoshima, Sakurajima ferry
A 15-minute crossing to the smoking volcano facing the city.
Yunohira Observatory (Sakurajima)
The best accessible viewpoint over the crater.
Yakushima, Miyanoura port
The far-flung option: 2 or 3 days on the island of ancient cedars.
Shiratani Unsuikyō (Mononoke forest)
The mossy forest that inspired Princess Mononoke. Plan a full day.