Model Route - long 02
Route from Kyushu to Kansai via Shikoku by land, sea, and air
Narita／Haneda AirPort ～ Fukuoka Airport
Fukuoka Airport 〜 Hakata Station
The "Mont-Saint-Michel of Kyushu," connected by a path with sandy beaches on both sides, featuring a historic shrine and an observation deck on a hill. Cycling along the seaside and seafood dishes are also popular.
photo:Shikaumi Cycle-tourism Council
A nighttime tradition in Fukuoka. About 100 eateries line the streets, where visitors can mingle with locals and taste a wide variety of Hakata ramen, oden, yakitori, and other dishes.
Hakata Station 〜 Kumamoto Station
One of the Three Great Castles of Japan. Currently, a special passageway allows visitors to observe the progress of restoration work following the 2016 earthquake. It is also popular as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
photo:Kumamoto Castle Office
The garden boasts 400 years of history. You can enjoy the beauty of the garden and the seasonal nature centered around a pond created by spring water.
Kumamoto Station 〜 Yufuin Station
A shopping street in a popular hot spring resort boasting the second largest amount of hot spring water in Japan. Sweets stores, restaurants, and souvenir stores line the streets.
This beautiful double-peaked mountain stands 1,583 meters above sea level and is a popular hiking spot also known by the nickname "Bungo Fuji." From the summit you can see the nearby hot springs and the bay.
A beautiful lake with abundant water where the hot springs bubbling up from the bottom mix with the surrounding springs. In the early mornings of winter, steam rises from the lake's surface, creating a fantastic sight.
Yufuin Station 〜 Beppu Station
Alternative route
Miyazaki City
4hr 40min. Approx.
A small island lush with subtropical plants. Surrounded by wave-like rocks known as "Devil's Washboard," the island is home to Aoshima Shrine, famous for matchmaking blessings, at its center. Beautiful beaches are also an attraction.
The largest entertainment district in Miyazaki Prefecture. Approximately 1,200 restaurants line the retro streets lit with lanterns, where you can sample local delicacies such as Miyazaki Beef and charcoal-grilled chicken.
Touring the 7 Hells (hot spring vents) of Beppu If you go around in one go, it will take 2 to 2.5 hours. The sight of steam and hot mud gushing out from the ground looks like hell itself!
You can experience "Jigokumushi," a traditional dish in which ingredients are steamed using steam from the hot spring. Ingredients can be purchased at the workshop, or you can bring your own. An additional fee for bringing your own items is required.
This hot spring facility is also featured in the Michelin Guide. In addition to being able to enjoy the skin-beautifying waters in a variety of baths, there are also dining and rest areas, making it a popular place to spend the whole day.
Beppu Port 〜 Yawatahama Station
A mountain castle located in the city center that was built before the Edo period. The main castle tower offers a panoramic view of the city. 21 buildings have been designated as national Important Cultural Properties.
This famous hot spring is said to be the oldest in Japan, boasting a history of approximately 3,000 years. It is home to the "Yushinden," the only bathhouse in Japan reserved exclusively for the Imperial family, which has been visited by members of the Imperial family for generations.
A major cycling course in Japan that is renowned worldwide. The ever-changing tides and the beauty of the numerous islands are a magnificent sight. Interacting with the people who live on the islands is a unique experience.
Matsuyama Station 〜 Takamatsu Station
Alternative route
Hiroshima Pref.
2hr 40min. Approx.
The island where the gods reside has Itsukushima Shrine as its symbol. It is one of the Three Views of Japan. The Otorii, which changes its shape with the ebb and flow of the tide, is particularly impressive.
photo:Courtesy of Hiroshima Prefecture
Rabbit Island is home to over 500 rabbits. There are beaches and campgrounds on the island, and you can also enjoy the hot spring at accommodation facilities.
photo:Courtesy of Hiroshima Prefecture
Takamatsu Station 〜 Shin-Kobe Station
Alternative route
Okayama Pref.
- Kagato Station
1hr 30min. Approx.
- Okayama Station
30min. Approx.
- Kurashiki Station
20min. Approx.
A museum that specializes in exhibiting swords. Located in Osafune, the mecca for Japanese swords, visitors can engage with the craftsmanship through exhibits of Bizen swords and a sword-forging experience.
A daimyo garden counted as one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. It is a beautiful garden decorated with seasonal flowers, and it has been awarded three stars by the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
photo:©Okayama Prefectural Tourism Federation
The castle has a distinctive black exterior and is one of the Three Great Castles of Japan. In spring, summer, and fall, light-up events are held to illuminate the castle with seasonal hues.
photo:©Okayama Prefectural Tourism Federation
A popular tourist destination representing Okayama Prefecture. Traditional white-walled warehouses harmonize with Western-style architecture in a beautiful townscape, and you can also enjoy river boat rides and the various cafés.
Located near the summit at an altitude of 430 meters, this is the only mountain castle still standing in Japan. A spectacular view of the stone walls and sea of clouds can be seen from the castle tower, a nationally designated Important Cultural Property.
photo:©Okayama Prefectural Tourism Federation
Alternative route
Himeji City
1hr 40min. Approx.
Himeji Castle, which retains its appearance from over 400 years ago, is the finest wooden building in Japan and is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
A Japanese garden covering over 30,000 square meters, consisting of nine gardens with different styles. The scenery changes with each season, from cherry blossoms in spring, to deep green in summer, and colorful leaves in autumn.
photo:©Himeji City
Accessible in 30 minutes from the city center, this hot spring resort has a history of over 700 years. Visitors can enjoy food city walks and day trips to hot springs in the hot spring resort area.
photo:©KOBE TOURISM BUREAU
A seaside park with a beautiful view of the port town. In addition to cruises to and from Kobe Port, it is beautifully illuminated at night for an elegant experience.
photo:©KOBE TOURISM BUREAU
Shin-Kobe Station ～ Kansai International Airport
Tour passes available in this area
