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 Go on a Kyushu Roadtrip with these 3 Transportation Passes

kyushu tourist pass

Kyushu is brimming with many charms–its hot springs, natural spots, and historical landmarks are scattered all over the region. 

If you would like to visit Kyushu, you'll definitely want to see many famous sightseeing spots and hot springs. Here are three transportation passes, including a pass that allows unlimited rides on the JR Line as well as a pass that allows unlimited rides on the bus.

1)JR Kyushu Rail Pass (All, North, South)

kyushu tourist pass

If you’re a foreign visitor to Japan, the JR Kyushu Rail Pass (All, North, South) is a pass that you’ll definitely want while traveling around Kyushu.

You can use each of the JR Lines within the designated section. Select from three areas: the whole of Kyushu, northern Kyushu, or southern Kyushu. The number of days can also be selected, depending on the area. 

Besides limited express trains running in the designated area, reserved seats on the Shinkansen (Mizuho, Sakura, Tsubame) can be used too (except for between Hakata and Kokura). 

Please note that there is an additional charge for using green cars (the equivalent of business class seats). Reservations for reserved seats can be made on the JR Kyushu Rail Pass Online Booking site. Other visitors can make reservations at the JR Kyushu Station Ticket Office after arriving in Japan.  

Price / Duration

【All Kyushu Area Pass】 3 days Adult ¥17,000/Child ¥8,500 5 days Adult  ¥18,500/Child ¥9,250 7 days Adult ¥20,000/Child ¥10,000   【Northern Kyushu Area Pass】 3 days Adult ¥10,000/Child ¥5,000 5 days Adult  ¥14,000/Child ¥7,000   【Southern Kyushu Area Pass】 3 days Adult ¥8,000 /Child ¥4,000  ※Adult: 12 years old and older  ※Child: 6 to 11 years old

  Pass usage area

【All Kyushu Area Pass】

kyushu tourist pass

Trains stated below within the whole Kyushu area including Shimonoseki

・Local trains ・Limited express trains ・Shinkansen(Hakata - Kagoshima-chuo) ※Shinkansen (between Kokura and Hakata), subways, buses or private railways are not applicable.

【Northern Kyushu Area】

kyushu tourist pass

Trains stated below covering Kumamoto/Misumi and the area north of Oita

・Local trains ・Limited express trains ・Shinkansen(Hakata - Kumamoto) ※Shinkansen (between Kokura and Hakata), subways, buses or private railways are not applicable.

【Southern Kyushu Area Pass】

kyushu tourist pass

How to purchase a pass

Refer to the official website.

※Check the end of this article for the link to the official website

Recommended sightseeing spots within the pass area

【For the Northern Kyushu Area Pass】

kyushu tourist pass

(Fukuoka) Hakata Station, Tenjin, Kokura; (Saga) Karatsu; (Nagasaki) Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Peace Park; (Kumamoto) Mt. Aso, Kumamoto Castle; (Oita) Yufuin, Beppu, and more!   Enjoy the Kokura area and then head to Karatsu, one of Kyushu's leading pottery towns. At Nagasaki, look around Chinatown and take in the night scenery at Mt. Inasa and the Aso area of Kumamoto, which is rich with nature. It is also recommended to heal the exhaustion of traveling around hot spring villages such as Yufuin and Beppu. And when you get hungry, try the tonkotsu ramen (pork bone broth noodle soup), motsunabe (beef or pork tripe stew), yakitori (skewered chicken), and more.   

【For the Southern Kyushu Area Pass】

kyushu tourist pass

(Kumamoto) Aso, Hitoyoshi hot spring; (Miyazaki) Aoshima, Nichinan Waterfront; (Kagoshima) Ibusuki, Makurazaki, Kirishima Jingu    Besides taking in a breathtaking view of the peak of Mt. Aso, you can tour spectacular beach spots such as Aoshima, which is also a well-known spiritual spot; the Ibusuki area, famous for its Sunamushi Onsen(where you’re buried in sand from the neck down); and Makurazaki, where bonito fishing is a popular activity.

2)JR Kyushu Rail Pass (Fukuoka Wide)

kyushu tourist pass

A pass that covers not only the main sightseeing areas in the Fukuoka Prefecture but also the Karatsu area in the Saga Prefecture. Unreserved seats on limited express trains and regular trains can be used freely. The period of use is two consecutive days.

( 2 consecutive days) Adult ¥3,060/Child ¥1,530 ※Adult: 12 years old and older  ※Child: 6 to 11 years old

kyushu tourist pass

 Unreserved seats on limited express trains (excluding the Shinkansen) and regular trains in the main areas of the Fukuoka Prefecture and the Karatsu area of Saga Prefecture can be used freely.  ※ Railway lines other than JR Kyushu such as Kyushu Shinkansen, Sanyo Shinkansen, Seven Stars in Kyushu, JR Kyushu Bus, Fukuoka City Subway, and Kitakyushu Monorail are not included in the pass.

Refer to the official website 

Recommended sightseeing spots within the pass range

(Fukuoka) Hakata, Umi-no-Nakamichi, Mojiko, Kurume, (Yamaguchi) Shimonoseki, Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge, (Saga) Karatsu, Tosu City and more.

  Take a walk around Umi-no-Nakamichi and the retro cityscape of Mojiko area, where seasonal flowers and leisure activities abound. Local attractions such as Shimonoseki and Kurume are also recommended for visitors who have never been to Japan before.

What are the differences between the JR Kyushu Rail Passes and JR Kyushu Rail Pass (Fukuoka Wide) introduced above? 

There are three JR Kyushu Rail Passes: Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu, as well as an All Area Pass. If you visit Japan, purchase your pass according to the area you want to visit and the length of your stay. 

The JR Kyushu Rail Pass (Fukuoka Wide) is mainly for those sightseeing in the Fukuoka Prefecture, and is recommended for those who would like to extend their sightseeing to other spots along with Fukuoka. Decide in advance where you would like to be based and which area you would like to visit, and then consider which pass is best for you.

3) SunQPass: Unlimited rides on regular fixed-route buses, highway buses, and ferries

kyushu tourist pass

A pass that allows unlimited rides on regular fixed-route buses, highway buses, and ferries in the designated areas. There are four types of passes:    1 [Northern Kyushu + Shimonoseki] Unlimited rides for 3 consecutive days: ¥9,000  2 [Southern Kyushu] Unlimited rides for 3 consecutive days: ¥8,000 3 [All Kyushu + Shimonoseki] Unlimited rides for 3 consecutive days: ¥11,000  4 [All Kyushu + Shimonoseki] Unlimited rides for 4 consecutive days: ¥14,000    Northern Kyushu + Shimonoseki Pass 1 includes the route to / from Fukuoka Airport. The Southern Kyushu Pass 2 is within the range of areas with buses departing from and arriving at the airport, such as routes to and from Kumamoto Airport, so you can use the passes immediately after arriving at the airport. 

In addition, Pass 4, which covers all of Kyushu, can be used an unlimited amount of times on about 2,400 routes, including highway buses and general route buses! So, if you want to go around every nook and cranny of Kyushu, it won’t be a waste of cash and it is relatively easy to use. Buses that accept the SUNQPass generally have a sticker on the front and next to the boarding area. Check for the sticker and hop on. Don’t forget to show your pass to the driver when you get off.    Furthermore, there are some routes that require reservations and some routes that do not require them, so once you have decided where you’re going, check to see if you need to make a reservation. If you need to make a reservation, contact the Kyushu Express Bus Reservation Center or check out the official website. After making your reservation, make sure to pick up your ticket at the counter and hop on the bus. 

With the pass, discounts and special benefits can be obtained at popular tourist facilities, restaurants, and accommodations in each area. Check the official website before you go!  

Passes can be purchased on the Internet(It can be booked in English), at the bus operator service desks, designated travel agencies, or convenience stores.

Recommended sightseeing spots within the pass range 

1 [Northern Kyushu + Shimonoseki] (Yamaguchi) Shimonoseki, Karato Market; (Fukuoka) Tenjin, Hakata; (Saga) Yobuko, Ureshino; (Oita) Yufuin, Beppu; (Nagasaki) Nagasaki City, Huis Ten Bosch, and more.   2 [Southern Kyushu] (Miyazaki) Aoshima, Takachiho; (Kagoshima) Sakurajima, Sengan-en; (Kumamoto) Kumamoto Castle, Mt. Aso, etc.   3 & 4 [All Kyushu + Shimonoseki] Covers all of the above areas   With an Area 1 Pass, enjoy shopping in Tenjin, the No. 1 shopping district in Kyushu, and then savor fresh squid at Yobuko and bask in Oita's famous hot spring village. With an Area 2 Pass, you can take a ferry tour of Sakurajima, the symbol of Kagoshima, and relish natural spots such as lush green areas, islands, and Aso, as well as historical spots such as Kumamoto Castle.  

Refer to the following for more information on the facilities mentioned in this article.

https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/kyushu/

About Kyushu Hot Springs and Superb Views of the sea

https://www.japan.travel/en/my/solo-japan/overflowing-delicious-local-cuisines-beautiful-views-top-picked-/

https://www.japan.travel/en/my/fascinating-suburb-japan/five-spectacular-views-kyushu-okinawa-region/

JR Kyushu Rail Pass(All, North, South) https://www.jrkyushu.co.jp/english/railpass/how_to_purchase.html

JR Kyushu Rail Pass (Fukuoka Wide) https://www.jrkyushu.co.jp/english/widepass/purchase/

SunQPass http://www.sunqpass.jp/english/

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JR Kyushu Pass: Where To Buy & Is It Worth It In 2023?

  • Rail Passes , Kyushu

If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful island of Kyushu in southern Japan, the All Kyushu Pass is a travel pass that you don’t want to miss. This pass allows you to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace, and it offers great value for money.

It offers tourists unlimited rides on JR Kyushu lines throughout the region and can be used on Shinkansen (bullet train) services as well.

With the pass, travelers can save money while they explore all that the island has to offer — from world-famous hot springs in Beppu and Kurokawa Onsen to bustling cities like Fukuoka and Nagasaki.

The most popular type of pass is the “all-Kyushu” version which covers travel between Kumamoto City in central Kyushu down to Kagoshima City in Southwestern Kyushu. It also includes access to some express trains like Sonic Limited Express service between Hakata Station and Kagoshima Chuo Station.

The price for an adult is just 14,000 yen which is a pretty good deal considering how much ground it covers!

For those who don’t need access to all parts of the prefecture but still want a great value option, there are two “regional” passes available. The Northern Kyushu Pass covers travel between Kumamoto City and Oita City, while the Western Kyushu Pass is valid for trips between Fukuoka Station and Sasebo Station. Both cost just 8,000 yen per adult which is still a great deal.

It should be noted that to purchase any of these passes, you have to be either a tourist from overseas or someone who does not reside in Japan. Additionally, all passes must be purchased outside of Japan at designated sales offices (not available in-country).

So if you’re planning an adventurous trip around Kyushu Island but don’t want to break the bank doing it, consider getting yourself a Kyushu Rail Pass! You’ll get unlimited access to JR services throughout the prefecture as well as discounts on some express trains — making your journey even more enjoyable.

What is the All Kyushu Pass?

The All Kyushu Pass is a discount travel pass that allows you to travel freely on the trains and buses of Kyushu, including the Kyushu Shinkansen. The pass is available in 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day options, and it can be used on a consecutive or non-consecutive basis.

Where Can I Use the All Kyushu Pass?

The All Kyushu Pass can be used on trains and buses throughout Kyushu, including the Kyushu Shinkansen. This includes popular destinations such as Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, and more. The pass also allows you to travel to the neighboring island of Okinawa.

How Much Does the All Kyushu Pass Cost?

The All Kyushu Pass is available in 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day options, with prices ranging from 16,500 yen to 25,000 yen. Children’s fares are also available at a discounted rate.

How Do I Buy the All Kyushu Pass?

The All Kyushu Pass can be purchased online or at designated sales offices in Japan. If you’re planning to purchase the pass online, you’ll need to pick up your pass at a designated exchange office once you arrive in Japan.

Tips for Using the All Kyushu Pass

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your All Kyushu Pass:

  • Plan your route in advance to make the most of your pass.
  • Use the pass on the Kyushu Shinkansen to save money on long-distance travel.
  • Don’t forget to validate your pass at the designated machines before boarding your train or bus.
  • Take advantage of the free or discounted admission offered at participating attractions.
  • If you’re traveling in a group, consider purchasing a Group All Kyushu Pass for even more savings.

The All Kyushu Pass is a great way to explore the beautiful and diverse region of Kyushu at your own pace. Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, history, or modern city life, Kyushu has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see the best of what southern Japan has to offer!

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Kyushu Transport Pass

Kyushu Budget Guide: JR Kyushu Pass vs SunQ Pass

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Which is the best Kyushu transport pass for you? Here is the complete Kyushu budget guide on Kyushu transport pass that helps you travel around Kyushu on a budget with Kyushu JR Pass, SunQ Pass, and other city passes.

Generally, transportation is always one of the highest expenses when traveling in Japan. The great thing about visiting Japan is there are many options and transport passes available to plan for your trip. Depending on your Kyushu itinerary and preferences, there are many transport pass in Kyushu to make your hassle-free journey. The key is to understand where you want to go and which is the best Kyushu transport pass that best suits your itinerary.

In this Kyushu budget guide blog, we will break down all these options to help you figure out the best transport pass for your Kyushu itinerary.

Table of Contents

Traveling Around Kyushu On Budget

How to Travel in Kyushu - By Bus or Train

Thanks to the good connectivity transport system in Japan. Traveling in Japan can be hassle-free if you do your homework ahead of your trip. All transport options are departed and arrive on time due to their strict compliance with punctuality. So it is very easy to plan for a Kyushu budget trip by using public transport. Fully make use of websites such as HyperDia.com and YahooTransit.com when traveling around Kyushu on budget. The most important is to understand where you want to visit and allocate some buffer time when connecting from one place to another.

There is only three major transport options to travel around in Kyushu:

  • Self-driving with rental car. 
  • By public transport by using trains or buses.
  • Metros, trams, buses within the cities.

If you planning to self-driving in Kyushu, check for your best rental car from RentalCars.com .

To plan for the best transport option to travel around in Kyushu, we’ll provide a detailed description of each option and the reason. So you easily see the difference and know which one is suitable for your Kyushu itinerary.

JR Kyushu Rail Pass

Kyushu Transport Ticket Overview : Kyushu Rail Pass (JR Kyushu Pass) is a valuable rail pass ticket for foreign visitors to travel around Kyushu with an unlimited JR train ride. This train pass is covered for Kyushu Shinkansen (Fukuoka-Kagoshima) and limited express trains.

However, take note that it can not be used for Sanyo Shinkansen (Fukuoka-Osaka including Hakata and Kokura) which is operated by JR West. Seat reservation is free for Kyushu JR Pass holders at any Kyushu JR counter.

Kyushu JR Pass (More info about the validity, price, and coverage):

  • Northern Kyushu Area : 3-Days Pass at ¥12,000 and 5-Days Pass at ¥15,000
  • Southern Kyushu Area : 3-Days Pass at ¥10,000
  • Fukuoka Wide : 2-Days Pass at ¥3,060
  • All Kyushu Area : 3-Days Pass at ¥20,000, 5-Days Pass at ¥22,500, and 5-Days Pass at ¥25,000

Kyushu Special Sightseeing Trains (Design & Story)

One of the best things about JR Kyushu Pass is special sightseeing trains (Design & Story) are covered. Including the Yufuin no Mori (ゆふいんの森), Ibusuki no Tamatebako (指宿のたまて箱), Umisachi Yamasachi (海幸山幸) and remaining.

Due to limited availability and high popularity, you should make reservations online for these trains as soon as you exchange the e-voucher for the pass. Reservation online costs ¥1,000 per adult but you are opted to try your luck with a free reservation once arrived in Kyushu.

Traveling Kyushu By JR Train

Do you need this Kyushu Rail Pass? JR Kyushu Pass can be a huge money-saving pass if you are getting around in Kyushu by train. For example, a one-way train ride from Fukuoka to Kumamoto already costs more than ¥4,500. Some of the travelers even fully make use of the Kyushu JR Pass and travel extensively from Fukuoka with day trips within the validity period.

Kyushu SunQ Pass

Kyushu Transport Ticket Overview : Kyushu SunQ Pass , Kyushu’s most budget transportation ticket for an unlimited bus ride in the Kyushu region. Nearly 99% of highway buses, city passes, and some ferries in Kyushu are covered by SunQ Pass. It even can be used in the Shimonoseki area of Yamaguchi Prefecture on Honshu island.

Kyushu SunQ Pass Coverage

SunQ Pass Ticket For Unlimited Bus Ride in Kyushu: 

  • Northern Kyushu 3-Days Pass (¥9,000)
  • Southern Kyushu 3-Days Pass (¥8,000)
  • All Kyushu 3-Days (¥11,000) and  4-Days Pass (¥14,000)

Traveling Kyushu By Bus

Similar to Kyushu JR Pass, SunQ Pass also offers All Kyushu, Southern, and Northern Kyushu SunQ Pass options. It is valid for 3 or 4 consecutive days with prices ranging from ¥8,000 to ¥14,000. The Northern Kyushu pass is only valid in Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Oita, and Kumamoto prefectures in Kyushu and the Shimonoseki area in Honshu.

While the Southern Kyushu pass is only valid in Kumamoto, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima prefectures in Kyushu.

Kyushu SunQ Pass

Do you need this Kyushu Pass? In Kyushu, the highway bus is an alternative solution to trains. It is cheaper and sometimes can be equally fast as a train except for Shinkansen. Moreover, some of the top attractions such as Takachiho Gorge (高千穂), and Kurokawa Onsen (黒川温泉) can be accessible by bus only. It is very worthwhile to get the SunQ Pass if you are traveling to and fro as the one-way ticket already cost ¥2,500.

JR Kyushu Rail Pass vs SunQ Bus Pass

Generally, most travelers are confused about which is the best Kyushu transport pass that suits your Kyushu budget trip. Below are some of the pros and cons of using JR Kyushu Pass vs SunQ Pass:

  • Traveling by rail will usually have a more frequent departure time , probably every half hour. But highway buses mostly with every hour or less frequently compared with a train.
  • For a similar distance, trains are usually faster compared with a bus. Especially buses have possibly run into traffic jams and stop at traffic lights.
  • Almost all Kyushu highway buses are required for reservation . But still, you can board the highway bus without reservation but priority will be given to those with reservation. While on the train you can jump to a non-reserve seat car at any time. But bear in mind, that you might also need to stand if the seats are fully occupied.
  • However, the bus will run into rural areas like onsen town where the JR train is not accessible. The Kurokawa Onsen, and Takachiho Gorge, are some of the attractions that can be getting there by using a bus.

Traveling Around Kyushu by Train

Generally, the train is much more convenient. However, the bus is the only option for some of the attractions. It depends on your Kyushu itinerary. Sometimes, taking the bus works better compare with trains. In fact, as a foreign traveler, you can make use of a combination of the JR train Pass and SunQ bus pass which you are traveling around. It is the most budget transport option for foreign visitors.

Kyushu City Pass

When traveling within Kyushu, there is also a variety of transport passes that are designated in individual cities for different transport types. Here are some of the valuable Kyushu city passes that are worth recommending to visitors when traveling around Kyushu.

Do note that most of the bus ride is covered with SunQ Pass. Added, please buffer some time due to the infrequent of the bus schedule.

Northern Kyushu Transport Pass

Fukuoka City Subway Pass

Fukuoka City Pass The Fukuoka Subway Unlimited Pass (1-Day at ¥640 and 2-Days at ¥740). One single subway ride costs more than ¥210 and above. We strongly recommended the 2 days pass as it only costs an additional ¥100 compare with a 1-day pass.

Fukuoka City One-Day Free Pass (Nishitetsu)

  • All-you-can-ride ticket for a day for Fukuoka city local buses at ¥900.
  • All-you-can-ride ticket for a day for Fukuoka city local buses and Dazaifu Liner Bus “Tabito” (between Hakata St./Fukuoka Airport and Dazaifu area) at ¥1,500.
  • Unlimited ride on Nishitetsu trains and buses in Fukuoka for one day at ¥2,600.

Traveling in Beppu by Bus

Oita City Pass (Beppu and Yufuin) When traveling in Beppu, the bus is the only public transport option to get to attractions such as Hell Valley, Myoban onsen, and more. Get the Beppu bus pass to save on the bus ride.

  • My Beppu Free Pass: 1 Day ¥900 and 2 Days at ¥1,500 (Within Beppu City central)
  • Wide Beppu Free Pass: 1 Day ¥1,600 and 2 Days at ¥2,400 (Cover up to Yufuin)

Nagasaki City Pass Nagasaki can be visited by buses or trams/streetcars.

  • One Day Bus Pass at ¥500: Unlimited rides on buses within the designated area in Nagasaki City.
  • One Day Tram Pass at ¥500: Use on all tram lines in Nagasaki city. One tram ride costs has ¥120.

Kumamoto City Tram

Kumamoto City Pass Kumamoto city is well connected with various transport, including trams and city buses. So there are various types of transport pass available.

  • Kumamoto City 1-Day Tram Pass at ¥500. One tram ride with a flat price of ¥170. Take the 1-Day Tram Pass if you intend to take at least 3 tram rides within the day.
  • Wakuwaku 1-Day Pass: Price from ¥700 to ¥2,000 depending on the coverage area. Good for those plans to take unlimited rides on buses and city trams in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Southern Kyushu Transport Pass

Traveling Miyzaki by Bus

Miyazaki City Pass The Miyazaki 1-Day City Pass (¥1,500) for unlimited travel on public buses within Miyazaki cities. This is the best value transport pass if you planning to visit Miyazaki’s attractions by bus. The one-way bus fare from Miyazaki city to sightseeing attractions along the Nichinan coast easily costs more than ¥1,000.

Overview: The Best Kyushu Transport Pass

All in all, these convenient discounted tickets can be very useful when traveling around Kyushu as well as for the sightseeing in a single city. Again, depending on your Kyushu itinerary, you should consider taking either a self-driving, train or bus. Bear in mind that Kyushu is very huge. It is recommended to plan ahead of time for your transport option. We also advise you to slow up your pace to explore Japan’s hidden gem Kyushu.

Here is the useful Kyushu Transport Guide to making a reservation for train and bus:

  • Tips For JR Kyushu Pass Seat Reservation Online and Onsite
  • How to make reservation on Kyushu Odan Bus
  • How to reserve highway bus ticket in Kyushu Japan

Lastly, if you don’t have a Kyushu itinerary yet, check out our Kyushu travel blog. We also include the best Kyushu transport pass that you should get for your itineraries.

How To Plan Your Kyushu Itinerary: Ultimate Guide

Planning to travel to Takachiho Gorge and Kurokawa Onsen with SunQ Pass? My Kyushu SunQ Pass itinerary as below:

Kyushu SunQ Pass itinerary: From North To South By Bus

Northern Kyushu (Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Aso, Nagsaki, Kurokawa Onsen, Beppu, Yufuin):

  • Fukuoka Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide
  • Things To Do in Kumamoto: 1-Day Itinerary
  • Things To Do in Aso For 1-Day Aso Itinerary
  • Nagasaki Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
  • Kurokawa Onsen: A Guide To Natural Hot Spring Town
  • Beppu Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
  • Yufuin Travel Guide: Must Eat Food And Things To Do

Southern Kyushu (Kagoshima, Miyazaki, Takachiho Gorge):

  • Kagoshima Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
  • Miyazaki Itinerary: What to do and eat in Miyazaki
  • Takachiho Gorge Travel Guide: 1-Day Itinerary Blog

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Book your Regional Japan Rail Pass

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  • Unlimited travel

Order your Regional Pass

  • ALL KYUSHU Area Pass Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Oita & Miyazaki
  • ALL KYUSHU BUS & FERRY Pass Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Takachiho, Beppu, Sakurajima, Shimonoseki
  • SOUTH KYUSHU Pass Kumamoto, Kagoshima & Miyazaki
  • NORTH KYUSHU Pass Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Beppu & Aso

Kyushu Pass

ALL KYUSHU Area Pass

All Kyushu area railing network map

Your journey

All Kyushu area railing network map

The  All Kyushu Area Pass  provides access to JR Kyushu trains for  3 or 5 consecutive days , allowing you to discover the charms of the region. Great value for visitors who want to explore Kyushu.

The All Kyushu Area Pass provides unlimited access to JR Kyushu lines Shinkansen between Hakata - Kagoshima-chuo (except the Sanyo Shinkansen between Kokura and Hakata). The pass is only available for overseas tourists.

A child price (6 to 11 years of age) is available for the All Kyushu Area Pass. Access to trains is free for accompanied infants aged 5 years or under.

Adults: $128

Children: $64

Adults: $144

Children: $79

The Kyushu Region

Kyushu is Japan's third-largest island, located south-west off the main island. The region offers modern cities, natural beauty and historical sites.

The region is home to Mount Aso one of the largest active volcanoes in the World!  The tectonic activity in the region makes it the ideal place to visit a hot spring, Beppu and Yufuin are well known for healing waters.

The island is also famous for its ceramics, originating from the towns of  Arita  and  Imari  and its historic towns such as  Kumamoto , a feudal town since the 17th century. In the very South of the island,  Yakushima Island is sure to impress you with its luxuriant scenery, which

Mount Aso in Kyushu

Mount Aso in Kyushu, Japan

@flickr/ William Cho

Scenery on Yakushima Island

Scenery on Yakushima Island

View of Kumamoto Castle and the Kumamoto scenery

View of Kumamoto Castle and the Kumamoto scenery

Conditions of the All Kyushu Pass 

Eligibility .

- A rail pass user must be holding a passport issued by a foreign government.

※外国での永住権を持っているお客様を含め、日本国籍のお客様は使用できません。

- A rail pass user must be entering in Japan as a "短期滞在 (Temporary Visitor) ".

* "短期滞在 (Temporary Visitor) " is a status of residence defined under Japanese immigration law.

- Individual customers are not allowed to purchase or exchange more than one of the same tickets for the same use period.

- You must present your passport to receive a pass.

- We will send the e-voucher to your email address within 5 business days after your order. If you want to get earlier, please contact us. (E-voucher is not the real ticket, you cannot take trains with the voucher)

- You can print out an e-voucher on A4 size paper, or you can show the voucher on your mobile device when you exchange.

You can redeem your voucher for a physical pass in these places.

  • Hakata Station, daily from 7am to 9pm
  • Kokura Station, daily from 7am to 9pm
  • Mojiko Station, daily from 7:30am to 7pm
  • Saga Station, daily from 7am to 9pm
  • Nagasaki Station, daily from 7am to 9pm
  • Sasebo Station, daily from 7:30am to 7pm
  • Beppu Station, daily from 7:30am to 7pm
  • Oita Station, daily from 7am to 9pm
  • Kumamoto Station, daily from 7am to 9pm
  • Kagoshima-chuo Station, daily from 7am to 9pm
  • Miyazaki Airport Station, daily from 10am to 12:10pm and 12:50 pm to 5:30pm

What is included with the pass? 

  • The All Kyushu Area Pass is valid on all JR Kyushu lines. 

What is excluded with the pass? 

  • The pass is not valid for the Sanyo Shinkansen, sleeper trains and JR Kyushu buses.

Seat Reservations 

  • With the pass, no additional fee is required when reserving seats.
  • In order to ride in first class (Green cars) you'll have to pay additional fees.
  • Non-reserved Ordinary class cars can be accessed freely.
  • To access the platforms, show your pass to the JR Kyushu staff located at the gate to the platform.
  • To reserve a seat, ask the JR Kyushu staff at the ticket office.
  • It is a personal pass. Please always carry your passport when using the pass as staff may check it.

Cancellation conditions and fees

An unused voucher is refundable for one year from the date of issue.

The voucher can be refunded if it has never been exchanged in Japan.

A cancellation fee of 15% of the value of the voucher will be retained.

No refund is possible for a voucher received by us more than one year from the date of issue.

A refund is not possible for a lost or stolen voucher.

Common Questions

Who is eligible for the pass?

Visitors traveling as a tourists who have a temporary visitor entry status are eligible for this pass. Japanese passport holders are not eligible for this pass.

Do I need to purchase an All Kyushu Area Pass for babies and children?

Children under the age of 6 years old can travel for free as long as they travel with a pass holder. However they are not entitled to their own seat. If you want your child to have an individual seat, and even if the child is under 6 years old, you'll need to buy a children's JR Pass.

Children between the age of 6 and 11 years old have to travel with a children's JR Pass. From 12 years old the child will have to travel with an adult JR Pass.

How are the days calculated for the JR All Kyushu Pass?

The JR All Kyushu Pass is available for 3 or 5 consecutive days.

The passes validity is calculated in days, not in hours,  so it does not matter what time you first use your pass . If you have a 5 days JR All Kyushu Pass and you start using it on March 1st, whatever the time, this will count as day 1, and you will be able to use it until midnight on the 5th of March.

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kyushu tourist pass

Kyushu (��B, Kyūshū, literally "nine provinces") is Japan's third largest island, located southwest of the main island Honshu. An early center of Japanese civilization, Kyushu offers many historic treasures, modern cities and natural beauty.

Top destinations in Kyushu

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Fukuoka •

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Dazaifu •

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Munakata Taisha

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Yutoku Inari Shrine •

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Yoshinogari Park •

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Arita and Imari

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Ureshino Onsen

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Takeo Onsen

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Nagasaki ••

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Huis Ten Bosch •

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Shimabara Peninsula

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Goto Islands

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Kurokawa Onsen ••

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Kumamoto •

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Yufuin •

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Beppu •

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Kunisaki Peninsula •

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Kuju Mountains

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Takachiho •

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Udo Shrine •

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Yakushima •••

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Amami Oshima ••

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Kirishima •

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Kagoshima •

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Satsuma Peninsula •

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Tokunoshima

Questions? Ask in our forum .

kyushu tourist pass

kyushu tourist pass

Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, 7-day kyushu itinerary: where to go and what to see in kyushu.

The hardest yet most exciting part of traveling is often the planning stage and narrowing down where to go given the time you have. I visited the Kyushu region in Japan this past September. This is how I planned (and nearly failed to follow said ambitious plan) for the trip!

View from Daikanbo

Tips for planning Kyushu Itinerary

Narrow down the city you want to visit – Kyushu is a huge region, and if you have limited time, you need to narrow down the experiences you want to see. No joke – whenever I am in a trip planning mode, I would open up google maps and see if there are any familiar names in the vicinity. I immediately zeroed in on the familiar cities: Hiroshima (not really in Kyushu but it’s very close), Fukuoka , Nagasaki, Kumamoto , and Kagoshima.

Plan out the order to visit the places you want to go to  – Once again, I used google maps to see where each place are in relative to each other, then I checked the train routes to map out the best ways to travel between these cities and how long the journey would take. Once I’ve done this, it became clear that we needed to make Fukuoka our base since it’s the center point of the cities we’ve picked.

Yes, You WILL need a JR Pass! JR Pass is the train pass that allows you to take intercity trains in Japan for cheaper. The sights to see in Kyushu are spread apart in different cities, so unless you’re planning to only visit one city, you will definitely need the JR Pass as you’ll likely be using the train to move around. You can buy Unlimited JR Pass or JR Kyushu Pass . Scroll down to the end of this post for more information about the JR Pass and which one is more suitable for you.

You must buy the JR Pass from outside of Japan before your trip . The JR pass is solely for tourists and it used to not be available for purchase within Japan, though there are now limited quantities for sale in Japan for a higher price. You should still buy it ahead of time to make sure and have it sent to your home before your trip, so make sure you get it way ahead of time so that it arrives before your trip.

Check the first and last train out of the city – I also checked for the first and last shinkansen out between cities so that I know the earliest time I can get to a city and the latest time I can leave. This helps me narrow that what activities I can do in the city.

Account for travel fatigue – I have to admit I got over-excited when I planned for this trip. I was really intent on hitting up all 5 cities in 7 days. My biggest advice here and a lesson I had to learn is to account for travel fatigue. You can’t feasibly be moving every other day and not get tired by the end of it. All of the cities I mentioned above are great destinations that I don’t want to miss – but it is very ambitious to hit up all five in 7 days. I had to sacrifice visiting Kagoshima since it isn’t convenient to get to if I want to also include Nagasaki in the itinerary.

My 7-Day Kyushu Travel Itinerary

In the end, after all the research, this is the Kyushu itinerary I went with:

  • Day 1: Hiroshima . Land in Osaka in the morning, go to Hiroshima immediately, and spend all day in Hiroshima.
  • Day 2: Fukuoka . Travel to Fukuoka in the morning, then spend time in  Fukuoka All-Day
  • Day 3: Nagasaki . Travel to Nagasaki in the morning and spend the rest of the day in Nagasaki
  • Day 4: Stay in  Nagasaki All-day
  • Day 5: Nagasaki & Fukuoka . Spend time in Nagasaki in the morning, then go to  Fukuoka in the afternoon.
  • Day 6: Kumamoto Day trip
  • Day 7: Spend time in  Fukuoka in the morning, Fly back to Singapore in the afternoon

What to do and where to go in Kyushu, Japan

Here are some places you can consider visiting in Kyushu:

1. Fukuoka (2 days)

Fukuoka is the biggest city in Kyushu. It’s a great starting point for Kyushu – lots of direct trains leaving Hakata station, the main station of Fukuoka. Aside from that, they are also known for food! Yep, the Hakata ramen is actually from Fukuoka! You can read about the food in Fukuoka and Yatai stalls here .

Yatai Stall on Watanabe dori in Fukuoka

2. Nagasaki (2-3 days)

Nagasaki needs no introduction, the city offers an extensive insight into Japan during the World War II period. Although they are mostly known for its bleak fate as the site of the second atomic bombing, Nagasaki holds an important place in Japanese history. During the era of seclusion called Sakoku, the Japanese were forbidden to leave the country, and the only foreign trade allowed within Japan was done through a manmade island in Nagasaki, called Dejima. Nowadays you can see history from the seclusion period as well as the era that follows after – the Dutch, Portuguese and Chinese influences from the 16-19th century when Nagasaki becomes the only open port in Japan.

Chinatown in Nagasaki

3. Kumamoto (Day trip from Fukuoka)

In 2016, Kumamoto was hit by a series of very strong earthquakes. However, it’s still interesting to see the city after the earthquake. The Kumamoto castle, for one, was able to sustain the strong 7.0 earthquake, just as its Japanese architects had intended when the castle was built four centuries ago.

You can also do a road trip or tour to Mount Aso , one of the most beautiful areas in Kyushu. Kumamoto is a very doable day trip from Fukuoka. Read about my day trip to Kumamoto from Fukuoka here .

Kumamoto Castle

4. Kagoshima (1-2 days)

I did not make it to Kagoshima due to limited time in Kyushu, but I wish I had made it down here. Kagoshima is a seaside city in Kyushu and is best known for Sakurajima, a volcanic mountain often referred to as Japan’s Vesuvius. Aside from that, Kagoshima is also well known for its food and produce – most notably, the Kurobuta aka black pig, which is highly regarded in Japan for being high in protein and low in calories. Kurobuta is normally eaten in shabu-shabu style, aka Japanese hot pot.

If you have time and are interested in nature, you can also visit Yakushima, an island off the coast of Kagoshima. The island is covered in cedar forest that contains some of Japan’s oldest living trees – some as old as 7,000 years.

Yakushima

5. Beppu (1 day)

Beppu is a spa resort town, known for its range of onsens (Japanese hot springs) – they have over 2,000 onsens in Beppu! Aside from the usual hot springs, they also have sand baths, mud baths, and steam baths. You can relax in one of the Japanese’s favorite past times – a bath in the hot spring and eating Onsen food after. You can reach Beppu by train from Fukuoka, but if you’re a true Onsen enthusiast, you might want to check out this Beppu and Yufuin Onsen spa tour , which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off!

Booking Accommodations in Kyushu

Tips for booking hotels.

  • Book ahead of time – Sometimes I like to “wing it” and book accommodations last minute in the spirit of being spontaneous. I quickly learned this isn’t a very smart move when it comes to visiting Japan, as the good hotels get booked up really fast.
  • If you are a non-smoker, pay attention while booking and make sure you tick a non-smoking room  in the room type section. Smoking indoors is not illegal in Japan, so some hotels would segregate smoking and non-smoking rooms by floor. I had to stay in a smoking room in Nagasaki because I booked a smoking room by mistake and they had no more non-smoking rooms 🙁
  • As we are traveling heavily by train, I find that staying at hotels that are on the main station itself  (the station where the shinkansen line stops) really helped us during traveling days since we don’t need to worry about the logistics of getting to the train station. As a bonus point, these areas also tend to be very convenient since in Japan the main station would also come attached with all the amenities like convenience stores, major stores for shopping, and restaurants.

Kyushu Hotel Recommendations

Here are the hotels we stayed in each city. Each of these is very close or attached to the main station of the city, so they are located in a  really good location.

  • Hotel Granvia Hiroshima is literally on top of the Hiroshima station. Despite this, it was not noisy since the hotel rooms are located high up and they are good with noise insulation.
  • JR Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki – yes, JR as in Japan Rail. Nagasaki station is quite small and the lobby of this hotel is right outside the exit of the station!
  • Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Hakata , next to the Hakata Central station in Fukuoka – about 5 minutes walk. I ended up staying here because my first choice was booked up.
  • JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Hakata Central – This was my first choice for Fukuoka, but it was booked up during my visit! It would have been really convenient because Hakata is a major station with all the convenience stores, shopping, and restaurants.

Using JR Pass in Kyushu: The FAQs

I have been to Japan many times before, but I’ve never used the JR pass. Getting a JR Pass only makes sense if you are moving around from city to city, it didn’t make economic sense to get the pass. But when visiting Kyushu, there is a big chance you actually need the JR Pass since the attractions in the Kyushu region span many cities.

What is JR Pass exactly?

JR pass is a form of rail pass that gives you unlimited access to all JR trains in Japan for 7, 14, or 21 days. I bolded the JR train part for emphasis since this gets confusing for some people – in Japan, there are many train companies and Japan Rail (JR) is one of them, and this pass is only valid for JR trains!

If you are coming to Japan, you HAVE to have already bought the JR Pass before your trip, from outside of Japan. The pass CAN NOT be bought from inside of Japan.

Which JR Pass do I need?

If you are planning to go all over Japan, you might want to get an unlimited pass. You can buy the unlimited JR pass here, which can be valid for 7, 14, or 21 days depending on the length of your trip.

However, if you are just going to places in the Kyushu area and your travel schedule fits within 3-5 days, then you can take a look into the JR Kyushu Pass since it’s much cheaper than the unlimited JR Pass.

I found this page to be very useful in terms of pass validity information. Since I was in Kyushu for 7 days and will be moving around a lot, it made sense for me to get the 7-day ticket for 29,110 yen (US$260), even though it was more expensive.

How do I find out the train schedules?

Surprisingly, the most user-friendly way is through Google Maps ! Use the public transport filter (The icon that looks like a train) and play with the “Depart at” filter to see the next train available from point A to B. I find their schedule to be quite accurate. Other than that, you can go to the station and look at the schedule there or use local websites like HyperDia .

Which Shinkansen train can I use with JR Pass?

Shinkansen is the famous Japanese bullet train. It is a much, much faster way to travel than taking a regular train and thus it became the preferred mode of transport for tourists and locals alike.

There are different types of Shinkansen trains running on the same route. Most of the time you don’t have to worry about it since they are all the same, and will get you from point A to B. However, in Kyushu, if you want to use your JR Pass you cannot take Mizuho or Nozomi trains . During my trip, I took mostly Sakura and Haruka trains.

How do you know which train is what type? You can tell the type of trains by looking at the schedule at the train station itself. If you are looking at Google Maps, it is the colored label next to the JR Logo. For example:

Screen Shot 2017-09-13 at 4.36.48 PM

The screenshot above is a sample route from KIX to Osaka. In this case, this Shinkansen type is the blue ribbon with the JR logo next to it, which is Haruka . Since it is not Mizuho or Nozomi, you can take this train on JR Pass.

Cool, so how do you use the JR Pass?

First, a voucher for a JR pass must be purchased from outside of Japan , so you have to sort this out before you go on your trip. Once you have arrived in Japan, and on the day when you want the pass to be activated, you trade in the voucher at any major JR station for the actual pass.

The pass looks like this:

My 7-day JR Pass

Once you have received the pass, you have to keep it with you for the duration of your travel and must always bring it with you when you do a train journey. Don’t lose your pass! It’s like your passport to take the train in Japan.

Also, whenever you want to use the JR pass, you don’t go through the automated gate like everyone else. Instead, you walk up to any JR station gate and show your pass to the ticket officer, usually to the left or right of the automated ticket gates.

Tips on how to travel on unreserved seats on Japanese Trains

JR Pass allows you to reserve seats for free, but in case you ever need to take unreserved seats (which is cheaper when you aren’t on JR Pass), such as if you are traveling with a friend who does not have JR Pass, here’s what I have learned from my experience:

1. Make sure you know ahead of time which cars are designated for unreserved seating

The digital signboard at any major Shinkansen station tells you all the information you need. It flips between Japanese and English, so don’t worry if you can’t read Japanese! Just wait a few seconds until it flips to English.

Train information signboard

Things to note here are the Non-Reserved car indicator on the far right. In the picture above, it’s Cars 1-3. Also note the train type to the left of it, usually 8 or 16 cars. In the picture above it is 8 cars. I’ll explain why later.

2. Plan to line up 15-20 minutes before the schedule

During peak travel time it is entirely possible you might not get to sit next to your travel buddies when the train is full. Or worse, you may not get a seat at all! I have seen people standing up in the space between train cars. So to avoid this, allocate some time for lining up ahead of the scheduled train arrival time.

How do you line up properly in Japan? Easy! Get to your train platform and look down on the floor to find out where you are supposed to line up – usually, there would be a mark that looks like this:

First in line with our snacks from Famima

3. Find out where exactly you are supposed to line up

Remember when I said to note the Non-Reserved car numbers and train type ? This comes in handy when you need to find out where the train will stop, so you know where exactly to line up. On the floor, they would normally have something a sign that looks like this:

Train cars information

This is when the train type matters – whether it’s 8 or 16 cars or whatever number. In the picture above, if your train is an 8-car train then you look at the green box. But if your train is a 16-car train then you look at the yellow box. So just match up the car numbers to the Non-reserved cars from the signboard to make sure you are lining up at the correct spot designated for unreserved seats. When the train comes, the door will open up exactly at this spot!

That’s all! It might seem complicated, but after doing this a few times it’s pretty easy 🙂

Are you planning a trip to Japan? I’ve written loads about the beautiful country. Check out the  ‘Japan’ category of this blog for some travel inspiration.

23 Comments

  • September 14, 2023

Hi and thanks for this article, it’s very informative. Just wondering, if you follow your day 1 arrival in Osaka then back to Singapore on day 7 from Fukuoka? Then what rail pass you need to use from Osaka-Hiroshima and Hiroshima-Fukuoka? Thanks again

  • March 15, 2023

THANK YOU!! I am SO glad I read this, especially about the shinkansen, how to work out the unreserved cars and also where to line up. There is just so much to know, I’d be lost if I hadn’t read it. Plan to go in May with my son. I can speak Japanese but am still overwhelmed by all this. Hope I get it right!!

I’m glad it helped you, Helen! Just note that if you travel with JR Pass you can reserve seats at the train station, so you won’t need to go on the unreserved car.

  • April 26, 2020

Hello! This is actually quite informative. I’ve been to Fukuoka too, but I think I’ve missed out a lot of places once I’ve read your blog. Haha!

  • January 7, 2020

Hello Melissa, what a wonderful blog!! I really like the way you present Japan in such a natural way. If you ever come back to Kyushu, let me show you around my hometown, Kobayashi. Kobayashi is in Miyazaki, so most travellers with limited time don’t put it on their list. But it is more than worth a visit! The Kirishima mountains are great for hiking and the lack of tourists makes for a very authentic Japanese experience. I’d be happy to help you with planning your trip or take you to the mountains or the other fabulous sights in the area.

  • December 9, 2019

Hi Melissa, Did you buy subway pass for travel in Fukuoka? Was it useful or convenient to visit tourist sites around Fukuoka? Please advise.

Hey Soo, I didn’t buy travel pass in Fukuoka since we were mostly using it as a base for nearby attractions.

  • October 4, 2019

Hi, good article but I do believe if you’re from Osaka and only going up (down to) Kumamoto in 7 days, you should consider the Sanyo san’n pass instead. 7 Day JR Sanyo-San’in-Northern Kyushu Area Pass Obtain your Exchange Order in prior by delivery / pick up, activate your 7 consecutive days rail pass that covers unlimited rides from Osaka/Kyoto to Northern Kyushu at a great price https://www.klook.com/activity/5769 It is not only save you a bit of money but also allows you to take faster Sanyo shinkansen which is not allowed only using ordinary JR Pass.

  • September 14, 2019

Hi Melissa,

Have you been to Oita and Yufuin before? are both of these places near to beppu?

  • September 15, 2019

Hey Ellisha, I haven’t been to those places unfortunately, but they are very close to Beppu.

  • July 1, 2019

can i just buy the train tickets without having a JR pass? do they sell it over the counter?

  • July 2, 2019

yes they sell tickets over the counter at the station at regular price

  • May 15, 2019

Hi, if I am scheduling to hang around in Fukuoka area for 5 days only. Which pass are you recommending to me? JR Kyushu Pass or JR Pass? Tq

  • May 16, 2019

depends on your travel plan, but if you are only going to be in Kyushu then JR Kyushu will be sufficient.

  • May 13, 2019

Hi! How much did you spend for the entire tour?

Can i rearrange the line up? Example will start in Kagoshima on Day 1 and so on?

  • May 14, 2019

Hey Kaye, This was so long ago that I unfortunately don’t remember the budget. I think we spent less than $1500 per person though including flight from Singapore which was about $700. You can definitely rearrange the line up, as long as you are ok for long travel on Day 1. Kagoshima is located the furthest down from Fukuoka.

  • January 30, 2019

hi thanks 4 sharing. hope you’ll explain more abt fukuoka n nagasaki soon becoz i’ll be there on april. and i need extra info for my iti. tq

  • July 2, 2018

Thank you for the article. Very clearly written

  • March 13, 2017

Just wondering why you didn’t get the JR Kyushu pass instead?

i think its because i needed it to be valid for 7 days

  • November 21, 2016

Nice article! Wish to have JR pass experience. Thank you Melissa.

  • November 14, 2016

Yes! They are very exact and punctual too!

last photo its so curious and funny. Train really stop in the place??

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Visit Kyushu The Official Kyushu Travel Guide

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Getting to Kyushu

It’s closer than you think

Fukuoka Airport

Kyushu is well-connected to the rest of Japan and the world, with international ports and airports and direct access to the island of Honshu by shinkansen and road. Whichever way you travel, you will find a warm welcome.

Where is Kyushu?

kyushu tourist pass

Each prefecture of Kyushu has its own airport, with direct flights from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, in 2 hours or less. Fukuoka is Kyushu's busiest airport, with flights from other Asian cities including Singapore, Seoul and Shanghai.

kyushu tourist pass

Hakata Station in Fukuoka and Kagoshima-Chuo in Kagoshima are major stops on Tokaido / Sanyo shinkansen line from Tokyo, via Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. The trip to Hakata takes around 5 to 6 hours from Tokyo, depending on which train you take. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you can also use your pass within Kyushu. There are several options for JR Kyushu Rail Pass that can help international visitors get around for a reasonable cost. The passes cover JR Kyushu trains within a specific area, from shinkansen services to local trains, and many sightseeing trains.

By Train PC

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Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass

Discover Northern Kyushu with a Regional Pass. One Pass, unlimited adventures in Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Saga, and more.

Foreign tourists can enjoy unlimited train travel in the Chugoku region, northern Kyushu, and parts of the Kansai Region with the Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass.

Using a single ticket, travelers can explore this area of Japan for 7 consecutive days. The pass provides great flexibility and value for money . Find out more about the benefits of this pass and how it works on this page.

How it works

Order online

It takes just a few minutes to order your Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass online.

Receive your Exchange Order

Your Exchange Order can be delivered to your home, hotel in Japan, or another address.

Obtain your Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass

Swap the Exchange Order for your Rail Pass at one of the JR Exchange Offices .

Start your Japan experience

Enjoy unlimited travel in the Chugoku Region, northern Kyushu, and parts of the Kansai Region.

What is included

With the Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass, foreign tourists can make the most of unlimited trips on specified trains and buses in the regions of Chugoku, northern Kyushu, as well as parts of the Kansai Region .

The Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass provides unlimited use of:

  • Local, rapid, and limited express JR trains in the area
  • Trains on the Chizu Express Line (non-JR line) to Tottori
  • Sanyo Shinkansen between Shin-Osaka and Hakata, includes the Hello Kitty Shinkansen
  • Kyushu Shinkansen between Hakata and Kumamoto
  • Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen
  • Kyoto Tango Railway
  • JR ferry to Miyajima
  • West Japan JR bus (local buses in Kyoto City and Obama and Fukuchiyama areas)
  • Chugoku JR bus (Hiroshima and Yamaguchi)
  • Super Hagi bus (Chugoku)
  • JR Kyushu bus (Hita Hikosan line BRT)
  • Bike rentals at designated Ekirin Kun outlets in the area

The pass is not valid on:

Holders of the Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass can make seat reservations at no additional cost . You can make your reservations at ticket offices or ticket machines before boarding the train.

When is it good for?

Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Rail Pass is valid for 7 consecutive calendar days , starting from the date of first use. The pass is valid from midnight to midnight, regardless of when you make your first journey.

Valid for a full week, this pass is the best choice if you want to explore Northern Kyushu. Visit Fukuoka, Nagasaki , and more.

If your pass expires while you’re riding a train, the pass will be valid until the following day provided you do not depart the train or exit the station.

Passes cannot be extended , even in the event of train delays or non-availability. You should check all the terms and conditions of your pass.

Eligibility and validity requirements

The Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Rail Pass is available only to foreign visitors on temporary stays . Residents of Japan cannot get or use this type of rail pass.

Other restrictions include:

  • Single-person pass — it cannot be shared among multiple passengers. Each visitor must purchase their own rail pass and carry their passport with them when traveling.
  • One pass per person — you are only permitted to purchase one Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Rail Pass for the same period.
  • Lost or stolen tickets — lost, stolen, or damaged tickets will not be reissued.

Children can get a discounted Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Rail Pass.

Child prices apply to passengers aged between 6 and 11 when the exchange order is issued. Passengers aged 12 and over pay the adult fee.

For every adult or child pass purchased, up to 2 children aged between 1 and 5 can travel. However, a child’s pass is required if the child will sit alone in a reserved seat or travel alone.

Babies under 12 months old do not need a pass, they can travel for free.

Exchange your pass

You can easily buy your Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Rail Pass online . It’s just like purchasing the full Japan Rail Pass.

After payment, you’ll be issued with an Exchange Order which you need to swap for your pass when you get to Japan . To do so, present your Exchange Order and passport at the exchange office located in one of the stations listed below. You’ll then be issued your pass and you can start traveling right away.

Here are the stations with exchange offices and their respective opening hours.

Why a Regional Pass?

If you plan to travel around a specific area of Japan rather than the whole country, you should consider a Regional Pass . As it covers a limited area, the Regional Pass is cheaper than the full JR Rail Pass.

Offering great value for money, the Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Rail Pass is the ideal choice for getting around top destinations in one of Japan’s largest islands.

Here’s a full list of benefits of the regional pass:

  • Value for money : with limited coverage, the regional pass is more economical than the full JR Pass. Pay only for the area you’ll visit.
  • Reduced fees for children : children under the age of 12 enjoy discounted fees. Babies aged under 1 year travel free.
  • In-depth exploration : by focusing on a specific area with a regional pass, you can visit beyond the major cities.
  • Access local services : local, rapid and limited express trains are included. See smaller towns you might otherwise miss out on.
  • High-speed transport : several Shinkansen services are included, experience Japan’s famous bullet trains.

Whole Japan Rail Pass

A Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Rail Pass is suitable if you will not travel beyond northern Kyushu. However, if you’d like to see more of Japan during your stay, the full JR Pass may be your best option.

Advantages of getting the full Japan Rail Pass instead of a Regional Pass include:

Unlimited Access: With the JR Pass, you’ll enjoy full access to JR trains and bus services.

Explore all of Japan: Travel around the entire country with the JR Pass. Make the most out of your trip with the full rail pass.

Full Shinkansen Network: With the Japan Rail Pass, you get access to the complete Shinkansen train network. Travel high-speed on Japan’s bullet trains.

Main Airport Transfers: Transfers between major airports and city centers are included in the JR Pass, one less thing to worry about.

Stay connected while in Japan

  • Regional Passes
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Life Of Doing

One Week in Kyushu Itinerary: Explore the Best of Northern Kyushu, Japan

During your 1 week in Kyushu itinerary, check out the Fukuoka skyline to see the purple and orange skies during sunset.

While most people associate Japan with Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka , one area that needs to be on your Japan itinerary is Kyushu Island. Kyushu is the third largest island in Japan’s archipelago and is located in the southern area of the country. 

Where are the best places to visit in Kyushu? Since the island is HUGE, we suggest that you spend the time in Northern Kyushu, specifically Fukuoka, Beppu, and Nagasaki. These underrated cities will give you an introduction to its beautiful landscapes and mountains, history, and mouthwatering local cuisines. Plus, these areas don’t attract huge crowds like in Tokyo and Kyoto. 

We suggest that you spend at least 1 week in Kyushu. This Kyushu 7 days itinerary highlights the cities to visit in Kyushu, transportation options, and recommended places to stay. As with any travel itinerary that we share, feel free to mix up the sightseeing attractions based on your interest and time.

Now let’s visit these Kyushu must-see tourist attractions!

Click on the links below to jump to certain sections of this Kyushu itinerary for 7 days.

  • Map of Kyushu 
  • How to Travel Around Kyushu
  • Fukuoka (Days 1-2)
  • Beppu (Days 3-4)
  • Nagasaki (Days 5-6)
  • Free Day or Departure (Day 7)

*Disclaimer: Traveling to Kyushu, Japan? This post contains affiliate links to Kyushu tourist attractions. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

Map of Kyushu Itinerary for 1 Week

This is a map of the Northern Kyushu cities you'll visit on your 1 week Kyushu itinerary.

Click on the image above to see a larger version of where you’ll go on your Kyushu itinerary. Credit: Map data: Google

How to Travel Around Kyushu Using JR Pass

The best way to travel around Kyushu and all of Japan is by using the shinkansen high-speed train operated by Japan Rail (JR) Group. The shinkansen is convenient to use since they are fast, always arrive and depart on time, have comfortable seats, and run constantly. They also connect to the local train lines. Using the shinkansen is also a sustainable way to travel since you reduce your carbon footprint for long-distance travel. 

All visitors with a temporary visa have the opportunity to use the shinkansen if you have a wide-area Japan Rail (JR) Pass , JR Sanyo-Sanin – Northern Kyushu Pass , or JR Kyushu Pass . With the pass, you’re able to travel within a large area (basically all of Japan), take JR local and fast-speed train lines. You won’t be able to take the Nozomi and Mizuho fast line but the Sakura and Hikari still are quite fast with a few extra stops along the way.

You would need to calculate if it’s more cost-efficient to have a wide-area JR Pass, Sanyo-Sanin – Northern Kyushu Pass, or Kyushu Pass. Once you have your Kyushu itinerary ready, you can use this scheduler to determine the cost and the departure/arrival times of the shinkansen. 

The wide-area JR Pass is beneficial if you plan to visit different areas of Japan. They have a 7, 14, and 21-day pass. Buy your JR pass for a discounted price here . 

The Sanyo-Sanin – Northern Kyushu Pass is for the Kyushu area and also travels to/from the Osaka area. This pass lasts 7 days. Buy your pass here for a discounted price.  

JR Kyushu Pass is available but has duration of 3 or 5 days. This pass is good if you fly to Kyushu and don’t plan to travel outside of the island. Buy your JR Kyushu Pass here .

You’ll need to purchase the JR pass in advance and exchange the voucher for the physical ticket at the shinkansen ticket office on your arrival. It’s recommended that you also reserve seats in advance so you don’t need to worry about not getting one in the non-reserved seating car. You can reserve seats in person at the ticket office.

This post will focus on using the shinkansen between the cities since that was our main mode of transportation.

Kyushu Itinerary Day 1-2: Fukuoka

Fukuoka ( 福岡市) is the main city in Fukuoka Prefecture. As the northern city in Kyushu, it’s the perfect introduction to this island. With a mix of traditional and metropolitan architecture and culture, you’ll love spending a few days in Fukuoka (also referred to as Hakata in the Hakata area). If you are a huge ramen eater, you’ll love eating your way through this city. 

Read our detailed Fukuoka itinerary here.

Five story red pagoda and temple in the Tochoji Temple area in Fukuoka, Japan. It's a fabulous place to visit on your one day in Fukuoka.

Tochoji Temple is a recommended place to visit in Fukuoka.

How to Get to Fukuoka

Fukuoka has an international airport and it’s only 6 minutes away to get to the main station, Hakata Station ( 博多駅) by train. From the Fukuokakuku Station ( 福岡空港駅) at the airport, hop onto the local train on the Kuko Line and go two stops to Hakata Station. 

By Shinkansen 

If you’re coming from Honshu Island where Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are located, you’ll need to take the shinkansen directly to Hakata Station. Travel times will vary depending on your starting location. 

Top Things to Do in Fukuoka 

  • Eat Hakata ramen (also referred to as tonkotsu ramen) when you’re in Fukuoka. Many of your favorite ramen shops originated here such as Ippudo, Ichiran, and Shin-Shin Ramen. You can easily spend the day trying different ramen branches.
  • Take a historical walking tour . Visit important temples and shrines such as the Kushida Shrine and Tochoji Temple  which is close to Hakata Station.  
  • Walk along the riverfront and try the Yatai food stalls in the evenings. It’s similar to hawker food stalls in Singapore .
  • Go shopping at Canal City , a multi-level shopping center that has boutique and popular stores.
  • Check out the old ruins of the Fukuoka Castle .
  • See the views of Fukuoka city from Fukuoka Tower .
  • Explore Dazaifu on a day trip . It was originally Fukuoka’s former government area so you can see ancient ruins of the buildings and also check out the shrines and temples.

Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is one of the top things to do on your Dazaifu itinerary. It's a gorgeous temple with lots of people visiting.

Tenmangu Shrine is one of the best attractions to visit in Dazaifu.

Places to Stay in Fukuoka

We stayed at Hotel Mei which is within walking distance to Canal City. It’s a new hotel that offers various rooms whether you want a suite or an executive room. We had a budget-friendly room that was spacious and had the amenities needed for our stay. Book a room at Hotel Mei here .

For other options, check out accommodation reviews and book a room in Fukuoka here.

Kyushu Itinerary Day 3-4: Beppu

Beppu ( 別府市) is a famous onsen (hot springs) location in Japan. Located in Oita Prefecture, this mountainous city is unique to visit as you see steam coming from the rooftops of the onsen. You’ll love the opportunity to relax in a hot spring and also get a chance to see the multi-colored bubbly hot springs up close. Two days is a good amount of time to relax in the middle of your Japan itinerary. 

Click to read more about our Beppu itinerary here. 

How to get to beppu from fukuoka.

Take the shinkansen high-speed train from Fukuoka’s Hakata Station ( 博多駅) to Beppu Station ( 別府駅). It’ll take 2 hours. 

Top Things to Do in Beppu

  • Relax at an onsen . You can choose to stay overnight at an onsen or spend time in one with mineral spring water, mud bath, or in the sand.  
  • The main highlight of Beppu is to visit the Seven Hells of Beppu . Take the Jigoku Meguri (Hells Tour) to visit the seven hot springs – Chinoike, Tatsumaki, Shiraike, Oniyama, Kamado, Umi, and Oniishi Bozu. You’ll love the different colors from cobalt to mud pits for the hot springs. There are 8 Jigoku in the area but one isn’t a part of the Jigoku Meguri ticket combination. This attraction will take about half a day. 

Read our Seven Hells of Beppu guide here. 

Umi Jigoku has cobalt blue waters and steam and is a popular Hells of Beppu site to visit.

Out of the Seven Hells of Beppu, Umi Jigoku is our favorite!

  • Eat Beppu specialties such as steamed foods, steamed custard pudding and eggs, and toriten (tempura battered chicken).
  • Take a day trip to Yufuin, one of the best onsen towns in Japan . Although it’s a smaller town, you can’t miss the relaxation opportunities and go hiking up Mount Yufu. 
  • Visit Harmonyland , an outdoor Sanrio amusement park. See Hello Kitty and friends here or visit them in Tokyo’s Sanrio Puroland .

Places to Stay in Beppu

We stayed at Beppu Hostel U&T which was an affordable option and close to the Beppu Station. The rooms are larger than other places that we stayed at. Plus, this place has unlimited tea and beverage services! Book a room at Beppu Hostel U&T here.

For other options, click here to read reviews of Beppu accommodations and make a reservation . 

Kyushu Itinerary Day 5-6: Nagasaki 

Nagasaki ( 長崎) is a location that has both Japanese and Western influences. As the largest city in the Nagasaki Prefecture and former port city, you’ll see influences with the Portuguese and Dutch with the architecture and Christianity. It’s also known as the second location to experience the atomic bomb on August 9, 1945 (3 days after the Hiroshima incident). Since Nagasaki is a large area with lots of local attractions, you can easily spend 2-3 days here. 

Read more about our Nagasaki itinerary here. 

On your one day in Nagasaki itinerary, check out the bronze Peace Statue at the Nagasaki Peace Park. It's of a man holding up his right hand to the sky and left arm horizontally to show world peace.

The Peace Statue at the Peace Park is a lovely place to visit in Nagasaki.

How to Get to Nagasaki from Beppu

To get to Nagasaki from Beppu, you’ll need to allocate 4 hours and do one transfer on the shinkansen fast-speed train. From Beppu Station ( 別府駅) to Fukuoka’s Hakata Station ( 博多駅) , the shinkansen ride will take 2 hours. Afterward, transfer at Hakata Station to go on a different train that goes to Nagasaki Station (長崎駅) . This will take another 2 hours. It’s a long journey so it’s recommended that you purchase a meal or snacks ahead of time for your ride. 

Top Things to Do in Nagasaki

  • Learn about the history and events leading up to the atomic bomb incident at the Atomic Bomb Museum and the National Peace Memorial Hall for Atomic Bomb Victims.  Pay your respects at the Peace Park and also see the atomic bomb hypocenter at the Hypocenter Park .
  • Visit Nagasaki’s churches such as Oura Church and Urakami Cathedral.
  • Explore the isolated island for Dutch merchants at Dejima . 
  • Eat champon , a noodle specialty dish from Nagasaki. It’s one of our favorite Japanese foods to eat!
  • Visit Chinatown to shop and eat. If you can visit during the Nagasaki Lantern Festival , you’ll see over 15,000 lanterns light up the area. Nearby Chinatown is also the Spectacles Bridge that looks like a pair of glasses.

Colorful lanterns and displays for the Nagasaki Lantern Festival in Nagasaki, Japan

If you have a chance to visit Nagasaki during the Lantern Festival, you’ll see incredible decors and displays.

  • Check out the nighttime views from the summit of Mount Inasa at 333 meters (1,093 feet) above sea level. You can take the ropeway to the top of the mountain.
  • Take day trips to visit the Huis Ten Bosch , the Netherland-inspired amusement park, or see the abandoned island of Hashima Island (Battleship Island).

Places to Stay in Nagasaki

We stayed at MP Hotel Nagasaki Mizubenomori which is a quiet location in the residential area. This place is great if you’re looking for an apartment-style hotel room. The best part is that this room has a washing machine. Regardless, this place is close to the streetcar so you can travel around the city. Book a room at MP Hotel Nagasaki Mizubenomori here.

For other options, click here to read reviews of Nagasaki accommodations and make a reservation .

Kyushu Itinerary Day 7: Travel Day or Departure

On your last day in Kyushu, this is your free day to do whatever you’d like! Depending on your schedule you can visit neighboring areas in Kyushu, head to the neighboring Honshu Island, or depart back home via plane at Nagasaki or Fukuoka airport.

If you have extra time to explore Kyushu, take a day trip to Kumamoto ( 熊本市). The city is known for the Kumamoto Castle ( 熊本城) so you’ll get an opportunity to explore a historic landmark. 

How to Get to Kumamoto from Nagasaki

From Nagasaki to Kumamoto, take the shinkansen for a two-hour ride. From Nagasaki Station ( 長崎駅) , head to Shin-Tosu Station ( 新鳥栖駅) . The ride takes 1.5 hours. Transfer here and take the shinkansen to Kumamoto Station ( 熊本駅) for another 25 minutes. 

How to Get to Honshu Island from Nagasaki

If you are planning to head to Honshu Island, you’re in luck as there are many places to explore. Honshu Island is the largest island out of Japan’s archipelago. It has popular cities such as Hiroshima, Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo, and other exciting places. 

The nearest main city that is closest to Fukuoka is Hiroshima. We recommend that you stop by Hiroshima for two days to learn more about the Hiroshima atomic bomb , visit the Hiroshima Castle , and do a day trip to Miyajima Island . 

View of Hiroshima Castle from the outside of the moat. Hiroshima Castle is a popular site to visit on your Hiroshima itinerary and when you're visiting Kyushu.

Although Hiroshima Castle is rebuilt, it’s still gorgeous to see!

How to Get to Hiroshima from Nagasaki

From Nagasaki to Hiroshima, take the shinkansen for a 3.5-hour ride. From Nagasaki Station ( 長崎駅) , head to Shin-Tosu Station ( 新鳥栖駅) . The ride takes 1.5 hours. Transfer here and take the shinkansen to Hiroshima Station ( 広島駅 ) for another 1 hour and 20 minutes. 

Have a safe departure! 

This one week in Kyushu went by quickly! This island has so many hidden gems to explore. We hope you enjoyed Kyushu as much as we did so you can return to visit Southern Kyushu in the future. 

What are you most interested in seeing in Northern Kyushu? If you have questions about this Kyushu travel guide or itinerary, ask one in the comments below.  

Save this post to your Japan Pinterest board. 

With your one week in Kyushu itinerary, head to the Northern Kyushu cities such as Fukuoka to see the skyline, Beppu, and Nagasaki to see the Spectacle Bridge.

Featured photo & pin #1 photo credit: sepavone via Depositphotos.com

kyushu tourist pass

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

One Day in Fukuoka, Japan: A Fukuoka Itinerary That Is Great for Ramen Lovers

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kyushu tourist pass

This looks like such an amazing place. Unfortunately, when we were in Japan we didn’t have enough time to go to Nagasaki. We do hope to go back to visit places like this instead of all the big cities! Saving for later.

Thanks Pamela. There is so much to see in Japan! Once the current situation is over, hope you can make a plan to return to Japan. We would love to go back to Kyushu and spend time in the southern areas to see waterfalls and more beautiful landscapes.

kyushu tourist pass

Interesting places in Kyushu and we already know that Japan has many amazing places where we can spend our time. I love this place and will plan to go there.

Thank you! Kyushu Island is underrated since it takes a while to get there from Osaka and has fewer crowds. Look forward to hearing about your experiences when you visit.

kyushu tourist pass

I’ve always wanted to go to Japan!! What an amazing guide you’ve created. There’s so much to do and see especially in the Kyushu area. I’ll save this for my trip!

Thanks Katie! If you have any questions during your future Japan planning, I’m happy to help!

kyushu tourist pass

This is a great guide you’ve created for Japan. I’ve been to some Asian countries like India and I’m always excited to explore more countries there!

Thanks Olga! Glad you enjoyed this Kyushu itinerary! I’m overdue for a return trip to India. I’ve only been to Bangalore for work so I can’t wait to explore other tourist attractions.

kyushu tourist pass

I am truly blown away by everything Japan has to offer. We returned from our trip to Japan in February and I never thought to visit Kyushu – thank you for taking the time to write this. I feel like one could spend years in Japan and still not see it all!

Hi Sarah. We returned from our trip to Japan in February as well! Where did you go? Hope you get a chance to visit Kyushu in the future.

kyushu tourist pass

Just by your photos I already want to go Kyushu area! Great post!!

We visited Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara! So much we still need to see!

Hi Sarah – I agree! There is never enough time to explore all of Japan. Justin and I haven’t been Hakone yet, but it’s on the bucket list.

kyushu tourist pass

I’m late to this post but am planning a trip to Kyushu later this year for my first visit to Japan. Thanks for the insight, can’t wait to see what the island has to offer.

Hi JJ. Thank you for sharing a comment. Enjoy your time in Kyushu! Would love to hear back from you on your experience. We can’t wait to go back and explore more on Kyushu island.

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4 replies to this topic

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Taxi fare ~23,000 , or drive.

Thank you, is that for two people? What's the best way to set up a taxi service at Takachiho (hotel arrangement or online request)?

taxi fare is per vehicle.

Taxi company: https://www.taxisite.com/cal/profile/2498.aspx

It's best to ask your hotel as all the websites (including the taxi company's own) are in Japanese.

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Home > Kyushu Travel Information

Kyushu Travel Information

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To Kyushu Travel Information site

Kyushu is an island located in the southwest of Japan and consists of seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki and Kagoshima. Kyushu is easy place to get around. Sightseeing destination are conveniently accessible and, wherever you go, each location has its own attraction. It is not surprising that Kyushu has many foreign visitors that return regularly. Please come and take a look.

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IMAGES

  1. 3 Transportation Passes for Touring Kyushu

    kyushu tourist pass

  2. 3 Transportation Passes for Touring Kyushu

    kyushu tourist pass

  3. 日本九州自駕遊必買:九州高速公路ETC卡

    kyushu tourist pass

  4. JR Pass Kyushu Itinerary: 5 Cities to Visit with Your JR Kyushu Pass

    kyushu tourist pass

  5. All Kyushu Area Pass

    kyushu tourist pass

  6. Sanyo-San’in Northern Kyushu Pass

    kyushu tourist pass

VIDEO

  1. 【4K】Kyoto Maruyama Park Cherry Blossom Walking Tour

  2. 【4K】Melting Snow in Kyoto Walking Tour

  3. [4K]JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS (Northern Kyushu ver.)

  4. Japan Kyushu Tourist Movie Nature

  5. 🇯🇵 อัพเดต JR Pass ที่ญี่ปุ่น ปรับราคาตั๋วใหม่ และ เส้นทางเดินรถใหม่ ล่าสุด!! [ Up date ]

  6. Going Solo In Japan~The Wonders of Kyushu~ Season2

COMMENTS

  1. Jr Kyushu Rail Pass|Jr Kyushu Railway Company

    JR KYUSHU MOBILE PASS. The JR Kyushu Mobile Pass is a smartphone-based ticket that does not require redemption at station counters. You don't have to worry about losing or damaging the ticket, as you can access it anytime from your smartphone, allowing you to travel more freely in Kyushu than ever before. View Details.

  2. All Kyushu / Northern Kyushu / Southern Kyushu|JR KYUSHU RAILWAY COMPANY

    All Kyushu /Northern Kyushu /Southern Kyushu. This pass is ideal for travelling throughout Kyushu as there are pass types available that offer access to Northern Kyushu, Southern Kyushu, or Kyushu in its entirety. This pass also gives users the ability to freely select seats on local trains, limited express trains, and Shinkansen (bullet trains).

  3. 3 Transportation Passes for Touring Kyushu

    There are four types of passes: 1 [Northern Kyushu + Shimonoseki] Unlimited rides for 3 consecutive days: ¥9,000. 2 [Southern Kyushu] Unlimited rides for 3 consecutive days: ¥8,000. 3 [All Kyushu + Shimonoseki] Unlimited rides for 3 consecutive days: ¥11,000. 4 [All Kyushu + Shimonoseki] Unlimited rides for 4 consecutive days: ¥14,000.

  4. The Official Kyushu Travel Guide

    Kyushu is a land full of energy, from its vibrant people to its famous volcanoes. Close to the rest of Asia and easily accessible from Tokyo, Kyushu has welcomed new ideas and cultures for over a thousand years. Experience the dynamic landscapes, relax in the many hot springs, and enjoy the warmth of genuine hospitality.

  5. Kyushu Rail Pass

    The Kyushu Rail Pass by JR Kyushu is a rail pass for exclusive use by foreign visitors to Japan, providing unlimited travel on JR trains on the island of Kyushu (except the Sanyo Shinkansen) for two, three, five or seven consecutive days. Reduced rates (50% off) apply to children aged 6-11. Below are maps of the train lines, which can be used ...

  6. Kyushu by Rail

    Kyushu by Rail. Make the most of your JR Kyushu Rail Pass as you explore Kyushu's beautiful west coast. To travel through from Fukuoka to Kagoshima, you'll need the All Kyushu Area Pass. The pass covers the shinkansen from Hakata Station in Fukuoka to Kagoshima-Chuo Station in Kagoshima and many local trains; it also covers some fascinating ...

  7. JR Kyushu Rail Pass Complete Guide: How To Book & Where ...

    Here's how: Visit Klook: Navigate to the Klook website or APP. Select Your Pass: Choose the JR Kyushu Rail Pass that aligns with your travel plans. Make Payment: Complete the secure payment process with various payment methods. Receive Voucher: Receive the e-Exchange Order in the Klook confirmation email.

  8. JR Kyushu Pass: Where To Buy & Is It Worth It In 2023?

    The All Kyushu Pass is a discount travel pass that allows you to travel freely on the trains and buses of Kyushu, including the Kyushu Shinkansen. The pass is available in 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day options, and it can be used on a consecutive or non-consecutive basis. Check Current Prices & Reserve Now.

  9. JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS ~Welcome back to Kyushu~|JR Kyushu

    Introducing the "JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS," a convenient ticket for traveling in Kyushu. JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS is a pass that allows you get on and off freely. ... Overseas travel agency / JR Kyushu Ticketing Office The number of restriction times for seat reservation; Northern Kyushu: 3 day : JPY 11,000: JPY 12,000: Up to 6 times:

  10. Getting around Kyushu

    Kyushu is surrounded by sea and dotted with islands, ranging from charming fishing ports to World Heritage sites. Ferries offer a scenic way to get around, and can be more direct than the road routes. The SunQ Pass for buses also covers many ferry services, and there are discount passes in many cities. There are private ferry companies covering ...

  11. Kyushu Budget Guide: JR Kyushu Pass vs SunQ Pass

    Southern Kyushu 3-Days Pass (¥8,000) All Kyushu 3-Days (¥11,000) and 4-Days Pass (¥14,000) Traveling Kyushu By Bus. Similar to Kyushu JR Pass, SunQ Pass also offers All Kyushu, Southern, and Northern Kyushu SunQ Pass options. It is valid for 3 or 4 consecutive days with prices ranging from ¥8,000 to ¥14,000.

  12. ALL KYUSHU Area Pass

    The All Kyushu Area Pass provides access to JR Kyushu trains for 3 or 5 consecutive days, allowing you to discover the charms of the region. Great value for visitors who want to explore Kyushu. The All Kyushu Area Pass provides unlimited access to JR Kyushu lines Shinkansen between Hakata - Kagoshima-chuo (except the Sanyo Shinkansen between Kokura and Hakata). The pass is only available for ...

  13. Kyushu Travel Guide

    Land of volcanoes, ancient religious sites and a galaxy of regional cuisines. Kyushu (九州, Kyūshū, literally "nine provinces") is Japan's third largest island, located southwest of the main island Honshu. An early center of Japanese civilization, Kyushu offers many historic treasures, modern cities and natural beauty.

  14. 7-Day Kyushu Itinerary: Where to go and what to see in Kyushu

    JR Pass is the train pass that allows you to take intercity trains in Japan for cheaper. The sights to see in Kyushu are spread apart in different cities, so unless you're planning to only visit one city, you will definitely need the JR Pass as you'll likely be using the train to move around. You can buy Unlimited JR Pass or JR Kyushu Pass.

  15. How to purchase|JR KYUSHU RAILWAY COMPANY

    Customers who purchased a JR Kyushu Rail Pass from the following travel companies and travel agencies can use the service for reserving seats in advance (for a fee) on the JR KYUSHU RAIL PASS Online Booking site. Overseas branches and authorized travel agents of JTB, Nippon Travel Agency, JALPAK, Kinki Nippon Tourist ...

  16. Getting to Kyushu

    By Train. Hakata Station in Fukuoka and Kagoshima-Chuo in Kagoshima are major stops on Tokaido / Sanyo shinkansen line from Tokyo, via Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. The trip to Hakata takes around 5 to 6 hours from Tokyo, depending on which train you take. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you can also use your pass within Kyushu.

  17. Sanyo-San'in Northern Kyushu Pass

    Foreign tourists can enjoy unlimited train travel in the Chugoku region, northern Kyushu, and parts of the Kansai Region with the Sanyo-San'in Northern Kyushu Pass.. Using a single ticket, travelers can explore this area of Japan for 7 consecutive days.

  18. One Week in Kyushu Itinerary: Explore the Best of Northern Kyushu, Japan

    The Sanyo-Sanin - Northern Kyushu Pass is for the Kyushu area and also travels to/from the Osaka area. This pass lasts 7 days. Buy your pass here for a discounted price. JR Kyushu Pass is available but has duration of 3 or 5 days. This pass is good if you fly to Kyushu and don't plan to travel outside of the island.

  19. JR Kyushu Rail Pass

    To purchase a E-ticket for JR Kyushu Rail Pass Online Booking. You can purchase a E-ticket for JR Kyushu Rail Passes through the JR Kyushu Rail Pass Online Booking. *After you arrive in Japan, please bring your E-ticket to one of the following ticket offices to pick up your "JR Kyushu Rail Pass." *Pass (es) can only be obtained in person and ...

  20. 10 Day Itinerary For Your Kyushu Trip

    Day 1: Fukuoka. Kyushu's largest and most vibrant city is Fukuoka ( 福岡 ), a great place to start your trip. The old castle town is located along Hakata Bay, which made it a favorable base for international trade. The city was first known as Hakata, but was renamed Fukuoka in the 17th century.

  21. 7-10 Day Kyushu Itinerary: Japan's Underrated Island Region

    Here are some important things to note before we get started: I've combined two of my personal itineraries to create this 7-10 day Kyushu travel guide.; For Days 1-4, I recommend using public transport such as the trains and express airport bus.; From Day 5 onwards, a rental car is the best option to reach more remote areas.; I also recommend using Kumamoto as a base, due to its central ...

  22. takachiho to kurokawa onsen

    Kyushu Tourism Kyushu Hotels Kyushu Bed and Breakfast Kyushu Vacation Rentals Flights to Kyushu Kyushu Restaurants Things to Do in Kyushu Kyushu Travel Forum ... One day pass May 07, 2024; Availability of Taxis at Nanzoin May 07, 2024; JR Beetle ferry from Fukuoka to Busan May 07, 2024;

  23. Enjoy the amazing Kyushu trip with JR Kyushu Rail Pass|JR Kyushu

    Book online for JR Kyushu Rail Pass which covers local and rapid trains, popular limited express, tourist trains, and shinkansen operated by JR Kyushu. LANG. MENU. Attraction ... and another of the unique charms not just limited to Kagoshima but Kyushu as a whole is that train travel is an experience in itself, with various beautifully-designed ...

  24. Kyushu Travel Information

    Kyushu Travel Information. Kyushu is an island located in the southwest of Japan and consists of seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki and Kagoshima. Kyushu is easy place to get around. Sightseeing destination are conveniently accessible and, wherever you go, each location has its own attraction.