<Winter> Winter Luxury Gourmet & Onsen in Kyushu 9D7N

SQ656 SIN-FUK 0120-0810

Hotel: Suginoi Hotel or similar / Western room

Meal: Meal on Board / L / D

Upon arrival at Fukuoka Airport, coach transfer to Yufuin Onsen (由布院温泉) and explore the quaint onsen town on your own this afternoon. Besides the main shopping streets for all your souvenir needs, take a short walk to the rural streets for a slower pace of life. Lake Kinrin is a must-visit when you are here, with misty views caused by the warm hot spring water rising into the cool winter air.

After lunch [Japanese Set Menu] at a local restaurant, we will continue on to Beppu, one of Japan’s most renowned onsen regions. The highlight here is Beppu Jigoku Hell (別府地獄めぐり). It features 7 different hot springs such as the Umi-Jigoku was created by a volcanic explosion at Tsurumidake Mountain about 1200 years ago. It is famous for its sea-blue cobalt blue hot spring water.

You can also visit Chinoike Jigoku Hell which features a pond of hot red water. Finally, transfer to hotel for check in and dinner [Buffet].

Hotel: Hotel Nikko Kumamoto or similar / Western room

Meal: B / L / D

This morning, we begin the day with a visit to Aso Daikanbo (大観峰), a natural observatory offering sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks of Mt. Aso —one of Japan's most active volcanoes. On clear days, the panoramic vistas across the caldera and its vast grasslands are simply breathtaking.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we will transfer to Takachiho and visit Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡). This scenic ravine, carved by the Gokase River, is lined with dramatic volcanic basalt cliffs that resemble dragon scales. The highlight here is the Manai Falls — a 17-meter waterfall that gracefully plunges into the river, creating a truly magical atmosphere. You’ll have time to stroll along the walking paths or take in the views from the riverside.

After exploring the gorge, we will visit the historic Takachiho Shrine (高千穂神社). This sacred site is deeply tied to Japanese mythology and the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu. It is also known for its traditional Kagura dance performances, which reenact ancient Shinto stories passed down through generations.

Finally, transfer to Kumamoto for hotel check in and dinner [Local Specialties].

Hotel: Ibusuki Hakusuikan or similar / Western room

Meal: B / - / D

After breakfast, we begin our day with a visit to the iconic Kumamoto Castle (熊本城), one of three most famous castles in Japan. It houses a museum which contains artefacts from the Kato and Hosokawa clans and detailed information on the castle’s remarkable history.

After lunch on your own, take the Shinkansen Bullet Train Experience from Kumamoto to Kagoshima Station. Upon arrival at Kagoshima, enjoy a brief stop at Sebira Park (瀬平公園) for a scenic photo opportunity. This coastal park offers picturesque views of the sea and nearby cliffs, making it a perfect moment to stretch your legs and capture the natural beauty of southern Kyushu.

We then continue by coach to Ibusuki for hotel check-in. Tonight, enjoy dinner [Kaiseki] at the hotel and be sure not to miss the famous Sand Bath Experience, where you will be gently buried in naturally heated volcanic sand – a therapeutic and uniquely Ibusuki tradition, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Hotel: Hotel Monterey Fukuoka or similar / Western room

Meal: B / L / D

After breakfast, we begin the day with a visit to Sengan-en (仙巌園), a beautifully preserved Japanese-style landscaped garden situated along the coast of Kagoshima Bay. This historic estate, once the residence of the powerful Shimadzu clan, features serene ponds, shrines, a bamboo grove, and spectacular views of the active volcano Sakurajima. At Sengan-en, you'll also get the chance to engage in hands-on cultural experiences such as cut glass craft and Japanese archery — a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese artistry and sport.

Next, we board a ferry across Kagoshima Bay to Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes. Upon arrival, visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center (さくらじまビジターセンター), where interactive exhibits and informative displays detail the island’s volcanic history, geology, and local life coexisting with nature’s power.

After exploring the island, return by ferry to Kagoshima and board the Shinkansen to Hakata Station. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check in and dinner [Western].

Hotel: Hotel Europe or similar / Western room

Meal: B / L / -

After breakfast, depart Fukuoka and head west to the scenic coastal area of Itoshima. Enjoy a peaceful drive along the coast and visit the iconic Futamigaura (二見ヶ浦) — famous for its sacred "wedded rocks" (Meoto Iwa), connected by a traditional Shinto rope and set against the backdrop of the sea and torii gate. This picturesque location is perfect for photos and soaking in coastal beauty.

Next, travel to Okawachiyama Village (大川内山の町並み), also known as the “Village of Secret Kilns.” Tucked away in the mountains near Arita, this historic pottery village once produced porcelain exclusively for the ruling Nabeshima clan. Stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional kilns, galleries, and artisan shops showcasing centuries of ceramic craftsmanship. Lunch will be at a local restaurant [Japanese].

After, continue on to Huis Ten Bosch (ハウステンボス), a Dutch-themed resort park in Sasebo that blends European charm with high-tech entertainment. After checking in to your hotel, you’ll have time to explore the park’s evening attractions, including the spectacular illumination displays renowned as some of the best in Japan.

Dinner tonight will be at your own leisure, with a variety of restaurants available within the park to suit every taste.

Hotel: Miyako Hotel Hakata or similar / Western room

Meal: B / L / D

After breakfast, enjoy some free time at Huis Ten Bosch (ハウステンボス) to explore the park at your own pace. Take in the charming European-style architecture, browse specialty shops, or relax in one of the themed gardens before our departure. Next, to the picturesque canal town of Yanagawa (柳川), often referred to as the ‘Venice of Kyushu’. Upon arrival, enjoy a local specialty lunch featuring freshwater eel, a beloved dish in the region.

After lunch, experience the town’s unique charm on a Yanagawa River boat tour (川下り). Sit back and relax in a traditional flat-bottomed boat as you're gently guided through scenic canals lined with willow trees, old merchant homes, and seasonal blooms—a tranquil glimpse into the Edo-period atmosphere. In the late afternoon, transfer to Hakata city for hotel check-in and dinner [French Course].

Hotel: Miyako Hotel Hakata or similar / Western room

Meal: B / L / -

This morning, step aboard The Rail Kitchen Chikugo (ザ レールキッチン 筑後), a unique sightseeing train that combines Kyushu’s scenic countryside with locally inspired cuisine. Departing from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin), you'll enjoy a leisurely ride through the Chikugo region while savoring an early lunch made with fresh, regional ingredients, all served in a beautifully designed onboard dining car.

After returning to the station, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy free time and sightseeing in Hakata. Explore local landmarks, shop for souvenirs, or discover Fukuoka’s vibrant food and culture scene at your own pace.

Meal: B / - / -

SQ655 FUK-SIN 0945-1520

Bid farewell to Fukuoka this morning as we depart for Singapore. We hope that you have enjoyed this vacation with JTB and we look forward to helping you create your next perfect moments, always!

Arrive Singapore

*All the photos are for illustration purposes only
*The itinerary is subject to change due to weather condition
*Meals indicated are for reference only and are subject to change
*Flight schedule is subject to change