kyushu


  • Beppu Daiiti Hotel: The Review (Beppu, Japan)

    Beppu Daiiti Hotel: The Review (Beppu, Japan)

    About Beppu Daiiti Hotel Beppu Daiiti Hotel is a 3-star hotel located in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, Japan. The hotel sits a bit back from the road, giving it a welcoming feel as a garden of sorts with benches has been installed out front. In practice this is where people who are inclined to do so…


  • Review of Big Barns Apartment Tagami (Kagoshima, Japan)

    Review of Big Barns Apartment Tagami (Kagoshima, Japan)

    About Big Barns Apartment Tagami Big Barns Apartment Tagami (also known as 短期賃貸ビッグバーンズマンション田上) is a holiday rental located in a suburban neighbourhood in Kagoshima City, Japan. The apartment can sleep a maximum of 4, although if you are spending any length of time here or spending any time in the apartment other than to sleep,…


  • Family Ryokan Kawakyu: a comprehensive review (Ibusuki, Japan)

    Family Ryokan Kawakyu: a comprehensive review (Ibusuki, Japan)

    About Family Ryokan Kawakyu Family Ryokan Kawakyu is a ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn) located in the town of Ibusuki in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Ryokan Kawakyu boasts Japanese-style rooms with Nitanda River views, green tea and traditional futon bedding. The Nitanda River is known for its white egrets, so you may spot one from the room.…


  • Tagawa Yamakasa: Unveiling One of Kyushu’s Hidden Festivals

    Tagawa Yamakasa: Unveiling One of Kyushu’s Hidden Festivals

    While the vibrant spectacle of the Gion Yamakasa Festival draws crowds to Fukuoka in July each year, nestled in the foothills of northern Kyushu lies another Yamakasa event brimming with its unique charm: the Tagawa Yamakasa. Often overshadowed by its larger cousin, Tagawa’s Yamakasa offers a more intimate experience, immersing you in the heart of…


  • Bandokorobana Park: Where Ocean Breezes Meet Panoramic Bliss

    Bandokorobana Park: Where Ocean Breezes Meet Panoramic Bliss

    Imagine this: you stand on a rugged coastline, the scent of salty air swirling around you. The endless expanse of the East China Sea stretches before you, a canvas of tranquil turquoise kissed by the golden rays of the rising sun. Gentle waves lap at the volcanic rocks, their rhythmic lull a symphony of serenity.…


  • Nokonoshima’s Charms: Sunflowers and Traditional Japanese Pottery

    Nokonoshima’s Charms: Sunflowers and Traditional Japanese Pottery

    Near the Kyushu city of Fukuoka in Japan, Nokonoshima invites you to indulge in the natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry it weaves. This article unveils the island’s sunflower allure in August and the mesmerising craft of traditional Japanese tea cup pottery. The Allure of Nokonoshima Nokonoshima, a serene island near Fukuoka, embodies Japan’s unparalleled…


  • Hakata: A Tapestry of Rich History and Vibrant Culture

    Hakata: A Tapestry of Rich History and Vibrant Culture

    Introduction Fukuoka, nestled on Kyushu Island’s northern shore, boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Within its bounds lies Hakata, a historic area that has played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s identity. This article embarks on a journey through time, retracing Fukuoka and Hakata’s historical pathways and highlighting significant historical sites that…


  • Munakata Shrine: Discover the Mystical Charm of Hetsumiya

    Munakata Shrine: Discover the Mystical Charm of Hetsumiya

    Immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture, Munakata Taisha (or Munakata Shrine) beckons visitors with its spiritual allure and fascinating traditions. It is also known affectionately by the locals as Munataka Jinja. Known for its trio of shrines dispersed across three islands, our journey centres on the main shrine in Munataka Shrine,…


  • Hakata Gion Matsuri: Fukuoka’s Spectacular Japanese Festival

    Hakata Gion Matsuri: Fukuoka’s Spectacular Japanese Festival

    Welcome to the Hakata Gion Matsuri, a captivating celebration of Japanese culture and tradition. It takes place annually in the historic city of Hakata, located in modern Fukuoka city. With its dazzling displays of ornate floats, mesmerizing performances, and delectable culinary delights, this festival has been captivating both locals and visitors for centuries. Steeped in…


  • Minamikyushu: One of Japan’s Ancient Samurai Villages

    Minamikyushu: One of Japan’s Ancient Samurai Villages

    Japan has a depth and breadth of history and culture that has long fascinated travellers from around the globe. From its bustling, neon-lit cities to the quiet, serene countryside, Japan seamlessly weaves the old with the new. At the heart of this rich tapestry is the village of Minamikyushu, located in the stunning Kagoshima Prefecture…


  • Yufuin: An Idyllic Japanese Getaway

    Yufuin: An Idyllic Japanese Getaway

    Nestled in the rolling hills of Oita Prefecture, Yufuin is a charming little town. It is known for its hot springs, picturesque scenery, and laid-back atmosphere. Located about 10 kilometres inland from the Beppu and near Mt Tsurumi, Yufuin has long been a popular destination for travellers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle…


  • Exploring Sakurajima – Japan’s Most Active and Beautiful Volcano

    Exploring Sakurajima – Japan’s Most Active and Beautiful Volcano

    Sakurajima, located in the Kagoshima Prefecture of Japan, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. With a rich history of volcanic activity dating back over 22,000 years, this stunning volcanic island has played a significant role in shaping the landscape and culture of the region. The history of Sakurajima The earliest recorded…


  • Exploring the Natural Wonders of Japan’s Ikeda Lake

    Exploring the Natural Wonders of Japan’s Ikeda Lake

    Nestled in the southern part of Japan’s Kyushu island lies the stunning Ikeda Lake, a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lake sits near the city of Kagoshima, surrounded by lush green forests and stunning mountain ranges. It is the perfect destination for nature lovers…


  • Kagura – How to see Japanese Intangible Folk Cultural Properties

    Kagura – How to see Japanese Intangible Folk Cultural Properties

    This weekend I had the opportunity to see one of Japan’s Intangible Folk Cultural Properties: the Buzen Kagura. This weekend, there was a day of festivities and demonstrations north of Fukuoka at Munakata Shrine, featuring local cultural activities. What is Kagura? “Kagura” refers to a specific form of traditional Japanese dance-drama, performed as part of…


  • Kokura Castle, Kitakyushu, Japan

    Kokura Castle, Kitakyushu, Japan

    Nestled in the middle of Kitakyushu, a small city on the northern coast of Kyushu sits Kokura Castle. Kokura Castle, which dates back to the start of the Edo period (finished in 1608), was the seat of the Kokura domain in Kyushu. At the time, it was separate from Fukuoka (which didn’t exist yet as…