If you’re looking for a place where you can forget about all your worries, how about a trip to the land of the rising sun? Yes, we’re referring to none other than the beautiful country of Japan! More specifically, the island located in the southwest of Japan known as Kyushu.
Unfamiliar with this name? Don’t worry! We’ve done all the research for you and made a list to show just how incredible this hidden gem of an island really is. Without further ado, here’s what you can expect:
1. Add some colour to your holiday at the rustic Yufuin Floral Village
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Escape the skyscrapers and take in some fresh air when you drop by this charming little Floral Village inspired by Cotswolds, and English district from the Neolithic era. What to expect:
- A tiny village complete with tiny houses where any average Malaysian who enters would be able to touch the ceilings; the village is also surrounded by picturesque hills and mountains
- Have some fresh butter croissants and handmade European bread at Kiki’s Bakery which was built to mirror the bakery from Ghibli’s movie “Kiki’s Delivery Service”
- Each house in the village showcases different characters from famous Japanese cartoons; you’ll be able to buy tons of merch here as well
Fun fact: Some scenes from Harry Potter were filmed in the little houses here.
Location: 1503-3 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita.
2. Travel around in style when you board the themed JR Kyushu Trains
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Everyone knows that one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around in Japan is via their trains. They’re fast, clean and super efficient. For Kyushu’s JR trains, however, they come decorated in different themes! Some popular themed trains you can opt to board include the:
- Limited Express Aso Boy – For those with kids or who are young at heart, this amusement-packed train is equipt with a wooden ball pit, uniquely designed parent-child pair seats, a children’s library, as well as a cafe for the grown-ups
- Limited Express Umisachi-Yamasachi – If you’re a fan of rustic, wooden architecture and interiors, this is the train for you. It comes complete with classically designed wood panels, sofas with a classy, wooden design, reclining seats and more. You’ll also be able to catch a gorgeous view of the coast and nearby mountains
- JR Kyushu Aru Ressha – A.k.a the Sweet Train, passengers on this train will be able to delight in a variety of confections made with local ingredients as well as enjoy the vintage interior decor
Book your tickets in advance here.
3. Make a wish at Kirishima Jingu Shrine
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No trip to Japan is complete without a visit to some of their well-known shrines or temples. So if you’re looking for one to visit in Kyushu, drop by the Kirishima Jingu Shrine! What to expect:
- This shrine is unique as it’s been rebuilt many times before after being destroyed by volcanic activity; the current shrine was last rebuilt in 1715
- The shrine is also surrounded by enormous trees and larger than life mountains nearby
- This particular location is also a good spot to admire flowers and autumn leaves as well as cherry blossoms (if they’re in season)
Location: 2608-5 Kirishimataguchi, Kirishima-shi, Kagoshima-ken
4. Admire the beautiful aftermath of past volcanic eruptions when you visit Takachiho Gorge
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This surreal-looking gorge was actually the product of red, hot lava from the nearby Mount Aso. Over time, the lava has eroded to create 80m to 100m high cliffs of volcanic basalt columns. What to expect:
- Enjoy peace and tranquility as you hitch a boat ride through the Takachiho Gorge and get a view of the Manai Waterfall
- Take some time to appreciate the wonders of mother nature as you float through the thick forest
- Expect an adventure of a lifetime because you probably won’t be able to experience this anywhere else in Japan
Location: Oaza, Oshioi, Mitai, Takachiho-cho, Miyazaki
5. For a bit of good luck in your life, visit the Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
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This hidden shrine located in the forest surrounding Takamori may be a bit hard to find, but ask the locals in the area and you should be able to find your way. What to expect:
- This shrine is known to locals as a “power spot” for its highly tangible spiritual atmosphere
- A large rock found at the shrine known as Hogeto Iwa is known for granting good luck to whoever that touches it, so you know what to do!
- There is also a Nagi Tree located here that’s said to protect relationships, so make sure you and bae visit this tree!
Fun fact: Another Ghibli film known as “Hotarubi No Mori e” (originally written by Yuki Midorikawa) was also based on the sceneries and nature of this particular region.
Location: 2619 Kamishikimi, Takamori, Aso District, Kumamoto-ken 869-1601, Japan.
6. For the freshest seafood and Japanese knick-knacks, visit Tanga Ichiba market
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Not only will you be able to find all sorts of bargains here, but you’ll also be visiting a 100-over-year-old market filled with history. What to expect:
- Especially known for their seafood, you’ll be able to get the freshest produce here and that includes salmon, tuna, even blowfish sashimi, and more!
- If you want a bit of everything, get a bowl of rice from Daigaku-do. Then walk around the market and slowly top your bowl with items of your choice as you go along.
Location: 4-2-18 Uomachi, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka.
7. For more food, check out Fukuoka Yatai, Japan’s version of open-air hawker stalls
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One of Fukuoka’s best-known symbols, this cluster of open-air food stands (a.k.a Yatai), is where you’ll be able to experience authentic Japanese foods. The more well-known Yatai in Fukuoka is situated in the Nakasu Area and operates between 6pm and 2am. What to expect:
- There are dozens of food stalls located next to each other, so make sure you walk around and take a look at your choices first
- Each stall generally seats less than 10 people, so if you’re going with a group, be sure to get there early
- Some typical Japanese foods you’ll be able to find include grilled skewers (yakitori), hot pot (oden), the famous Hakata Ramen, and more. Alcoholic beverages are also available
Location: 1-1 Hakata-eki Chuogai, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-shi, Fukuoka.
How wonderful do all these places sound? What’s more, this island is still fairly hidden and not swarming with tourists, so make sure you make a trip there soon!
In addition to all the above locations, you can also take part in many other Japan-exclusive experiences here in Kyushu such as learning about their tea serving culture, walking around in a traditional kimono, or maybe even checking out their drains! Yes, drains. Unlike the drains in Malaysia, you’ll actually be able to find beautiful Koi fish swimming around in the drains of Japan. #OnlyinJapan
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Have we piqued your interest yet? Are you already itching for a holiday in Kyushu, Japan? If yes, then we have more good news for you!
AirAsia is actually having a promo where you can book flights from Kuala Lumpur directly to Fukuoka, Kyushu from just RM299!
All you have to do is log on to airasia.com, and pay with BigPay to enjoy this promo! More deets below:
Booking period: 15 ’til 21 July 2019
Travel period: Now ’til 28 Oct 2019
Still mulling over whether or not to head to Japan? Check out the video below to learn more about the wonders of Kyushu, Japan:
If you’re interested to start booking your next holiday or want to find out more about this promo, click here!
