Japan’s south-westernmost island, Kyushu is a magical land of active volcanoes, near-tropical coastline, rolling green hills and mountainside carpeted with the petals of rhododendrons. Brilliant for a hiking holiday, a rejuvenating hot spring hideaway or a culture-focused city break, Kyushu offers a vast array of attractions for guests of all ages, tastes and budgets. The best places to stay in Kyushu include intimate ryokans, chic seaside spots and smart city hotels.
This is an island rich in history and culture. Excavations near Kagoshima reveal that Jōmon culture spread north from Kyushu roughly 10,000 years ago, and it’s also where trade with China began. The region is peppered with 16th-century fortresses and ancient temples. Kumamoto Castle, surrounded with cherry blossom, is deemed one of the greatest in Japan, whilst the Fuki-ji Temple in the Oita prefecture and the Takachiho Shrine in Miyazaki are fascinating. Nature lovers, on the other hand, will adore hiking in the Kuju Mountains or Kiyomizuyama, exploring the scenic Nichinan coastline or sinking into the hot springs of Kurokawa Onsen, Yufuin and Beppu.
If you’re looking for a lively city break, head to Fukuoka — a foodie haven — or to Nagasaki. At the other end of the scale, the pint-sized island of Yakushima is perfect for romantic escapes and wildlife excursions. The best places to stay in Kyushu await!