Japan has always been one of the destinations for Malaysians to travel abroad. In addition to popular attractions such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hokkaido, Kyushu, which has both a bustling urban area and natural suburbs, is also a treasured tourist attraction! Kyushu, located in the southwestern part of Japan, is the warmest, most beautiful and most friendly place in Japan, with magnificent scenery, ubiquitous high-quality hot springs, gorgeous coastlines, and mouth-watering food. Today, the editor will take you to explore the charming Kyushu!
1. Beppu “Jigoku Meguri” Hells Tour
Beppu Jigoku Onsen is a famous sightseeing area in Beppu. The hot spring vent was formed by the eruption more than 1,000 years ago, and the steam and hot mud prevent the public from approaching, so it is called “Hell”. The volume of its hot springs is the highest in Japan, with 8 hot springs. Because the high temperature can only be seen, it is called “Beppu Jigoku Eight Hot Springs”. Hell, Blood Pond Hell, Tornado Hell, and White Pond Hell, presenting various appearances of hot springs, has become a characteristic must-see attraction in Beppu!
2. Yufuin Floral Village
Yufuin Flora Village in Kyushu, Japan, attracts tourists worldwide to check in every year. Although the village is small, it is full of characteristics. This Yufuin, modelled after the Coswar area in the UK, combines Ghibli’s Japanese fantasy style with the British country style, making visitors feel as if they are in a European fairy tale and the world of Hayao Miyazaki’s animation. So, for example, you can see Alice in Wonderland, Peter Rabbit’s pet garden, and “Kiki’s Bakery” in Kiki’s Delivery Service!
3. Takachiho Gorge
Takachiho Gorge is a dreamlike natural landscape. You can enjoy the majestic and mysterious natural landscape and take a boat to shuttle between the canyons, enjoy the strange columnar rocks and cliffs, and see one of the top 100 waterfalls in Japan, Manai Falls. There are stunning views here all year round, with new greenery in spring and red leaves in autumn. You will be very pleasantly surprised when you come here!
4. Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
Kumanoza Shrine in Kyushu is a well-known energy attraction in Japan and the filming site of “Hotarubi no Mori e”. There are as many as 100 lanterns on both sides of the worship path, stepping on one level after another. But, on the other hand, when the smoke is filled, it looks like the entrance to a mysterious world, so it attracts many pilgrims and becomes a popular tourist attraction.
5. Kurokawa Onsen
Kurokawa Onsen is famous for its open-air hot springs that blend in with nature. Due to the long distance by car, away from the hustle and bustle, and the simple and quiet atmosphere, Kurokawa Onsen has become more and more popular in recent years! There are seven types of hot springs here, and the open-air hot springs of each hot spring hotel have their characteristics, such as being as deep as 150cm and even being located in caves. And the hot spring street here is like a large hotel integrated into one. So come to Kurokawa Onsen, and you can let the hot spring completely heal your body and mind!
6. Yanagawa Kanko Kaihatsu K.K.
When you come to Dazaifu, Kyushu, you must take advantage of the famous Venice cruise experience! It is quite interesting to listen to the boatman singing while taking a cruise ship and explaining Yanagawa’s history in Dazaifu. Along the road is an antique. Enjoy the ancient and quiet folk customs, and feel the beauty of the water town. The whole journey takes about an hour. This is the characteristic experience that can best feel the charm of Yanagawa City!
7. Totoro Bus Stop
The Totoro Bus Stop is located in a remote village in Miyazaki County, Kyushu, about an hour’s drive from the centre of Miyazaki. A 70-year-old couple created the Totoro Bus Stop as a gift to their granddaughter. However, friends coming here for pilgrimage must consider the following points. First, this is a common folk place. Second, although tourists are currently accepted to take pictures, they will be adjusted according to the number of tourists on the day. Third, there is a chance that you cannot take pictures, and you must keep quiet when taking pictures. Fourth, do not check in at night to avoid disturbing the residents.
