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AH, KYUSHU IN THE SPRING!
Kyushu has it all - mountains, seas, volcanoes, hot springs, delicious food, and, best yet - it's not overrun by tourists (yet). We offer four tours during the spring season featuring the beautiful island of Kyushu in southern Japan. The tours are scheduled, so guests on both tours will likely take in cherry blossom season (which is not guaranteed as the timing is different yearly). Kyushu offers the opportunity to get off the overtrodden tourist circuit and take a deep dive into Japanese culture in a beautiful setting at a more relaxed pace. We believe Kyushu offers the best food, scenery, and authentic Japanese experiences.
OUR SPRING SEASON TOURS
We lean heavily into the Japanese pride in their seasons and name each tour according to traditional East Asian calendars that break the year into 24 micro-seasons called 24 Sekki (二十四節気). Our Shunbun (春分), or Spring Equinox Tour, is scheduled for March 16 -29, 2025, and falls during the 4th of 24 micro-seasons when Kyushu returns to life. Our two Seimei Tours (清明) are scheduled March 31 - April 10, 2025 and April 11-18, 2025. The word seimei is used to express the air quality of spring, which is clean and exhilarating after a long winter. Our Kokku Tour (穀雨) is April 20-26, 2025. Kokku means "Grain Rain," and we hope we won't have much rain during the tour! Join us for cherry blossom season and breathe in Kyushu's clean and crisp spring air.
CHERRY BLOSSOM SEASON
One of the highlights of our spring tours is the opportunity to take in the beautiful cherry blossoms that bless Kyushu in late March and early April. At night, when the cherry blossoms (sakura) are in full bloom, the clusters of petals reflect the light from the stars or paper lanterns that are sometimes hung in the trees. The resulting warm, ethereal glow is called hana akari (花明かり), or flower light. This flower light makes late-night hanami picnics (夜桜, yozakura) a highly anticipated activity for locals and an excellent opportunity for you to experience a Japanese cultural mainstay. Join us for a magical experience in Kyushu!
SPRING 2025 TOURs AT A GLANCE
Tour Highlights
Attend the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament
Spend 2 nights with a Japanese family
Enjoy a picnic under cherry blossoms
13 nights / 14 days - all inclusive!
Early Bird Rate through Nov. 16 at $9945 per person based on 2 adults sharing a room, Single supplement at +$1495
Regular Rate through Jan. 16 at $11,440 per person based on 2 adults sharing a room, Single supplement at +$1720
SEIMEI TOUR
(March 31 - April 10, 2025)
Tour Highlights
Visit a Buddhist training center
Spend 2 nights with a Japanese family
Enjoy a picnic under cherry blossoms
10 nights / 11 days - all inclusive!
Early Bird Rate through Nov. 31 at $6695 per person based on 2 adults sharing a room, Single supplement at +$1005
Regular Rate through Jan. 31 at $7700 per person based on 2 adults sharing a room, Single supplement at +$1155
KOKKU TOUR
(April 12-22, 2025)
Tour Highlights
Visit Yakushima island
Enjoy sand baths in Ibusuki
Visit an elementary school
6 nights / 7 days - all inclusive!
Early Bird Rate through Dec. 20 at $3925 per person based on 2 adults sharing a room, Single supplement at +$595
Regular Rate through Feb. 20 at $4515 per person based on 2 adults sharing a room, Single supplement at +$685
Kyushu Sights, Activities, and Food
Kyushu has 7 distinct prefectures that offer a wide variety of sights, activities, foods, and drinks to discover. From the steaming hot springs of Beppu to the majestic active volcano, Mount Aso, Kyushu offers a landscape ripe with adventure. Delight in the vibrant festivals and historic castles of Kumamoto and Kagoshima, each telling stories of a rich samurai heritage. Culinary explorers will revel in Kyushu's unique offerings, including the famed Hakata ramen, tender Kagoshima black pork, and sweet, juicy Miyazaki mangoes. Whether you’re soaking in a tranquil onsen, exploring lush greenery, or savoring gourmet delicacies, Kyushu invites you to a world of exquisite experiences. Embark on a journey where every moment is a treasure waiting to be discovered.
Kyushu Sights
While our approach is to avoid overly touristy spots, some, like the Nagasaki Peace Park, are worth fighting the crowds to see. Kyushu offers a blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures. From the steaming hot springs of Beppu to the ancient castles of Kumamoto, and the bustling city life in Fukuoka, Kyushu is a must-visit destination for travelers. Explore the majestic Mount Aso, one of the world's largest active volcanoes, stroll through the charming streets of Nagasaki with its rich history and relax on the picturesque beaches of Miyazaki. Kyushu promises a diverse and unforgettable experience for every visitor. Below are some Kyushu sights that can be visited on our Spring tours.
nagasaki city
beppu onsen town
kagoshima city
kumamoto castle
komezuka - mt aso
mt aso caldera
unzen "hell"
amakusa islands
Takachiho gorge
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ariake sea
miyazaki coast
yanagawa canals
suizenji park
dazaifu shrine
as0-kuju area
Kyushu Activities
Our experiences are designed for active and adventurous souls who want to work up a healthy appetite for the delicious foods we savor. Kyushu, with its incredible natural beauty, offers a variety of activities to keep our guests engaged but not overwhelmed. We observe the Japanese idea of nonbiri (のんびり), meaning a carefree or leisurely pace, ensuring our tours provide the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.
In Kyushu, guests can embark on hikes through the lush forests of the Kirishima mountain range, where volcanic peaks and serene lakes create a breathtaking landscape. Explore Amakusa’s stunning coastline by kayaking along its clear waters or enjoy a leisurely bike ride through Yufuin’s scenic countryside, known for its hot springs and charming rural atmosphere. These activities deepen your connection with the region while preparing you for the culinary delights that await.
eating with the locals
cherry blossom picnic
attend sumo tournament
cooking classes
homestay experience
school visits
Hot Springs (onsen)
Ibusuki Sand Baths
Takachiho Boating Bliss
Calligraphy Lessons
pottery & ceramics
traditional dying
strawberry picking
garden visits
farmers markets
Japanese Food!
All things Japanese food are at the core of our experiences. While sushi is undeniably the symbol of Japanese food, our tours expose guests to the wonderful variety of washoku. In Kyushu, you'll savor Hakata-style ramen (tonkotsu), the famed kuro (black) pork, perfectly marbled wagyu beef, and delectable seafood from the surrounding waters. Spring in Kyushu brings an abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients like tender bamboo shoots, vibrant greens, and sweet strawberries. Join us to indulge in these regional specialties, explore bustling local markets, and experience the true essence of Kyushu's rich culinary heritage during the beautiful spring season.
Japanese Breakfast
Seafood Galore
nagasaki champon
Wagyu Beef
Tonkotsu Ramen
Fugu (puffer fish)
Motsu Nabe
Mentaiko (spicy cod roe)
Unagi (steamed eel)
Sake & Shochu
Green Tea Sweets
Chicken Pot
Basashi (raw horse meat)
Castella Cake
Dengaku
Experience the beauty of Japan with our high-end tours. Book now and embark on a journey of a lifetime!
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