Kyushu, Japan’s historic gateway to the outside world, has an iconic mix of fire (active volcanoes), water (cool blue seas), and unique wildlife attractions. Here are some of our favorite locations in the southern- and westernmost of the country’s four main islands, which harness these elemental forces of nature in epic ways.
Water: Sakurai Futamigaura
As one of Japan’s best beaches, Sakurai Futamigaura in Itoshima, Fukuoka Prefecture, is also famous for its giant “couple rocks.” These two pyramid-shaped stones, standing about 500 feet offshore, are connected by a 100-foot-long shimenawa, a thick, twisted straw rope. In ancient times, it was believed a shimenawa had the power to ward off evil spirits.
The two rocks have come to represent marital bliss and matchmaking. Moreover, with a lovely white torii gate standing in the crashing waves, Sakurai Futamigaura is truly an incredible spot from which to view a romantic sunset. In summer, a picnic on the beach makes for a perfect afternoon, while in winter, you can grill your own oysters for lunch at one of Itoshima’s oyster huts.
Nearby is Tateishiyama Nature Trail, which offers spectacular views of the Keya Coast and distant Keya no Oto – a fascinating cave whose inner reaches are only accessible by boat. It’s a relatively quick and easy hike up Mt. Tateishi, elevation 685ft.
Water: Kujuku Islands Cruise
Say farewell to land lubbers on a cruise through the Kujuku Islands from Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture. Kujuku literally means ‘99,’ but this phrase once was used to mean ‘a lot’ of something. In fact, there are 208 islands in the Kujuku Islands, which form part of Saikai National Park. The fully electric cruise ship resembles an old-fashioned pirate ship, perfect for the imaginations of children.
Oysters and pearls are produced in these waters, and oyster beds can be seen as the ship weaves among the islands. The islands themselves, surrounded by calm seas, resemble gnarly bonsai forests desperately trying to cling to their rocky pedestals.
Farther down the coast lies the bucolic seaside village of Shitsu. Tombi (birds of prey) may be riding the thermals overhead, diving and soaring as you gaze toward distant islands. If you spot them, take 30 minutes to appreciate this spectacle – park just below the Michi-no-eki (Yuhi-ga-Oka Sotome Roadside Station), and the tombi may put on a command performance of their flying circus.
Water: Nagasaki Harbor
For panoramic views of Nagasaki and its harbor, you can’t do better than Mt. Inasa. West of the harbor, a cable car ascends every 15 to 20 minutes, slowly revealing a fabulous tableau as the sun sets. Nighttime views from the top are ranked among the world’s three best alongside Hong Kong and Monaco. From here and the observation tower at the summit, the city of Nagasaki appears completely encircled by the sea.
Several food and drink options, including the popular Shogun Burger made with 100 percent Wagyu beef, are available near Mt. Inasa’s observation deck – a favorite spot for both young and old alike. Additionally, deer and monkey enclosures are located near the entrance to the slope car where visitors can buy healthy snacks from nearby vending machines for the animals.
Fire: Mount Aso
In the center of the island of Kyushu, in Kumamoto Prefecture, stands Mount Aso (5225ft) – the largest active volcano in Japan. It’s strikingly beautiful, yet its scale is immense, making it hard to comprehend at first. Its caldera is the world’s third largest (80 miles in circumference) and now accommodates towns, villages, and lush green farmland.
Aso last erupted in 2016, causing massive damage to the surrounding areas. The mountain’s active volcanic peaks are located in the center of the caldera, including Mount Nakadake, whose spectacular crater is accessible to tourists again after the no-entry zone was lifted in 2020. Budding volcanologists will appreciate the chance to view the crater, although the summit is frequently off-limits due to toxic gas emissions or strong winds.
Fire: Sakurajima
Farther south along the coast, the city of Kagoshima is visible. It’s remarkable that the residents of Kagoshima live alongside Sakurajima, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. The volcano constantly billows smoke, with minor eruptions occurring multiple times each day.
In 1914, billions of tons of lava buried numerous island villages – over 1000 homes – and joined Sakurajima to the mainland to the southeast. Near the east coast, the top of a once 10-foot-high torri emerges from the volcanic ash at Kurokami; the rest of it was buried during the eruption.
There are many points of interest around the ferry terminal, including a hot spring, foot baths, easy hiking trails, and an information center. For a leisurely hiking tour, start at the ferry terminal and walk to the visitor center to get your bearings. Next, walk to the Karasujima Observatory and Akamizu Observatory Square before continuing to the Hinoshima Megumikan Rest Stop prior to returning to Sakurajima Port.
Life: Cape Toi
Not too far east of Kagoshima is Cape Toi, located in the southernmost part of Miyazaki Prefecture. Here, wild horses called Misaki-uma – said to be descendants of army horses from the early Edo period (1603-1868) – roam the slopes of hills overlooking the sea. Feeding the horses is prohibited; all trash must be taken home, and no vegetation should be disturbed. In other words, stress should be the only thing you leave behind in this magical place.
In addition to the wild horses, there are over 3,000 sotetsu palm trees found here. These palms have remained unchanged for over 200 million years, suggesting they may have once been dinosaur food. This southernmost point of Miyazaki Prefecture is also home to a 22-acre coral colony.
With vivid memories of active volcanoes lingering in your mind, stunning views of the vast Pacific Ocean, and scenes of Misaki horses grazing peacefully in the afternoon sun, it’s hard not to want to linger here, surrounded by Kyushu’s stunning natural beauty.
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As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms. The content has been collaboratively crafted with Kyushu Tourism Promotion Organization, providing research and curated insights to produce this story. We disclose when the information is sourced externally.
