Charming Small Towns in Kyushu

Today we are heading down south to Kyushu, one of the four main islands of Japan, which sits along the Pacific Ocean. The weather here is warm and nice, making it a great place to visit. Kyushu is considered a large region, not a town or city like the main tourist attractions, such as Osaka, Kyoto, or Fukuoka. We will introduce you to many more charming small towns in Kyushu to explore hidden gems and discover new, beautiful natural places together!

Takachiho (Miyazaki Prefecture)

Takachiho is a small, mysterious town in Miyazaki Prefecture, known for its stunning nature and deep spiritual culture. The most famous spot here is Takachiho Gorge, where visitors can enjoy views of waterfalls from high cliffs or take a relaxing boat ride below. There’s also a 1,900-year-old Takachiho Shrine that is believed to bring luck to couples who walk around it three times. Amano Iwato Shrine is also a top spot to pay a visit, and nearby is a sacred cave surrounded by stacked stones placed by visitors for good fortune. Another fun spot is the Amaterasu Railway, where a small train gives a great overall view of the town and is perfect for all ages.

Yufuin (Oita Prefecture)

Yufuin is a charming little town in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, surrounded by nature and famous for its relaxing hot springs. It’s a peaceful place where you can slow down, enjoy the classic Japanese atmosphere, and soak in warm onsen. You cannot miss strolling around at the Yunotsubo Kaido Walkway, a lively street from the station to Kinrin Lake, which is lined with cozy cafés, local shops, and handmade souvenirs. Kinrin Lake is a must-see landmark with hot and cold spring water. It is especially stunning in spring with the mountains in the background and a small lakeside shrine. Yufuin Floral Village is like stepping into a fairy tale, with English-style cottages, Studio Ghibli shops, and cute animals like rabbits, owls, and cats. It’s a favorite photo spot for visitors. Another highlight is the scenic Yufuin no Mori train, which offers beautiful views of rivers, forests, and mountain towns across Kyushu. Spending a night or two here is the best way to truly enjoy Yufuin’s peaceful charm.

Hita (Oita Prefecture)

Hita is a small town in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, just under an hour from Fukuoka or Kumamoto, known for its rich culture and old-town charm. One of the main highlights is Mamedamachi Street, a 400-year-old area filled with Edo-style buildings, traditional shops, museums, and local treats that give it a “Little Kyoto” vibe. The town is also known for Hina Dolls, classic wooden geta sandals, and its own special style of yakisoba. At the Hita-Kusu Industry Promotion Center, you can join a workshop to make your own pair of geta shoes guided by a local teacher; the making is easier than you’d expect! For craft lovers, the center also offers around 20,000 handmade items to explore and buy. Another must-visit spot is Umeshu Gura Oyama, a famous, award-winning plum wine distillery where you can try different flavors and even join a tasting workshop. Every corner of Hita reflects a strong sense of tradition and pride. It’s a great place to slow down and experience authentic Japanese craftsmanship and culture.

Beppu (Oita Prefecture)

Beppu, located on the central coast of Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, is known for its geothermal wonders and hot springs. The city is often called “Japan’s Onsen City” as it offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. There is a famous tourist spot called Beppu Hells (Beppu Jigoku), which offers eight unique hot springs with colorful, steaming pools, each with different features like sulfur or iron content. Rather than bathing, you can appreciate the stunning views of this onsen. Visitors can experience the famous hot springs, such as Myoban Yunosato, Takegawara, and Kamegawa, offering a relaxing and unforgettable experience. Another place you should go for an exciting adventure is Beppu Rakutenchi, an amusement park with fun rides, a Ferris wheel with panoramic views of Beppu Bay, and water attractions. Not to mention, Japan’s largest safari zoo, African Safari Beppu, where you can observe African animals like lions and giraffes on a Jungle Bus or in your own car.

Arita (Saga Prefecture)

Well-known across Japan for its high-quality porcelain called Arita-yaki, Arita is a small town in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu. This town is a must-visit for pottery lovers, as most attractions are connected to its rich ceramic history. The main area to explore is near Kami-Arita Station, about 2.5 km from the town center, where you’ll find shrines, temples, and museums all featuring pottery details. One unique highlight is Tozan Shrine, with Torii gates made entirely of porcelain. You can also visit Izumiyama Mine, where Arita’s first porcelain stone was discovered. For a photogenic spot, do not miss the Arita Porcelain Park, a German-style palace that showcases rare, historic ceramics. Though it’s a small town, Arita is lively and full of charm, especially for those who love art, history, and handmade treasures.

Amakusa (Kumamoto Prefecture)

Sakitsu Village in Amakusa, Kumamoto, is a quiet fishing town that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its deep Christian history. It is part of the “Hidden Christians of Nagasaki and Amakusa” group, where people secretly kept their faith alive for over 250 years. One way they did this was by hiding religious symbols in everyday objects, like using shells with reversed patterns to remember the Virgin Mary. The heart of the village is the beautiful Sakitsu Church, built by a French missionary on the old Shogun’s office site, facing Yokaku Bay. Nearby, the Statue of the Virgin Mary in the Ocean stands tall on a cape, watching over the sea and guiding fishermen. This statue, along with the church, is a symbol of faith and peace for the community. The view of the sunset behind the Virgin Mary is especially stunning and is ranked among Amakusa’s eight most beautiful sunsets. Sakitsu is a special place where history, faith, and nature come together beautifully.

Aso (Kumamoto Prefecture)

Another mesmerizing town in Kumamoto Prefecture is Aso, a vast natural area in Kyushu, home to one of the world’s largest calderas and stunning mountain views. The region is divided into North Aso, Central Aso, and South Aso, all offering lush fields, grasslands, volcanoes, and natural hot springs. Mount Aso and Komezuka Hill are among the must-see spots for panoramic scenery, while Aso Gogaku and Mount Kokonoe attract hikers and nature lovers. You can enjoy activities like hot-air ballooning, paragliding, and scenic trekking to truly connect with nature. Aso is also known for its rich food culture, featuring local beef, Dagojiru (meatball soup), Takanameshi rice, and Takamoridengaku grilled over a hearth. There are about 260 restaurants across the area, especially near Mount Aso. For relaxing stays, Aso offers everything from cozy ryokan to onsen resorts, since it holds nearly half of Kumamoto’s hot spring spots. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Aso’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it a top destination.

Chiran (Kagoshima Prefecture)

Nicknamed the “Little Kyoto” for good reasons, Chiran offers a vibe similar to Kyoto, yet it remains underrated and rarely talked about. The city has Chiran Samurai Residence Garden, a peaceful village with seven beautiful gardens dating back to the Edo period. These gardens are known for their scenic beauty and the hidden heart symbol, believed to bring good luck, which you can manifest during your visit. After a short walk, you can buy a cup of Chiran Tea, known for its high-quality green tea from the region, with a slightly sweet flavor and subtle aroma. If you’re interested in history, Hotarukan Tomiya Restaurant, once an army cafeteria, now showcases exhibitions about the Kamikaze pilots and their stories. The Chiran Peace Museum also shares the history of these pilots, with memorials in Chiran Heiwa Park, a peaceful park where cherry trees are planted in remembrance. Chiran’s blend of nature, history, and culture makes it a fascinating and tranquil destination for any traveler.

Obuse (Nagano Prefecture)

Obuse is a charming, quiet town in northern Nagano, known for its fertile soil along the Chikuma River, producing famous fruits, vegetables, and chestnuts. It flourished during the Edo period as a trading hub, and many buildings still reflect the town’s rich history. Katsushika Hokusai, the famous artist behind “The Great Wave of Kanagawa,” spent six years in Obuse, and the town honors him with the Hokusai Museum, which showcases his works. At Gansho-in Temple, visitors can admire his original ceiling paintings. The town is also famous for its local chestnut-based snacks, sold in various confectioneries and cafes. Obuse is easily accessible via the Nagano Dentetsu Line, making it a convenient stop between Nagano City and Jigokudani Monkey Park. For visitors, Obuse is a must-see, especially for art lovers wanting to connect with Hokusai’s legacy.

These attractions showcase the pride and beauty of Japan’s rich traditions. The best way to experience the fun and adventure these towns offer is by purchasing a JR Kyushu Pass and following this special itinerary curated just for you. These towns may be small, but every place is filled with wonder and charm, just as memorable as other famous prefectures. Let’s make your trip to Japan an unforgettable journey.

If you’re seeking a personalized and truly unique adventure in Japan, let Arigato Travel tailor your itinerary. Feel free to contact us at concierge@arigatojapan.co.jp with any questions or special requests!

Featured Photo Credit: Kyushu Tourism Organization

Looking for more small-town experiences across Japan? Our Tailored Travel team is more than ready to craft you an itinerary exploring all of the country’s hidden gems, tailored to your interests and needs!