If you're planning a trip to Kyushu, we recommend a 3-night, 4-day train journey visiting Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Beppu. Using Shinkansen (bullet trains) and express trains, you can efficiently visit major tourist destinations even without a rental car. We'll introduce a course that allows you to fully enjoy Fukuoka's gourmet food, Nagasaki's historic streets, and Beppu's hot spring culture.
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JR Kyushu Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd., a member of the JR Kyushu Group, operates lodging-focused hotels in Tokyo, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Oita, Kumamoto, Miyazaki, Kagoshima and Naha, as well as hot spring inns in Beppu and Ureshino, two of Japan's leading hot spring resorts.
If you're traveling to Kyushu for the first time, a 3-night, 4-day train trip visiting Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Beppu is highly recommended.
This itinerary is recommended for:
- For those traveling to Kyushu for the first time
- For those who want to sightsee without using a rental car
- For those who want to enjoy both gourmet food and hot springs
- Those interested in Japanese history and culture
- For those who want to efficiently tour Kyushu in 3 nights and 4 days
This itinerary takes you to Fukuoka, the gateway to Kyushu; Nagasaki, a city steeped in international trade history and diverse culture; and Beppu, one of Japan's leading hot spring resorts. Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu, offers a variety of gourmet food and shopping opportunities; Nagasaki, a port city where you can experience a unique history and culture nurtured by international exchange; and Beppu, known for its abundant hot spring water.
Among the many Kyushu sightseeing routes, this course visiting these three cities is characterized by its balanced approach to experiencing Kyushu's representative attractions: gourmet food, history, and hot springs. Furthermore, since each city is connected by rail, travel is easy, making it a manageable tour even for first-time visitors to Kyushu.
Furthermore, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Beppu all have tourist attractions concentrated around their train stations, making them easy to get around even without a rental car. Major stations also have English signage and multilingual information, so even those traveling by train in Japan for the first time can use them with relative ease.
This itinerary introduces an efficient route to visit Kyushu's classic tourist destinations in four days, utilizing the West Kyushu Shinkansen "Kamome" and the Limited Express "Sonic." If you want to enjoy gourmet food, history, and hot springs all at once, please use this as a reference.
Things you can enjoy on this itinerary
| schedule | area | Content | Tourist attractions | Gourmet |
| Day 1 | Fukuoka(Hakata) | Hakata sightseeing and gourmet food | Kushida Shrine, Kawabata-dori Shopping Street, Canal City Hakata | Ramen, sesame mackerel, Hakata udon, mentaiko (spicy cod roe) |
| Day 2 | Nagasaki | City walks and historical tours | Glover Garden, Oura Church, Izu Island, Mount Higashiyama area | Champon, Turkish rice, Hatoshi, Lemon steak |
| Day 3 | Beppu | Train travel and hot spring inns | Strolling through the steam rising from the hot springs, strolling through the hot spring town | Dinner at a hot spring inn |
| Day 4 | Beppu | Hell Tour and Hot Spring Culture | Hell Tour, Takegawara Onsen | Hell-steamed dishes, chicken tempura, dumpling soup |
Why is a train journey around Kyushu recommended?
Major train stations in Kyushu have ample English signage and information displays, making it relatively easy to travel even for those using Japanese railways for the first time. Furthermore, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Beppu have major tourist attractions concentrated around their stations, making it possible to efficiently enjoy sightseeing without needing a rental car.
Furthermore, on the West Kyushu Shinkansen "Kamome" and the Limited Express "Sonic," you can enjoy the scenery characteristic of Kyushu, such as coastlines and mountains, from the train windows. The charm of train travel lies in the fact that not only the destination, but also the travel time itself becomes a memorable part of the journey.
DAY 1 | Enjoy sightseeing and gourmet food in Fukuoka and Hakata
Your journey begins in Fukuoka Fukuoka City. Fukuoka is easily accessible from Hakata Station by subway in about 5 minutes, making it convenient to start sightseeing immediately upon arrival.
If you want to enjoy exploring the city before checking in, it's convenient to use luggage storage services at your hotel or around Hakata Station, as well as coin lockers. This allows you to travel without carrying large suitcases, so you can enjoy sightseeing lightheartedly from the day you arrive.
A walk through the streets of Hakata, where you can feel its history.
Let's start by exploring an area where you can experience Hakata's history.
● Kushida Shrine
Kushida Shrine is a representative shrine of Hakata, known for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. It is affectionately called "Okushida-san" by the locals and is a popular spot where you can experience Fukuoka's history and traditional culture.
● Kawabatadori shopping street
The area is lined with old-fashioned shops and restaurants, and its charm lies in its atmosphere that allows you to experience the everyday life of the locals.
If you have the time, I recommend taking a trip to Canal City Hakata. It's a multi-purpose complex where you can relax and enjoy shopping and dining.
These spots are located in relatively close proximity to each other, making it easy to enjoy exploring the city on foot.
Fukuoka gourmet food isn't just ramen.
While tonkotsu ramen is the most famous Fukuoka delicacy, it's not the only flavor that's popular with the locals.
● Sesame mackerel
Enjoy fresh mackerel with a special sauce in this local dish. You can savor the seafood that is unique to Fukuoka.
● Hakata Udon
It features soft noodles and is a popular breakfast or lunch choice among locals.
● Mentaiko (spicy cod roe)
While it's famous as a souvenir, the set meals and other dishes available at specialty shops are also popular.
● Street food
It's an iconic symbol of Fukuoka at night and is popular with tourists from overseas.
You can easily enjoy gourmet food such as ramen and yakitori.
For our accommodation that night, we went to "THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier".
The biggest advantage of staying near Hakata Station is that you can efficiently enjoy sightseeing from the day you arrive.
THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier is approximately a 7-minute walk from the Hakata Exit of JR Hakata Station. It's within walking distance of Kushida Shrine and Canal City Hakata, allowing you to enjoy sightseeing in Hakata while minimizing travel time, even on your arrival day.
Furthermore, this itinerary includes travel to Nagasaki the following day, making its convenient location near Hakata Station a major advantage. It allows for efficient sightseeing and travel, making it perfect for those who want to tour Kyushu on a limited schedule.
The hotel incorporates a modern Japanese design that evokes the traditions of Fukuoka, and the large public bath allows you to relax and unwind after a long day of travel. It's a comfortable hotel to start your Kyushu tour.
Read the article introducing "THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier"
![[THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier] A high-quality hotel near Hakata Station](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/200x2000/2025/09/25-245115.webp)
DAY 2 | Enjoy the history and streetscape of Nagasaki, a port town
On the second day, we'll head to Nagasaki.
Travel from Hakata Station to Nagasaki Station
The most common route from Hakata Station to Nagasaki Station is to take a limited express train to TakeoOnsen Station and then transfer to the Nishikyushu Shinkansen Kamome . The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Although it involves transfers, it's one of Kyushu's main railway routes and a relatively easy way to travel. The Nishikyushu Shinkansen Kamome is also appealing for its warm, wood-toned design and comfortable seats, making it suitable for those who want to enjoy the journey itself.
Touring Nagasaki tourist spots
Nagasaki is a port city that has developed through the interplay of Japanese, Chinese, and European cultures. Its rich history of international exchange remains, and visitors can experience Japan's modernization and history of international relations through its churches, Western-style architecture, and Izu Island(a former trading post). With its historical architecture, harbor views, and unique hilly streetscape, Nagasaki offers a charm unlike any other city.
Glover Garden
Located on a hill overlooking Nagasaki Port, it's a popular spot where you can enjoy Western-style architecture and the scenery of the port town.
● Oura Church
It is one of the oldest existing church buildings in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure. It is a recommended spot for those who want to experience Nagasaki's history and culture.
● Izu Island
This place, which once flourished as a hub for international exchange, offers a chance to learn about Nagasaki's international history.
● Mount Higashiyama area
With its cobblestone streets and Western-style architecture, you can enjoy a stroll while experiencing the unique atmosphere of Nagasaki.
When sightseeing in Nagasaki City, using the streetcar makes it easy to efficiently visit the main spots. Combining it with walking will allow you to appreciate the charm of the city even more.
Nagasaki's unique cuisine
Nagasaki Champon is well-known, but there are other unique food cultures in Nagasaki as well.
● Chanpon and Sara Udon
This is a classic dish that you should definitely try if you visit Nagasaki.
● Lemon Steak
This dish, with its refreshing taste, is a popular item in the Nagasaki area.
● Castella
Castella, a renowned Nagasaki confection, is a specialty sweet born from a history of exchange with other countries. Its moist texture and refined sweetness make it a popular souvenir.
For the night, we stayed at the JR KYUSHU HOTEL Nagasaki .
When sightseeing in Nagasaki, it's important to choose a location that allows you to efficiently explore the city within a limited time.
JR KYUSHU HOTEL Nagasaki is approximately a 3-minute walk from the east exit of JR Nagasaki Station. It is also close to Amu Plaza Nagasaki and a tram stop, making it a convenient base for sightseeing in the city.
This itinerary takes you to major tourist attractions in Nagasaki City, such as Glover Garden, Oura Church, and Izu Island , so a hotel near a train station that makes it easy to use the tram is a big advantage. You can also return to your hotel smoothly after sightseeing, and it's convenient for traveling to Beppu the next day.
This hotel is recommended for those who want to enjoy their trip efficiently, balancing sightseeing in Nagasaki with their next travel plans.
Read the article introducing "JR KYUSHU HOTEL Nagasaki"
DAY 3 | Traveling to Beppu by changing trains
On the third day, we'll head from Nagasaki to Beppu. This section involves a longer travel time, but it's an itinerary that allows you to experience the unique charm of a train journey across Kyushu.
Enjoying a train journey across Kyushu
From Nagasaki Station to Hakata Station, take the West Kyushu Shinkansen "Kamome" and a limited express train, and then from Hakata Station to Beppu Station, take the limited express "Sonic". The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes to 5 hours.
The long travel time is part of the appeal, as it allows you to enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace, savoring ekiben (station bento boxes) and gazing out the window. Hakata Station, in particular, offers a wide variety of ekiben made with ingredients from all over Kyushu, transforming the time spent heading to your next destination into an enjoyable part of your trip.
If you're riding the Limited Express "Sonic," be sure to pay attention to the scenery from the train window. Along the coast of Kitakyushu, you'll see beautiful coastal views, and near Kitsuki Station and Hiji Station, you can catch a glimpse of Beppu Bay. On a clear day, you can enjoy the quintessential Kyushu scenery of blue sea and mountains.
One of the unique charms of this itinerary is being able to travel while enjoying scenery that can only be seen by train. Unlike traveling by rental car, you can enjoy the view from the window, organize your travel photos, research your next destination, and spend your time at your own pace.
One of the biggest attractions of traveling by train in Kyushu is that the travel time itself becomes part of the sightseeing experience.
After arriving in Beppu, I took a stroll through the town shrouded in steam from the hot springs.
Once you arrive at Beppu Station, let's start by taking a walk through the hot spring town.
The rising steam from various parts of the town and the nostalgic scenery of the hot spring resort are unique charms of Beppu. Just strolling around the station area will make you truly feel like you've arrived in a "hot spring town."
If you have some extra time, I recommend visiting the shopping streets and footbath spots around Beppu Station. At dusk, the steam from the hot springs blends into the townscape, offering a different atmosphere than during the day.
For our accommodation that night, we went to "Beppu Onsen - Take to Tsubaki no Yado - Oita Beppu Onsen Hanabeppu".
Since the journey from Nagasaki to Beppu takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to 5 hours, it's recommended to choose accommodation where you can relax in a hot spring on the third day.
Oita Beppu Onsen Hanabeppu , a hot spring inn in Beppu Onsen, is located within walking distance of Beppu Station. Its easy access from the station and the ability to relax at the inn immediately upon arrival are its main attractions.
This itinerary includes a stay in Beppu as the culmination of a railway journey across Kyushu. One of its attractions is the opportunity to soothe the fatigue of long-distance travel in the hot springs and prepare for the next day's tour of the "hells" and exploration of the hot spring town.
Oita Beppu Onsen Hanabeppu employs an all-inclusive style, allowing guests to enjoy drinks and some services during their stay without additional charges. You can relax and spend the last night of your Kyushu tour while enjoying the hot springs and hospitality.
Click here for an article introducing "Beppu Onsen - A Inn of Bamboo and Camellias - Oita Beppu Onsen Hanabeppu" ↓
DAY 4 | Enjoying Beppu, the Hot Spring Beppu
On your last day, enjoy Beppu's unique hot spring culture and local cuisine.
Enjoy sightseeing in Beppu
● A tour of hell
This is a popular spot known as a must-see for Beppu tourists. You can visit a variety of unique hot springs, each with its own distinct characteristics, such as the cobalt blue Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) and the red Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell). It is popular as a hot spring viewing spot, rather than a place to actually bathe.
● Takegawara Onsen
This historic public bathhouse was founded during the Meiji era. The retro-style building is a highlight, allowing visitors to experience Beppu's beloved hot spring culture firsthand. The sand bath, where you warm yourself by burying yourself in warm sand, is also popular. If you want to enjoy a unique Beppu hot spring experience, be sure to check it out.
● Steam Observation Deck
This observation spot offers a panoramic view of the steam rising from various parts of the town. It's a great place to enjoy the scenery unique to a hot spring resort, and is also recommended for those who want to capture the iconic Beppu in photographs.
Enjoy Beppu local cuisine
To conclude your trip, be sure to enjoy some local cuisine unique to Oita and Beppu.
● Hell-steamed
This is a representative Beppu culinary experience where ingredients are cooked using steam from the hot springs. You can enjoy vegetables, seafood, eggs, and other ingredients in their natural flavors.
● Toriten (chicken tempura)
This is a local dish from Oita Prefecture, made by coating chicken in batter and deep-frying it. It has a light texture, is easy to eat, and can be found in many restaurants.
● Dango soup
This local dish, made with flat noodles and vegetables simmered together, has a charmingly nostalgic flavor.
Let's conclude our journey across Kyushu by enjoying hot springs and delicious food.
Let's enjoy a trip across Kyushu!
This 3-night, 4-day itinerary offers the chance to enjoy Fukuoka's gourmet cuisine, Nagasaki's history and streetscapes, and Beppu 's hot spring culture all in one trip. Using the train makes it easy to travel comfortably without a rental car, and even the travel time becomes part of the travel experience. This route is recommended for both first-time visitors to Kyushu and those returning to the region. If you're planning a trip around Kyushu, use this itinerary as inspiration and enjoy your own unique train journey. Be sure to also check out the accommodation plans offered by each hotel.
Recommended hotel for your stay in Fukuoka: THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier
Recommended hotel for your stay in Nagasaki: JR KYUSHU HOTEL Nagasaki
Recommended Ryokan for your stay in Beppu: Beppu Onsen - Take to Tsubaki no Yado - Oita Beppu Onsen Hanabeppu
Quick Reference Guide for a 3-Night, 4-Day Kyushu itinerary
This itinerary allows you to efficiently travel around the area without renting a car by utilizing Shinkansen (bullet train) and limited express trains.
| section | Main modes of transportation | Estimated time |
| Fukuoka → Hakata Station | subway | Approximately 5 minutes |
| Hakata Station → Nagasaki Station | Limited express train + West Kyushu Shinkansen "Kamome" | Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Nagasaki City | Tram / Walking | - |
| Nagasaki Station → Beppu Station | Express train | Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours |
| Beppu City | Bus / Walking | - |
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