This morning, travel east to Beppu, a hot spring town like no other, known for its extraordinary geothermal landscape and deep-rooted bathing traditions. After settling in, explore the otherworldly "hells" of Beppu—colourful boiling ponds and steaming vents that showcase the island’s volcanic energy. In the afternoon, take your first soak in a local onsen, perhaps trying one of the area’s signature sand, steam, or mud baths. Beppu’s older districts like Kannawa are ideal for a wander, especially around dusk when the streets fill with drifting steam and the scent of sulphur.

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Today you’ll take a scenic journey inland for a day trip to Yufuin, a tranquil, artsy town surrounded by hills and rice paddies. Spend time strolling through boutique-lined lanes, stopping for coffee and sweets at one of the town’s many independent cafés. You can walk around Lake Kinrin or visit a small contemporary art museum before relaxing in an outdoor bath with mountain views. Return to Beppu in the late afternoon for a second evening of hot spring bathing and a local dinner.

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With two nights in Kurokawa, today lends itself to a scenic excursion to the Aso caldera. Drive or transfer across the highlands to explore one of the world’s largest volcanic basins. Depending on volcanic conditions, you may be able to approach the crater rim of Mount Nakadake, or you can admire the sweeping landscapes from the Daikanbo lookout point. There is time to enjoy a relaxed lunch at a countryside café or visit a local farm before returning to Kurokawa for another hot spring session in the evening.

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After breakfast, begin your journey westward, crossing to the Shimabara Peninsula to visit Shimabara Castle and explore the city’s charming carp-filled canals. Stroll through the preserved samurai district before continuing up into the hills to Unzen Onsen. Arrive in time to relax in the hot spring baths before enjoying a traditional multi-course dinner at your accommodation.

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Travel south today to the seaside town of Ibusuki, known for its unique style of bathing: the sunamushi, or volcanic sand bath. After arriving, you’ll have the chance to experience this local tradition for yourself by being gently buried in warm black sand before rinsing off in an ocean-view onsen. If time allows, visit the peaceful Chiran Samurai Residence Garden en route or stop briefly in Kagoshima for lunch overlooking the active Sakurajima volcano. Dinner and another soak await you in Ibusuki, where the warm sea air adds to the sense of relaxation.

This morning, head inland again to Kirishima, a hot spring region wrapped in forest and myth. The area is dotted with ancient shrines and volcanic trails, and has long been considered sacred. You may wish to visit Kirishima Shrine, nestled among tall cedars, or take a gentle hike along one of the crater trails of the Ebino Plateau. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, soaking in the healing sulphur-rich waters of your ryokan and enjoying the calm of the natural surroundings.

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Today you’ll journey back to Fukuoka for your final night. Depending on your route and timing, you might stop along the way for a final countryside lunch or a brief visit to a local onsen town. Once back in the city, enjoy your last evening with a relaxed dinner and, if you wish, one final soak at a local sento or spa before turning in for the night.

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After breakfast, transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey. If time allows, you may wish to fit in some last-minute souvenir shopping or a visit to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine before leaving Kyushu behind feeling refreshed, rebalanced, and bathed in the spirit of the island.