INTRIQ SIGNATURES: 7 DAYS KYUSHU KUNISAKI HIKING NATURE ESCAPE

Arrival in Fukuoka

Upon your arrival, transfer to Fukuoka city for lunch before checking in at your hotel in Beppu.

Beppu Highlights

Boasting over 100 public baths, Beppu is one of Japan’s most renowned onsen destinations. Here, we’ll explore the Beppu Jigoku Meguri, also known as the “Seven Hells of Beppu,” where each bubbling hot spring offers its own unique and captivating features.

Discover Kunisaki

The Kunisaki Peninsula, nestled in northern Oita and facing the Seto Inland Sea, is one of Japan’s hidden gems, renowned for its unique blend of Buddhism, Shinto, and mountain worship known as the “Rokugo Manzan” sect. This region is distinguished by its numerous stone statues that adorn the many temples and shrines scattered across the peninsula.

Your exploration begins at Futagoji Temple, the principal temple of the Rokugo Manzan sect. Next, visit Monjusenji Temple, one of the oldest in the area, where you’ll witness a traditional gomataki fire ritual.

After lunch, embark on a scenic hike towards the iconic Ofudo Iwaya cave and continue to Itsutsuji Fudo, a shrine perched high on a rugged rock face, offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. (Hiking difficulty: Easy, approximately 5km)

Delve Deeper in Kunisaki

In the morning, visit the grand Usa Jingu Shrine, one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines, dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war. This shrine is renowned for its impressive architecture and its historical role as the head shrine for over 40,000 Hachiman shrines across Japan.

In the afternoon, set off on a hike from Kumano Magaibutsu, where you’ll find large Buddha images carved into a cliff, and continue towards the picturesque Tachibu no Shou rice fields (Hiking difficulty: Easy, 5-6km).

Conclude the day with visits to Fukiji Temple, a designated national treasure, and Tennen-ji, a temple known for its serene atmosphere. 

Mount Yufu Hike 

Set off to climb the 1,583m Mount Yufu, often called the Mount Fuji of Oita for its striking resemblance. As you approach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Beppu Bay and Kunisaki. (Hiking difficulty: Intermediate, 5-hour round trip) In the spring, you might also catch the cherry blossoms near Mount Yufu!

Option: For a more leisurely day, take the easier Mount Yufu Iimorigajo trail (1.5-hour round trip), offering views over Yufuin Basin, followed by relaxed sightseeing along Yufuin’s charming Yunotsubo Street, finishing at the serene Lake Kinrin.

Later, visit the Kokonoe Yume Suspension Bridge, Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lush countryside, cascading waterfalls, and the valley below.

Helicopter Flight and Hiking at Mount Aso 

Head to Aso-Kuju National Park to explore Mount Aso, Japan’s largest active volcano. Begin the morning with a helicopter tour (weather conditions permitting) for breathtaking aerial views of the Nakadake crater. Follow this with a hike along the Mount Kishimadake route, offering excellent vantage points over the Kusasenri Grassland, the Nakadake crater, and the Komezuka volcanic cone.

Drum TAO VIP Experience

In the afternoon, enjoy front row views of a dynamic open-air performance by the world-renowned DRUM TAO, set against the stunning backdrop of the Aso Mountains!

After a leisurely late morning checkout, take in the beautiful cherry blossoms along Nakano River before heading to lunch.

Visit Dazaifu Tenmangu

On the way back to Fukuoka, we’ll make a quick stop for seasonal strawberry picking, a delightful treat. Next, visit the historic Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship, and one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines. Back in Fukuoka, enjoy a leisurely afternoon before gathering for a memorable farewell dinner.

Depart Fukuoka

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home.