With its ancient cedarwood forests and volcanic mountainscapes, Kyushu’s nature is one of fantasies. Each region has its own charm, from the spirited city of Fukuoka to the unspoilt natural beauty of Amakusa. The Kuju and Taisen mountain ranges run across the main island, with the formidable Mt Aso volcano in the centre, offering beautiful views from the ground to the summit. And when you’re not hiking through a forest of 7,000 year-old cedar trees or relaxing in some of Japan’s most invigorating onsens.

Our journey begins in Karatsu, famous for being one of the birthplaces of ceramics in Japan. The streetscapes are dotted with ceramic work and filled with charming alleys, old buildings, and protruding chimneys from the pottery kilns. Within Karatsu is the sanctuary that is Yoyokaku. In a region where ryokans are a strong part of the culture, this quaint inn, has a rare charm. 

We then travel further south, passing through the city of Nagasaki, visiting the Peace Memorial Park before continuing to the  Amakusa islands. As the birthplace of Christianity in Japan, the island of Amakusa is where the west harmonises with the east. With Christianity came European ideas, music and literature, creating a fusion of the two distinct cultures. Amakusa today is abundant in stunning rustic nature but also museums and churches depicting the island’s special history.

Leaving Amakusa, we drive to Kirishima, where we reconnect with nature through the lands of Kirishima. Amongst our favourite properties is Tenku No Mori, overlooking the impressive Kirishima mountain range. Kirishima is home to some amazing hikes within its’ mountain range.

Our journey then concludes on the island of Yakushima, where the dewy climate and national parks create a unique mystical landscape.

These are some of the oldest trees in Japan, scattered across lush groves, crawling ravines and vibrant mossy stones. It’s no wonder this forest inspired the Japanese favourite anime, Princess Mononoke.