The tour is based in Kyushu, located in the southwestern part of Japan. The name Kyushu means “nine countries” in Japanese, referring to the nine historical provinces that once made up the region.
Kyushu has a rich history and is believed, according to Japan’s oldest myths, to be the place where the original nation of Japan was formed.
It is also a region that has long been open to international exchange. Even during Japan’s period of isolation in the Edo era, Kyushu maintained trade and cultural interactions with foreign countries, making it a fascinating land where foreign influences are blended into traditional Japanese culture.
About 65% of Kyushu is covered by forests and mountains, making it exceptionally rich in natural beauty. One of its most distinctive features is its volcanoes—17 of which are currently active. Hiking here gives you the chance to feel the very breath of the earth.
Kyushu also showcases the many charms of Japan: islands with stunning coastlines, soothing hot springs, traditional local cuisine, and warm, welcoming hospitality. No matter where you go, Kyushu is sure to impress.
With nearly 30 million foreign travelers visiting Japan each year, major destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka can become overwhelmingly crowded during peak seasons. By contrast, Kyushu remains surprisingly peaceful, making it a fantastic destination any time of year.
Japan, the oldest nation in the world
Japan is one of the oldest continuous nations in the world, with an unbroken imperial lineage. Including its mythical era, its history is believed to stretch back more than 2,600 years.
Based on historical records, the current imperial family has been in existence for roughly 1,400 years, making Japan the oldest continuing monarchy in the world.
The Kyushu region visited on this tour is believed to be the original setting for the myth of Japan’s creation. Throughout the area, shrines and ancient ruins tell stories of these myths. One of the highlights of the trip is the Kirishima region, where Ninigi no Mikoto—the god said to have descended to create Japan—came to earth.
Hiking in National Parks
Kyushu is home to many mountains that offer a wide range of hiking opportunities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots.
This tour will take you along routes that allow you to fully experience Kyushu’s natural beauty, from walking along ridges with stunning ocean views to hiking volcanic peaks. Some of these mountains are located within national parks, and we will visit two: Aso-Kuju National Park and Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park.
Dynamic mountains, the blessings of a Volcanic activities
Japan is one of the most volcanically active countries in the world. Kyushu is home to many volcanoes, and when you hike its mountains, you can experience the power of the earth up close, from smoke rising from craters to the dramatic volcanic landscapes that shape the region.
Mt. Aso, a popular destination, is known for having one of the world’s largest calderas, and approximately 50,000 people still live nearby. Volcanic activity has also brought many blessings, the most notable being the abundant hot springs found throughout Kyushu. At the end of the day, soaking in these hot springs is the perfect way to soothe tired legs after a mountain hike.
Ocean landscapes
Japan is an island nation, surrounded by beautiful oceans. One of the highlights of the Kyushu Tour is that it combines hiking with opportunities to experience the ocean.
From the peaks we hike, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of islands and coastlines. At the tip of a cape jutting into the Pacific Ocean, there is a shrine dedicated to the gods in a cave, and throughout the islands, you can experience local cultures that have been preserved over time.
Japan’s unique Hidden Christianity that thrived in remote islands
Kyushu is home to one of Japan’s most unique Christian histories. During the Age of Exploration in the 16th century, Christianity was introduced to Japan and gradually spread. However, it was later banned and its followers severely persecuted by those in power, who feared the unity and influence of the believers.
During this period of prohibition, those who secretly maintained their faith became known as Kakure Kirishitan, or “Hidden Christians.” In Nagasaki, they continued to pray in secret, developing a unique form of belief that blended Christian traditions with local practices.
After the ban on Christianity was lifted in 1873, churches were built throughout the region, many of which remain historic sites today. On this tour, we visit Ōura Cathedral in Nagasaki, a World Heritage Site that symbolizes the survival and revival of Christianity in Japan.
To book and for further information contact us at info@yamnuska.com or call us at 1.866.678.4164 (Toll-Free North America)
To speak with the Tour Coordinators, YM Tours, email web@yamnuskaguides.com or call 1.877.678.9404 (Toll-free North America). You can visit their website at www.greathikesjapan.com
Trip Philosophy
Hiking is the main focus of this trip. In addition to seven days of hiking and walking, you will visit Takachiho, the setting for Japanese myths deeply connected to the origins of Japan; shrines with stunning coastal views; and Nagasaki, where 17th-century hidden Christian sites can be found. Accommodations have been carefully selected for their hot springs, offering a relaxing experience after each day of activity. This full-package tour provides a diverse range of experiences.
The tour begins in Itoshima, ideal for day hikes. The mountains of Itoshima and Nagasaki are relatively low, allowing for enjoyable hikes with beautiful sea views. At Kyushu’s popular peaks—Mt. Aso, Mt. Kuju, and Mt. Takachiho—you will experience the lifestyle and history of the people who lived at the mountains’ foothills, all while enjoying the spectacular scenery shaped by volcanic activity.
We are committed to providing an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy a unique hiking adventure combined with other must-see and must-do attractions in Japan, a fascinating and culturally diverse country.
Day 1: Meet in Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu Island.
We meet at our hotel at 5:00pm for the Tour Briefing. You will need to make your own way there. On arrival at the hotel, you will be met by your tour leader in the lobby. After the tour briefing, we will go for a group dinner. There, we will get to know each other and experience our first taste of Japanese culture.
Schedule: Meet at Hotel » Dinner in Fukuoka
Stay: Hotel in Fukuoka
Meals: Breakfast [ NA ] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ ✔ ]
A complimentary Short Hike tour in Fukuoka.
If you are planning to arrive in Fukuoka a day before the tour departure date, you will have a bit more time to recover from jet lag. To make the most of your stay in Fukuoka, your tour leader will be able to offer you a complimentary short hike tour before the tour briefing at 5:00pm on Day One.
Day 2: A stunning hiking trail with a panoramic view of the Genkai Sea. (Hiking day)
We will be picked up by a private vehicle at the hotel in Fukuoka. The mountain we’ll visit is one of the most scenic spots in Itoshima, offering a panoramic view of the Genkai Sea from the peak. On the way, we pass through a beautiful canyon, making for a varied hiking experience.
After hiking, we head to our accommodation for the night, Takeo Onsen. Takeo Onsen, which has a history of over 1,300 years, is famous for its soft, skin-friendly waters, and is often referred to as the “hot spring for beautiful skin”.
Trail Data:
Distance: 5.5 km
Elevation gain: + 600 m / – 300 m
Time: 5-6 hrs
Schedule: Fukuoka » Hiking » Takeo Onsen
Stay: Hotel in Takeo Onsen
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔ ] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ NA ]
Day 3: Enjoying traditional pottery town and a road trip to Sea.
After breakfast at the hotel, we set out for a road trip in a private vehicle. Our first destination is Imari, known as a pottery town. Thirty Artisan pottery houses, dating back to the Edo period, have preserved traditional methods of production and passed them down to the present day. We’ll have the chance to experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship up close.
After Imari, we continue to Nagasaki and visit Dejima, the historic trading post that played a vital role in Japan’s international trade during the Edo and Meiji periods. Nagasaki is a truly unique city with a rich global heritage, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. We stay overnight at a hot spring hotel, offering a chance to relax after the day’s explorations. Dinner is not included, allowing guests the freedom to explore Nagasaki’s vibrant dining scene at their own pace.
Schedule: Takeo Onsen » Imari » Nagasaki
Stay: Hotel in Nagasaki
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔ ] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ NA ]
Day 4: Exploring the history of Hidden Christians and Hike the island’s mountains. (Hiking day)
In the morning, we begin our day in Nagasaki with a visit to Oura Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we learn about the history of Christianity in Nagasaki—one of the few places in Japan where Christianity took root during the Edo period—and the story of the Hidden Christians who secretly preserved their faith under persecution.
Afterwards, we travel to the trailhead for a mountain hike. This moderate hike features an elevation gain of approximately 500 meters. From the summit, we are rewarded with sweeping views over Nagasaki Port, including the shipyards, the Nomo Peninsula, and distant Hashima Island (Gunkanjima). Following the hike, we continue our journey onward to Kumamoto.
Trail Data:
Distance: 4.0 km
Elevation gain: + 590 m / – 590 m
Time: 3 hrs
Schedule: Amakusa » Oura Cathedral » Hiking » Kumamoto
Stay: Hotel in Kumamoto city
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔ ] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ NA ]
Day 5: Experience the incredible force of Volcano in Mt.Aso area. (Hiking day)
We depart the hotel by private vehicle and travel to Mount Aso, located within Aso–Kuju National Park. Mount Aso is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes and is defined by its vast caldera landscape.
Today’s hike takes us onto one of the region’s most popular mountains. Shaped by volcanic activity, the terrain is largely treeless, with low-growing alpine plants scattered across the slopes. As we ascend, we pass lava-formed rock formations that create a rugged and dramatic landscape. From the viewpoint, we can see smoke rising from the crater and take in views of the world’s largest caldera—an unforgettable encounter with a truly “living mountain.”
In the evening, we stay at a traditional ryokan in Kurokawa Onsen, famed for its atmospheric hot springs nestled among lush, forested mountains.
Trail Data:
Distance: 8.0 km
Elevation gain: + 480 m / – 480 m
Time: 5-6 hr
Schedule: Kumamoto city » Hiking » Kurokawa Onsen
Stay: Ryokan, Kurokawa Onsen
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔ ] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ ✔ ]
Day 6: Climb the hidden gem mountain in Kuju Mountain Range. (Hiking day)
Today, we hike in the Kuju Mountain Range. As we emerge from the forest onto the ridge, the scenery suddenly opens up, revealing stunning views over Kyushu’s highest mountains. From the summit, we are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama.
We return to the same ryokan for the night. At Kurokawa Onsen, guests have the option to enjoy the open-air baths of neighboring ryokans as well, each offering a unique hot spring experience amidst the surrounding natural beauty.
Trail Data:
Distance: 9 km
Elevation gain: + 500 m / – 500 m
Time: 5-6 hrs
Schedule: Kurokawa Onsen » Kuju Mountain Range » Kurokawa Onsen
Stay: Ryokan, Kurokawa Onsen
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔ ] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ ✔ ]
Day 7: Travel through the original settings of Japanese creation myth. (Short walk).
Following a relaxing time at Kurokawa Onsen, we journey to Takachiho Town. This ancient town is reputed to be the actual setting for the legendary tale of ‘the descent to earth of the grandson of the sun goddess’, marking the inception of Japan’s founding myth. According to tradition, Ninigi no Mikoto descended from the celestial realm to Takachiho Town, paving the way for the establishment of Japan.
In addition, myths related to Japan’s nation-building have been passed down in Takachiho Town, and shrines dedicated to these gods still remain in the town. We will walk and explore beautiful valleys and historic shrines.
In the evening, enjoy Kagura at the Shrine in Takachiho. Kagura is a Shinto ritual ceremonial dance that refers to songs and dances performed by shrine maidens when worshiping the gods.
Schedule: Kurokawa Onsen » Takachiho town » Kagura at the Shrine in Takachiho
Stay: Hotel in Takachiho town
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ ✔ ]
Day 8: A hike on a local granite mountain hike. (Hiking day)
Today, we hike a granite mountain cherished by the locals. Along the way, we encounter a beautiful waterfall, and a walk down to its base lets us feel the refreshing coolness of the cascading water. From the summit, dramatic cliffs provide sweeping views of the town below and the Pacific Ocean stretching out to the horizon.
In the evening, we head to Nishitachi Street, Miyazaki’s largest entertainment district. Lined with nearly 1,000 restaurants, the street offers countless opportunities to enjoy delicious local cuisine and drinks.
Schedule: Takachiho town » Hiking » Miyazaki
Stay: Hotel in Miyazaki city
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔] Lunch [ NA ] Dinner [ NA ]
Day 9: Visit the most photogenic shrines located in an ocean cave. (Short Walk)
Today, we will explore the beautiful coastline landscapes of Miyazaki. The first shrine we visit is located on a peninsula, built on an island that sticks out into the Pacific Ocean.
The next shrine is an extraordinary one nestled inside a cave on a promontory jutting into the sea. This cape is encircled by an array of peculiarly shaped rocks, with the tumultuous waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing against them, creating a stunning natural vista. The juxtaposition of the deep blue ocean, the vermilion hues of the shrine, and the lush greenery of the surrounding trees entices numerous visitors to this breathtaking scenic spot.
Afterwards, we drive to our final destination, Kirishima Onsen by private vehicle.
Schedule: Miyazaki city » Shrines » Kirishima Onsen
Stay: Hotel in Kirishima Onsen
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔] Lunch [ NA] Dinner [ ✔]
Day 10: Summit Mt.Takachiho. (Hiking Day)
Our upcoming hike promises to be the highlight of our journey. Located within the Kirishima Kinkowan National Park, the mountain we’ll ascend is a product of volcanic activity. Upon traversing a native forest, you’ll ascend a rugged ridge with minimal vegetation. Along the way, you can see the former crater, and from the top of the mountain, you can see the entire Kirishima area.
For our last evening, we’ll once again lodge at the same hotel. Let’s toast to the conclusion of this remarkable journey with delectable cuisine and delightful drinks. Cheers to unforgettable memories!
Trail Data:
Distance: 5 km
Elevation gain: + 580 m / – 580 m
Time: 4-5 hrs
Schedule: Kirishima Onsen » Hiking » Kirishima Onsen
Stay: Hotel in Kirishima Onsen
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔] Lunch [ NA] Dinner [ ✔]
Day 11: Tour conclusion
Tour concludes after breakfast at our Hotel. Our guide will be more than happy to assist you with all the information you need to get to your next destination from the station.
Schedule: breakfast at the hotel
Stay: Not included
Meals: Breakfast [ ✔] Lunch [ NA] Dinner [ NA]
Hiking Difficulty
This is a moderate hike (weather permitting) and requires a moderate level of fitness. Participants should be able to hike in a group, covering an average of 7 kilometers per day while carrying a daypack for 5–6 hours each day.
Most trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, but they can become slippery or muddy when wet, with tree roots and rocks along the way. Some hikes take you above the treeline, where weather conditions can change rapidly. It is essential to be prepared for all types of weather, regardless of the trail.
Hiking poles and sturdy boots with good ankle support are strongly recommended. This hike is suitable for participants aged 18 and older.
Accommodation Info
Single Supplement Charge: If you would prefer a single room when available or you are a single traveller, you will be charged an extra single supplementary fee for certain nights. If you are a single traveller and are willing to share with another traveller of the same gender let us know and we will try to pair you up if possible.
In the event that a single room cannot be provided, Yamnuska Mountain Tours will refund the portion of the Single Supplement Fee relevant to that/those nights.
Non-Smoking Policy: Yamnuska Mountain Tours will try to fulfill requests for non-smoking rooms. However Yamnuska Mountain Tours cannot guarantee the availability of non-smoking rooms because some hotels and Japanese inns (Ryokan) do not have non-smoking rooms or such rooms are in very limited supply.
Meeting Place & Time
You will meet your Yamnuska tour leader at our hotel in Fukuoka City. There will be a tour briefing at 5:00pm.
Getting to Fukuoka City & Transportation
Upon booking you will receive a welcome tour letter by email. Once the tour’s confirmed, we will send you more detailed instructions on how to get to our hotel from Fukuoka Airport and JR Hakata Station. If landing at another airport or arriving in Hakata Station by rail or other means send us your travel details so we can send you customized instructions.
Guides & Group Size
Yamnuska tour leaders are professional guides certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG), they are fluent in both English and Japanese. They have extensive experience in both Japan and in the Canadian Rockies. They have advanced wilderness first aid training and heritage interpretation accreditation. They carry emergency equipment including a group first aid kit and communication tools. Our minimum group size is eight guests.
What to Bring
You will need to bring your own daypack and personal clothing (guides carry first aid and emergency gear). Cotton clothing is NOT recommended as an insulating layer as it causes rapid heat loss when wet. Weather conditions can vary from hot to cold, rainy and even snowy meaning you need to be equipped appropriately. It also can be very slippery when wet, due to many tree roots and muddy terrain. We highly recommend that you wear hiking boots which provide firm ankle support. Walking poles are highly recommended.
See a sample equipment list here.
Please book as early as practical to avoid disappointment. A 35% deposit is required at time of booking. Please note that there is a $200 CAD non-refundable portion of this deposit. The final payment is due eight weeks before the start of the tour and that amount in Canadian dollars will be calculated using the Yen exchange value at that time. The price is subject to change due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates without notice.
You are required to purchase travel medical insurance to participate our Japan programs.
Travel medical insurance covers and protects you against unforeseen events during the tour in Japan. We appreciate not everyone wants the added cost of insurance, but in our experience unplanned events happen regularly. Your tour leader will do their best to assist guests when unplanned events happen, but there are easily obtained policies that can protect your financial investment.
We are hiking through a rural, remote area in Japan. It is your responsibility to have appropriate travel medical insurance during your trip in Japan.
We strongly recommend that you check your insurance if it covers emergency medical – related assistance services such as, -locating local medical providers, -arranging transportation and translation services, -coordinating evacuations including ambulance and emergency air transportation, -arranging accommodations and meals for extension of your stay.
Because you are traveling in Japan and it can be difficult to find a medical facility that provides assistance services in your first language. When you don’t understand what the doctors and nurses are telling you about your conditions, translation service will be of great help to you.
If you have travel insurance with your credit card, please make sure you check on the coverage and if you think it does not cover for the type of your travel to Japan, you may want to reconsider.
We also strongly recommend you find a trip cancellation or interruption provider as we will not be in a position to credit or refund your fees.
Dates:
Price
592,000 JPY. (price based on double occupancy) *The Canadian Dollar price is subject to change due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates without notice. See the website www.greathikesjapan.com for the current Canadian Dollar price. See the booking policy in the Booking Info tab for full details.
Single Supplement Charge: $700 CDN.
Inclusions
- Full-time services of your Yamnuska tour leader.
- 10 nights’ accommodation (single supplement applies).
- Ten breakfasts, seven evening meals. (indicated by a ✔on the itinerary)
- All transportation (Taxi, Bus) as stated in the itinerary between destinations in Japan, except for transportation during a complimentary tour on Day 1.
- A private transportation on Day 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
- Fee for Kagura at Takachiho shrine.
- Hot spring (onsen) entry fees.
- Assistant guide on Day 5, 6, 8 and 10
Not Included
- Airport arrival & departure assistance.
- Airport transfers.
- Flights to and from Japan.
- Transportation to Fukuoka and from Kagoshima.
- Trail snacks. (e.g. cliff bars, granola bars, trail mix,protein bars etc.)
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Certain meals indicated on Itinerary by NA (easy options always available).
- Optional Tours.
- Travel Medical Insurance (Required).
Hiking Difficulty – Is it for you?
This is a moderate hike (weather permitting) and requires a moderate level of fitness. Participants should be able to hike in a group, covering an average of 7 kilometers per day while carrying a daypack for 5–6 hours each day.
Most trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, but they can become slippery or muddy when wet, with tree roots and rocks along the way. Some hikes take you above the treeline, where weather conditions can change rapidly. It is essential to be prepared for all types of weather, regardless of the trail.
Hiking poles and sturdy boots with good ankle support are strongly recommended. This hike is suitable for participants aged 18 and older.
