Japan Adventure: Kyushu & Shikoku
From CAD $8,550
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
Experience Overview
Say sayōnara to the list-ticking tourists and head southwest, where the extraordinary natural beauty of Japan is on full display. Starting in Osaka, and joined by an expert tour leader, we explore the lesser-visited islands of Kyushu and Shikoku by public transport, including the iconic bullet train. Expect deep cultural immersion – who wouldn’t want to master ‘hell steam’ cuisine? – and active adventures, including a cycle on the famed Shimanami Kaido and a hike up the active volcano, Mount Aso. If you want to see a different side to Japan, this is the trip for you.
Profile
— Accommodation: 12 Classic nights (hotels) — Group normally 4 to 14, plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Travel by train, bike, bus, ferry, metro and private minivan
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 12 Classic nights (hotels) — Group normally 4 to 14, plus leader. Minimum age: 16 — Travel by train, bike, bus, ferry, metro and private minivan
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
Transport: We travel on public transport, mainly trains (both bullet and regional services) plus local buses, trams and ferry. All are extremely efficient, so it is essential everyone is punctual to ensure we do not miss any of the services. Some of the distances covered are long, and we may need to change trains and buses on some journeys, but they are very comfortable, while also allowing us to meet the Japanese people and admire the landscapes.
As Japanese public transport usually has little room for storing large bags, there are three times when we need to pack an overnight bag, as noted on the daily itinerary. Also see the Essential Equipment section for more information.It’s essential you pack light, as you need to carry your luggage through train stations and busy areas.Luggage transfer services include one main bag per person.
Activity/walking profile: This is a cultural trip with active elements, including cycling and hikes. The amount of walking each day is considerable and fast-paced, plus we ascend and descend many stairs (bring comfortable walking shoes). Therefore, a good level of fitness is essential. This trip is also not suitable for persons of reduced mobility.
Day 3: If you do not wish to cycle on Day 3, you must inform us at least one month before departure, so our local team can arrange ferry transport. If you choose not to cycle, your tour leader will take you to the ferry and provide instructions but will not join you on the boat to Ikuchi Island. You can request an e-bike (subject to availability) at an additional cost at least one month before departure.
Itinerary flexibility: The order of activities may change depending on the weather and other factors. Your tour leader provides full details of the schedule during the welcome briefing.
Internet: Consider an eSim or Japanese sim card to stay connected while on the move. These can be very useful when you’re in conversation with the friendly local people but need the aid of a translation app.
Hotel check-in: It is standard policy in Japanese hotels that rooms are only available from 3pm, though you can store luggage beforehand.
Before you go: We recommend downloading the Uber or GO Taxi apps before you arrive, as both are widely used in Japan. The Google Translate app will also be useful.
Group Description
We use a mixture of local and international tour leaders, all experienced in leading international groups and have an in-depth knowledge of the country.
Eating Drinking
The cuisine is usually a highlight of any Japan trip. It is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes usually prepared with seasonal ingredients. Seafood is common and usually comes grilled or deep fried. Sushi and sashimi aside, other staple dishes include soba or udon noodles, sukiyaki (meat, fish and vegetables cooked in broth) and yakiniku (grilled meat).
When food is not included, your tour leader can always recommend the best local eateries and arrange group meals for a full immersion in the varied and excellent local cuisine.
Worth knowing
Food for certain diets (including gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan) is minimal or non-existent in many areas of Japan. The group meals arranged by the tour leader are in traditional eateries where the choices of vegan dishes may be limited to simple salads or boiled rice. However, there are several vegan restaurants in Osaka and Fukuoka. Please let us know before travel of your dietary requirements.Most stocks, which are common in Japanese cuisine, contain animal products and even vegetable tempura is mostly fried in the same oil as meat or fish. While some substitutions may be possible, strict vegetarian or vegan meals cannot be guaranteed. Those who can consume dashi stocks typically have fewer issues, but for those concerned, we recommend bringing supplementary food items.
Transportation
We have one private transfer on Day 10 in an air-conditioned minivan, but all other transfers are by the highly efficient and very comfortable public transport system.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Karaska Hotel Grande Shin Osaka Tower, 3 Chome-3-24 Miyahara, Yodogawa Ward, Osaka, 532-0003, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6391-6602
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today, by late afternoon is recommended. Check in time at the start hotel in Osaka is 3pm. There will be a welcome briefing around 6pm at the hotel followed by an included welcome dinner with your leader and group.
Airport: Kansai Airport (KIX)
Arriving Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)
The easiest and fastest option when travelling between Osaka’s Kansai International Airport and the start hotel independently is the train or airport limousine bus. More details can be found at the Karaska Hotel Grande Shin Osaka Tower’s website on how best to access the start hotel in Osaka from KIX Airport.
Arrival at Itami Airport (ITM)
If you’re arriving in Osaka’s Itami Airport (ITM), you can reach the start hotel independently by taking the airport limousine bus. More details can be found at the Karaska Hotel Grande Shin Osaka Tower’s website on how best to access the start hotel in Osaka from ITM Airport.
Further information will be provided in the final joining instructions which will be sent to you two to three weeks before departure.
Private transfers are not available on this trip.
Please note: Japan’s public transport system is excellent, efficient and is the expected mode of transport for both local people and visitors. The public transport systems have become increasingly easier to use, and everywhere you will find English signage.
Weather Information
Japan has four distinct seasons. We avoid the cold winters and the humid summers in Kyushu and Shikoku and settle for the more pleasant climes either side.
Kyushu and Shikoku are great year-round destinations, but the best times to visit are typically in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful; therefore, we only have departures scheduled from March to May and September to November.
Spending Money
Allow around 37,000 yen (US$260) for meals not included, plus more for drinks. We also recommend budgeting approximately 5,000 yen (US$35) per day for other purchases, such as souvenirs and other incidentals.
Day 3: E-bike for the Shimanami Kaido
— It is possible to rent an e-bike for our Shimanami Kaido ride. There are only four e-bikes available and are subject to availability. These must be requested at least one month before departure. Prices start at £65 (or equivalent in your local currency)
Tipping
Tipping is not expected or required in Japan – don’t be surprised if your tip is returned!
However, if you feel your tour leader has performed well over your trip, you may want to show your appreciation of their services – the amount you give is entirely personal, but 580-725 yen (US$4-US$5) per day (per person) is a good starting point.
Highlights
— Mix deep culture and active adventures to experience Japan like never before — Use the excellent public transport to move around, including the iconic bullet train — Explore the lesser-visited islands of Kyushu and Shikoku and historic Nagasaki — Ride the glorious Shimanami Kaido, among the world’s great cycle routes — Summit two peaks on Mount Aso, Japan’s most active volcano — Master ‘hell steam’ cuisine – Beppu’s centuries-old cooking style
Trip Details
Product Code: 35661
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: t system.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: AOO
Starts: Osaka , Japan
Finishes: Osaka , Japan
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
— All breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners — All accommodation — All transport and listed activitiesAccommodation
HotelsWe aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines. Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. If you would like to add to your existing booking, we strongly recommend you request well before 30 days before departure. Booking requests within 30 days before departure, and especially during peak season (March-April/October-November), may not be possible due to limited availability during peak travel periods. Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we pair solo passengers together in a room. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement (subject to availability). The single supplement is valid for all nights. In Japan, single supplements are often accommodated in either an actual single and/or double for sole use. Speak to your sales representative to book. Onsen (Japanese hot springs) For many visitors to Japan, the onsen is unfamiliar territory. An onsen is a Japanese hot spring and the bathing facilities and inns frequently situated around them. The combination of a strict bathing etiquette, that nudity is compulsory, and that the water temperature is often hotter than most whirlpool baths can cause some reluctance for first timers. However, once the courage is mustered, you may discover that an onsen is one of the highlights of your visit to Japan. Please be aware, you may be refused entry if you have large and visible tattoos. Some accommodations may have private baths available for reservation. Worth knowing Room sizes in Western-style hotels in Japan are generally smaller. If requesting a double bed, these can be smaller than Western double beds, so couples may prefer twin beds.Some accommodations may provide slippers and yukata (a Japanese-style dressing gown).Rooms with double beds in Japan are limited and always subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed at all accommodations.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $8,550 ($658 /day)
Itinerary
Begin your adventure in Osaka, an electric port city on Honshu, the largest of Japan’s four main islands. Around 6pm, say konnichiwa to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Your tour leader then ensures a big Japanese welcome by arranging dinner. Want more time in Osaka? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative. Accommodation: Karaksa Hotel Grande Shin Osaka Tower (or similar)
We’re off to Onomichi today, a quaint town on the Seto Inland Sea. Leaving our main luggage at reception (we’re reunited with it in Matsuyama on Day 4), we board the iconic bullet train. After 30-45 minutes, we stop in Himeji city to visit the 600-year-old Himeji Castle, one of the few remaining castles from Japan’s feudal period. In the afternoon, we complete our bullet train journey (2hr 10min) and arrive in Onomichi, where we pick up our bikes for tomorrow and check into our accommodation. Accommodation: Onomichi Kokusai Hotel (or similar)
Linking several islands in the Seto Inland Sea, the Shimanami Kaido has been called ‘one of the world’s most incredible bike journeys’. Experience it for yourself today, riding 28mi (45km) to our next accommodation on Ikuchi Island. Helmets and bikes are provided, and we’ll be led by our tour leader and an expert local cycling guide, allowing you to fully focus on enjoying the coastal views and sea breezes. Those who do not wish to cycle can take the ferry, which must be booked at least one month before departure. Our destination, Ikuchi Island, is known for its lemon groves and coastal views, while the ornate Kosanji Temple complex offers a spot of culture. Accommodation: Yubune (or similar)
Catch an early morning bus for our transfer (around 3hr 15min) to the castle city of Matsuyama on Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands. The city itself is the birthplace of modern haiku, while also offering plenty of cultural attractions, which we see today. After lunch and a walk around the historic district, we pay a visit to Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s last remaining original castles. On Mount Katsuyama, it’s also a great spot to enjoy views over the city and the Seto Inland Sea. We also stop to view the 3,000-year-old Dogo Onsen, a hot spring bath that’s said to be the oldest in Japan, and the nearby Ishiteji Temple. Entrance to the onsen is not included, but our tour leader can advise on how to visit in your free time if you’d like. Accommodation: Hotel Vista Matsuyama (or similar)
Leaving our main luggage at reception (we’re reunited with it in Beppu tomorrow), we take the train (one hour) to the Edo-era town of Uchiko. Here, we enjoy a masterclass on making washi (traditional Japanese paper), making a washi postcard – the ideal souvenir! After, join our tour leader for a walk around the Old Town, allowing us to admire the well-preserved Edo architecture. Our explorations include a visit to the Kamihaga Residence, a museum (and one-time workshop) dedicated to the local art of candle and wax-making, before we visit a unique candle shop now run by the family’s seventh generation. Return to Matsuyama by train in the afternoon, with free time to explore the city. Accommodation: Hotel Vista Matsuyama (or similar)
Depart our accommodation before 8am and head south by train (around 45 minutes) to Yawatahama Port, where we take a ferry (around 2hr 45min) to Kyushu, the third-largest of Japan’s four main islands. This lesser-visited island of Japan is a haven for nature and adventure lovers, with towering mountains, volcanic ranges and the hot spring region of Beppu, where we stay. Upon arrival, we can explore the area around Beppu Station to enjoy karaoke or a nearby onsen. Accommodation: Amanek Beppu Yula-Re (or similar)
Pick up some bento boxes or an easy lunch and hop on a local bus for our 40-minute journey to the mountains outside Beppu. Here, we immerse ourselves in nature with a hike on Mount Yufu. The exact route will be decided by your tour leader, based on the group’s overall fitness, but will generally follow the Red Main Trailhead Trail, a loop from Yufuincho to Mount Yufu’s East Peak. The 9mi (15km) hike should take around 3hr 30min (two hours up, 1hr 30min down), and we take well-marked, packed-dirt trails with some steep climbs and an overall ascent of 2,365ft (720m). The 360-degree panoramas from the top are well worth the effort. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to spend the day in Beppu at leisure, speak to your tour leader. After taking the bus back to Beppu, you may feel like a restorative visit to an onsen – the perfect ending to an unforgettable day. Accommodation: Amanek Beppu Yula-Re (or similar)
Before we head to our next destination, deep in the Kyushu mountains, we enjoy a unique cooking class, mastering ‘hell steam’ cuisine! This centuries-old cooking style makes use of the natural hot steam rising from the grounds of Beppu, while the mineral-rich steam is said to ‘bring out the true flavours of the food’. After enjoying our delicious self-made meal, we head to Mount Aso by train (around 3hr 10m). We spend the next two nights in the shadow of this active volcano; it’s very remote, but naturally beautiful, and offers excellent walking opportunities – as we find out tomorrow. Accommodation: Kamenoi Aso Hotel (or similar)
Join your tour leader for a hiking adventure in Aso-Kuju National Park, where the star attraction, the five-peaked volcano Mount Aso, offers hiking trails to accommodate different abilities. While the tour leader will decide the exact route, we typically combine two trails today. The beginner-friendly Kusasenri route (2.5mi/4km) takes us to the top of Eboshidake (one of the five peaks) and should take just under two hours overall. After, we climb Kushimadake peak, which should take around the same amount of time. Both trails are less affected by the gasses emanating from the volcano and, if there is no rain (and therefore mist), we can climb them year-round. Of course, this is an active volcano, so things can change quickly! If the park is closed at any time due to volcanic activity, gasses or bad weather, our tour leader has optional activities available, including visiting Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto city and its castle, or Okubungo village (public transport and entrance fees not included). Accommodation: Kamenoi Aso Hotel (or similar)
Bid farewell to Mount Aso and hop in a private air-conditioned minivan for our four-hour journey to Nagasaki, where we spend the next two nights. After three hours, we arrive in Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. This fascinating stop allows us to explore traditional Japanese artistry by wandering through narrow alleys and dipping into ceramic stores. We also enjoy lunch here before completing the journey to Nagasaki. Accommodation: Hotel Monterey Nagasaki (or similar)
Magical Nagasaki may be best known for the dropping of the second atomic bomb, but there’s far more to this city than Second World War history – as you’ll discover today. Join our tour leader for a comprehensive city tour by foot and tram. It starts in Nagasaki harbour, before we move onto Glover Garden, an open-air museum-park exhibiting the mansions of former foreign residents. We also visit Dejima, where historic structures and reconstructions tell the story of the area. Finally, we visit the Atomic Bomb Museum & Peace Park, a sobering yet vital look at the devastation of the ‘Fat Man’ atomic bomb dropped on the city on 9 August 1945. After a packed day, you may want to head into Chinatown (the oldest in Japan) to enjoy dinner in the one of the many restaurants. Accommodation: Hotel Monterey Nagasaki (or similar)
Bid a fond farewell to Nagasaki, as we transfer (around 2hr 25min) by public bus to Fukuoka. The amalgamation of two towns in 1889 (the castle town of Fukuoka and the merchant town of Hakata), Fukuoka is the largest city in Kyushu, but still well off the typical tourist trail. However, it’s garnering a reputation as a hotspot for foodies, partly because it’s the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen. Upon arrival, we drop our luggage at the hotel and the tour leader can advise you on how best to spend your afternoon. Cultural options include Ohori Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk around the central pond, or Tochoji Temple, the oldest temple of the Shingon sect in Japan and home to the largest seated wooden statue of Buddha in Japan. If you’d like to dip into the local foodie scene, head to Nakasu night food market and gather round a yatai (open-air food stall) to enjoy the convivial atmosphere and some of the best street food in the city. Accommodation: Hotel Monterey Fukuoka (or similar)
Today is departure day. Your tour leader will be at breakfast to say goodbye and provide assistance in should you need help getting to the airport. Want more time in Fukuoka? Secure post-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
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