Discover the Must-Visit Destinations in Kyushu, Japan

In Japan, alongside Shintoism, Buddhism has deep roots in the country's millennia-old history and significantly influences the spiritual and social life of the Japanese people. Hence, visitors to the Land of the Rising Sun can easily encounter unique temples, each carrying special spiritual values. Among them, Nanzoin Temple in Fukuoka stands out with the world's largest bronze Buddha statue.

Constructed in 1899 following the Shingon sect of Buddhism, centered around nature and mountains, Nanzoin chose the historic town of Sasaguri as its location, gradually becoming Japan's most famous pilgrimage route.

Entering through the main hall staircase, visitors can admire the statue of Fudoumyouou, a Buddhist deity with a fierce yet noble countenance, tasked with protecting believers from disasters. In autumn, behind this statue, a colorful natural painting unfolds, making this place a captivating and picturesque spot.

Presently, many people flock to this temple, believing in its ability to bring luck, especially after a monk won a lottery on the temple grounds. Thus, over 1 million people from all corners gather annually to seek fortune in love, career, and education, making Nanzoin the most sacred temple in Japan. Beyond its mystical allure, Nanzoin attracts international visitors to explore and pay homage to the world's largest bronze Buddha statue within the temple grounds. Named Nehanzo or Shakanehanzou, this statue is 11 meters tall, 41 meters long, and weighs around 300 tons, depicting the image of Buddha lying in meditation, approaching Nirvana. On Buddha's hand, there are five threads of different colors extending downward for visitors to grasp, symbolizing the connection with Buddha as he attains Nirvana and absorbs profound knowledge.

Surrounding the temple and the massive Buddha statue, visitors can also spot scattered ponds and sculptures of various deities and some other animal species.

Udo Shrine holds profound historical significance as the birthplace of Emperor Jimmu, the legendary first emperor of Japan. Two large breast-shaped rocks known as 'Ochiai-iwa' are said to belong to Princess Toyotama, the daughter of the Sea God, and the mother of Emperor Jimmu. These rocks played a crucial role in raising and nurturing her children, contributing significantly to the upbringing of Emperor Jimmu. Hearing these legends, many parents visit the shrine to pray for the safety and healthy development of their children. It is believed that drinking water from these rocks can fulfill those wishes. The shrine is also thought to bring luck to newlyweds.

Nestled in a rare and beautiful location, the main hall of the shrine is inside a cave. The scenic path leading to the shrine runs along the coastline with a view of the Pacific Ocean. Following the main path will lead you to the 'Shin-mon' or 'Divine Gate.' It is said that stepping through it, you enter a sacred realm with a solemn atmosphere. Before entering the cave, immerse yourself in the sea view and try tossing lucky clay balls, known as 'undama'! Successfully hitting the target with these clay balls is believed to make your wishes come true.

Currently in Japan, there are over 3,000 hot springs. Among these, the hot spring with the most abundant water flow is Beppu Hot Spring in Oita Prefecture. It spouts approximately 95,167 liters per minute, making it the second-largest hot spring in the world, following the Yellowstone National Park in the United States. Beppu's water consists of 10 out of the 11 recognized types globally. Onsen is an integral part of the local lifestyle, with Beppu city boasting over 100 public bathhouses, some charging less than 100 yen.

Beppu not only offers hot springs for bathing but also hot springs for sightseeing, known as Jigoku-meguri (Hell Tour). Visiting these spots allows you to witness 8 incredibly beautiful and unique hot springs, such as the Sea Hell and the Azure Kamado Hell. The Red Hell, rich in iron, the Boiling Mud Hell, and the Straight-Up Spouting Hell are among the captivating natural wonders you can experience. A popular activity in the Beppu hot spring area is the 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour), where you can admire and appreciate the extraordinary landscapes created by the unique characteristics of the 8 hot springs.

Mount Aso is a collection of 5 active volcanoes, the largest in Japan and among the largest in the world. Located in the Aso-Kuju National Park in Kumamoto Prefecture, on Kyushu Island. The mountain peak stands at 1592 meters above sea level. Mount Aso has a relatively large volcanic caldera (25 km north-south and 18 km east-west) with a circumference of about 120 km.

At the tourist spots, state-of-the-art measurement devices are set up to ensure accurate monitoring of when the volcano might 'wake up,' and evacuation orders would be immediately issued. This explains why Aso attracts many adventurous tourists. Visitors can witness white smoke rising gracefully from the volcano's mouth, creating a serene trail resembling drifting clouds on the horizon. If the volcanoes show no signs of awakening, tourists can get up close to observe the mouth and envision one of nature's magnificent wonders. They can walk around the volcanic crater, admire the stunning blue lake within, or simply enjoy the beautiful countryside surrounding the mountain. There are numerous scenic spots in the surrounding area.

Japan is renowned as the land of cherry blossoms, but visitors will be pleasantly surprised and captivated by the beauty of numerous other exquisite flowers. In Kuju Park, Aso, located in the heart of Kyushu, a flower village offers the opportunity to enjoy beautiful flowers year-round.

What sets Kuju Flower Park apart is the featured flower that blooms each season. If you adore lavender, summer is the perfect choice. Additionally, the park showcases Cosmos flowers, originally from Mexico, imparting a sense of tranquility and unusual delicacy.

Various types of flowers are strategically planted to bloom at different times, ensuring that whenever you visit, you can marvel at the vibrant floral display. Check current information on the blooming status of flowers before your visit. If you find yourself in Oita Prefecture, make sure to explore Kuju Flower Park and immerse yourself in the delightful fragrance of blossoms.

Kumamoto Castle was constructed under the guidance of Katō Kiyomasa, a local feudal lord (daimyo). Kato was renowned for his castle designs, praised for their efficiency. Upon completion, the castle was jointly administered by the Kato and Hosokawa clans. Surrounding the castle are approximately 800 cherry blossom trees, making Kumamoto a breathtaking cherry blossom viewing spot in late March and early April. The overall length from east to west is 1.6 km, and from north to south is 1.2 km. The estimated area is around 980,000 m2 (about 9 km in circumference at the time of construction) with the main tower, 49 turrets, 18 Yagura (turrets), and 29 entrance gates.

Not only renowned for its appearance and structure, Kumamoto is also associated with historical achievements. In 1868, the castle became the main stronghold for the government army in Kyushu. In 1877, the castle was attacked by Saigo, and the base areas were set on fire. After two months of resilient resistance, the newly rising government forces had to surrender and retreat. By 1960, the castle was reconstructed using steel-reinforced concrete, maintaining the original interior. The fortress includes a six-story main tower, 30.29 meters high, and a smaller tower attached to four stories. The layered floors are intricately built and sturdy. From the main tower, visitors can overlook the city beautifully.

The unique attraction of Kumamoto is the reconstruction of Honmaru Goten Palace, created to commemorate the castle's 400th anniversary, opened to visitors in 2008. Initially, the palace was much larger, containing numerous residences for feudal lords, but many buildings were destroyed during the Seinan Civil War.

In recent years, the castle's restoration endeavors to adhere to the original materials and methods. There are areas dedicated to entertainment, a reception room for feudal lords, and an intriguing display about the building's restoration process. Kumamoto Castle boasts an impressive stone wall, ramparts, several turrets, and warehouses, with some areas open for exploration. The stone wall, 13.5 meters high, is constructed according to relevant organizations. The turret is designated a national cultural property in need of preservation. Uto Turret is one of the few structures remaining after the 1877 siege. Additionally, there is a single tunnel leading to the palaces and a former residence of the Hosokawa clan about 500 meters northwest of the main castle. The castle has 13 designated state-important cultural properties, all of which have been damaged. A large turret called Kita Jyuhachiken Yagura also collapsed along with the stone walls and nagabei.

Mount Inasa is situated in Inasa Town, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture. A cable car takes visitors to the summit, where an observation deck unveils a panoramic view of Nagasaki, a city renowned for having one of the most beautiful nightscapes in Japan. In spring, you can admire cherry blossoms in full bloom along with the breathtaking scenery. Don't forget to visit Mount Inasa during your time in Nagasaki.

Combining the beauty and serenity of Nagasaki's night scene, Mount Inasa is a favorite spot for couples. There is even a heart-shaped monument to commemorate the vows of love made by couples who visit this observation deck.

Mount Inasa also offers picturesque daytime views, especially in spring when cherry blossoms and azaleas are in full bloom. Whether traveling with a loved one or enjoying the scenic beauty, Mount Inasa is the perfect place to savor the stunning essence of Nagasaki from an elevated perspective.