Kyushu 4-Day Travel Guide

📍Travel Overview This trip starts in Fukuoka, covering Beppu, Mount Aso, Kumamoto, and returning to Fukuoka. 🚩Itinerary Day 1: Pick up a rental car at Fukuoka Airport and head straight to Beppu Kaizan accommodation (2 hours). Enjoy a simple meal of ramen and beer, then relax in a private open-air bath for the first night. Day 2: Start early with a visit to African Safari, then explore Yufuin. Return to Beppu to tour the Hell Circuit, visit Kifune Shrine to touch the white snake (symbolizing gentleness), clap your hands twice for good luck, and listen to the shrine owner's powerful prayers. Climb to the shrine's rooftop for breathtaking views. For dinner, choose a restaurant that catches your eye. End the day by visiting Beppu Global Tower to enjoy the city and hot spring steam views. Day 3: Begin leaving Beppu. First, visit the Attack on Titan Museum to explore the creator's works and legacy. Then, head to Oyama Dam, where you'll unexpectedly encounter a stunning view of the reservoir and a vast, thin forest. Proceed to Mount Aso, enjoying the dramatic terrain and caldera as you ascend winding roads. Pass the Aso rest area and ticket booth to reach the fully open Nakadake Crater, marveling at the spectacular scenery. After descending the mountain, head to Kumamoto and check into a hotel. Don't miss trying Kumamoto's specialty, horse sashimi, at a highly-rated Tabelog restaurant. Day 4: Start early with a McDonald's drive-thru breakfast, then enjoy a stroll around Kumamoto Castle after parking. On the way back to Fukuoka, opt for a scenic coastal route instead of the highway. Once in Fukuoka, savor a meal at Ichiran, visit Fukuoka Tower for a quick view, take a walk in Saitozaki Forest Zoo, and finally return to the airport. 🏖️Landmarks African Safari, Beppu Global Tower, Beppu Hell Circuit, Kifune Shrine, Attack on Titan Museum, Oyama Dam, Yufuin Kinrin Lake, Mount Aso Nakadake Crater, Aso Kuju National Park, Kumamoto Castle, Fukuoka Tower 🚇Transportation Rental car and ETC card are essential. Approximately 700 km of driving over 4 days. 🍜Recommended Restaurants Choose places with a Tabelog rating of 3.5 or higher for guaranteed satisfaction. 🏠Recommended Accommodation Beppu Kaizan (excellent value, stayed twice in a row). 💡Tips Check the weather and Mount Aso's official website for real-time gate opening status.