The Ultimate Fukuoka Travel Blog: My Kyushu Itinerary, Best Places to Visit & Unforgettable Day Trips

If you’re planning a trip to Fukuoka or crafting the perfect Kyushu itinerary, this guide walks you through my unforgettable journey across temples, mountains, hot springs, coastal escapes, and iconic city landmarks. Whether you love nature, culture, history, or anime, these are the best places to visit in Fukuoka and Kyushu—including a day trip to Itoshima and Nagasaki.

Top Places to Visit in Kyushu: My Fukuoka Travel Highlights
1. Nyoirin-ji Temple – A Peaceful Start
My adventure began at Nyoirin-ji Temple, a serene Buddhist temple famous for its collection of frog statues. Known as the “Frog Temple,” this spot is a beautiful blend of nature, spirituality, and quirky charm—making it one of the most interesting hidden gems in Fukuoka.

2. Mt. Yufu – One of Kyushu’s Most Scenic Views
A highlight for nature lovers, Mt. Yufu offers postcard-worthy views with its majestic twin peaks. Whether you're hiking or simply admiring it from afar, this is one of the most beautiful natural attractions near Fukuoka.

3. Yufuin Floral Village – Walk Into a Fairytale
The enchanting Yufuin Floral Village feels like stepping into a whimsical European storybook. Its cobblestone streets, pastel cottages, and charming shops make it one of the most Instagrammable spots in all of Kyushu.

4. Kirin Lake – Calm, Clear, and Captivating
A short walk away is Kirin Lake, a peaceful, mirror-like lake that reflects the surrounding mountains. It's perfect for travelers seeking quiet moments and scenic photo opportunities.

5. Beppu Hot Springs – Kamado-Jigoku & Umi-Jigoku
No Kyushu travel guide would be complete without Beppu. I explored:

• Kamado-Jigoku, with its dramatic steam vents and colorful pools

• Umi-Jigoku, the iconic cobalt-blue hot spring

Both are must-see Beppu hot spring attractions that showcase Japan’s geothermal wonders.

6. Life-Size Gundam at Lalaport Fukuoka – A Must-Visit for Anime Fans
One of the most unforgettable stops of my trip was seeing the life-size RX-93ff ν (Nu) Gundam at Lalaport Fukuoka. This massive, 24.8-meter-tall mobile suit is an absolute bucket-list attraction for Gundam fans and anime lovers.

The statue moves, lights up, and features scheduled shows throughout the day, making it one of the top attractions in Fukuoka City. The surrounding area also features themed shops, cafés, and exclusive merchandise that can only be found in Fukuoka. Whether you’re into anime or simply love impressive landmarks, the Gundam Statue Fukuoka is a sight you cannot miss.

6. Kushida Shrine
Kushida Shrine is one of Fukuoka’s most cherished cultural landmarks. Known as the guardian shrine of Hakata, it’s famous for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival held every July. Visitors can admire the massive festival floats on display, stroll through serene temple grounds, and enjoy a glimpse of ancient traditions still alive today. It’s a peaceful stop right in the middle of the bustling city.

7 . Nanzoin Temple
Located in Sasaguri, just outside central Fukuoka, Nanzoin Temple is best known for its enormous reclining Buddha statue — one of the largest bronze statues in the world. The temple grounds are lush, calming, and perfect for slow walks filled with spiritual charm. It’s a truly breathtaking sight and worth the short trip from the city.

8 . Fukuoka Tower
Fukuoka Tower is an iconic 234-meter skyscraper overlooking Momochi Seaside Park. Head up to the observation deck for stunning views of the city, Hakata Bay, and the coastline — especially magical during sunset or at night when the skyline lights up. The tower also features seasonal light displays, making it a great photo spot.

9 . Ohori Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful break from sightseeing, Ohori Park is perfect. This spacious park surrounds a large pond and offers scenic walking paths, charming bridges, boat rentals, and a beautiful Japanese garden. It’s a favorite spot among locals for morning jogs, picnics, and slow afternoon strolls.

Shiraito Falls — Nature’s Cooling Escape
My first stop was Shiraito Falls, one of Itoshima’s most picturesque locations. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall gave off fresh, cooling mist that instantly felt refreshing. The gentle sound of flowing water and the crisp mountain air made it the perfect way to start the day.

If you’re a fan of nature walks, this place is a dream. There are small bridges, trails, and a viewing deck where you can take beautiful photos. It’s peaceful, serene, and a great break from the city’s busy energy.

Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple — A Spiritual Retreat
Next, I visited the historic Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple, a beautifully preserved temple nestled in the mountains. The temple grounds have this calming, sacred aura, and the architecture reflects hundreds of years of Japanese history.

One of the highlights is the massive 1,000-year-old maple tree, which changes colors dramatically during autumn. Walking around the complex felt like stepping back in time — peaceful, quiet, and deeply spiritual. A must-visit for anyone who loves culture and heritage.

Sakurai Futamigaura — The Iconic Sunset Spot
After exploring the mountains, I headed to the coast to visit Sakurai Futamigaura, one of Itoshima’s most photographed locations. The sight of the Married Couple Rocks (Meoto Iwa) connected by a sacred rope, with the torii gate framing the sea, is truly magical.

Nagasaki Day Trip – History, Culture & Scenic Beauty
Nagasaki is a city filled with contrasts — peaceful seaside views blending with deep historical scars. During my visit, I explored two of its most meaningful spots: Dejima Wharf and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Each place offered a completely different experience, yet both left a lasting impression.