Best Fukuoka & Kyushu Hot Spring Ryokan Getaways: Japan Travel Guide 2025

Two months ago, I took a trip to Fukuoka, Japan. Overall, it was great. Compared to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, Fukuoka is quieter and more niche, with lower prices. Living daily in an international city like Hong Kong, Fukuoka offered less hustle and bustle and more tranquility and relaxation.

✈️ There are direct flights from Hong Kong to Fukuoka, taking just two and a half hours—super convenient.

🚌 After a day of city walking in Fukuoka, I opted for a chartered car to explore the surrounding areas. The driver, a northeastern Chinese guy who’s lived in Japan for 15 years, was very professional as both a driver and guide—quiet but friendly. We had a great experience, and the price was reasonable.

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**D1**: Fukuoka city walk, enjoyed a yakiniku (grilled meat) meal booked a month in advance.
**D2**: Fukuoka → Yufuin → Yufuin Onsen Town → Beppu’s Eight Hells Hot Springs → Stayed at a Beppu hot spring hotel.
**D3**: Beppu → Mount Aso → Kusasenri → Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine → Stayed at a Kurokawa Onsen hotel.

**D4**: Kurokawa → Kumamon Square (Kumamoto’s mascot office) and other city attractions → Takachiho Gorge → Fukuoka.
**D5**: Fukuoka. With the recent drop in the yen exchange rate, it was time for shopping! I love outdoor sports brands, while a friend bought a Mikimoto pearl necklace—apparently much cheaper than in Hong Kong, plus it was in stock.

Another friend got a fancy Chrome Hearts glasses frame. Rolex was sold out citywide 😏, so window shopping it was.

⛱️ Personally, I really liked Yufuin Town—it felt like a small European town, full of gourmet shops, with a lake and mountains at the end, offering beautiful scenery.

♨️ I also highly recommend Kurokawa Onsen Town. The whole town is small but charming, filled with hot spring ryokans and inns. We stayed at Yunohana, which included dinner and breakfast—both delicious and varied. No need to order; meals were ready in the ryokan’s dining area at set times—a blessing for those with decision fatigue.

⛰️ Takachiho Gorge is also a must-visit. Hiking through the canyon was refreshing. If you want to boat in the gorge, you need to book online a month in advance. I missed out, but it looked fun—give it a try if you’re interested.

Wishing everyone a fantastic time in Fukuoka and its surroundings!