Fukuoka, Japan
Karatsu - pottery
Imari / Hasami - pottery
Ureshino - onsen
Unzen - pottery, onsen
Toho Village - pottery / Hita - onsen
Kokonoe - mount Taizen area, onsen, way to Beppu
Nagasaki?
Kumamoto? City, onsen nearby
Beppu? City, onsen nearby
Kirishima? Onsen area, airpot
There are islands to note and a few notable shrines
Look up vilages, national parks, breweries
Kyushu, Japan
**Day 1 - Arrival in Fukuoka**
Morning: Arrive at Fukuoka Airport and check into your hotel. Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.
Afternoon: Visit the Fukuoka Castle ruins and enjoy scenic views from Maizuru Park. Explore the Ohori Park, where you can stroll around the pond.
Evening: Savor a delicious Hakata ramen dinner at a local yatai (food stall) before retiring for the night.
**Day 2 - Karatsu Pottery Exploration**
Morning: Travel to Karatsu and visit the Karatsu Pottery Museum to learn about the history and techniques of local ceramics.
Afternoon: Head to a pottery studio to try your hand at making your own pieces. Discover the charming streets lined with pottery shops.
Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll along the beach.
**Day 3 - Imari and Hasami Pottery**
Morning: Depart for Imari, famous for its exquisite porcelain. Visit the Imari Porcelain Museum to see displays of historical pottery.
Afternoon: Explore Hasami, where you can visit traditional pottery workshops and participate in a pottery-making class.
Evening: Relish a traditional Japanese dinner at a local inn, enjoying the serene atmosphere and possibly staying overnight.
**Day 4 - Ureshino Onsen Bliss**
Morning: Travel to Ureshino, renowned for its relaxing onsens. Start your day with a soothing soak in a hot spring bath.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, followed by a visit to the Ureshino Onsen Museum to learn about the area's onsen culture.
Evening: Indulge in a kaiseki dinner to experience a traditional multi-course Japanese meal before resting at your ryokan.
**Day 5 - Unzen Adventure**
Morning: Head to Unzen and explore the Unzen Jigoku (Hell Valley) to witness steam vents and bubbling hot springs.
Afternoon: Spend time at an onsen in Unzen, luxuriating in the therapeutic waters. Take a short hike in the surrounding national park.
Evening: Sample local dishes at a nearby restaurant, tasting the famous Unzen pork, then unwind in a tranquil atmosphere.
**Day 6 - Toho Village Pottery Experience**
Morning: Visit Toho Village, known for its atmosphere of traditional pottery craft. Attend a pottery workshop and create your own masterpiece.
Afternoon: Explore the scenic beauty of the village, stopping by local shops and galleries to admire the works of artisan potters.
Evening: Dine at a local eatery, enjoying home-cooked flavors while discussing your pottery experience with fellow travelers.
**Day 7 - Hita City Adventures**
Morning: Take a trip to Hita, where you can explore the charming old town with its preserved wooden buildings and canals.
Afternoon: Visit local sake breweries to learn about the sake-making process and sample delicious varieties.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying some of Hita’s specialties, and cap off your day with a relaxing evening walk.
**Day 8 - Departure from Fukuoka**
Morning: Spend your last morning at Tenjin, Fukuoka’s shopping district. Pick up souvenirs and enjoy a final bite of local cuisine.
Afternoon: Return to your hotel, check out, and travel to the airport. Reflect on your amazing Kyushu journey filled with culture and relaxation.
Evening: Depart from Fukuoka, taking happy memories of potteries and onsens back with you.