Kyushu is the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, and it is a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the country’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From towering mountains and breathtaking beaches to vibrant cities and historic temples, Kyushu has something for everyone.
When planning a trip to Kyushu, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, the island can be divided into seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. Each prefecture has its own unique attractions, so it’s important to decide which areas you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly.
One of the best ways to explore Kyushu is by renting a car and driving through the scenic countryside. This will allow you to visit multiple destinations in a single day and stop at any interesting places you come across. Japan drives on the left, and a foreign licence on its own is not enough to drive here, so sort out your paperwork before you leave home.
What you need to drive in Japan
A visitor can drive in Japan with one of the following. The rules below are from Japan’s National Police Agency and the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), as of November 2026.
Most countries: an International Driving Permit under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Get it in your home country before you travel and carry it with your national licence and passport. Japan only recognises permits issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. A permit issued under another treaty, such as the 1968 Vienna Convention, is not valid in Japan.
Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan: your licence plus an official Japanese translation. These six do not issue permits under the 1949 convention, so an International Driving Permit from them is not valid in Japan. Instead you carry your original licence together with a Japanese translation, which has to come from one of these:
- JAF. The translation costs ¥6,000. Since April 2025 JAF takes applications online only, and only from inside Japan: you cannot apply from abroad. You print the finished translation at a convenience store in Japan, and only the paper copy is valid. JAF’s site gives an average of two to three working days for these six countries, while its information sheet says to allow one to two weeks. Someone in Japan can apply on your behalf before you arrive. Start at JAF’s English page on licence translations.
- Your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan, or the authority that issued the licence. The Swiss Embassy in Tokyo lists a translation of the Swiss licence, issued as a certificate, among its services; it asks to see the original licence and an identity document, so contact the embassy before your trip to ask how to arrange it.
- For German licences, the ADAC. Japan accepts translations by the German automobile club, which you can order online in Germany before you travel. ADAC charges €95 including postage, has it ready to post within three to five working days and sends it to addresses in Germany; you do not have to be a member.
- For Taiwanese licences, the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association.
Translations by ordinary translators, including sworn translators abroad, are not accepted.
Because JAF cannot be used from abroad and takes several days, a short holiday leaves little room to fix this after landing. Swiss, French and Belgian visitors in particular should arrange the translation before booking a rental car.
Either way, you may drive for up to one year from the day you enter Japan, or until your licence or permit expires if that is sooner. Police can ask to see your passport to check your date of entry. The full rules are on the National Police Agency’s page (Japanese).
Getting around by train
Another option is to take the train, which is a convenient and comfortable way to travel around Kyushu. The island has a well-developed railway network, with trains running between the major cities and many smaller towns. There are also several long-distance trains that connect Kyushu with other parts of Japan, such as the Shinkansen bullet train from Fukuoka to Tokyo.
The Shinkansen does not reach Miyazaki. From Kagoshima-Chuo, the end of the Kyushu Shinkansen, the Kirishima limited express takes a little over two hours to Miyazaki. See the Miyazaki Airport page for trains and buses around Miyazaki City.
Where to stay and what to see
When it comes to accommodations, Kyushu has a wide range of options to choose from. In the cities, you can find modern hotels, while in the countryside you can stay in traditional ryokan inns or cozy guesthouses. There are also many campgrounds and outdoor lodges where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Kyushu.
As you plan your trip to Kyushu, be sure to check out some of the island’s top attractions. In Fukuoka, visit the ruins of Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park and the lively Canal City shopping mall. In Nagasaki, explore the historic Dejima district and the stunning Shimabara Peninsula. In Kagoshima, see the active volcano of Mount Sakurajima and the beautiful Sengan-en garden. In Kumamoto, don’t miss the impressive Kumamoto Castle and Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest calderas. And in Miyazaki, see Takachiho Gorge, Aoshima and the Nichinan coast.
Two things to check before you go:
- Volcanoes. Sakurajima and Mount Aso are active, and how close you can get depends on the alert level. On 11 November 2026 the Japan Meteorological Agency had Sakurajima at Level 3 (do not approach the volcano) and Mount Aso at Level 2 (do not approach the crater). Look at the agency’s current volcanic warnings on the day.
- Kumamoto Castle. The castle is still being repaired after the 2016 earthquakes and was damaged again by an earthquake in late July 2026. It reopened on 13 August 2026 with the main keep and the visitor walkway open. The castle’s website (Japanese) has the current notices.
With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Kyushu is a must-visit destination for travelers to Japan. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Kyushu has something for everyone. So start planning your trip today and discover all that this amazing island has to offer.