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The Official Kyushu Travel Guide

Getting around Kyushu

Getting around Kyushu

Tips for easy travel

Kumamon orange railway

Kyushu has an extensive network of trains and buses within the major cities, and connecting each prefecture. Some of the more distant areas are easier to reach by car, or even ferry. You can also fly to many of Kyushu's beautiful islands, including Yakushima and Amami Oshima.

By Train

There are several rail pass options from JR Kyushu. Depending on your travel plans and your budget, you can get an all-Kyushu pass, or focus on the northern or southern part of the island. Speed between major cities by shinkansen to maximize sightseeing time. Within the cities, local and express trains are easy to use. Kyushu is famous for its scenic trains, such as the Limited Express Yufuin no Mori and Limited Express Kawasemi Yamasemi. Some are covered by a JR Kyushu Rail Pass. For a luxurious experience, you can travel around Kyushu on the grand Seven Stars cruise train, with private suites and dishes by Kyushu's top chefs.

By Bus

Bus services cover 2,400 routes within Kyushu's cities and between many destinations. Depending on where you want to go, traveling by bus can be a great option. The SUNQ Pass offers unlimited bus travel in Kyushu including long-distance highway buses, over three consecutive days. You can also check route information and make reservations through atbus-de which covers bus travel in all Kyushu prefectures.

By Ferry

Kyushu is surrounded by sea and dotted with islands, ranging from charming fishing ports to World Heritage sites. Ferries offer a scenic way to get around, and can be more direct than the road routes. The SunQ Pass for buses also covers many ferry services, and there are discount passes in many cities. There are private ferry companies covering different parts of Kyushu. Visit the Sakurajima Ferry Guide for timetables and travel information to Sakurajima, and the Yakushima Tourism Association for information on ferries to Yakushima.

By Car

With many quiet country roads, driving is an ideal way to explore Kyushu. Popular driving routes include the Nichinan coast road in Miyazaki, and along the Aso Panorama Line in Kumamoto. You can find car rental agencies at airports and major stations. You can also get a combined rail/drive pass from JR Kyushu. Expressway tolls in Japan can be expensive, but the Kyushu Expressway Pass from Nexco West, allows unlimited driving on Kyushu's expressways for a fixed price. Check their website for tips on driving in Kyushu. You can find desks for major rental car agencies at most airports, or visit Toyota Rentacar for information in English.

By Bicycle

Cycling is a great way to see Kyushu. There are routes to suit all levels, from quiet backroads through farming districts, to challenging mountain courses. There are rental shops and bike share spots near major stations, attractions and tourist information centers.

Accommodation

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