Day 1

Fukuoka is compact and cosmopolitan, with a friendly atmosphere. Closer to Korea than to Tokyo, the city is the historic gateway to the Asian mainland. Hakata Station is connected to Tokyo by shinkansen and has rail and bus connections to the rest of Kyushu. After a day of exploring, sample Fukuoka’s famous soul food dishes—Hakata Ramen with its rich pork broth and mentaiko, a delicately spicy cod roe—at one of the outdoor food stalls known as  yatai, which open each evening.

Day 2

Itoshima, a 45 minute drive from the centre of Fukuoka, is famous for photogenic Futamigaura beach. Just off-shore, the Meoto-Iwa, or wedded rocks, are framed by a white torii gate. As the sun sets behind the rocks, the sky turns from gold to deep blue, known locally as the "blue hour". The area is also famous for oyster huts, which set up around the fishing ports from October through late March. You can cook your own oysters and other shellfish.

Day 4-5

When you reach  Beppu Onsen in Oita, you have crossed Kyushu from coast-to-coast. The area is famous for the  Beppu Hells, eight fiercely hot, bubbling hot springs, colored by natural minerals. Most can be covered on a short walk. If you're hungry, head to Kamado Jigoku, or Cooking Pot Hell, for vegetables steamed in the hot spring vapours. After touring the hells, head back to the town area for hot spring heaven. There are hotels and resorts to suit all budgets.