The Aso-Kuju National Park is in the middle of Kyushu between Beppu and Kumamoto and should not be missed. Mount Aso is actually five volcanoes, of which the highest is Mount Takadake (1,592m), in the world's largest caldera (128km in circumference). Although one of the peaks, Mount Nakadake, is highly active, there is a ropeway to its summit. The peaks rise out of a landscape of green meadow that cover the floor of the caldera, creating an atmosphere that is at once bucolic and primeval. The ropeway runs from Aso-zan Nishi ropeway station, which is 40 minutes from Aso town by car.

Although their waters display the mystical cobalt blue color of the ocean, the Hells of Beppu are actually a series of almost-boiling (98°C) hot springs created by an eruption of Mount Tsurumi. The Hells of Beppu Course is a popular Beppu tourist attraction that introduces visitors to eight unique hot springs or hells, including umi jigoku ("sea hell"), chinoike jigoku ("blood pond hell"), and tatsumaki jigoku ("spout hell").

Originally two cities - the merchant's quarter of Hakata and the Samurai quarter of Fukuoka - modern Fukuoka is the biggest city of Kyushu. The modern shopping center is dominated by the golden IMS building in Tenjin area, and the Nakasu area is one of the best in Japan for experience of nightlife.

Dogo Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most renowned hot spring resorts, with a history stretching back 3,000 years. Soak away travel fatigue in the elegant main building before donning a Japanese yukata for a leisurely stroll around the souvenir stores.

Towering above central Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama Castle is a beloved symbol of the city and is famous for its cherry blossoms. The beautiful white-walled keep offers 360-degree views over the city to the distant Seto Inland Sea. Samurai armor and helmets are also on display.