Shrines, museums, parks, and the spots in between, with the access details worked out.
A regional revitalization initiative in the hometown of Attack on Titan creator Hajime Isayama, featuring two museums dedicated to the manga series.
Hita · OitaA wooden replica of a 14th-century castle built in 1985 that now serves as a museum displaying artifacts and historical information.
Aya · MiyazakiTakasakiyama hosts wild Japanese monkeys in natural habitat, with over 1,000 individuals as of 2020, earning it recognition as the birthplace of monkey science in Japan.
OitaTsuma Shrine is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, whose name is believed to reflect her role as the spouse of Ninigi no Mikoto in Japanese mythology.
Saito · MiyazakiPublic park in Saga Prefecture with ornamental gardens, cherry blossoms, walking trails, and recreation facilities for families visiting the area.
SagaFestival route in Fukuoka that transforms into Japan's largest Golden Week celebration, drawing two million visitors for the Hakata Dontaku parade.
FukuokaSubtropical island with ancient cedar forests and moss-covered landscapes that inspired Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke, designated Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Yakushima · KagoshimaA venerable shrine dating over 2,000 years, Aso Shrine honors the grandson of Emperor Jimmu and fuses Shinto practice with worship of Mount Aso's sacred volcanic crater.
Aso · KumamotoSpecialized aquarium featuring approximately 180 penguins from nine species, with interactive exhibits including a natural sea swimming environment.
NagasakiAmakusa Christian Museum documents the Amakusa and Shimabara Uprising, led by sixteen-year-old Shiro Amakusa, highlighting the era's Nanban cultural influence and featuring a love bell.
Kamiamakusa · KumamotoA Shinto shrine in Fukuoka dating to the 8th century, renowned for hosting the annual Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival in July with decorated floats.
FukuokaOne of Japan's three most famous Inari shrines, dedicated to the god of agriculture and prosperity, known for vermilion torii gates and statues.
Kashima · SagaAn aquarium showcasing marine life from Kagoshima's waters, including sharks, rays, dolphins, and sea lions, with interactive touch pools.
KagoshimaChiran museum dedicated to preserving artifacts and personal narratives from kamikaze pilots and soldiers during the war's final stages.
Minamikyushu · KagoshimaHot spring resort in Kumamoto featuring traditional wooden ryokan amid scenic mountain terrain perfect for hiking and therapeutic soaking.
Minamioguni · KumamotoSasayama Shrine, dedicated to the god of martial arts and war, sits within Kurume Castle in Fukuoka with a main hall in traditional Edo period style.
FukuokaHarmonyland is a Hello Kitty-themed park in Ōita Prefecture with character-centered rides, live entertainment, and opportunities to meet the famous mascot.
Hiji · OitaAn important archaeological site in Saga featuring a reconstructed Yayoi period village with original houses and structures, plus a museum with period artifacts and walking trails.
Yoshinogari · Saga
