Kyushu Road Trip: Food, Nature, and Cultural Sites
Source:
@Elanne Boake Jeong
17 attractions in Japan featured in a youtube post by Elanne Boake Jeong, verified on Google Maps: Udo Jingu, Obi Castle Ruins, Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, and 14 more.
Udo Jingu
Shinto shrine
4.5
Udo Jingu is a beautiful shrine built into a cave on the edge of a cliff, offering breathtaking ocean views. It is uniquely located by the sea and is a popular destination for visitors seeking spiritual experiences and scenic beauty. The shrine is famous for its bright red torii gates and offers a tranquil escape with spectacular coastal scenery.
Obi Castle Ruins
Place
4.0
Obi Castle is situated in a tiny town at the top of a hill. The castle area is known for its specialty fish cakes, called Obi Ten, which are fried to a crispy, spongy texture. Visitors can explore the preserved samurai district with its traditional Japanese houses and gardens, offering a glimpse into the Edo period.
Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown
Landmark
3.7
Nagasaki Chinatown is one of Japan's oldest Chinatowns, offering a vibrant melting pot of Chinese and Japanese cultures. Visitors can explore its bustling streets adorned with colorful architecture and enjoy a wide array of delicious Chinese-inspired cuisine. Signature dishes include Kakuni Steamed Bao Buns (braised pork belly on steamed buns) and Nagasaki Champon.
Kumamoto Castle
Castle
4.4
Kumamoto Castle is a historic landmark in Kumamoto Prefecture, which suffered significant damage from earthquakes in 2016 and is still undergoing restoration. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and a museum to learn about its history and the ongoing efforts to rebuild it. It stands as a symbol of resilience and is an important site for understanding the region's heritage.
Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
Place of worship
4.6
Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine is a mystical and secluded shrine nestled deep within a mountain forest, offering an otherworldly atmosphere. Its remote location makes it accessible primarily by car, with narrow, winding roads enhancing the sense of discovery. The approach to the shrine is lined with moss-covered stone lanterns, leading to a serene and spiritual experience.
Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones
Landmark
4.4
Meoto Iwa, or the Couple Stones, is a pair of sacred rocks connected by a shimenawa rope, symbolizing marriage and harmony. Located on the coast, these natural formations are revered in Shintoism and offer a picturesque and culturally significant sight. The nearby Futamigaura torii gate, often submerged in water, adds to the spiritual and scenic beauty of the location.
Amanoiwato Shrine Nishi Hongu
Shinto shrine
4.5
Amanoyasukawara Shrine is nestled in a gloomy yet aesthetically pleasing forest, offering a unique and atmospheric spiritual experience. The shrine is known for its stacked stone cairns created by visitors, adding to its mysterious charm. It's a serene location that provides a tranquil escape into nature and Japanese folklore.
Beppu Jigoku (Hells of Beppu)
Landmark
4.2
The Hells of Beppu are a series of geothermal hot springs in Oita, known for their unique and often colorful appearances, resembling various hells. These hot springs, with temperatures reaching up to 99°C, are too hot for bathing but are perfect for cooking eggs. Visitors can marvel at the dramatic steam and vibrant colors of these natural wonders and even try eggs cooked in the springs.
Ramen Stadium
Food court
3.9
Ramen Stadium, located on the top floor of Canal City Mall in Fukuoka, is a popular destination for ramen lovers. It features various ramen shops offering different styles, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. The video highlights a favorite, Tonkotsu Tsukemen Ando, known for its rich and flavorful ramen.
Cape Toi
Wildlife refuge
4.5
Cape Toi is a scenic lookout point offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding natural landscape. The area is particularly known for its wild horses, which roam freely and can be observed by visitors. Pakalapaka, a visitor center located here, provides more information and a chance to enjoy the local environment.
Aoshima Island
Island
4.7
Aoshima is a beautiful beach town famous for a unique geological formation known as the 'Devil's Washboard,' a natural wonder of regularly spaced rock formations best viewed at low tide. The island also hosts Aoshima Jinja, a shrine nestled in a jungle-like setting, believed to bring luck to married couples. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the beach, collecting seashells, or exploring the shrine and its peaceful surroundings.
Horikiri Pass
Scenic spot
4.3
Horikiri Pass offers stunning panoramic ocean views, with its distinctive rock formations along the coastline. It's a picturesque spot for enjoying the natural beauty of the Miyazaki coast and is a popular stop for scenic drives. Visitors should note that many local restaurants close early, so plan meals accordingly, possibly opting for convenience store food.
Sushitora Kushima Honten
Sushi restaurant
4.4
Sushitora Kushima Honten is a highly recommended conveyor belt sushi restaurant known for its amazing quality and execution of sushi at a reasonable price. Despite potentially long wait times, the dining experience is well worth it for its delicious offerings. The restaurant is particularly celebrated for its aburi (flame-seared) sushi, which is a must-try for visitors.
Seiunbashi Park
Park
3.5
Seiunbashi Park offers a picturesque natural setting with a flowing river and lush greenery. It's a tranquil spot where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature, even in less-than-ideal weather. The park is an ideal place to stretch your legs and appreciate the serene landscapes of Kyushu.
Kumamoto Ramen KOKUTEI Honten (Main Store)
Ramen restaurant
3.9
Kokutei is a renowned ramen restaurant in Kumamoto, famous for its Kumamoto-style tonkotsu ramen. While the video suggests it's "just okay," it's a popular spot for those wanting to try local ramen. The restaurant typically offers a rich pork bone broth with various toppings like chashu pork, wood ear mushrooms, and spring onions.
Shikairo
Chinese restaurant
3.9
Shikairou Chinese Restaurant is a must-visit in Nagasaki for its renowned Nagasaki Champon, a rich seafood broth with bouncy noodles and a variety of toppings. The restaurant also offers other Chinese-Japanese fusion dishes, providing a delicious culinary experience rooted in Nagasaki's unique cultural history. It's a great place to experience the city's blend of flavors.
Nakagawa Yatai Restaurant Walk
Association / organization
4.8
The Nakagawa Food Stall Street in Fukuoka is a bustling night market experience with numerous vendors lining the river, offering a wide array of delicious street food. It's one of Fukuoka's biggest nightlife attractions, known for its lively atmosphere. Visitors can sample various local specialties like ramen and yakitori, but be prepared for crowds as it can get very busy.