The Fukuoka to Kagoshima route covers 350km of Kyushu absolute best — volcanoes, onsen, samurai castles, and coastal scenery. Here is the ideal 5-day itinerary by campervan.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Fukuoka to Kumamoto (1.5h)
- Pick up campervan at VanTripJapan Hakozaki
- Drive to Kumamoto Castle (entry 800 yen)
- Dinner: Kumamoto ramen at Komurasaki
- Sleep: Michi-no-Eki Oguni (free parking, onsen nearby)
Day 2: Mount Aso (1h from Kumamoto)
- Drive the Milk Road to Daikanbo viewpoint
- Visit Aso crater (if open), Kusasenri grasslands
- Afternoon: Kurokawa Onsen (tattoo-friendly outdoor baths)
- Sleep: Aso area campground
Day 3: Takachiho Gorge (1.5h from Aso)
- Boat ride through Takachiho Gorge (1,500 yen, 30 min)
- Visit Amano Iwato Shrine (mythological cave)
- Drive south toward Kirishima
- Sleep: Kirishima area Michi-no-Eki
Day 4: Kirishima to Kagoshima (1h)
- Morning hike at Kirishima (volcanic hot springs along the trail)
- Drive to Kagoshima, visit Sengan-en garden
- Sunset: Watch Sakurajima from Kagoshima waterfront
- Sleep: Kagoshima marine park or Sakurajima parking
Day 5: Sakurajima + Return
- Morning: Drive around Sakurajima (36km loop)
- Soak at Furusato Onsen (oceanfront, tattoo-friendly)
- Return to Fukuoka via expressway (3.5h) or extend your trip