The Fukuoka to Kagoshima route covers 350km of Kyushu's 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 on the Kyushu Expressway (3.5h), open again since 14 August 2026 after the Kumamoto earthquake (see our road status update), or extend your trip
Frequently asked questions
How far is Fukuoka to Kagoshima by car?
Fukuoka to Kagoshima is approximately 280km via the expressway (3-3.5 hours) or 350km via the scenic inland route through Kumamoto and Mount Aso (5-6 hours with stops). We recommend spreading it over 3-5 days to enjoy the journey.
What are the best stops between Fukuoka and Kagoshima?
Top stops include Kumamoto Castle (1.5h from Fukuoka), Mount Aso volcanic crater (2.5h), Takachiho Gorge (3h), Kirishima hot springs (3.5h), and Sakurajima volcano (4h). Each deserves at least half a day.