Why Israeli Travelers Love Kyushu
More and more Israelis are discovering Kyushu as the ultimate off-the-beaten-path Japan experience. While most first-time visitors to Japan head straight to Tokyo and Osaka, seasoned Israeli travelers know that the real magic lies in Japan's southern island — volcanic landscapes, natural hot springs, and coastal roads with zero crowds.
Driving License: What Israelis Need
Israel is a Geneva Convention country, which means you can drive in Japan with an International Driving Permit (IDP). Getting your IDP is easy:
- ✅ Apply at MEMSI or any post office in Israel
- ✅ Cost: approximately ₪80
- ✅ Processing time: usually same day or next day
- ✅ Valid for 1 year from the date of issue
- ⚠️ You must carry both your Israeli license AND the IDP while driving
Flights: TLV → Fukuoka
There are no direct flights from Tel Aviv to Fukuoka, but excellent connections are available:
- ✈️ Via Seoul (ICN): Korean Air or Asiana — total ~14-16 hours. Often the cheapest option.
- ✈️ Via Bangkok (BKK): Thai Airways or budget airlines — total ~16-18 hours.
- ✈️ Via Tokyo (NRT/HND): ANA or JAL domestic connection — total ~16-20 hours.
Pro tip: Flights via Seoul tend to be the best value, with prices starting around $600-800 USD round trip during off-peak season.
🚐 Pickup: 10 Minutes from Fukuoka Airport
Our Hakozaki base is just 10 minutes from Fukuoka Airport. No navigating through city traffic on your first day. You go from the plane to the open road in no time.
Recommended Itinerary: 10 Days
- Days 1-2: Fukuoka → Mount Aso — Japan's largest active volcano crater, stunning panoramic roads
- Day 3: Kurokawa Onsen — Hidden hot spring village in the mountains. Amazing rotenburo (outdoor baths).
- Days 4-5: Beppu — The onsen capital of Japan with 8 unique "hells" (jigoku)
- Day 6: Kunisaki Peninsula — Ancient temples, terraced rice paddies, coastal roads
- Days 7-8: East coast → Miyazaki — Beaches, Takachiho Gorge (mythical origin of Japan)
- Day 9: Kagoshima — View of the active Sakurajima volcano across the bay
- Day 10: Return to Fukuoka via the western coast
Pricing: All-Inclusive from ~$110 USD/Day
VanTripJapan campervans start from ¥16,500/day (~$110 USD). This includes:
- ✅ Full insurance coverage
- ✅ Camping equipment (chair, table, cooler)
- ✅ Bedding and sleeping gear
- ✅ 24/7 multilingual support
- ✅ Airport pickup/drop-off
Compare that to a hotel (¥15,000-20,000/night = $100-135/night) plus a separate rental car (¥8,000/day = $55/day) — the campervan saves you money AND gives you ultimate freedom.
Tips for Israeli Drivers in Japan
- 🚗 Left-hand traffic: Japan drives on the left. Takes about 30 minutes to adjust.
- ⛽ Gas: Gas stations are frequent and affordable. Regular costs about ¥170/liter.
- 🅿️ Michi-no-Eki: Japan's roadside stations are incredible — fresh local food, clean facilities, and often free overnight parking for campervans.
- ♨️ Onsen etiquette: You bathe naked. Shower before entering. Towels stay outside the bath.
- 🍜 Food: Kyushu is the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen. The Michi-no-Eki food is outstanding and affordable.
Ready for your Kyushu adventure? Calculate your price and get a free quote by email.