2026 Japan Vacations | Southern Japan Tour 9 Day | Kyushu & Shikoku Travel Package

Discover the beauty of Southern Japan on this autumn tour through Kyushu and Shikoku, two islands filled with culture, history, and dramatic landscapes. Begin in Osaka and travel west to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island, home to the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Continue into Kyushu to explore Kumamoto Castle, the volcanic scenery of Mt. Aso, the mythic setting of Takachiho Gorge, and the steaming hot springs of Beppu, where you can taste unique geothermal cuisine.

Cross by ferry to Shikoku and enjoy hands-on cultural experiences: soak at historic Dogo Onsen, stroll through Ritsurin Garden, make your own Sanuki udon, and discover Tokushima’s traditions from indigo dyeing to the spirited Awa Odori dance. This comprehensive journey blends castles, temples, onsen, and natural wonders—perfect for travelers seeking to go beyond Tokyo and Kyoto and experience Japan’s southern islands at their most vibrant.

DAY 1

Osaka | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Hotel: Hotel Emion Kyoto or similar

DAY 2

Himeji & Hiroshima | UNESCO Certified White Heron Castle

Hotel: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or similar

B D

DAY 3

Hiroshima | the Iconic Floating Shrine of Japan

Hotel: Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura or similar

DAY 4

Kumamoto | Waterfalls, Mountain Vistas & the Rhythm of Traditional Japan

Hotel: Aso Resort Grandvrio Hotel or similar

B L D

DAY 5

Takachiho | the Myths come alive at Takachiho Gorge

Hotel: Beppu Hatto Onyado Nono Beppu or similar

B L

DAY 6

Beppu & Dogo | Monkeys, Hell Springs, and Japan’s Oldest Onsen

Hotel: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama or similar

DAY 7

Ehime & Kagawa | Panoramic Sea Views and Traditional Udon Experience

Hotel: TBA or similar

B L

DAY 8

Tokushima & Osaka | Indigo Towns, Spirited Dance, and a Taste of Tradition

Hotel: Sheraton Miyako Osaka Hotel or similar

B L

DAY 9