4 hidden gems in Kyushu Japan 🇯🇵
Jumping on the bandwagon for the viral white handwritten text, aesthetic doodle, hand-drawn annotation trend with ChatGPT.
📌 Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
Google Maps: 2619 Kamishikimi, Takamori, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-1601, Japan
Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, a serene shrine tucked within a cypress forest. It’s also known for being featured in the anime film Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light, which adds to its mystical charm.
📌 Amaterasu Railway
Google Maps: 1425-1 Mitai, Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki 882-1101, Japan
We headed to Amaterasu Railway to purchase tickets (note that they must be bought on-site, as advance reservations are not available).
The railway runs along abandoned tracks of the former Takachiho Railway. Today, the sightseeing ride covers about 5 km of the old line, taking around 30 minutes for a round trip. We sat in open-air carts and crossed the Takachiho Iron Bridge, which stands 105 metres above the valley, offering breathtaking views of the Iwato River and the rice terraces below. The train drivers also shared insights into the history and surrounding landscape during the ride, though the commentary was conducted in Japanese.
** I have no idea why Chatgpt included a doodle of the South Korea flag...it's in Japan 🤣
📌 Yufuin
Google Maps: 8-2 Yufuincho Kawakita, Yufu, Oita 879-5114, Japan
Places we visited in Yufuin:
Telato
Milch (Dessert)
Yufuin Kinsho Croquettes
Yunotsubo Street
Yufuin Floral Village
Miffy Mori no Bakery
Snoopy Chaya
Kinrin Lake
Cafe Tenjosajiki
Unagihime Shrine
盆地うどん 麺一
湯布珈琲
まんぷく食堂
日本茶5toku
Yufuin Burger House
📌 Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi
Google Maps: 1208 Tano, Kokonoe, Kusu District, Oita 879-4911, Japan
This bridge made us feel as though we were walking through the sky. This suspension bridge spanning the Narukogawa Gorge is located in Kyushu. It is 777m above sea level and 173m above the valley floor. It offers a spectacular view of Shindo Falls and panoramic view of the Kuju mountain range.
If you're planning a trip to Kyushu and want to uncover some truly unique experiences beyond the typical tourist spots, these hidden gems are perfect for a memorable adventure. One of the highlights is Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, deeply rooted in history and spirituality. Wander along the peaceful stone lantern-lined paths surrounded by towering cypress trees that are hundreds of years old. The shrine exudes an almost mystical calm, making it ideal for slow, mindful walks. Don't miss getting a goshuin (shrine stamp) as a keepsake of your visit. For a more active and scenic experience, the Amaterasu Railway ride is a delightful way to explore old Takachiho Railway tracks. Although tickets must be purchased onsite and the commentary is in Japanese, the breathtaking views of the valley, Iwato River, and rice terraces more than make up for it. Taking a seat in the open-air carts adds to the authentic vibe and connection with nature. Yufuin’s charm lies in its cozy atmosphere and variety of must-try eats like the famous Kinsho croquettes. The town offers plenty of quaint cafes, shops selling local crafts, and peaceful spots such as Kinrin Lake. It’s also a Ghibli fan’s dream destination, with various themed local goods adding playful delight. Don’t forget to visit Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi, Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. Walking across at 777 meters above sea level gives you an exhilarating feeling of floating through the sky, with stunning panoramic views of the Kuju mountain range and Shindo Falls below. Throughout your visit to these spots, wearing comfortable shoes is a must due to some uneven paths and steps. Also, taking your time to really soak in the serene countryside vibe will make your Kyushu trip unforgettable. These hidden gems offer a glimpse of Japan's natural beauty and cultural richness away from crowded tourist routes.
