How To Get To Kyushu

While Kyushu lies in the southernmost part of Japan’s four main islands, it is much easier to reach than most people know. The level of convenience and speed of travel, to and from Kyushu, is such that almost no other region in Japan (outside the Tokyo–Osaka corridor) can match. Kyushu has international airports and bullet trains that can transport you to nearly every prefecture. You’ll find this even more outstanding, given that half of Shikoku (the smallest of the four main islands) still feels like it’s hidden from the world.

 

In this article, we’ll cover what’s available to visitors coming here, including options for flight, bullet trains, buses, and ferries, all connecting this mesmerizing island with the rest of Japan.

 

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Fukuoka Airport (Photo Credit: shutterstock)

 

The Easiest Way to Reach Kyushu for Most International Visitors: Fly Directly into Fukuoka (FUK)

Fukuoka Airport is practically positioned in the city center, just 15 minutes to Hakata Station and downtown, so it makes a lot of sense why most people who come here use this airport. It has, by far, the most international flights in Kyushu. And its daily international connections include Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Honolulu, and more.

 

– Kagoshima (KOJ)

Aside from Fukuoka, which is the easiest option, it may save you some money or time if you use Kyushu’s other regional airports. This is always worth considering if your plans align. Like in situations where the Sakurajima volcano is high on your list of things to see in Kyushu, flying into Kagoshima can put you much closer to the action and ease your itinerary.

 

– Ōita (OIT)

Similarly, arriving in Oita is perfectly suited for you if your preference is onsen in Beppu or Yufuin. You will have cut travel time and awarded yourself an extra 3-4 hours compared to landing in Fukuoka and taking trains or buses southeast. Also, from Oita, the airport bus drops you almost at the onsen door, which is a good perk for convenience.

 

Additional Regional Flights

Nagasaki, Kumamoto, and Kitakyushu also handle a handful of flights from Seoul and Taipei. These and the above-mentioned options are possible flight choices should your plans change. You should also note that during the peak seasons, coming in through Fukuoka becomes an expensive option if you’re lucky enough to book just in time before tickets sell out.

 

If You’re Already in Japan, Ride the Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

At speeds reaching up to 320 km/h, the Kyushu Shinkansen “bullet train” (iconic in Japan) is generally the fastest way to move within Kyushu. Compared to flights, the time spent during checks is usually eliminated if you’re on a tight schedule.

 

In addition to this, you can pack as heavily as it suits your travel plans without having to worry about baggage weight limitations. The seats are huge, which enhances comfort. And for the best part, the scenery is not carved off the travel experience, especially the underwater tunnel from Honshu and the coastal run to Kumamoto.

 

For context, it takes about 5 hours to ride from Tokyo (which is located on Japan’s largest and main island) to Hakata (Fukuoka). Another example is Osaka, still on Honshu, which only requires you to travel for 2 hours and 30 minutes to Hakata.

 

Taking the bullet train might become the easiest option, considering you can join a ride totally free of cost if you own a nationwide Japan Railway Pass.

 

Domestic Flight from Tokyo, Osaka, or Nagoya

These are frequently the fastest and often the cheapest alternative for travel that includes these cities. They are absolute bargains if you do not already own a Japan Rail Pass. It is advisable to book 1-2 months before your planned travel, opting for earlier dates if it’s during the peak seasons.

 

Typical flight times

 

• Tokyo (Haneda HND or Narita NRT) to Osaka (Itami ITM or Kansai KIX)

Flight time lasts about 1 hour and 25 minutes, and 2.5 to 4 hours if you include airport access, security, and the time it takes to transfer from your hotel in Tokyo to the airport and vice versa (when you arrive in Kyushu).

 

• Tokyo (Haneda HND or Narita NRT) to Nagoya (Chubu Centrair NGO)

Fly directly from Tokyo to Nagoya in 1 hour 15 minutes, or 2.5 to 4 hours if you include hotel transfers and time spent in the airport.

 

• Osaka (Itami ITM or Kansai KIX) to Nagoya (Chubu NGO)

1 hour for direct flights. However, there are not so many nonstop flights available on that route, as many flights require a connection. Usually, through another major airport, which takes more travel time.

 

 

Get to Kyushu By Night Bus

Transporting by bus is another notable option from Tokyo, Osaka, or Nagoya. Although it is the longest option available, the level of comfort aboard some premium night buses over the past decade is very impressive. Plus, it is adventurous in a way.

 

Because highway buses remain the slowest (12 to 18+ hours to Fukuoka, depending on routes and stops), you end up saving the cost of an overnight accommodation. Other night bus routes to Kyushu include;

– Tokyo to Kitakyushu

– Osaka - Kumamoto / Kagoshima, etc.

 

 

Reach Kyushu with an Overnight Ferry from Osaka to Beppu

Options like Ferry Sunflower (operated by MOL Sunflower) offer one of the most relaxing and bespoke travel experiences in Japan. From Osaka to Beppu, the hotel-looking vessels like the Sunflower Kurenai and Sunflower Murasaki line feature impeccable amenities and comfort. You also get to pass under the world’s second-longest suspension bridge (Akashi Kaikyō Bridge) and enjoy views of the Seto Inland Sea’s lit-up bridges. Adding to the overall experience.

 

 

Kumamoto Ferry with Mt Aso from the Sea (Photo Credit: shutterstock)

 

Main Ferry Routes from Kansai (Osaka/Kobe Area)

Osaka to Beppu in the Oita prefecture (eastern Kyushu) takes approximately 12 hours overnight. Travel from Kobe to Oita through a similar scenic Inland Sea Route takes 12 hours. Or take the Osaka to Shibushi route (a longer 15-hour journey), which is well worth it given the numerous volcanoes and beaches to explore.

 

These options are the most convenient way to get to Kyushu if you’re starting from Osaka or nearby.

 

Routes to Northern Kyushu (Kitakyushu Area)

The Ideal gateway to Fukuoka/Hakata (short train/bus from port):

• Kobe or Izumiotsu (near Osaka) to Shimonji (Kitakyushu): 12-13 hours overnight through the lit-up Seto Inland Sea bridges.

• Yokosuka (near Tokyo) to Shinmoji: Approximately 21 hours (longer, cruise-like voyage often with suites and entertainment)

 

 

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