Explore Worldwide is launching a new tour visiting Japan’s lesser-visited island, Kyushu.
The nine-day ‘Highlights of Japan – Kyushu Island Tour’ takes in Fukuoka and Nagasaki, with an overnight stay in a traditional ryokan, sampling the region’s famous tonkotsu ramen and seeing the world’s largest volcanic caldera.
The new tour has been launched on the back of 40% year-on-year increase in bookings for Japan.
The tour is aimed at second-time visitors to the country or those who would like to lengthen their trip beyond the usual highlights. It can be extended with Explore’s Simply Japan tour, which explores the highlights of Honshu Island over two weeks.
Programme Manager James Adkin said: “When I was planning a personal Japan trip, I wanted to include a lesser-known region. I instantly knew that Kyushu was perfect. It looked so unique, serene, vast and colourful, and once there, it certainly didn’t disappoint.
“Kurokawa Onsen stole a piece of my heart, so pretty and relaxing that it seemed unreal. This spa town is an enchanting hidden gem which fiercely holds on to its traditional atmosphere. Unsurprisingly, this is a favourite holiday spot for many Japanese people.
“I’m so excited that our travellers will get to visit this special place on this new Kyushu tour.”
The tour costs from £,2995 per person, including eight breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner; seven nights in hotels and one in a traditional ryokan. External flights not included.
There will be 15 departures for 2026, starting on 28 February 2026.
