Kyushu Region

Kyushu and Okinawa’s Place in Japan

Kyushu has long been Japan’s bridge to Asia, with trade and cultural exchange shaping its history. Today, Fukuoka is one of western Japan’s largest cities and serves as the economic and cultural hub of the island. Kyushu is also famous for its volcanoes such as Mount Aso and Sakurajima, its relaxing hot springs like Beppu and Kurokawa, and its fertile farmlands that produce outstanding food. Okinawa, once the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, retains a distinct identity with traditions, music, and architecture that set it apart from mainland Japan.

How Japanese People See Kyushu and Okinawa

For Japanese people, Kyushu is strongly associated with delicious food and abundant hot springs. Local specialties like Hakata ramen, Nagasaki champon, Kumamoto horse sashimi, and Kagoshima’s black pork are loved nationwide. Oita is known as Japan’s “onsen kingdom,” where towns like Beppu attract countless visitors. Okinawa, on the other hand, is seen as a dream destination within Japan—a tropical resort with clear blue seas, coral reefs, and a relaxed island culture. Its traditional music, lively Eisa dance, and protective Shisa lion-dog statues are iconic symbols.

Unique Characteristics

What makes Kyushu and Okinawa special is the combination of powerful nature, diverse food culture, and unique traditions. Kyushu’s landscapes include active volcanoes, lush mountains, and fertile coastlines, and its history reflects encounters with foreign cultures, from Christian heritage sites to international trade. Okinawa’s beauty lies in its subtropical climate and island culture, where Ryukyuan traditions, castles, and festivals are preserved alongside pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Together, the regions offer both the thrill of nature and the charm of deeply rooted culture.

Getting Around

Kyushu is well connected by the Shinkansen, which links it to Honshu and runs from Fukuoka all the way down to Kagoshima. Each prefecture also has airports, making access from Tokyo, Osaka, and other cities easy. In Okinawa, flights to Naha Airport serve as the main gateway, with ferries and smaller flights connecting the surrounding islands. Within Kyushu, trains and highway buses are convenient, while renting a car allows travelers to explore hot spring resorts and rural areas at their own pace. On Okinawa, cars and ferries are the best way to move between beaches, towns, and islands.