Award-winning small group adventure tour operator Explore Worldwide is launching a new tour visiting Japan’s lesser-visited island, Kyushu.
Adding to its extensive Japanese portfolio, the travel operator’s Highlights of Japan – Kyushu Island Tour is a nine-day adventure that promises dramatic landscapes, bubbling hot springs and rich culture.
Travellers can explore the vibrant cities of Fukuoka and Nagasaki, enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional ryokan, and sample the region’s famous tonkotsu ramen. There’s also the chance to see one of the world’s largest volcanic caldera – an awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Japan is enjoying a real moment with travellers with Explore Worldwide reporting a bookings increase of more than 40% compared with the same period last year.
This new tour offering showcases somewhere a little less known, especially for second-time visitors to the country or those that would like to lengthen their trip beyond the usual highlights. For those looking to extend their adventure, the itinerary combines seamlessly with Explore’s Simply Japan tour, which explores the highlights of Honshu Island over two weeks.
Explore Worldwide’s Asia 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.”
Highlights of Japan – Kyushu Island Tour is priced from £,2995 per person. The tour includes eight breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner. Seven nights are spent in comfortable hotels, with another night in a traditional ryokan. External flights not included.
The new tour officially launches with 15 departures for 2026, starting on 28 February 2026.
AloJapan.com