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Best of Southern Japan
Operated by Bunnik Tours
Tripcode: 1055
Overview
Destination:
Japan,
Start:Osaka, Japan
Finish:Fukuoka, Japan
Finish:Fukuoka, Japan
Duration:19 days
Type:Group tour (max 20)
Travel Period
May 2025 - May 2026
Discover the enchanting hidden gems of southern Japan, where authenticity thrives away from tourist crowds. Immerse yourself in the serene tranquillity of lush parks and exquisite gardens which whisper tales of rich heritage. Behold masterpieces on Naoshima Art Island, connect with the Buddhist history as you trek along the Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage, surrender to the healing embrace of natural hot springs and embark on a culinary odyssey savouring the diverse flavours offered in the southern region.
Standard inclusions
Sightseeing
- Enjoy an Awa Dance Performance
- Bask in the serenity of the Ritsurin Garden and relax with a tea and sweets in the Kikugetsu-tei Pavillion
- See iconic art works on Naoshima Art Island (Seto Inland Sea)
- Trek the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage - Shikoku Henro (from temple 81 – 82)
- Visit the beautiful Kurashiki Village and Bikan Historical Quarter
- Wander through Okayama Korakeun Gardens
- Gaze at the Senkoji Park Temple
- Explore Setoda and see the famous Shimanami Kaido
- Catch a ropeway up to Matsuyama Castle
- Explore Dogo Onsen and see the Botchan Train and Botchan Karakuri Tokei
- Visit Temple 45 (the best) of Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
- Walk around ‘the Hells of Beppu’ in Kannawa District
- Taste Beppu’s Hell Steam Cuisine
- Enjoy a Walking Tour of Yufuin Onsen including Kinrin Lake
- Visit Takachiho Gorge
- Witness a traditional Kagura Performance
- Drive through ASO National Park
- Visit the Shirakawa Water Source Kusasenri and Aso Volcano Museum
- Stop at Daikanbo lookout
- Visit Reigando Cave
- Tour Kumamoto Castle
- Spend time at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park
- Enjoy the views from Mt. Inasa & Nagasaki Ropeway
- See the Dutch area of Dejima and Glover Garden
- Free time to explore Nagasaki's China Town
- Stop to view the Yame Tea Fields
- Wander through Hoshino Tea Museum
- Experience Green Tea making
- Explore Yatai Food Stalls in Fukuoka
- Visit and tour Nakamaru Soy Sauce Factory
- Walking tour of Hakata Old Town, including Tochoji Temple
- Visit Hakata Furusatokan Clothing and enjoy a weaving demonstration
Travel
- Return economy-class flights from Australia to Japan. Taxes included
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour (please refer to Some things to note)
- 2 ferry journeys within Japan
- All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
Accommodation
- 13 nights in 3-4 star hotels
- 2 nights at the Azumi Setoda, the reimagined family estate of a prosperous merchant, thoughtfully transformed into contemporary and serene spaces for guests. This stunning 140-year-old structure retains its cherished architectural essence, offering a unique blend of history and modern comfort.
- 1 night in a traditional ryokan guesthouse, Matsuyama
Properties include:
- Sheraton Miyako Hotel, Osaka
- JR Hotel Clement, Takamatsu
- Hotel Granvia Okayama, Okayama
- Azumi Setoda, Setoda
- Dogo Prince Hotel, Matsuyama
- Amanek Beppu Hotel, Beppu
- Solest Takachiho Hotel, Takachiho Gorge
- KOKO Hotel Premier, Kumamoto
- Hotel New Nagasaki
- Miyako Hotel Hakata, Fukuoka
Hotels listed are an indication and are subject to change without notice.
Meals
- 16 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 8 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
One of the best ways to experience a destination is through its cuisine, and in Japan, food holds deep cultural significance, reflecting centuries of tradition.
With this in mind, it should be noted that dietary requirements – including but not limited to vegetarianism, veganism, gluten-free/coeliac diets and some allergens – are less common and may not always be accommodated.
The restaurants and experiences visited on our Japan tours will not always be able to alter their menus to fully exclude specific allergens or to cater for strict dietary requirements, and it should also be noted that meals for those with specific dietary requirements may be simpler and less varied. Cross contamination cannot be catered for in all of our restaurants and experiences we visit, therefore it is up to the individual traveller to manage their own allergens.
While your Bunnik Tour guide will make every effort to inform you of the main ingredients in the dishes, the ultimate responsibility rests with you to ensure that you avoid any problematic ingredients.
Tour Guides
- English-speaking locally based national guide
Some things to note
- Should you not be travelling on the group tour flights a train ticket departing from Hakata Station will be provided to be used between the hotel and the airport for the departure transfer.
- On days 9 and 14 we will be travelling by ferry and our luggage will be transferred via coach, we will need to pack an overnight bag with two night’s worth of luggage. Unfortunately, the ferry has very limited space for luggage.
- On day 4 the optional excursion to Hashima Island will be done in lieu of the morning sightseeing in Nagasaki. The cruise is subject to local weather conditions and landfall cannot be guaranteed.
- Women may need a head scarf to enter some mosques and temples, and wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders. Also, a good tip is to pack a spare pair of socks in your daypack, as sometimes shoes need to be removed when entering and the ground can be hot.
Itinerary
Expand all 
Collapse all
Collapse allDay 1 - Depart Australia
Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 2 - Arrive Osaka
Welcome to Japan, a country that combines the ultra-modern with the ultra-traditional in such a way that it seems completely natural. We begin in Osaka, Japan’s third largest city, known for its delectable street foods, the exuberant energy of the locals and its buzzing night life.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive by 5.00pm for dinner at the hotel with the guide. For those arriving in the evening and unable to attend the dinner, we’ll meet you the following morning when our touring begins. Please refer to the letter you received upon check in with further details on the start time and your guide’s information.
Day 3 - Osaka – Tokushima – Takamatsu
Today, we depart Osaka and set our course to Takamatsu, the capital city of the Kagawa Prefecture. Here lies Ritsurin Koen, Japan’s largest and one of its most beautiful gardens. Its vast expanse is sprawled with many ponds, hills, lush green trees and well-preserved pavilions, crafting a truly stunning landscape all year around.
We stop at Tokushima on our way, where we will delight in a traditional Awa Odori (dance) performance before exploring the museum.
Continuing to Takamatsu, we will enjoy some free time to walk through the beautiful Ritsurin Garden and soak in the tranquillity at our own pace. Relax as we taste traditional matcha green tea at the Kikugetsu-tei Pavilion, overlooking the scenery. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and to have a look at the gift shop for some unique souvenirs.
This afternoon, we arrive at our hotel before walking to a welcome dinner with our guide at a local restaurant.
Day 4 - Benesse Art Site (Naoshima Island)
This morning, we board a ferry to the island of Naoshima in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea where we will spend our day. Also known as the Art Island, there are many contemporary art museums, sculptures and installations scattered across this island.
Special Experience
Admire the many different works of art across the museums including Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House Museum and Art House Project.
We’ll enjoy leisure time on Naoshima to have some lunch and stroll around the port to view the various installations, including the iconic spotty pumpkins by Yayoi Kusama.
Day 5 - Takamatsu (Shikoku Henro) – Kurashiki Village - Okayama
We set our sights on Okayama today, a city which flourished as a castle town during the Edo Period (1603 – 1868) and became a place of significant influence and power in the region. Okayama is also famed at the setting of Japan’s best loved folklore Momotaro (Peach boy), and you may spot some references to the legendary hero scattered throughout the city.
Get your walking shoes on, as we embark on a journey to two of the 88 temples of Shikoku Henro, a historic pilgrimage route. Traditionally completed on foot, the uniquely circular trail could take between 30 to 60 days to accomplish. Today we walk a 5km portion from 81 Shiromine-ji Temple to 82 Negoro-ji Temple, spending a few hours soaking in the scenic views, and connecting with the rich history along the way.
After our pilgrimage, rest your feet as we drive to Kurashiki before a walking tour of this picturesque village known for its beautiful canal. The village boasts classic architecture situated along the waterway, with charming shops, eateries and galleries. Find a spot for lunch and enjoy the serene surroundings before we head to Okayama for the night.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 6 - Okayama – Onomichi – Setoda
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Okayama Korakuen this morning, one of Japan’s top three gardens. Created about 300 years ago by the ruing Ikeda family as a place of relaxation, this garden offers a tranquil retreat as you stroll through its scenery. From the garden, we can also admire the exterior of the magnificent Okayama Castle.
Next, we journey to Onomichi City, where we head up Mount Senkoji via a cable car to see Senkoji Park temple and marvel at the breathtaking views of the city.
Setoda, our next destination , is nestled in the Setouchi region, a scenic area surrounding Japan’s Inland Sea. Setouchi is not a prefecture itself, but a collective term for parts of several surrounding prefectures, including Okayama, Hiroshima and Yamaguchi on Honshu, as well as Kagawa and Ehime on Shikoku. This region is renowned for its cycling paradise, healthy lifestyle, blend of history and luxury, and the vibrant open-air art scene. Setoda encapsulates the very essence of Setouchi, offering a quintessential experience of this unique area.
Special Experience
Enjoy two nights at the stunning Azumi Setoda, a beautifully reimagined family estate of a formerly affluent merchant.
Tonight, we dine at our accommodation, Azumi Setoda. Using ingredients sourced within a 50km radius, you will get a true taste of the Setouchi area. The chef also incorporates French cooking techniques, ensuring a truly unique experience for your tastebuds.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 7 - Setoda
Today is a free day for independent exploration. Setoda is home to the world-famous Shimanami Kaido, a sacred place for cycling enthusiasts. Stretching over 280 kilometers, the cycling route weaves through the captivating blend of natural and man-made scenery. With over 150 cyclist-friendly oases in the region, you’ll find many facilities to accommodate cyclists. Feel free to explore the area on your own or join an optional tour to cycle the expansive routes.
If you’re of an art lover, consider visiting the Hirayama Ikuo Silk Road Museum. One of Japan’s most celebrated contemporary artists, Ikuo specialised in Nihon-ga, a traditional style of Japanese painting. Additionally, you can visit Kosanji Temple, one of the more unique temples in Japan featuring an artistic peak made entirely of Italian marble and adorned abstract statues.
In the evening, unwind and relax as you soak in the onsen at Yubune bath house, conveniently located across the street from our accommodation. This experience is complimentary for hotel guests.
Optional Excursion
Shimanami Kaido Cycling – Rent an e-bike and cycle your way across the scenic route of Omishima Island with a local guide. 2.5 hours/17km – from AUD $160pp. Please note your height will be required when booking
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 8 - Setoda – Matsuyama
Home to one of Japan’s twelve “original” castles, Matsuyama Castle survived the feudal era unharmed and intact. Here, we ride the rope way up the steep hill for a bird’s eye view of the castle grounds and its 200 cherry trees- a truly phenomenal sight during spring.
Matsuyama is also renowned for its central Dōgo Onsen Bathhouse, believed to be the oldest hot spring in Japan. Its beautiful façade is said to have inspired the bathhouse in Studio Ghibli’s award-winning animation film, Spirited Away. We have this afternoon at leisure, providing an opportunity to explore Dōgo Onsen or see the Botchan Train. Don’t miss the enchanting Karakuri Tokei clock tower show, which will run every hour.
Tonight, we savour a traditional kaiseki ryōri, a multi course dinner showcasing the diverse skills and techniques that go into preparing these delectable dishes.
Day 9 - Matsuyama (Shikoku Henro) – Yamatahama - Beppu
This morning, we make our way to Iwaya-ji temple, number 45 on the Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage. If there’s one temple on the pilgrimage you cannot miss, this is the one! We’ll start our journey from the base of the temple taking the many stairs up the 800m journey to the top, having a couple of stops along the way to catch our breath and enjoy our magical setting. The trek up the hillside, combined with the temple’s beautiful structures embossed within a pock-marked cliff, makes for an awe-inspiring journey. Among these high-altitude cliffs are where holy men once practiced their religious disciplines.
From here, we depart the island of Shikoku and catch a ferry to our next destination, Kyushu, the third largest of Japan’s four main islands. Located on the southwestern part of the country, Kyushu has a subtropical climate with stunning beaches, natural hot springs and active volcanoes. Arriving in Beppu, we will have a group dinner as a welcome to Kyushu.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 10 - Beppu
Spend a relaxing morning at your leisure before our walking tour of the Kannawa District, famously known as the “Hells of Beppu”. Here, we will explore five unique hot springs. Beppu’s hot springs generate a vast amount of steam, which can be seen billowing throughout the city. For centuries, this naturally hot steam has been harnessed for cooking, giving rise to the renowned “Hell Steam Cuisine”. The true flavours of the food naturally enhances by the mineral-rich steam.
Special Experience
Savour a meal of “Hell Steam Cuisine”, where dishes are cooked using the mineral-packed steam from natural hot springs, intensifying their authentic flavours.
The remainder of our day is free to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps you want to indulge in a unique experience of Beppu Sand Baths – an ancient practice where you’ll be gently covered in 100% natural sand from Beppu beach. As your body gradually warms from the sands, you’ll feel your blood circulation improve, easing tension in both body and mind. For more details, please enquire with your guide.
Day 11 - Beppu – Yufuin – Takachiho Gorge
We bid farewell to Beppu this morning and head to Yufuin Onsen for a walking tour of the quaint resort town. Discover the mesmerising Kinrin Lake, then enjoy some time strolling through the trendy shopping district full of boutique stores.
We’ll then make our way to Takachiho Gorge, a spectacular natural wonder formed over 100,000 years ago by the eruption of Mount Aso. Explore the spectacular gorge along the trails and bridges, taking in the cascading waterfalls surrounded by the vivid greenery during summer and the vibrant hues of reds during autumn.
In the evening, we learn about Japan’s intriguing folklore in a traditional Kagura performance. Watch as the gods, myths and legends come alive through an extravagant dance, rhythmic drums and elaborate costumes.
Day 12 - Takachiho Gorge – ASO National Park - Kumamoto
This morning, we’ll drive through the magnificent Aso National Park, where you can gaze at the impressive volcanic landscapes and observe active volcanoes. Our journey includes a stop at Kusasenri for the best views of the sweeping grassy plains and a picturesque pond often frequented by horses.
Our next stop is a fantastic photo opportunity at Daikanbo, where you have access to the best 360-degree views in the area, featuring the Five Peaks of Aso and the Kuju Mountain Range.
From here, we make our way to our next destination, Kumamoto.
Day 13 - Kumamoto
Kumamoto boasts unique scenery, making it a popular tourist destination even for locals in Japan. It is renowned for its numerous hot springs, blessed by the natural powers from the famous active volcano, Mount Aso.
Our first stop today is the Reigando Cave, where the legendary swordsman, Miyamoto Musashi, spent the last two years of his life. Here, he penned the ‘The Book of Five Rings’, a philosophical take on a practical guide to swordsmanship and life.
Next, we visit Kumamoto Castle, one of the most extensive and impressive castle complexes in Japan. It’s no wonder it is listed among the best. This afternoon, delve into its intriguing history with an in-depth walking tour.
The rest of the day is for you to enjoy at your own pace. A stroll through the picturesque Suizenji Garden is a popular attraction for those visiting Kumamoto!
Day 14 - Kumamoto - Nagasaki
This morning, we embark on a ferry to Nagasaki, Japan’s second oldest port which was a primary gateway to foreign countries between 1639 – 1859. In the early 20th century, Nagasaki became a major shipbuilding centre, a factor that led to its selection as the target for the second atomic bomb dropped by the United States.
Today we visit the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park, established to honour the victims and survivors of this tragic historical event. Here, we will witness the poignant and heartbreaking history preserved within this solemn place.
This evening, we’ll dine together at a local restaurant. Afterwards, we’ll delight in scenic 360 views of Nagasaki at night. Once recognised as one of the Top 3 Night Views in the world, see the vibrant lights from high above which will leave you in awe.
Day 15 - Nagasaki
Our morning begins with an orientation tour of Nagasaki, where you’ll notice the rich tapestry of western influences and cultures as we explore the city. The tour continues to the the Dutch district in Deijima, a historical area once reserved for Dutch traders, and Glover Garden, home to the oldest wooden Western-style building in Japan. Next, we head to Japan’s oldest Chinatown to freely roam the wide variety of shops and restaurants. Whilst here, we suggest trying Nagasaki’s famous Chinese inspired dishes, Chanpon and Sara Udon.
The rest of the day is yours to explore this beautiful city at your own pace. For a fun activity, why not head to Huis Ten Bosch, a Dutch-themed park brimming with extravagant attractions, beautiful seasonal flowers and more!
Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional tour to Hashima Island (must have been pre-booked at time of tour booking), you will make your way to Nagasaki Port and embark on your cruise out to the Gunkanjima sea.
Optional Excursion
Hashima Island (Gunkanjima/Battleship Island) – Cruise out to Hashima Island, once a deep-sea coal mining Island. Closed for over 40 years, this battleship-shaped island has been reawakened and is now open to the public to explore. 2.5 hours – from AUD $60pp.
Please Note: This optional excursion will be done in lieu of today’s morning sightseeing in Nagasaki . The cruise is subject to local weather conditions and landfall cannot be guaranteed.
Day 16 - Nagasaki – Yame – Fukuoka
Today we head towards the northern shore of Kyushu Island to Fukuoka. On the way, we’ll stop at the Yame Tea Fields, where you can take in the beauty of the gentle slopes covered with lush green tea bushes. Our next stop is the Hoshino Tea Museum, where you’ll be introduced to the high-quality tea produced in this region. One taste of this tea will redefine your perception of tea! We’ll also delight our tastebuds at the museum’s restaurant, featuring delicious dishes incorporating their green tea.
Special Experience
Learn the traditional art of green tea making during a hands-on experience in the esteemed Hoshino Village.
Our journey continues to Fukuoka, Kyushu Island’s largest and most vibrant city. Once we arrive in the evening, we suggest heading to the Yatai Food Stalls for dinner. These iconic open-air food stands each seat a small handful of people and provide a unique atmospheric outdoor dining experience .
Day 17 - Fukuoka
This morning, we’ll take a tour of the Nakamaru Soy Sauce Factory to learn about the production of Japan’s staple condiment. After the tour, we make our way back to Fukuoka and the Canal City area and enjoy time at leisure for lunch.
In the afternoon, we visit the iconic sights of Fukuoka, including Hakata Old Town and Tochoji Temple on a walking tour. We’ll get a glimpse of local life during the Meiji, Taisho and Showa periods through the beautifully preserved homes and exhibits at the fascinating Hakatamachiya Furusatokan Museum.
This evening, the group will gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 18 - Depart Fukuoka
Our tour concludes this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 19 - Arrive Australia
Day 19 - Arrive Australia
Departure dates
Select your preferred date or enquire
Operator
Bunnik Tours
With over 25 years experience and a multitude of industry awards, Bunnik Tours' overarching aim remains simple: to provide a better way for travellers to see the world. We do this by creating a series of unique holiday experiences: - Small group tours of no more than 20 passengers, specifically designed to capture the essence of the places we visit. Tours that provide the perfect balance between organised sightseeing and free time for independent discovery. Holidays that visit the famous attractions but also wander off the usual tourist trail. Complete and stress-free tour packages with accommodation, guides, tipping, and meals included (and much more!). Independent travel packages are a flexible way to visit one or more destinations. They can also be added onto our small group tours for a unique experience! A strong belief in responsible travel and sustainable tourism. We have always been a family of travellers at heart, exploring the world around us with equal parts wonder, good humour and curiosity. As a family business we understand that our family's name and reputation is at stake every time we sell a holiday. We take your trust very seriously and look forward to the day when we can help you explore the world. Dennis Bunnik is the chair of the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) and we are actively involved in helping to improve the overall professionalism of the travel industry. Discover our passion for this incredible planet and its inhabitants, and experience your tour the ‘Bunnik Way’! - Dennis, Marion & Sacha Bunnik
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