2019 Southwest Japan Activity Guide
Southwest Japan encompasses some of the best culture the country has to offer. Follow our selection of guides below to learn some of the most exciting ways to spend this summer, as we share a variety of highlighted events and recommended itineraries across Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Saga and Yamaguchi.
Flower viewing and island hopping
Located on the western coast of Kyushu, Nagasaki Prefecture is comparatively small but spreads out into the sea, comprising of hundreds of islands. With contrasting topography, combined with Nagasaki City’s long history of being a vital port connecting Japan to the west, the area is rich in contrasts culturally, architecturally, and geographically. Dive in to find 10 fascinating experiences below (in no particular order) that await you in this diverse prefecture.
More about Nagasaki >Local crafts and natural environments
Sandwiched between Nagasaki and Fukuoka Prefectures on the island of Kyushu, Saga is best known for its stunning ceramics from Arita, Imari, and Karatsu. The area boasts many exciting activities and places, as well as a bounty of delicious local specialties.
More about Saga >Colorful culture and traditional discoveries
Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu, hauls in the excitement of major metropolises like Tokyo or Osaka but in a more compact seaside scene with quality art museums, rich local history and traditions, standout architecture, world-renown food, impressive urban beaches and huge shopping centers—all closely surrounded by rural treasures.
More about Fukuoka >Cherry blossom and memorable views
Yamaguchi is a prefecture resting on the west side of Japan’s main island of Honshu. Its capital city—also called Yamaguchi—has been aptly nicknamed “the Kyoto of the West,” but there is much more to see across this beautiful prefecture too.
More about Yamaguchi >