Kyushu offers a magnificent blend of nature and culture, making it an ideal destination for a campervan trip. Here we pick five recommended locations in Kyushu and introduce their attractions, places to stay in your car, and information on nearby hot springs.
1. Mt. Aso ,Kumamoto Prefecture
Aso, with its vast grasslands and magnificent crater views, is perfect for a campervan trip.
- Recommended time of day: Early morning and evening hours are recommended to enjoy the sunrise and sunset.
- Parking spot: Mt. Aso ropeway parking lot (large vehicles can also park here).
- Nearby Onsen: Aso Uchimaki Onsen (a historic hot spring resort where you can enjoy open-air baths and footbaths).
2. Ibusuki Sunamushi Onsen ,Kagoshima Prefecture
The only natural sand spa in Japan, where you can spend a relaxing time.
- Recommended time of day: Early morning when it is quiet. There are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the spa at your leisure.
- Parking: Ibusuki Sunamushi Kaikan “Sunaraku” parking lot.
- Nearby Hot Springs: Ibusuki Onsenkyo (many hot spring facilities are available, and can be enjoyed in combination with Ibusuki’s famous Sunamushi baths).
3. Takachiho Gorge ,Miyazaki Prefecture
The mysterious scenery of the canyon and waterfalls are attractive, and the boat ride is a popular experience.
- Recommended time of day: Quiet time in the early morning is recommended. There are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the tour at your leisure.
- Parking: Takachiho Gorge Tourist Parking Lot.
- Nearby hot springs: Takachiho Onsen (Ama-no-Iwato Onsen and Takachiho Onsen are hot springs where you can relax after strolling through the gorge).
4. Beppu Onsen ,Oita Prefecture
One of the best hot spring resorts in Japan, this is a spa paradise where you can enjoy a variety of hot springs.
- Recommended time of day: Enjoy the hot springs from evening to night with the lights of the hot spring resort area.
- Parking: Parking areas around Beppu Station and parking lots dedicated to hot spring facilities.
- Nearby Onsen: Beppu Onsen (tour the Beppu Hachiyu (eight hot springs) to enjoy the variety of hot springs that only a hot spring resort can offer).
5.Yabakei ,Oita Prefecture
The valley has beautiful seasonal scenery, and is especially breathtaking during the season of autumn leaves. It is ideal for a drive while enjoying nature.
- Recommended time of day: The best time to visit is during the morning light or at dusk when it is quieter.
- Parking: Ao no Doumon parking lot and nearby public parking lots.
- Nearby hot springs: Nagayu Onsen (a short drive from Yabakei, you can be healed at Nagayu Onsen, known as “hot spring for beautiful skin”).
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
March to November offers ideal conditions, with distinct seasonal highlights. Spring (March-May) brings comfortable temperatures and beautiful flowers across volcanic landscapes. Summer (June-August) is perfect for coastal experiences and unique sand spa treatments. Autumn (September-November) features spectacular fall colors at Yabakei and comfortable hot spring weather. Winter (December-February) offers fewer crowds and excellent hot spring experiences, though volcanic areas may have access restrictions during active periods.
Mount Aso: Aso Ropeway parking lot (large vehicle capacity, crater access when conditions permit)
Ibusuki: Sunamushi Kaikan “Sunaraku” parking (sand spa facility access, beachside location)
Takachiho Gorge: Takachiho Gorge Tourist Parking Lot (convenient gorge access, boat rental nearby)
Beppu: Various parking around Beppu Station & hot spring facility lots (multiple options for eight springs tour)
Yabakei: Ao no Doumon parking & nearby public lots (valley access, autumn viewing optimal)
Aso Uchimaki Onsen: ¥600-1,200 adults, historic volcanic hot springs with outdoor baths and footbaths
Ibusuki Sunamushi Sand Spa: ¥1,100 adults for sand treatment + ¥600 for hot spring bath, unique natural therapy
Takachiho Onsen (Ama-no-Iwato): ¥700-1,000 adults, mythological setting hot springs after gorge exploration
Beppu Hachiyu (Eight Springs): ¥300-800 per bath, world-famous variety of spring types and therapeutic benefits
Nagayu Onsen (near Yabakei): ¥500-900 adults, renowned “beauty skin” hot springs with natural carbonation
Mount Aso: Akaushi beef, mountain vegetables, horse sashimi (local restaurants, Aso farmland markets)
Ibusuki: Sweet potato specialties, black pork, tropical fruits (sand spa area restaurants, local markets)
Takachiho: Miyazaki beef, ancient grains, mountain river fish (gorge-side restaurants, traditional inns)
Beppu: Hell steamed cuisine (jigoku-mushi), local seafood, onsen tamago (hot spring district restaurants)
Yabakei: River fish, mountain herbs, traditional valley cuisine (valley restaurants, seasonal mountain lodges)
Recommended Route (5 nights/6 days): ①Mount Aso → ②Takachiho Gorge → ③Beppu → ④Yabakei → ⑤Ibusuki
Total Distance: Approximately 650km
Travel Times: Aso→Takachiho (1.5 hours), Takachiho→Beppu (2.5 hours), Beppu→Yabakei (1 hour), Yabakei→Ibusuki (4 hours)
This route efficiently covers volcanic landscapes, mystical gorges, hot spring capitals, mountain valleys, and unique sand spas across Kumamoto, Miyazaki, Oita, and Kagoshima prefectures.
Essential Items: Volcanic activity monitoring apps, swimwear for sand spa, comfortable walking shoes for gorge trails, camera for dramatic landscapes
Important Notes: Mount Aso crater access depends on volcanic activity levels – check current status. Takachiho Gorge boat rentals may have weather restrictions. Beppu’s eight springs require time management for touring. Sand spa treatments have age and health restrictions. Some mountain roads may be narrow. Hot spring etiquette is crucial – research onsen protocols. Monitor weather for outdoor activities and always respect natural site safety guidelines.
Conclusion
We have introduced spots where you can enjoy the rich nature and hot springs of Kyushu with your campervan. From Mt. Aso to Takachiho Gorge and Yabakei Creek, each location offers a different experience. Enjoy Kyushu to your heart’s content while taking a refreshing dip in one of the hot springs along the way.
＜PR＞
