Fun and safe activities for families traveling in Kyushu, suitable for kids of different ages.
If you’ve lived in Tokyo as long as we did before moving to Fukuoka, you know the specific kind of dread that comes with a rainy Saturday morning. In Tokyo, rain meant crowded trains, wet umbrellas poking you in the ribs, and “indoor” spots that were packed to capacity by 10:00 AM. When we moved … Read more
Toy Shopping in Fukuoka: A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Best Kids’ Stores (Without the Stress) Whether you need a birthday present, a bribe for a long Shinkansen ride, or something to rescue a rainy afternoon, knowing where to buy toys in Fukuoka saves time and stress. The city does not have one giant toy … Read more
If you have spent any time planning a trip to Kyushu, or even just browsing Japanese pop culture, you have likely encountered a black bear with rosy red cheeks and a perpetually surprised expression. This is Kumamon, the official mascot (and Sales Manager!) of Kumamoto Prefecture. For families traveling to Japan, he isn’t just a … Read more
For families visiting Kyushu, there is a special adventure that combines anime excitement with the stunning landscapes of Japan’s volcanic heartland. If your children—or perhaps you—are fans of the world-famous anime and manga series One Piece, Kumamoto Prefecture offers a unique “scavenger hunt” experience like no other. Scattered across the prefecture are ten high-quality bronze … Read more
Miyazaki Prefecture is often called the “Hawaii of Japan,” and nowhere is this vibe more palpable than at Aoshima Beach Park. Located just south of Miyazaki City, this stylish, family-friendly destination offers a perfect blend of relaxed seaside atmosphere, safe swimming waters, and convenient amenities that make traveling with children a breeze. For families visiting … Read more
Traveling to Kyushu offers families a unique blend of nature, history, and culinary adventures that you simply cannot find anywhere else in the world. While ramen and udon are staple favorites for children, adventurous families often look for something a bit more memorable. Enter Yobuko, a charming fishing port in Saga Prefecture, famous for one … Read more
For many travelers to Japan, the allure of Saga Prefecture lies in its world-class ceramics. The towns of Arita and Imari are legendary, producing porcelain that has graced European palaces for centuries. But for parents traveling with energetic toddlers or curious elementary schoolers, the phrase “pottery town” might sound less like a cultural excursion and … Read more
If you have ever seen a video of blissful capybaras soaking in a hot bath with citrus fruits bobbing around them, chances are you were looking at footage from Nagasaki Bio Park. It is one of the most iconic images of Kyushu travel. However, for parents planning a trip to Japan with toddlers or younger … Read more
Why Huis Ten Bosch Is Worth the Trip with Kids Huis Ten Bosch is not your typical Japanese theme park. Located in Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, it recreates an entire 17th-century Dutch town — complete with life-sized windmills, swan-filled canals, cobblestone streets, and seasonal flower fields that stretch as far as you can see. It claims … Read more
For families traveling through Kyushu, the promise of seeing wild dolphins is often a highlight of the itinerary. In the beautiful Amakusa region of Kumamoto Prefecture, approximately 200 wild Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins live in the narrow straits year-round. The encounter rate is an astounding 98%, making it one of the most reliable places in the … Read more
