Begin your journey in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto Prefecture, where the elegance of tradition and artistry converge. Visit the Ueno Kiln, once the official kiln of the Hosokawa clan, and discover the intricate beauty of zogan inlay ceramics – a craft rarely seen today.

On board, enjoy curated experiences inspired by Kumamoto’s heritage, including hands-on Higo Zogan metal inlay, a samurai-era art form. Each encounter offers a glimpse into the region’s enduring craftsmanship and refined cultural legacy.

Awaken to the charm of Kirishima–Jingu Station, where breakfast and aromatic coffee await at a stylish café overlooking the majestic Seven Stars in Kyushu train. Savor Kagoshima’s local dishes, reflecting the warmth of southern hospitality.

Continue to Takachiho, the sacred land of myth and legend. Visit Amano-Iwato Shrine, a workshop crafting traditional kagura masks, and the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, where emerald waters carve through ancient cliffs. In the evening, witness the spiritual Yokagura night dance, a sacred ritual performed by local guardians of tradition.

Journey onward to Aso, a land where ancient forces of nature and human life intertwine. The vast Aso Caldera, one of the world’s largest, reveals sweeping grasslands and volcanic peaks that speak to Kyushu’s origins.

Along the way, local guides share stories of the land – its powerful eruptions, fertile soils, and the communities that have long thrived in harmony with nature. As you take in the grandeur of Aso’s landscape, feel the quiet connection between earth and spirit – an experience both humbling and restorative.

Your final day begins in Usa, home to Usa Jingu, the head shrine of more than 40,000 Hachiman shrines across Japan. With a legacy of over 1,300 years, this sacred place stands as the birthplace of Shinbutsu Shugo – the fusion of Shinto and Buddhism that shaped Japan’s spiritual tradition.

During a special guided visit led by a Shinto priest, you’ll gain privileged access to National Treasures and sacred rituals, surrounded by the shrine’s tranquil atmosphere. As you walk through the sacred precincts, a quiet sense of reverence and renewal fills the air.

In the afternoon, travel along the verdant Kyudai Main Line toward Hakata, where your four-day journey concludes – leaving behind moments of artistry, legend, and the timeless spirit of Kyushu.