Kyushu on a Shoestring: Your Ultimate Guide
Exploring Kyushu doesn’t have to break the bank. With smart planning, you can experience its rich culture, natural wonders, and culinary delights without overspending. Here’s how:
Transportation Tips
1. Get the JR Northern Kyushu Pass
This pass is a game-changer for budget travelers. It covers unlimited rides on JR trains across Northern Kyushu, including Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Kumamoto. Check Klook for affordable pass options.
2. Use Local Buses
Kyushu’s cities have reliable bus networks. They’re often cheaper than trains for short distances, making them ideal for inner-city travel.
Accommodation Hacks
1. Stay in Ryokans or Guesthouses
For a unique experience, opt for ryokans (traditional inns) like Asobe Ryokan in Aso, where I enjoyed a private onsen and slept on futon beds. Guesthouses are another budget-friendly option.
2. Book Early
Accommodations fill up fast, especially during peak seasons.
Food on a Budget
1. Eat Like a Local
Street food stalls (yatai) in Fukuoka serve affordable and delicious eats like tonkotsu ramen. Convenience stores also offer budget-friendly yet tasty bento meals.
2. Splurge Strategically
Save your splurges for must-try local specialties, like Kumamoto’s horse sashimi or Nagasaki’s castella cakes.