Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost island, offers an unparalleled feast for the senses, especially in the crisp beauty of autumn. Perfect golf weather and exquisite local cuisine set the stage for a remarkable journey. Over 11 unforgettable nights, our fully escorted tour took 24 adventurers through Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Ibusuki, and Miyazaki, blending the joy of golf with Kyushu’s rich cultural tapestry.

Fukuoka: Where History Meets Modernity

Our adventure began in vibrant Fukuoka, with our hotel conveniently located near the bustling Hakata Station, filled with shops and restaurants. A warm welcome reception allowed us to meet fellow travelers before diving into our golfing escapade the next morning.

Our first round at Queen’s Hill Golf Club, designed by Akira Hattori, introduced us to Japan’s unique golfing traditions. The course's wide fairways and clever water hazards set the tone for the challenges ahead while fostering camaraderie among the group.

Queen's Hill Golf Club

Kumamoto: Castles, Gardens, and Golf

Following the scenic Yamanami Highway, we arrived at Mount Aso, where a noticeable chill lingered in the air. From there, we continued on to the tranquil Suizenji Jouen Gardens, a beautifully crafted miniature homage to the Edo-era Tokaido Road and visited the iconic Kumamoto Castle.

Golf at Kumamoto Chuo Country Club offered views of Mt. Aso from its hilltop greens. Designed by Osamu Ueda, this course was considered his magnum opus after five decades of work. Dinner that evening was a sukiyaki feast featuring tender Wagyu beef—a culinary experience to savour.

Yamanashi Highway

Mt Aso

Suizenji Jouen

Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Chuo CC

Wagyu Sukiyaki Dinner

Kagoshima & Ibusuki: Sand Baths and Volcanic Wonders

Our journey continued to Kagoshima, where we indulged in a lunch of Kagoshima’s famous Kurobuta pork. Traveling further south, we visited Sengan-en, the Shimazu clan’s stately residence, and marveled at Sakurajima from the Shiroyama Observatory before crossing the bay on the on the ferry. Sakurajima is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, standing in dramatic contrast to the tranquil waters of Kagoshima Bay.

In Ibusuki, we embraced the unique experience of a heated sand bath at Hakusuikan Ryokan. Rejuvenated and relaxed, we enjoyed oceanfront views at this elegant ryokan.

Ibusuki Hakusuikan

Dinner at Ibusuki Hakusuikan

Ibusuki Hakusuikan

Shiroyama Observatory

Sengan-en

Sengan- en

Kirishima: Tradition and Tranquility

Kirishima offered a serene escape. The picturesque Kirishima Shrine, framed by vibrant maple trees, was a peaceful highlight, blending natural beauty with spiritual significance. On our way tio Miyazaki we toured the Kurozu fields famed for their artisanal black vinegar, complete with a tasting session.

Kiroshima Hotel

Views from Kiroshima Hotel

Black Vinegar

Kurozu Fields

Miyazaki: Golf Glory and Natural Splendour

We settled at the luxurious Sheraton Grande Ocean Resort in Miyazaki for five nights, playing unforgettable rounds at UMK Country Club, Tom Watson Golf Club, and the prestigious Phoenix Golf Club, host of the Dunlop Phoenix Tournament. Tom Watson’s narrow fairways, Phoenix’s immaculate conditions, and hole-in-one celebrations at UMK made each round uniquely special! That was our second hole-in-one in Kyushu within a year. If you’re dreaming of a hole-in-one, Kyushu might just be your lucky charm!

An optional round at the Hibiscus Golf Course was such a delight that it’s now a must for future tours.

Off the greens, we visited a sochu factory and explored the stunning Takachiho Gorge, where autumn leaves contrasted vividly with the basalt cliffs. Culinary highlights included a kaiseki dinner and Miyazaki’s famed jidori grilled chicken. Evenings on the coach turned lively with singing and dancing, creating memories that remain tour secrets—our lips are sealed!

Kirishima Sochu

View from Hotel

Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho

Helen's Hole-In-One!

Tom Watson Course

At Tom Watson Course

Phoenix Country Club

Kaiseki Dinner Venue

A Farewell Fit for Champions

Our journey ended with a celebratory dinner inspired by Hideki Matsuyama’s 2022 Masters Champions menu. We toasted to new friendships, cherished memories and golfing achievements. I doubt that we’ll ever forget the harvert dancers and their rythmic moves!

Okinawa: Sun, Sea, and Golf

For over half the group, the adventure continued in Okinawa, Japan’s “Hawaii,” where warmer weather awaited. Two rounds at PGM Golf Club and Naha Golf Club capped off an extraordinary journey.