Discover the authentic heart of Japan with a luxurious journey through Fukuoka and Kyushu, combining cultural encounters and scenic rail travel aboard the iconic Seven Stars.
This exclusive journey offers just two spaces per departure date, combining refined luxury with cultural depth. Begin with a night at The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, before boarding the iconic Seven Stars Kyushu for an exclusive 1-night rail experience. Continue with a 5-day curated tour through southern Japan, featuring indigo dyeing, ceramics & kiln tour, hot springs in Kurokawa, Mount Aso’s dramatic landscapes, and visits to timeless historic towns. A rare opportunity to explore Kyushu in comfort and style.
Upon arrival in Japan, make your way to the vibrant city of Fukuoka and check in to the renowned Ritz-Carlton, where impeccable service and elegant surroundings offer a warm welcome. Take the rest of the day to unwind, adjust to your new surroundings, and enjoy your first taste of Japan—whether it’s relaxing at the hotel, sampling local cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere—before your Seven Stars Kyushu journey begins the following morning.
Depart from Hakata Station aboard the luxurious Seven Stars Kyushu, beginning your journey through southern Japan. Sit back and relax as the train winds its way toward Kagoshima, offering stunning views of Kyushu’s glittering azure coastline. On board, enjoy refined hospitality, gourmet cuisine, and captivating stories from the master artisans who helped craft the train’s elegant interiors – bringing the rich history of Kyushu and the Seven Stars to life.
Your final stretch aboard the Seven Stars takes you along the picturesque Kyudai Main Line, with breathtaking views of Mt. Yufu. As you reflect on the journey, the train returns to Hakata Station. This evening, unwind at your hotel preparing for the cultural highlights of your Kyushu tour to begin tomorrow.
Begin your day in Imari with a private visit to a historic porcelain kiln, where you’ll observe master artisans practicing time-honoured techniques passed down through generations—shaping delicate clay, glazing intricate pieces, and firing them to lustrous perfection. Afterwards, wander to nearby Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets. Browse intimate galleries, admire centuries-old ceramic displays in atmospheric shops, and soak in the serene ambiance of this talented town steeped in artistic history.
Begin the day with a hands-on workshop at the Indigo Dyeing Tsutsumi Workshop in Kurume, where you’ll learn traditional techniques before creating your own indigo-dyed piece. Depending on your departure, the cultural experience continues in one of two ways. in January, you’ll explore Yanagawa, visiting the 400-year-old Tachibana Family Residence and discovering the city’s historic canals and innovative water systems, often called the “Venice of the East”. In February, you’ll delve into Yame’s tea heritage with a refined tea ceremony at a historic tea shop, featuring the region’s renowned green tea.
Begin your day with a stroll along the historic Yamaga Bunroku Kaido and visit the beautifully preserved Yachiyoza Theater, with the option to experience a traditional Japanese performance. Take part in hands-on cultural activities such as paper-making, lantern crafting, and rice cracker making, celebrating the region’s artistic heritage. In the afternoon, tour Yamaga’s unique breweries producing sake, wine, and whiskey.
Begin the day with a rejuvenating soak at Kurokawa Onsen, nestled in a forested valley and renowned as one of Japan’s most scenic and tranquil hot spring towns—an ideal place to unwind amid nature. Then, journey to the Aso region, where you’ll take in sweeping views of vast grasslands and dramatic volcanic landscapes. The afternoon offers a deeper connection to Japanese heritage through immersive cultural experiences, including Kyudo (Japanese archery), Iaido (the art of sword-drawing), and the elegant tea ceremony—each offering a window into the discipline, grace, and tradition at the heart of Kyushu’s identity.
On your final day, depart from Aso and journey back to Fukuoka before your transfer to the airport. En route, you have the option to stop in the charming town of Hita, known for its beautifully preserved streets, old merchant houses, and scenic canals. Take a leisurely stroll to soak in the local heritage before continuing your journey. A fitting end that blends history, culture, and reflection-making your final moments in Kyushu truly memorable.
Step into your private haven aboard Japan’s most luxurious train. The Suite on the Seven Stars in Kyushu blends traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort, featuring twin or double beds, an en-suite bathroom, panoramic windows, elegant wooden furnishings, and refined lighting and climate control – all designed for relaxation and privacy.
An oasis of refined luxury in the heart of Fukuoka, The Ritz-Carlton blends modern elegance with traditional Japanese hospitality. Overlooking Hakata Bay and just moments from the city’s vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural districts, the hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, world-class dining, a serene spa, and impeccable service. Whether you’re arriving or unwinding at the end of your journey, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka provides a sophisticated sanctuary in southern Japan’s most dynamic city.
A contemporary haven in the centre of Fukuoka, Hakata Blossom Premier combines stylish comfort with the warmth of Japanese hospitality. Located steps from Hakata Station and within easy reach of the city’s lively food scene, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks, the hotel offers well-appointed rooms, modern amenities, and inviting spaces designed for relaxation. Whether you’re beginning your adventure or winding down after a day of exploration, Hakata Blossom Premier provides a calm, elegant base in one of southern Japan’s most energetic cities.
Steeped in heritage and charm, Ohana Ryokan offers an authentic retreat in the historic heart of Yanagawa, available exclusively for the January departure. Set within a beautifully preserved estate, the property blends traditional Japanese architecture with serene gardens, tatami rooms, and warm, attentive hospitality. Guests can savour seasonal kaiseki cuisine, stroll through tranquil grounds, and experience the timeless atmosphere of a classic ryokan stay.
Set amid the tranquil forests of Kurokawa Onsen, Gekkoju offers an elegant blend of modern luxury and traditional ryokan charm, available exclusively for the January departure. Its private villa-style suites, each with their own open-air onsen, create a secluded retreat where guests can relax in complete comfort. Thoughtful design, refined seasonal cuisine, and warm personalised hospitality make Gekkoju a serene hideaway.
Nestled deep within the bamboo forests of Kurokawa Onsen, Takefue is an intimate luxury ryokan offering a completely private, nature-immersed retreat, available exclusively for the February departure. Each villa features its own open-air onsen, allowing guests to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by quiet bamboo groves.
