For koyo (red leaves) hunters, it’s impossible for them to miss Japan as there are so many beautiful places that we can see Koyo. I’m one of these hunters so I’ve visited Japan every year. However, this is my first time in Kyushu.
I was a solo traveler who explored some parts of North Kyushu during 30 November to 5 December 2014. Although it was autumn, Fukuoka welcomed me with shower. Dazaifu Shrine was my first destination. The rain could not stop me from looking for red leaves.

I knew it was a little bit late for Koyo but I could see several colorful trees there.

On the next day, I visited Yufuin, a nice city in Oita. Although I missed Yufuin No Mori, the special train from Hakata to Yufuin, Yufu 1 did not make me upset. I could enjoy the beautiful scene along the way to Yufuin.

Yufuin was a small city but very nice. We could walk and enjoyed shopping in small shops along the street.

The ryokan I booked was not far from Kinrinko or Lake Kinrin.

I could still find some red leaves here.

This was my first time in traditional Japanese ryokan. All staff were nice and friendly. Sure, I did not miss onsen.

The next destination was Mt. Aso. Unfortunately, I just learned about the eruption of Aso on 28 November 2014. This was the first eruption in 22 years. However, I didn't change my plan to visit Aso City.

In stead of ash or green field in Mt. Aso area, I was surprised when everywhere in that area was white with snow with the temperature below 0 degree celsius. I could only go to Ropeway Station as the crater was closed.

I promised myself I would come back to Mt. Aso again.

From Aso City, I rented a car from JR Kyushu Rent A Car to visit Takachiho Gorge. It was easy as I could pick up the car at Aso Station. My car was so cute and unique as it was Kumamon.

Takachiho city was just 60 km away from Aso City and it took around 1 hour and 15 minutes to get there.

When I arrived, I took a lot of pictures on the bridge. The scene was so beautiful but I felt a little bit upset. Where were my red leaves?

While I was walking to the other side of the gorge, I found a paradise with red leaves as I wished to see.

I've never seen beautiful scene like this before.

Apart from walking along the paved path, we could rent the boat and enjoyed the view of the river.

It was so wonderful. I spent a lot of time there before driving back to Aso City. Five days were not enough for me to explore Northern Kyushu. Not so long, you will see me in Kyushu again.