The gateway to Japan and Asia, Kyushu is a haven for hot springs, great food and dynamic nature.
Located on the southwest end of the Japanese archipelago, Kyushu consists of the mainland and a chain of small, sub-tropical islands. It is made up of seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Oita, Kumamoto, Miyazaki and Kagoshima.
Blessed with rich nature resources and a warm climate, Kyushu is Japan's third largest island. Gigantic caldera volcanoes line up one after another, and appropriately Kyushu is called "Land of Fire." As well as its many onsen, Kyushu has characteristic coastlines and various isolated islands.
Kyushu boasts an abundance of fresh food, with characteristic local dishes rooted in each area unique and wide-ranging. Kyushu is a relatively inexpensive place and that contributes to its attractiveness among tourists. The Kyushu Shinkansen line allows one to travel around Kyushu very conveniently.
CLIMATE
| CITY | JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | AVERAGE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FUKUOKA | 7.5 | 7.6 | 11.5 | 15.6 | 20.5 | 22.6 | 27.1 | 26.5 | 24.2 | 19.7 | 14.7 | 7.6 | 17.1 |
| SEOUL | -0.7 | 1.9 | 7.9 | 14.0 | 18.9 | 23.1 | 26.1 | 25.2 | 22.1 | 15.6 | 9.0 | -2.9 | 13.4 |
| BEIJING | -0.6 | -0.4 | 10.1 | 17.1 | 22.2 | 25.1 | 28.1 | 26.3 | 21.0 | 14.0 | 6.4 | -0.5 | 14.1 |
| SHANGHAI | 3.5 | 4.6 | 8.3 | 14.0 | 18.8 | 23.3 | 27.8 | 27.7 | 23.6 | 18.0 | 12.3 | 6.2 | 15.7 |
| HONG-KONG | 16.1 | 15.2 | 18.4 | 22.4 | 26.1 | 28.7 | 29.5 | 28.6 | 28.6 | 25.7 | 22.2 | 15.9 | 23.1 |
| TAIPEI | 15.3 | 15.7 | 17.7 | 21.6 | 24.8 | 27.0 | 29.0 | 28.8 | 27.1 | 24.1 | 20.7 | 17.2 | 22.4 |
OTHER INFORMATION
The Japanese yen is used. You can exchange your currency into yen at any bank, as well as many hotels. However, it's better to obtain Japanese yen prior to your visit.
Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan. Mineral water including major imported brands can be easily obtained from super markets, convenience stores and other similar places.
The electric current used in Japan is rated at 100 V. The type-A plug is used.
Signage, menus and other information catering towards tourists is becoming increasing made avaliable. Most Tourist Information Centers handle inquiries in English and occasionally other languages too.
You cannot bathe in a bathing suit unless strictly specified. Pour bathwater gently over yourself before bathing. Do not bring and soak your bathing towel in a hot spring. Due to the heat, it is strictly prohibited and dangerous to dive under the water in an onsen. A modesty towel is acceptable.
