Instead of trying to squeeze several experiences in a day, slow travel is about connecting with a place. As its name implies, slow travel means taking more time to see less.
Easily reached by land, sea and air, the dynamic island of Kyushu is Japan’s third-largest island, located southwest of Honshu. Closer to Korea than Tokyo, but easily reached from every major Japanese city, Kyushu was an early centre of Japanese civilization and offers historic treasures, modern cities and natural beauty. Discover this bubbling onsen island with this slow guide to Kyushu.
Masterclasses
Ozu Town, an area that flourished into what was known as a relay station during the Edo Period. The traditional town offers different types of cultural masterclasses where visitors can truly experience Japanese traditions.
Kendo
A traditional Japanese martial art, Kendo is an exclusive cultural experience that stems from the Samurai ages. Ozu Town is the perfect place to try a hands-on Kendo lesson. A master will teach different stances and sword swinging techniques, while groups of visitors can practice attacks to the head, arms and abdomen in a safe and respectful environment.
Artificial Flower Making
Samurai are not all hard work and no play. They also found time to relax and explore their creative side. Making flowers takes concentration and practice, two important skills that samurais need on their journey to becoming a warrior. It’s also an exclusive practice unique to Ozu town. Using paper and needles, guests will be taught by expert artisans how to create their own flower creations, which they’ll then be able to take home as souvenirs.
Kyudo
Japanese archery (kyudo) is completely different to the classic archery in the western world. Unlike the typical archery sizes, the common length of a Japanese bow (yumi) is about 50cm plus the user’s height. In Kyushu, kyudo is practised by many students so you might see them walking around with large bows. Traditional Japanese archery clothing is provided, and a teacher begins with a presentation with guests getting to get behind a bow and test their skills.
Guest House Stays
Guest House Tamanoya
Located in the Miyazaki prefecture, this traditional Japanese guest house is from the Showa era. Its seaside location makes it the perfect base for those wanting to explore the coasts or try their hand at surfing. Stay from £38 per night.
Yakunoyado Taguchi
When visiting Kyushu’s subtropical island of Yakushima – known for its ancient verdant forests – stay at Yakunoyado Taguchi. With simple yet comfortable rooms, the guest house is run by locals who can offer unrivalled advice to exploring the island, including Nagata Beach, Mount Miyanoura and Yakushima Forest. Two nights from £88.
Wakka
Nestled in the heart of Kyushu, Wakka sits in the Kumamoto Prefecture and boasts great views of Mount Aso and a warm and friendly atmosphere. Stay from £79 per night.
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