Cover Destress the body and mind with these wellness experiences in Kyushu, Japan (Photo: Getty Images)
Destress the body and mind with these wellness experiences in Kyushu, Japan (Photo: Getty Images)
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These holistic experiences in Kyushu offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation
From Tokyo to Osaka, Japan is home to various bustling cities filled with modern skyscrapers, exciting attractions, shopping districts and more. But that isn’t all Japan has to offer—head out of the city and you’ll find plenty of destinations offering wellness-centred experiences. After all, the country has a long history of recognising the importance of both physical and mental health. Mind-healing activities—such as meditation and hot springs baths—combined with Japan’s breathtaking landscapes are sure to get you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
If you’re looking for wellness-centered experiences, why not head to Kyushu? The third largest island in Japan, Kyushu showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes while also offering experiences that rejuvenate the mind, body and soul.
Read more: Exploring Okinawa: Where food, wellness, and culture meet
The island’s mountainous terrain and temperate climate provide an ideal setting for outdoor activities that promote physical and mental wellness. Explore the scenic trails of Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park or indulge in rejuvenating experiences and one of the island’s famous onsens. These experiences are known to help reduce stress and engage the mind. Activities like sand baths and forest bathing also have added health benefits such as detoxifying the body, improving focus and boosting our mood.
Above Kyushu’s mountainous terrain and temperate climate make it an ideal destination for outdoor holiday activities
Kyushu’s mountainous terrain and temperate climate make it an ideal destination for outdoor holiday activities
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Travelling to Kyushu is convenient and enjoyable with Japan Airlines (JAL). Flying from Singapore three times a day, JAL offers well-timed flights to Tokyo and from which there are high-frequency connecting flights to multiple domestic airports in the region, including Fukuoka, a major gateway to Kyushu, as well as Oita, Kagoshima, Miyazaki and more.
Your journey to rejuvenation starts the moment you board JAL, as the airline prioritises a stress-free travel experience for its guests. From spacious seating in award-winning seats to premium in-flight dining options, you can be assured to arrive refreshed and ready for even more relaxation. What’s more, JAL also has multiple vacation packages including domestic flights, accommodation and local activities, allowing for a seamless and hassle-free holiday.
So, if you’re looking for a holistic escape in Kyushu, here are some of the best experiences to rejuvenate your body and mind.
1. Hot Springs
Above Beppu is of the most famous hot spring areas in Japan (Photo: Getty Images)
Beppu is of the most famous hot spring areas in Japan (Photo: Getty Images)
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One of the most famous hot spring areas in Japan, the city of Beppu is home to various spring zones that feature modern and well-equipped hot spring baths, steam baths, mud baths and more. These baths are known to help reduce stress while also improving circulation, immunity and muscle tightness. Have a relaxing bath at Takegawara Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in the city and experience the benefits of the mineral-rich hot springs. Various amenities including body soap, towels and hair dryers are available for an additional cost.
2. Sand Bath
Above Ibusuki is known for its unique sand baths (Photo: Getty Images)
Ibusuki is known for its unique sand baths (Photo: Getty Images)
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Located at the southern tip of Kyushu, Ibusuki is known for its unique sand baths which have been popular for over 300 years. This distinctive bathing experience sees you being covered in naturally heated volcanic sand warmed by hot spring water flowing beneath the beach. Similar to hot springs, sand bathing is known to have plenty of health benefits, such as improving blood circulation, detoxifying the body, joint pain relief and more. The experience is all the more relaxing with the sounds of the gentle waves in the background.
3. Pottery and porcelain workshop
Above Try a pottery and porcelain workshop (Photo: Getty Images)
Try a pottery and porcelain workshop (Photo: Getty Images)
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The home of Japanese ceramics, Saga is the perfect place to visit for a therapeutic porcelain and pottery-making session. Spend a day in Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain and learn more about porcelain history and its evolution. Then head to Okawachiyama village in Imari and find numerous pottery studios where artisans continue to practice traditional techniques while also embracing contemporary innovations. Participate in hands-on pottery-making workshops and create your own piece under the guidance of skilled craftsmen. Not only will you get to bring home your own creations, but pottery and ceramic making can also help lower stress while improving our moods.
4. Hiking at Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park
Above Connect with nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Kyushu (Photo: Getty Images)
Connect with nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Kyushu (Photo: Getty Images)
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Take a flight from Haneda to Kagoshima and reconnect with nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Kyushu at Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park. Here, you’ll find a collection of active volcanic peaks, stunning crater lakes and gorgeous natural forests. The park features various trails including the Kirishima Ridge Trail which offers some of Japan’s most breathtaking scenery. The trail leads you through volcanic cones, lush forests and picturesque crater lakes.
5. Forest bathing
Above Experience forest bathing in Miyazaki (Photo: Getty Images)
Experience forest bathing in Miyazaki (Photo: Getty Images)
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Forest bathing (Shirin-yoku) is a tranquil experience where guides take you through slow and mindful activities such as meditation, gentle stretching and quiet reflections. During the 1980s, this experience was known as a medicinal practice in response to rising depression and poor health.
Since then, forest bathing has been reported to help improve mood, sleep, and focus while also relieving stress. Here, you’re encouraged to leave behind daily distractions and fully embrace the present moment while recharging your mind and body.
This rejuvenating practice is available in Miyazaki where various forest areas are available for this immersive experience. While you can get to the city by car or train, JAL also offers domestic flights to Miyazaki. Hop on a flight from Haneda Airport to Miyazaki Airport and you’ll arrive in less than two hours.
Travelling to off-the-beaten-path destinations like Kyushu is easier than you think with Japan Airlines (JAL). From Singapore, JAL flies nonstop to Tokyo three times a day: twice daily to Haneda, and once daily to Narita. The award-winning airline has daily flights from Haneda to Fukuoka and Kagoshima, (both great gateways to Kyushu) and even more options to other Japanese domestic destinations through its extensive domestic network of over 60 airports in the country. Explore more of Japan and save more when you book domestic and international flights together on Japan Airlines.
Book your next Japan holiday with JAL today! To include a stopover in Tokyo, use “Search multi-city/stopover itinerary” function here.
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Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
