Begin your journey by meeting your guide at the Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station Chikushi Exit. Board the bus and head to the Mekari Parking Area in Kitakyushu. Enjoy sweeping views of the Kanmon Strait from the observatory and shop for specialities from both Kyushu and Shimonoseki.

Next, visit the Akiyoshido Cave, one of Japan’s largest limestone caves. Akiyoshido, a designated Special Natural Monument, stretches 10.7 km, making it Japan’s second longest and one of the largest limestone caves. Located 100 metres underground beneath Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park, the cave features a 1 km sightseeing route. With a constant temperature of around 17°C year-round, it stays cool in summer and warm in winter.

Inside, see stalactites, stalagmites, and massive terraced limestone formations that serve as precious geological specimens. Formed over a million years ago, Akiyoshido offers visitors a mysterious underground world showcasing Earth’s ancient history and the wonders of nature.

Continue to the Motonosumi Inari Shrine, famous for its 123 red torii gates stretching from the hillside to the cliffs overlooking the sea, creating a breathtaking contrast with the blue ocean and sky.

Unlike ordinary shrines, its offertory box is placed 6 metres high on a torii gate. Successfully tossing a coin in is said to bring good fortune. For those who miss, a standard offertory box is also provided nearby. In winter, crashing waves force seawater through rock crevices, spraying up to 30 metres high with a roaring sound like a dragon’s breath. Under sunlight, rainbows sometimes appear — a spectacular sight.

Finally, visit the Tsunoshima Bridge, one of Japan’s most scenic bridges. The bridge stretches 1,780 metres across the sparkling blue sea. Frequently featured in TV commercials, the stunning harmony of the bridge with the turquoise waters makes it a photographer’s dream.