Kay Fahlberg

Ippo Travel

2027 Japan's Southern Soul

May 29, 2027 to Jun 9, 2027

Welcome to Japan's Southern Soul!

 

A privately guided journey through Kyushu and Okinawa designed for a deeper, more meaningful connection with Japan. Limited availability for a more intimate and connected experience.

This is not the Japan most travelers see.

This journey invites you to where daily life continues as it always has, beyond the familiar into the more intimate and natural side of Japan.

Southern Japan is formed by centuries of influences from Portugal, Southeast Asia, China, the Ryukyu Kingdom, Korea, the U.S., and other European countries, which formed a distinct and layered identity.

A journey into a more natural, regional Japan, where volcanic landscapes, quiet villages, and coastal life are part of everyday experience.

In Okinawa, time slows along the coastline, where a beach resort stay offers space to unwind and reconnect.

In Kyushu, the journey continues through landscapes shaped by the volcanic energy of Beppu and Kagoshima regions, along with the cultural experience in Fukuoka city.

It’s similar yet deeply different from the mainland.

Throughout the journey, I will travel alongside you, offering insight, context, and a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances that shape each place.

 

What's included in this trip:

  • 10 nights in hand-selected 4 to 5 star accommodations including Onsen Ryokan 
  • Round trip flights for Tokyo and Fukuoka and Fukuoka to Naha Okinawa
  • Daily breakfast, 7 lunches and 8 dinners

  • Guided Cultural Tours & Experiences:

    • Okinawa
    • Fukuoka & Kita Kyushu
  • Day trip to Kagoshima - Sakurajima Volcano 
  • Travel with Kay Fahlberg, born and raised in Japan. 
  • Detailed day-by-day itinerary and welcome kit 
 
 

What's not included:

  1. International airfare
  2. Travel insurance
  3. Optional activities and experiences not included in the program
  4. Gratuity if desired

Itinerary:

  • May 29, 2027 - Departure from U.S.
 
  • Day 1 (Tokyo): Arrive and rest in Tokyo for one night
 You will be welcomed by the local team and transfer to an airport hotel for overnight stay
 
  • Day 2 (Okinawa): Fly to Okinawa - (Halekulani Okinawa or similar)
Tour of the Motobu Peninsula. It is known for its emerald waters, dramatic coastal scenery.
Arrival transfer from Naha airport to a hotel
Relax and enjoy the resort experience
 
  • Day 3 (Okinawa): Naha (Hyatt Regency Naha Okinawa or similar)
Take in a peaceful morning exploring the area while admiring the endless horizon and the serene beauty of Okinawa’s coastal landscape.
Transfer to Naha, Okinawa
Dinner near Heiwa street or Kokusai street
At leisure in the evening
 
  • Day 4 (Okinawa): Naha (Hyatt Regency Naha Okinawa or similar)
Explore Naha city - Kokusai Street, Pottery Street or Heiwa (peace) street: Kokusai Street, often called the “Miracle Mile” of Okinawa.
It is the vibrant heart of Naha with local boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and the energetic spirit of modern Okinawan culture.
Heiwa Street offers a more nostalgic atmosphere where traditional markets, local snacks, small eateries.
It is filled with everyday island life to experience a charming glimpse into old Okinawa.
 
  • Day 5 (Fukuoka): Fly to Fukuoka in the afternoon (Gate Hotel Fukuoka by HULIC or similar)
Arrival transfer from Fukuoka airport to a hotel
Explore the city at leisure
 
  • Day 6 (Fukuoka): Kita Kyushu (Gate Hotel Fukuoka by HULIC or similar)
 You will be welcomed by the local team and transfer to an airport hotel for overnight stay
Located in the northern region of Kyushu, Kita Kyushu offers a blend of historic port culture, local craftsmanship, coastal scenery, and contemporary creativity.
Often overlooked by international travelers,  Located at the northern gateway of Kyushu, Kita Kyushu is a region deeply connected to Japan’s maritime and samurai history.
The historic Kanmon Strait once played a critical strategic role in military defense, trade, transportation, and cultural exchange during the feudal era.
Powerful clans and samurai forces moved through these waters, shaping key moments in Japanese history. 
 
  • Day 7 (Yufuin or Beppu): Transfer to Yufuin or Beppu (Onsen experience)
Transfer from Fukui to Onsen region (Yufuin or Beppu)

Nestled among the mountains of Oita Prefecture, Yufuin and Beppu are two of Japan’s most celebrated onsen destinations. 

 
  • Day 8 (Fukuoka): Return to Fukuoka (Gate Hotel Fukuoka by HULIC or similar)
 You will be return to Fukuoka in the afternoon
At leisure in Fukuoka
 
  • Day 9 (Fukuoka): Day tour to Kagoshima on Shinkansen
Located at the southern edge of Kyushu, Kagoshima is a region of dramatic natural beauty, rich samurai heritage.
Overlooking the city across Kagoshima Bay rises Sakurajima, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, whose striking presence shapes both the scenery and daily life of the region.
Kagoshima offers its unique regional cuisine, historic gardens, hot spring culture. 
 
  • Day 10 (Tokyo): Return to Tokyo (Tokyo Station Hotel or similar)
Shinkansen from Hakata to Tokyo arriving late in the afternoon
 
  • Day 11 (Homebound): 
 

Cancellation policy:

Due to the limited availability, advance reservations, and contractual commitments required for this small-group journey, all payments are subject to the following cancellation terms:

• Initial deposits are non-refundable.
• Cancellations made 120 days or more prior to departure will receive a refund of any additional payments made beyond the non-refundable deposit.
• Cancellations made between 119–90 days prior to departure will incur a 50% cancellation penalty of the total journey cost.
• Cancellations made within 89 days of departure are non-refundable.

Certain hotels, transportation arrangements, special experiences, or customized services may carry separate cancellation penalties and may become non-refundable at an earlier stage.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation coverage, to protect your travel investment.

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Terms & Conditions: 

Please review the Terms & Conditions carefully, as participation in the journey confirms your understanding and acceptance of the outlined policies, responsibilities, and travel arrangements. 
 
  • The itinerary, accommodations, transportation, dining venues, and experiences may be adjusted due to operational, seasonal, weather-related, or local circumstances.
  • Travelers should be comfortable with walking, stairs, uneven surfaces, train stations, and the general pace of international small-group travel. 

  • Participants are responsible for assessing their own physical abilities, health conditions, dietary needs, mobility limitations, and personal comfort levels prior to participation. Travelers are also responsible for carrying and managing any necessary medications, medical supplies, and personal health requirements throughout the journey.

  •  

    While reasonable efforts will be made to communicate dietary preferences and accommodate requests when possible, accommodations cannot be guaranteed in all locations due to regional limitations, language barriers, local preparation methods, or supplier restrictions.

  •  

    Participants understand and accept that flexibility, patience, and adaptability are part of the travel experience, particularly when exploring regional destinations and cultural environments.

  •  

    By participating in this journey, travelers acknowledge and accept personal responsibility for their health, safety, personal belongings, travel documentation, and individual participation decisions throughout the trip.

  •  

    Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical coverage and trip cancellation/interruption protection, is strongly recommended for all participants.

Available Packages

2027 Southern Soul
Available until December 31, 2026

$9,900.00
Deposit: $750.00 per person

Book now
The journey price includes the accommodations, meals, transportation, and experiences specifically listed under “What’s Included.”
Due to currency fluctuations and exchange rate variations, the final balance may be subject to a minor adjustment at the time of final payment.