Kyushu is the third-largest island of Japan and the country's southernmost main island, known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique history.
Quick Facts
What Is Kyushu?
Kyushu is a region located on the southernmost main island of Japan, comprising seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. The island is situated to the west of the main island of Honshu, separated by the Kanmon Strait, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including active volcanoes, hot springs, and scenic coastlines. Kyushu is also home to a diverse range of cultural and historical attractions, including ancient temples, shrines, and castles.
Geographically, Kyushu is a mountainous region, with many active and dormant volcanoes, including the famous Mount Aso, which is one of the largest calderas in the world. The island is also home to several major cities, including Fukuoka, which is the largest city on the island and a major economic and cultural center. Kyushu is connected to the main island of Honshu by a network of bridges and tunnels, including the Kanmon Tunnel, which runs under the Kanmon Strait.
Kyushu has a unique cultural identity that is distinct from the rest of Japan, with a strong emphasis on traditional crafts, music, and cuisine. The island is famous for its delicious food, including tonkotsu ramen, mentaiko (spicy pollock roe), and horse meat, as well as its vibrant festivals and events, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
Key History
- 663 - The Battle of Hakusukinoe takes place, in which the Japanese army defeats the Korean army, marking the beginning of Japanese control over the region.
- 1274 - The Mongol invasion of Japan occurs, with Kyushu being the main point of invasion, but the invasion is ultimately repelled.
- 1600 - The Shimazu clan, who ruled over the Satsuma Domain, which covers much of modern-day Kyushu, plays a key role in the Battle of Sekigahara, which leads to the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate.
- 1868 - The Meiji Restoration takes place, in which the Tokugawa shogunate is overthrown, and Kyushu becomes a key player in the modernization of Japan.
- 1945 - Kyushu is heavily bombed by the Allied forces during World War II, with the city of Nagasaki being the site of the second atomic bombing.
- 1950s - Kyushu experiences rapid economic growth, driven by the development of its manufacturing and industrial sectors.
- 2011 - The Kyushu region is affected by the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, with many areas experiencing significant damage and disruption.
What Makes Kyushu Unique
- Kyushu is home to several active volcanoes, including Mount Aso, which is one of the largest calderas in the world.
- The island is famous for its unique cuisine, including tonkotsu ramen, mentaiko, and horse meat.
- Kyushu has a rich cultural heritage, with many ancient temples, shrines, and castles, including the famous Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine.
- The island is home to several major festivals and events, including the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival and the Sasebo Harbor Festival.
- Kyushu has a strong emphasis on traditional crafts, including pottery, weaving, and woodcarving.
Quick Summary
Kyushu is a unique and fascinating region of Japan, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals and events, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the country's diverse history and culture.