The Kyushu Nature Trail

The Kyushu Nature Trail runs nearly 3,000 kilometers across all seven prefectures of Kyushu, from Mt. Sarakura in Fukuoka in the north to Cape Sata at the southern tip of Kagoshima. Established in 1980, it passes through four national parks including Aso-Kuju and Kirishima-Kinkowan, where sections trail alongside the active Sakurajima volcano. The route crosses remote mountain ranges, coastal fishing villages, farmland, and traditional hill towns. About 560 kilometers run through Kagoshima alone, and most hikers tackle specific sections rather than the full length. Trail guides and signage make it possible to plan segments independently across multiple visits.