
Luxury Train Club
Planet Rail · Curated luxury rail tour

Discover the authentic heart of Japan with a luxurious journey through Fukuoka and Kyushu, combining cultural encounters and scenic rail travel aboard the iconic Seven Stars.
Upon arrival in Japan, make your way to the vibrant city of Fukuoka and check in to the renowned Ritz-Carlton, where impeccable service and elegant surroundings offer a warm welcome. Take the rest of the day to unwind, adjust to your new surroundings, and enjoy your first taste of Japan before your Seven Stars Kyushu journey begins the following morning.
Depart from Hakata Station aboard the luxurious Seven Stars Kyushu, beginning your journey through southern Japan. Sit back and relax as the train winds its way toward Kagoshima, offering stunning views of Kyushu's glittering azure coastline. On board, enjoy refined hospitality, gourmet cuisine, and captivating stories from the master artisans who helped craft the train's elegant interiors.
Your final stretch aboard the Seven Stars takes you along the picturesque Kyudai Main Line, with breathtaking views of Mt. Yufu. As you reflect on the journey, the train returns to Hakata Station. This evening, unwind at your hotel preparing for the cultural highlights of your Kyushu tour to begin tomorrow.
Begin your day in Imari with a private visit to a historic porcelain kiln, where you'll observe master artisans practicing time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. Afterwards, wander to nearby Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets, browsing intimate galleries and centuries-old ceramic displays.
Begin the day with a hands-on workshop at the Indigo Dyeing Tsutsumi Workshop in Kurume, where you'll learn traditional techniques before creating your own indigo-dyed piece. In January, you'll explore Yanagawa, visiting the 400-year-old Tachibana Family Residence and discovering the city's historic canals, often called the 'Venice of the East'. In February, you'll delve into Yame's tea heritage with a refined tea ceremony at a historic tea shop.
Begin your day with a stroll along the historic Yamaga Bunroku Kaido and visit the beautifully preserved Yachiyoza Theater, with the option to experience a traditional Japanese performance. Take part in hands-on cultural activities such as paper-making, lantern crafting, and rice cracker making. In the afternoon, tour Yamaga's unique breweries producing sake, wine, and whiskey.
Begin the day with a rejuvenating soak at Kurokawa Onsen, nestled in a forested valley and renowned as one of Japan's most scenic and tranquil hot spring towns. Then journey to the Aso region for sweeping views of vast grasslands and dramatic volcanic landscapes. The afternoon offers immersive cultural experiences including Kyudo (Japanese archery), Iaido (the art of sword-drawing), and the elegant tea ceremony.
On your final day, depart from Aso and journey back to Fukuoka before your transfer to the airport. En route, you have the option to stop in the charming town of Hita, known for its beautifully preserved streets, old merchant houses, and scenic canals.