Travel by train (and ferry) around Kyushu, a center of onsen culture.
This time, my pre-breakfast bath was shrouded in morning mist and steam.
But despite the natural beauty and seductively laid-back tempo, the island is often overlooked by visitors from overseas.
Guest cabins at Kai Yufuin, a new resort surrounded by rice terraces on the Japanese island of Kyushu.Credit:Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts
Like many hotels in the area, Kai Yufuin has one on site.
It was a backdrop worthy of a woodblock print.
After boarding the streamlined white-and-red train car, I sank into my seat and soaked up the passing views.
The onsen at Kai Yufuin.Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts
Kai Yufuin’s traditional breakfast.Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts
Vera Tokunaga, co-owner of Tea House Tokunaga.Courtesy of Tea House Tokunaga
Rooms at Goto Retreat Ray have private outdoor baths.COURTESY OF OKCS RETREAT GOTO RAY
