SUNQ Pass Kyushu (All of Kyushu/Southern Kyushu/Northern Kyushu) + Shimonoseki unlimited bus ticket | SUNQ Pass

Must Do Experiences

• Take a scenic highway bus ride from Fukuoka to the iconic hot spring town of Beppu or the volcanic landscapes of Mount Aso.

• Use the pass to reach the stunning sand baths of Ibusuki in Southern Kyushu or the historic canal city of Yanagawa in the North.

• Ride the ferry included in the pass to cross the Kanmon Strait between Kyushu and Shimonoseki for a unique maritime experience.

• Hop on a local community bus to access remote traditional villages like Kurokawa Onsen that are difficult to reach by train.

Hidden Gems

• The pass covers local community buses in rural areas, allowing you to reach secret spots like the terraced rice fields of Ueno or the quiet shrines of Takachiho without needing a rental car.

• You can use the SUNQ Pass on the Nishitetsu highway buses to easily access the lesser-known but breathtaking Akizuki Castle ruins, often called the Little Kyoto of Chikuzen.

• Take advantage of the ferry inclusion to visit the remote, cat-filled island of Ainoshima or the stunning coastal cliffs of the Genkai Sea.

What Makes it Special

• Unlike rail passes, the SUNQ Pass grants you access to an extensive network of highway and local buses that reach deep into Kyushu's mountainous and rural regions where trains do not go.

• It offers incredible flexibility with 3, 4, or 5-day consecutive options tailored to Northern, Southern, or All Kyushu itineraries, ensuring you only pay for the exact region you plan to explore.

• The inclusion of select ferry routes, such as the Kanmon Strait crossing, adds a multi-dimensional travel experience that goes beyond standard road transport.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather and spectacular scenery, from cherry blossoms to vibrant fall foliage, making long bus rides incredibly picturesque. Summer brings lively festivals but can be hot and humid, while winter is perfect for using the pass to hop between Kyushu's famous hot spring towns to escape the chill.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the winding coastal roads and lush mountain passes from the large windows of the highway bus, but be mindful of window glare by keeping your lens close to the glass.

• When photographing at rural bus stops or local community buses, ask for permission from locals or drivers to respect their privacy and capture authentic, candid moments.

• Utilize the golden hour lighting during early morning or late afternoon departures to photograph the stunning landscapes of places like Aso or Kirishima as you arrive.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere while on board Japanese buses, as speaking loudly or taking phone calls is considered impolite. Always queue orderly at bus stops and terminals, and remember to bow slightly or say a quiet thank you to the driver when exiting the bus.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Use the pass in July to easily access the vibrant Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival in Fukuoka, one of Japan's most exciting and energetic summer events.

• Travel in late autumn to ride the buses through the spectacular autumn foliage routes of the Kuju Mountains and the Takachiho Gorge area.

• Head to Nagasaki in winter to use the local bus network for hopping between the beautifully illuminated lantern displays during the Nagasaki Lantern Festival.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always wear your seatbelt while the highway bus is in motion, as it is required by Japanese law and crucial for your safety on winding mountain roads.

• Hold onto the handrails firmly when boarding or alighting from local buses, as the steps can be steep and the vehicle may tilt on narrow rural roads.

• Keep your valuables and travel documents in a small day bag on your lap or in the overhead bin, rather than in the underfloor luggage compartment, to prevent loss or theft.