Journey
Beyond the rising steam throbs the beating heart of the earth. This excursion will take you on a two-day journey to discover the inexhaustible geothermal resources of Kyushu. Traveling along the Kyudai Main Line and the Hohi Main Line, with the rolling mountains passing by the train window, we'll head toward the land of Waita, where steam billows into the sky. Learn why hot springs continue to flow and discover the wisdom of living in harmony with nature’s power.
In Taketa, Oita Prefecture, as we trace the stone walls of Oka Castle and the vestiges of the castle town, you’ll encounter the “Myogakun” - a set of teachings that lifted the health and spirits of the people of that era.
Enjoy a journey where you’ll encounter the power of nature, ancient wisdom, and the people who live there.
*Please be aware that the itinerary is subject to change.
Highlights
Day 1 Beyond the rising steam, to a land alive with geothermal energy
After departing Hakata Station, the train will travel along the Kyudai Main Line toward Oita Station. Sit back and take in the train journey, gazing out the window at the lush green mountains and valleys stretching out before you.
We have arranged an excursion where you’ll get off at Bungo-Mori Station and transfer to the “Seven Stars Bus” to explore the Waita Hot Springs Resort. Amid the tranquility of this hot springs town, where steam billows from the ground, you can spend some time feeling the blessings of geothermal energy and nature’s power.
Guests staying on the train are also invited to take part in a wood fiber dyeing workshop. As you watch the color take hold and spread across the fiber beneath your fingertips, you’ll be able to feel the blessings of Kyushu’s natural bounty firsthand.
Waita Hot Springs Resort
The Waita Hot Springs Resort is located at the foot of Mount Waita, which straddles Oita and Kumamoto Prefectures. As you stroll through the steam-shrouded streets, you’ll be able to feel the quiet power of geothermal energy right beside you.
As steam rises vigorously from the eaves of local homes and drifts through the town, “jigoku-mushi” (hell-steamed food), which is a method of steaming vegetables and eggs using the heat from the hot springs, is a symbol of local cuisine that allows you to savor nature's bounty with all five senses. In addition, geothermal power generation is operated by local residents themselves, creating a new yet ancient landscape where the power of nature and daily life come together. Enjoy a special moment in this unique setting, where you can smell the scent of steam in the crisp air and experience the power of the hot springs and nature with your whole body.
（Excursion）
Wood Fiber Dyeing Experience
ake advantage of the geothermal resources of the Waita Hot Springs Resort by enjoying a wood fiber dyeing experience while riding the train. Since no heat is required, it can be done with cold water, meaning the process has a low environmental impact. The gentle hues extracted from cherry blossoms spread across your fingertips, and the faint scent of the dye will stimulate your senses. A moment where the power of nature and human craftsmanship come together, and the leisurely joy of experiencing traditional crafts during your journey will leave you with everlasting memories.
（Onboard workshop）
Day 2 A Quiet Journey into History and Warmth
From Ōita Station, travel along the Hōhi Main Line to Bungo-Taketa, a town rich in historical and cultural heritage.
Here, you can explore the iconic Okajo Castle Ruins—one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles—with a local guide, or take part in a hands-on workshop making Goto Miso, a traditional fermented food deeply rooted in the history of the Oka domain, lasted for nearly 280 years, from 1594 to 1871.
This is a journey to reconnect with nature, engage with the warmth of local people, and discover the culture shaped by the land.
hrough all five senses, take time to reflect on what “true richness” means to you- then return to Hakata through scenic countryside.
Okajo Castle Ruins
Designated as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles, the ruins of Okajo Castle in Taketa City, Oita Prefecture, are steeped in history and poetic legacy. It is said to have inspired the famous Japanese composition “Kojo no Tsuki” (Moon Over the Ruined Castle) by Rentaro Taki.
Once the stronghold of the Nakagawa clan, feudal lords who governed the Bungo-Oka Domain during Japan’s Edo period, the castle was built atop a dramatic cliff at 325 meters above sea level.
From the ancient stone walls, you can take in sweeping views of the Kuju and Aso landscapes—scenery once admired by feudal lords.
(Excursion)
Traditional Goto Miso Workshop —
A Taste of History and Heart
Learn about the history of the Oka Domain through Goto Miso, a traditional fermented food revived by the local community.
Mentioned in the domain’s moral teachings (Myōgakun), this miso blends soybeans, rice malt, bran, and sake lees—offering a rich aroma and deep, earthy flavor.
As you mix and shape the ingredients by hand, you’ll learn how this long-lost tradition was revived by the local community, and discover the quiet wisdom behind slow, intentional food-making.
(Excursion)
Itinerary
Timetable / route
Operating Schedule
Cuisine
A Refined Culinary Journey Through Kyushu
Savor a two-day dining experience that celebrates the seasonal treasures of Kyushu.
Expert chefs—masters of the region’s culinary traditions—craft each dish with care,
using the finest ingredients from Kyushu’s seas, mountains, and rivers.n an intimate and elegant setting,
discover new expressions of flavor, where nature’s bounty meets the artistry of the table.
A journey not only of taste, but of place, memory, and quiet indulgence.
Day 1
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Imoto
You can enjoy the simple Kyoto cuisine made with seasonal ingredients from Hakata. A neatly arranged item where there is a gentle harmony between the traditional methods that do not try to stand out and the sensitivity of the owner. You can enjoy dishes with a balance of seasonal fish and vegetables that you will not get tired eating. (Lunch)
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La Verveine
La Verveine is a French restaurant located in Yufuin, Oita Prefecture. It uses local ingredients for dishes that will make your mind and body healthy and enable you to eat with peace of mind. The cuisine is made with the hope that you will eat the delicious food and be revitalized. (Dinner)
Day 2
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Goto Miso
Begin your day with a bowl of Gotō Miso soup, a revived local delicacy from Taketa in Ōita Prefecture, once mentioned in the moral teachings of the Meikakun, a historical text from the Okajō domain. Rich in flavor from sake lees, rice malt, and rice bran, this miso reflects the depth of regional heritage.
Served alongside seasonal side dishes made with local ingredients, this breakfast is a heartfelt expression of community and craftsmanship.
A quiet, nourishing start to the day—rooted in tradition and the blessings of nature. (Breakfast)
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Executive Chef of Seven Stars in Kyushu
Kyushu is a treasure trove of exceptional ingredients, nurtured by its rich natural environment. With a heartfelt desire to serve as a bridge between guests and the passionate producers who cultivate these treasures, the Seven Stars Executive Chef personally travels across the region to carefully select everything—from seasonal ingredients to artisanal seasonings.
During the one-night, two-day journey, guests are invited to a special lunch at Restaurant Kasei, located on the platform of Aso Station. While the Seven Stars train rests beside you and the majestic Aso landscape unfolds beyond, enjoy a menu that brings together the flavors of all seven prefectures of Kyushu—each dish infused with the spirit of its land and the dedication of its people. (Lunch)
*All photos are for illustrative purposes only.
