Road Trip with kids in Kyushu Part 3
Fellow wanderers, join me on a continued road trip journey with kids in Kyushu. This is the final part of the road. We explored the wild wonders of Oita's African Safari and immerse ourselves in the picturesque charm of Mojiko in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka. From encountering majestic creatures to browsing through historic streets, this day promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
ITINERARY
Day 5
Morning - African Safari Park in Oita
Afternoon - Stroll Mojiko, Kitakyushu
Day 6
Morning - Going Over the Kaimon bridge
Day Five:
Delicious Breakfast Buffet: After enjoying a restful night's sleep at Amane Resort Gahama, our morning started with a delightful breakfast buffet at the hotel. It's common for many hotels in Japan to offer breakfast in a buffet style, and the wide variety of dishes available is truly remarkable. Feeling energized and eager for the exciting day ahead, we treated ourselves to an array of mouthwatering delights.
A highlight for my kids was the fresh orange juice station. With a simple press of a button, whole oranges were expertly squeezed into a refreshing liquid right before our eyes.
Kids’ Adventure at the Safari Park: With the sun high in the sky, we drove 30 minutes to set out for the African Safari in Oita. This unique safari park offers an extraordinary opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world's most magnificent creatures. As we drove through the park, we were greeted by a diverse array of animals roaming freely in their natural habitats. Majestic lions basking in the sun, graceful giraffes nibbling on leaves, and playful zebras walking around our cars - it was a mesmerizing sight to behold.
The experience of being able to observe these animals up close, while respecting their space, was truly humbling. We captured countless photographs that will forever remind us of the beauty of nature.
Charming Town, Mojiko: Leaving the wild behind, we headed to the charming streets of Mojiko in Kitakyushu. After the 1.5 hours drive, this historic port town welcomed us with its cobbled streets, red-brick buildings, and an ambiance that transported us back in time. Strolling along the promenade, we were enchanted by the elegant architecture that spoke of a past era.
Our path led us to the Kyushu Railway History Museum, a place that promises a nostalgic glimpse into the world of locomotives. Although it was closed for the day, the exterior itself was a work of art. While we couldn't explore the museum's interior, we marveled at the lovingly preserved trains on display.
Popular Dish at Mojiko: After we checked in at Premier Hotel Mojiko, and as the sun began to set, we headed to a local restaurant, where we indulged in a dinner that perfectly encapsulated the fusion of Japanese and Western flavors - Yaki Curry. This mouthwatering dish became our husband’s most memorable dish during this trip. It’s a combination of curry and rice baked in the oven with some cheese, topped with an egg. I recreated the recipe here if you want to learn how to make it.
Day Six:
See You Later, Kyushu!: As our journey through Kyushu came to an end, we found ourselves traversing the iconic Kanmon Bridge, a symbolic link between the Kyushu and Honshu islands. This remarkable bridge marked the conclusion of our unforgettable road trip. Before embarking on the journey back to Honshu, we made sure to collect some yummy snacks for the ride. Among them was Oban-yaki (also known as Imagawa-yaki), a delightful Japanese pancake filled with red bean paste and other delightful ingredients.
With our hearts and bags full, our six-day road trip in Kyushu concluded. Reflecting on our adventures, we couldn't help but feel a tinge of regret for missing out on two wonderful prefectures—Saga and Nagasaki. However, this only serves as motivation to return in the future. The allure of these unexplored regions beckons us, and we eagerly anticipate the chance to once again immerse ourselves in the beauty and culture of Kyushu. Until then, Kyushu, it's not goodbye but a heartfelt "see you later."
