Goway expands Japan offerings with Kyushu, Shizuoka packages

Goway is expanding its Japan product line with new packages focused on Kyushu and Shizuoka in response to growing demand for destinations beyond Tokyo and Kyoto.

The Toronto-based tour operator has seen a 41 per cent increase in Japan bookings over the past year, with more travellers inquiring about alternative destinations as visitor numbers to Japan reached 40 million in 2025. 

The new packages spotlight regions that see fewer international visitors while still showcasing cultural traditions, historic attractions, and natural environments.

The new offerings include two Kyushu packages: Highlights of Southern Japan: Undiscovered Kyushu, which explores the island by train from Fukuoka to Beppu and Takachiho Gorge; and Japan Road Trip: Kyushu Edition, a self-drive itinerary from Yakushima's cedar forests to Miyazaki's coastal cliffs.

"I recently visited Kyushu and it delivered on every level," says Moira Smith, VP of Asia at Goway. 

"This is an ideal place for everyone from first-time visitors to seasoned Japan travel veterans. It's stunningly diverse, has gorgeous onsen experiences throughout, and some of the best food I've ever had the pleasure to enjoy. This is Japan at its best and without the crowds. Travellers should seek it out before it catches on."

Goway is also launching a new package to Shizuoka prefecture, a region between Tokyo and Osaka on the Pacific coast.

Goway is also launching Essential Tokyo & Kyoto: The Fuji Coastline Route, featuring time on the Izu Peninsula, the onsen waters of Shuzenji Onsen town, and Mt. Fuji viewing experiences from Suruga Bay.

"Shizuoka is an excellent option for first timers going to Japan for a short stay," says Brittany Banks, commercial manager for Asia at Goway. 

"It's not as busy as Hakone and easy to access as it's on the bullet train line from Tokyo to Kyoto. It also lets you see the cherry blossoms before the massive crowds sweep over Japan. If you visit in February, you can see the blossoms in Kawazu town six weeks before the trees bloom on other parts of the mainland."

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.