Fukuoka

This was by far the best trip I’ve had in Japan so far. The train’s style and design were absolutely beautiful, accompanied by relaxing background music that made the journey even more special. The COTOCO Train Crew were wonderful from start to finish. Japanese service is always exceptional, but the COTOCO Crew went above and beyond to ensure everyone had an unforgettable experience. The food was exquisite—both in taste and presentation—and truly worth every penny. Each stop along the route was fascinating, and the crew’s commentary about the towns and areas added an educational touch to the trip. It was more than just a train ride; it was a cultural and learning experience. It also happened to be my birthday, and the crew made it extra special by singing “Happy Birthday,” while the chef beautifully decorated our dessert plates. Shopping at the local markets at some of the stations was

As it was a long holiday, the place was packed early in the morning. We spent a while looking for the meeting point and our guide, Roger. He was a really nice, warm-hearted guy. Since the hike was quite challenging, he kept encouraging everyone and reminded us of little details. Back on the bus, we all said, "Welcome back, you've worked so hard!" We felt right at home. Our first stop was Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine, which was truly beautiful no matter how we photographed it. The misty green gave it a mysterious feel, but because there were so many people, we were bound to miss people in our photos. Our second stop was Amayasu River, a hiking trail focused on seeing a large cave and Amano Iwato Shrine, a true wonder of nature. Our third stop was Takachiho Gorge, a canyon formed by basalt on both sides. The deep green river channel is slightly translucent, making it one of the most famous gorges in the world. It also features the Shinmeiji Falls, with a 17-meter-high column of water cascading down. We could also sign up for a boat cruise, a truly rare experience. Finally, the tour company gave each of us a box of Takachiho souvenirs, which made the trip well worth it.