Unveiling Kyushu’s Stories, One Card at a Time
At the heart of this new initiative are the “Kyuchan Cards,” digital collectibles that are acquired by performing a GPS check-in at designated locations within each municipality. These locations are typically the tourist spots highlighted on the cards or nearby specified points, accessible within a 200-300 meter radius. This ingenious system encourages physical exploration, guiding travelers to both well-known landmarks and hidden gems.
Each card is a miniature compendium of knowledge, condensing information about a municipality’s geography, history, and local culture. Imagine holding a key to a town’s soul, revealing its “monogatari” (story) through vibrant images and concise descriptions. The cards are designed to be two-sided, offering a comprehensive look at the featured location.
An example of the “Kyuchan Card Collection” screen, showcasing the interactive interface.
For instance, the Kitakyushu City card highlights the majestic Wakamatsu Ohashi Bridge and Wakamatsu Ferry, detailing the bridge’s history as the longest suspension bridge in the East at its construction in 1962, now a national important cultural property. The reverse side delves into the city’s main attractions like Kawachi Fuji Garden, local specialties such as Aoma bamboo shoots, and even its official character, “Teitan.”
The front of a Kitakyushu City Kyuchan Card, featuring the iconic Wakamatsu Ohashi Bridge.
The back of a Kitakyushu City Kyuchan Card, detailing local attractions and specialties.
Collected cards are stored in a digital ledger, creating a personalized travelogue. This encourages repeat visits, perhaps during different seasons or festival times, to uncover new facets of a familiar place. The collection also includes missions related to municipality names, rewarding users with “Kyun” (points) upon completion, adding an extra layer of engagement.
A glimpse into the collection ledger and mission interface, where digital treasures are stored and challenges await.
The “Kyuchan’s Wakuwaku Kyushu Juku” Ecosystem
The “Kyuchan Card Collection” is a new addition to the “Kyuchan’s Wakuwaku Kyushu Juku” mobile app, which launched in April 2024. This app, boasting approximately 23,000 registered users as of December 2025, goes beyond simple information dissemination. It transforms the discovery of Kyushu’s charms into an enjoyable game. Users can participate in various missions, earn “Kyun” points, and level up their stage. Higher stages grant access to lottery participation and allow “Kyun” points to be exchanged for various benefits.
First Wave of Municipalities
The initial launch of the “Kyuchan Card Collection” features 42 municipalities, a diverse selection from across Kyushu’s 233 municipalities. This first wave includes:
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Fukuoka Prefecture: Kitakyushu City, Iizuka City, Yame City, Fukutsu City, Itoshima City, Soeda Town
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Saga Prefecture: Saga City, Karatsu City, Takeo City, Kashima City, Arita Town
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Nagasaki Prefecture: Nagasaki City, Sasebo City, Tsushima City, Iki City, Unzen City, Hasami Town
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Kumamoto Prefecture: Tamana City, Aso City, Amakusa City, Minamioguni Town, Yamato Town, Nishiki Town
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Oita Prefecture: Oita City, Beppu City, Nakatsu City, Hita City, Saiki City, Bungotakada City, Yufu City
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Miyazaki Prefecture: Nobeoka City, Nichinan City, Kushima City, Ebino City, Nishimera Village, Takachiho Town
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Kagoshima Prefecture: Kanoya City, Ibusuki City, Satsumasendai City, Kirishima City, Minamiosumi Town, Minamisatsuma City
The list of initial municipalities for Fukuoka, Saga, and Nagasaki Prefectures.
The list of initial municipalities for Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima Prefectures.
Imagine the thrill of uncovering a hidden gem, a local festival, or a unique historical tidbit, all waiting to be discovered through a simple tap. The “Kyuchan Card Collection” offers a fresh perspective, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Kyushu.
Accessing the Adventure
To begin your own “Kyuchan Card Collection” journey, download the “Kyuchan’s Wakuwaku Kyushu Juku” app:
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For iPhone and iPad users: https://x.gd/TK3aS
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For other devices: https://x.gd/KKaG1
More details on how to enjoy the app can be found here: https://x.gd/IX27o
Additionally, the Kyushu Tourism Organization regularly distributes videos on “Channel Kyushujuku.” Subscribe to stay updated on the region’s attractions.
Scan this QR code to access “Channel Kyushujuku” on YouTube.
This innovative blend of digital gamification and authentic local discovery sets a new standard for regional tourism. By transforming exploration into an interactive and rewarding experience, the “Kyuchan Card Collection” is poised to introduce the vibrant, often unseen, charms of Kyushu to a global audience, fostering a deeper appreciation for Japan’s diverse cultural landscape.
