Charms of Kumamoto and its Rich Nature Private Walking Tour
In Kumamoto
From
£59
pp
6h 0 mins · 2.0 (1)
Here's an must-see tour plan for a very satisfying day in Kumamoto, one of the best tourist destinations in Kyushu!
Kumamoto is known as the "City of Forest / the City of Water," and its rich natural environment and abundant water resources formed by the active volcano of Mt. Aso are its major attractions.
Kumamoto is also known for its historical spots such as Kumamoto Castle, temples and shrines.
One of the best things about sightseeing in Kumamoto is that you can taste the unique traditions and food culture that have been born and passed down in this historical area surrounded by nature.
This tour will take you to the central of Kumamoto, where you can efficiently visit the must-see spots and enjoy the unique charm of Kumamoto.
History, nature, food, tradition, and scenery are all included in this tour, and it is highly recommended for first-time visitors to Kumamoto.
The 7 hours will fly by! This tour will surely make you a big fan of Kumamoto.
Free cancellation
Private tour
What's included
- Private Tour Guide
- Necessary expenses for the tour guide
What's not included
- Money for food/drinks, souvenirs and extra activities for your own
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Travel expenses and entrance fees (JPY3300)
Itinerary
- Kumamoto Castle Museum Wakuwakuza: This is a hands-on museum located at the base of Kumamoto Castle. Using the most advanced digital technology, you can actually see, hear, touch, and enjoy experiences related to Kumamoto Castle. Before you go to the castle, make sure you learn all you can about it here! (35 min)
- Sakura-no-Baba Josaien: This popular tourist facility is located in Sakura-no-baba, at the foot of Kumamoto Castle, one of the three most famous castles in Japan. 23 stores are lined up for you to enjoy eating and walking around. Enjoy the rich food culture, history, and traditions of the region, and savor the rich food culture and specialties of Kumamoto. (1h 0min)
- Kumamoto Castle: Built in 1601, the castle has a history of over 400 years and is a symbolic representation of Kumamoto. It is also one of the three most famous castles in Japan. The most important feature of Kumamoto Castle is its robustness, and its stone walls make it the strongest castle in the Warring States period. 2021, the castle tower was just rebuilt after the earthquake damage, so take your time to visit the castle. (1h 40min)
- Kato Shrine: This shrine is dedicated to Kiyomasa Kato, a warlord of the Warring States period who built Kumamoto Castle and laid the foundation of Kumamoto. The shrine is dedicated to Kiyomasa Kato, a warlord of the Warring States period who built Kumamoto Castle and laid the foundation of Kumamoto. It is very rare to find a shrine in Japan that has a real person as its deity, and it is clear that Kiyomasa was a person with whom Kumamoto had a close relationship. It's also a great photo spot, known for its close view of Kumamoto Castle! (20 min)
- Kumamoto prefectural traditional crafts center: This is a facility that exhibits many traditional crafts of Kumamoto Prefecture, such as Higo Zogan, ceramics, cutlery, bamboo products, and dyed textiles. You can not only see the crafts, but also buy them. Some of the items are reasonably priced, so you can easily enjoy shopping for Kumamoto's crafts. (20 min)
- Suizenji Shopping Street: This is a small shopping street located in front of the main gate of Suizenji Seien. Here, you can enjoy tasting delicious gourmet food that is perfect for walking around and looking at souvenirs related to Kumamoto. Also, be sure to check out the famous store for Kumamoto's famous sweets, "Ikinari Dango"! (25 min)
- Suizenji Park: This is a graceful garden, familiarly known as Suizenji Park. The pond where the subterranean water of Aso gushes out quietly is the center of the garden, and you can walk around it in a circle. The elegant landscape of the garden changes its expression from season to season, attracting many visitors. Take a stroll through the beautiful garden and enjoy it to the fullest! (1h 0min)
Meeting & end point
Meeting point
JR Kumamoto Station In front of the ticket gate (in front of Starbucks Coffee Kumamoto Station)
End point
JR Shinsuizenji Station
Practical information
- Operated by
- OTOMO Travel Guide
- Travellers per booking
- 1–6
- Languages
- cmn, ja, en
- Confirmation
- MANUAL
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation available.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Important notes
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- In case of bad weather on the day of the tour, transportation, places to visit, and tour routes may be changed.
- The tour end location is different from the meeting point. If you wish to change the end location, please consult with your tour guide.
- If you are late for the meeting time, we may not be able to provide you with a full tour experience due to the transportation used. Please be sure not to be late.
- We will be walking a lot, so please wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Please understand that tour spots might be changed to alternative spots in case of temporary closure.
- If you have any food allergies, please let your guide know in advance.
- The travel expense is not included in the tour fee. Please bring extra money to experience this tour to its fullest.
- If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.
Frequently asked questions
This tour lasts approximately 6 hours. Allow a little extra time at either end if you need to transfer between the ship and the excursion meeting point.
The excursion price typically covers transport, a qualified guide, and the activities listed in the description above. Meals, gratuities, personal shopping, and any entrance fees not mentioned in the description are usually paid separately on the day.
Age and fitness guidance for this excursion is not specified in the data we hold. The tour description above is the best guide — if you have any specific concerns, contact your cruise line's excursion desk before departing the ship.