All Kumamoto Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Guided walking tour of Hitoyoshi, including ancient castle remnants and the blacksmith district. Tastings at historic and modern distilleries and foot onsen Embark on a guided walking journey through two contrasting distilleries – a historic Meiji-era brewery and a leading global producer – where you’ll savor the rich flavors of Kuma Shochu. Discover the cultural treasures of Hitoyoshi on foot, including ancient castle remnants and the artisanal charm of the blacksmith district. For a truly exclusive experience, upgrade to the 007 Experience and gain access to Daniel Craig’s Shochu Aging Room, where you’ll sample the same premium shochu enjoyed by the iconic actor.

First, choose your favorite kimono from 150 kimonos. We will help you choose as well. Next, choose tabi socks and a Japanese-patterned drawstring purse. Please change into tabi socks. Next is finally dressing. Our professional staff will carefully dress you in about 10 minutes. Hair accessories can also be rented as an optional service. There is no limit to the number of hair ornaments you can use, so please use as many as you like. There will be a you you don't know in the mirror. I will take a photo before leaving the store. Photos taken using swords and Japanese umbrellas will be printed out and presented as gifts. Please return to the store by 5:00 pm. As an optional service, you can return kimonos worn at the Josaien store to the Josaien store.

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.

Camping experience while listening to the sound of clear streams in the production area of Yatsushiro ginger Cooking experience using Yatsushiro ginger is safe for beginners with recipes Ginger syrup making experience and ginger sauce making experience are experiences that participants can enjoy together. Camping in nature, where you can lose track of time, is a repeat activity

Glide through picturesque rice fields and chestnut groves, marvel at panoramic valley views, and uncover the secrets of shochu production at a time-honored local distillery. Our guided e-bike tours offer a unique way to experience the Kuma Valley’s rich history, culture, and culinary traditions. Choose from half-day or full-day adventures, with options to visit tea fields, enjoy farm-to-table meals, and learn about the fascinating history of the Sagara Clan. Highlights: ● Scenic rides through rice fields, chestnut groves, and charming villages. ● Visits to historic shrines, temples, and a traditional shochu distillery. ● Home-cooked meals with local culinary expert. ● Learn about tea cultivation and enjoy fresh, local tea.

Travelers looking for a tour with a difference will enjoy learning about the daily life of a local lumberjack in Aso Minamioguni. Your local guide will take you into the forest, where he’ll teach you about the ecosystem, show you how to fell a tree safely, and guide you in building a simple log construction. Follow this with a tasty traditional lunch on a farm.

This plan allows visitors to experience the traditional craft of Yamaga lanterns, followed by a visit to the Hirayama Hot Springs. In the evening, we offer the opportunity to spend a relaxing time in an old house for rent, lighting original Yamaga lanterns and enjoying Yamaga's specialities and Yamaga sake.’ Please enjoy a ‘unique experience’ of staying in an old private house. To make sightseeing more enjoyable, we coordinate visits to Yamaga's sights of interest.

Step into the elegance of Edo-period Japan on this immersive 2hour guided tour of Suizenji Jojuen, one of Kumamoto’s most stunning historical gardens. Wander peaceful paths beside a spring-fed pond, admire the classic daimyo garden design, and visit a beautifully preserved teahouse once used by samurai lords. You'll even enjoy matcha tea with a view—a rare cultural experience that blends history, nature, and tranquility in one unforgettable visit. Perfect for history lovers, garden enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a serene escape in the heart of the city.

Discover the serene beauty of Kumamoto Prefecture on the Tamana Spiritual Blessing Tour. Start your day at the historic Yachiyoza Theater, capturing stunning photos before heading to the Mizumoto Orange Garden for fresh mandarin orange picking. Relish a delicious bowl of authentic Tamana Ramen, renowned for its rich, flavorful broth. The day culminates at Rengein Tanjoji Okunoin, where you can ring one of the world's largest temple bells and pray for good fortune—an unforgettable blend of culture, taste, and spirituality. - Duration: 8 hours of immersive cultural experiences - Private tour for up to 8 guests, with round-trip transport included - Guided visits with English and Chinese-speaking options available - Enjoy fresh orange picking and a bowl of local ramen included in the package Note: The five-story pagoda at Rengein Tanjoji Okunoin is under renovation through October and will not be visible. However, the bell-ringing experience will not be affected.

Uto’s Historical Journey: A Sensory Trip Through Time Discover Uto’s past not just by seeing it but by truly experiencing it with all your senses. This immersive tour invites you to step into history through unique hands-on activities. Wear a full suit of samurai armor, craft your own bachi (drumsticks), and feel the deep resonance as you strike a traditional drum. As you explore the quiet castle ruins, refreshing natural springs, and fragrant streets lined with old soy sauce warehouses, you will connect with Uto’s heritage in a vivid and personal way. Travel comfortably by private taxi with an optional guide and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. Get ready to experience Uto like never before and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Discover the best of Kumamoto and Aso on this full-day scenic adventure. Explore the iconic Kumamoto Castle, visit the lively Kumamon Square, and journey into the heart of Kyushu’s volcanic landscape. At Mt. Aso’s Naka-dake Crater, feel the power of nature up close, then enjoy sweeping views across the beautiful Kusasenri Grasslands. Learn more at the Aso Volcano Museum and end your day sampling local specialties at Aso Roadside Station. This tour blends culture, history, and dramatic scenery—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable Kyushu experience.

Important: This tour includes a private vehicle and must start and end within Kumamoto City. Pick-up and drop-off at Yatsushiro Port are not available. For tours from Yatsushiro Port, please book our dedicated Yatsushiro Port tour: https://www.viator.com/tours/Kumamoto/Port-Pick-Up-Yatsushiro-Private-Tour-Licensed-Guide-and-Vehicle/d50823-92136P651 Discover Kumamoto on a private tour with a licensed guide and vehicle. Visit iconic Kumamoto Castle, Kato Shrine, Honmyoji Temple, and Sakuranobaba Josaien, where you can enjoy local flavors and Edo-style streets. Explore Suizenji Jojuen, a beautiful Japanese garden, along with a samurai residence and historic shrines that showcase Kumamoto's rich samurai heritage. As a private tour, the itinerary and pace can be adjusted to your interests, allowing you to experience the best of Kumamoto in one day.

"Experience Aso's Breathtaking Views with TREK E-Bikes" Visit Sharinkan Specialist Store at the Sorayoka Area of Aso Kumamoto Airport, where you can rent TREK Marlin+ 6 e-bikes to explore Aso's magnificent landscapes. These high-performance e-bikes can travel up to 67km on a single charge, making cycling effortless even for beginners. We provide helmets and insurance coverage, along with expert guidance on the best routes based on weather conditions and your experience level. Starting from the airport, discover unique perspectives of Aso's volcanic scenery, grasslands, and hot spring towns that you can't experience by car. For reservations, visit Sharinkan TREK Store.

Embark on a journey to Kumamoto, where the unrivaled swordsman Miyamoto Musashi spent his later years, and visit places associated with him. Begin with a tour around the Shimada Museum where several items related to this famous swordsman, such as his swords and portraits, are on display. Afterwards, visit Nishi-no-Musashizuka, said to be one of the possible burial sites of Miyamoto Musashi. The last stop of the tour is Reigando, the cave where Miyamoto Musashi retreated and wrote about swordsmanship and martial arts in general in The Book of Five Rings, to spend some time meditating and think about what the famed swordsman's twilight years must have been like.

Discover a private wellness journey that goes beyond traditional sightseeing. This exclusive half-day experience invites you to explore how the people of Uto City in Kumamoto have long connected with nature through the “Amagoi-Daiko,” a drum used in prayers for rain and a good harvest. Ideal for curious travelers seeking meaningful cultural insight and a refreshing reset for both mind and body, this tour offers a rare opportunity to engage with the spiritual heart of Japanese tradition.

This private 6-hour tour is designed for travelers arriving at Yatsushiro Port by cruise ship who want to explore the highlights of Kumamoto City with a government-licensed multilingual guide and a private vehicle. Visit iconic sites such as Kumamoto Castle, Suizenji Jojuen Garden, Sakuranobaba Josaien, Kato Shrine, and Reigando. As this is a fully customizable private tour, you can choose the destinations that interest you most and enjoy exploring Kumamoto City at your own pace within the 6-hour tour.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kumamoto’s rich history and natural beauty! Explore the iconic Kumamoto Castle, a symbol of resilience, beautifully restored to its former glory. Wander through the serene Kusasenri grasslands, where seasonal landscapes will captivate your heart. Witness the awe inspiring power of nature at the active Aso Nakadake crater. End your adventure at Josaien, a vibrant hub of local delicacies and unique souvenirs, perfect for savoring and sharing the essence of Kumamoto

Uncover Kyushu’s Hidden Soul: Volcanic Wonders, Samurai Spirits, and Sacred Heritage If you are looking to escape the crowded tourist tracks of Tokyo and Kyoto, this exclusive private tour reveals the profound heart of Nagasaki's peninsula. Your day is a beautifully paced contrast of energy and serenity. Feel the volcanic pulse of the earth at Unzen Jigoku and high above on the Unzen Ropeway. Then, immerse yourself in the rich human stories of the region. From the martial pride of Shimabara Castle—where you can don traditional samurai garments—to the spiritual resilience preserved at the Arima Christian Heritage Museum, history comes alive. Concluding with a tranquil moment of green tea beside the swimming koi of Shimeiso Garden, this tour offers a deeply personal, crowd-free connection to Japan’s living heritage.

First, choose your favorite kimono from 150 kimonos. We will help you choose as well. Next, choose tabi socks and a Japanese-patterned drawstring purse. Please change into tabi socks. Next is finally dressing. Our professional staff will carefully dress you in about 10 minutes. Hair accessories can also be rented as an optional service. There is no limit to the number of hair ornaments you can use, so please use as many as you like. There will be a you you don't know in the mirror. I will take a photo before leaving the store. Photos taken using swords and Japanese umbrellas will be printed out and presented as gifts. Please return to the store by 5:00 pm. As an optional service, you can return kimonos worn at the Josaien store to the Suizenji store.

Characterized by a one-sword deathblow, the Higo old-style naginata(Long Sword), which uses weapons as long as 8 shaku (approximately 2.4m) was developed in Kumamoto before the mid-1700s. Since the end of the Meiji era when there were no male instructors, female instructors have preserved the tradition, and currently, Ms. Hirata is the 15th head of the school. When using a heavy and long weapon that is eight shaku (about 2.4m), there are few movements and moves, the form is simple, and although there is no ""flashy"" movement, training in body handling and foot handling is required to move quickly. This is a 90-minute plan where you can experience the authentic Higo old-style naginata directly from Ms. Hirata, the head of the family. Experience the Higo Koryu style straight from the female master who will pass it on to the next generation. Learn the spirit of the samurai through a samurai swordsmanship experience.

Private training with a Modern-Day Samurai: Learn the ancient art of Hyoho Taisharyu swordsmanship from a dedicated practitioner who embodies the heart and mind of a samurai. Zen Temple Dojo: Experience the serene atmosphere of an ancient Buddhist Zen temple, a place where samurai once sought wisdom and honed their skills. This sacred space will serve as your dojo, enhancing your connection to the samurai spirit. Uncover the Secrets: Delve into the techniques and philosophies that underpin Hyoho Taisharyu, gaining insights into the samurai’s unwavering focus, discipline, and unwavering spirit. Meet the Grandmaster: Engage in a rare encounter with the Grandmaster of Hyoho Taisharyu, a living embodiment of the samurai tradition. Learn from their wisdom and experience the profound connection to this ancient martial art. Discover Your Inner Warrior: Through guided practice and meditation, awaken your inner strength and cultivate the mental fortitude that defines a true samurai.

Experience the refined beauty of Bonseki, the traditional Japanese art of creating miniature landscapes with sand and stones, in a hands-on session guided by a Hosokawa-ryu master at the historic Yusuitei in Kumamoto. After your Bonseki creation, enjoy free time to stroll through the scenic Suizenji Park, known for its elegant gardens and tranquil atmosphere.

Explore the rich traditions of Japanese drinking culture at Kawakami Saketen, a cherished liquor store in Kumamoto. This intimate tasting session, limited to just six participants, offers a unique opportunity to sample Sake and Shochu, two iconic spirits of Japan. Guided by the knowledgeable store owner, delve into the brewing methods and flavor nuances of these local favorites, while discovering rare brews exclusive to the Kumamoto region. Engage in a personalized learning experience, complete with Q&A, and take home your favorite bottles as a memorable souvenir.

Explore the rich tradition of Japanese craftsmanship in this engaging mini-tatami mat workshop located in Kumamoto. Guided by a skilled craftsman, you'll delve into the art of tatami-making using high-quality igusa rush grass. Over the course of 90 minutes, you'll create a personalized 25 x 21 cm mini-tatami mat, perfect for showcasing your favorite trinkets or as a decorative piece in your home. As a delightful extra, enjoy complimentary Japanese tea and snacks while receiving insights into the history and cultural significance of tatami. Leave with not only your handcrafted mat but also a unique igusa coaster as a keepsake.