This private day tour offers the ultimate experience of Hitoyoshi, famously known as the "Little Kyoto of Kyushu." Start your day at "HASSENBA" with a relaxing river cruise along the crystal-clear waters of the Kuma River, followed by a visit to the breathtaking Aoi Aso Shrine, a designated National Treasure. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local gastronomy by experiencing authentic matcha green tea, visiting a historic soy sauce brewery, and enjoying a premium "Kuma Shochu" tasting at a renowned local distillery. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle on this luxurious journey through Japanese history and rich food culture.
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Private tour Plan
The Highlight
Clear Stream River Cruise on the Kuma River: Glide down one of Japan's top three rapid rivers on a traditional boat, experiencing the refreshing and healing power of nature.
Visit the National Treasure "Aoi Aso Shrine": Explore this spiritual powerhouse of Kyushu, boasting over 1,200 years of history and magnificent traditional thatched roofs.
Ultimate Local Gastronomy & Brewing Experience: Savor the local flavors through an authentic matcha tea experience, a historic soy sauce brewery tour, and a premium tasting of the globally recognized "Kuma Shochu."
Comfortable Private Transportation: Includes round-trip private transport from Kumamoto City. Enjoy a stress-free, seamless journey to Hitoyoshi's top spots that would be impossible to cover in a single day using public transit.
The Experience
Your journey begins with a comfortable departure from your hotel in Kumamoto City by private vehicle, heading toward Hitoyoshi, a town rich in nature and famously known as the "Little Kyoto of Kyushu." Upon arrival, you will experience the highlight of the trip at "HASSENBA," where you will board a traditional wooden boat to glide down the crystal-clear waters of the Kuma River. As one of Japan’s three most rapid rivers, it offers a perfect chance to immerse yourself in the refreshing breeze and stunning natural scenery. After savoring a delicious lunch of local specialties, you will visit the majestic Aoi Aso Shrine, a designated National Treasure with over 1,200 years of history, to marvel at its spectacular thatched-roof architecture and deeply spiritual atmosphere. The tour then takes you on a flavorful stroll through local history, stopping at the historic Tateyama Shoten for an authentic, freshly whisked bowl of matcha, followed by a visit to the Kamada Brewery to learn about the traditional craftsmanship behind Japanese miso and soy sauce. To top off the afternoon, you will visit Sengetsu Shuzo, a highly respected distillery famous for the globally recognized "Kuma Shochu." After learning about the traditional distillation process, indulge in a premium shochu tasting session. With private transportation, you can fully relax after enjoying your drinks as you are safely chauffeured back to your hotel in Kumamoto City to conclude the tour.
Guide Services
Languages Spoken by Guides
- English
- Mandarin Chinese
- Japanese
Itinerary
- 08:00Pick-up from Kumamoto City or Airport. Departure from Kagoshima City or the airport is at 8:30AM.
- relaxing river cruise at HASSENBA (50min)
- Lunch time You can decide on a place for lunch in consultation with your guide. NOTE: The cost of lunch is not included in the tour.
- Aoi Aso Shrine
- Matcha Experience & Soy Sauce Distillery Tour
- Shochu Distillery Tour & Tasting
- 18:30Tour ends at the dispersal point.
Price Details
How to Use
- Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.
Important Booking Information
Please be at pick up point 10 minutes before pick up time. Times are subject to change with or without notice. Infant up to 5 years old may join free of charge.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation made at least 11 day(s) before departure date, Fully refundable (100% refund)
- Cancel during 8 ~ 10 day(s) of departure, will charge 30%
- Cancel during 0 ~ 7 day(s) of departure, Non-refundable (0% refund)