Explore the "Secret Garden" of Kyushu: Giant Ancient Trees, Samurai Legends, and World Heritage Landscapes
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Praivate Plan
The Highlight
A Journey into Mystery: Visit one of Japan’s Top 3 "Hidden Regions" (Hikyo), inaccessible to most tourists. The 800-Year-Old Giant: Experience the spiritual energy of "Okubo no Ohinoki," Japan’s most majestic cypress. Samurai Tragedy & Romance: Hear the legendary love story of the Heike Princess and the Genji Warrior at the historic Tsurutomi Yashiki. Gastronomy of the Heavens: Taste authentic Shiiba Soba, a rustic delicacy born from World Agricultural Heritage landscapes. Total Comfort: Seamless private transport from Kumamoto City or Airport, navigating the scenic mountain passes with ease.
The Experience
Deep within the mountains of Miyazaki Prefecture lies Shiiba Village—a place where time has stood still for over 800 years. This private tour takes you beyond the standard tourist trail to discover the soul of ancient Japan. From the engineering marvel of the Kamishiiba Dam to the sacred dances (Kagura) preserved in the village museum, this is a day of profound discovery and breathtaking nature.
■ Spot Introduction
- Okubo no hinoki: An 800-year-old masterpiece of nature. Standing 32m tall with a massive 30m-wide canopy, it is revered as Japan's finest cypress. Its mystical form—a labyrinth of countless branches entwining the trunk—evokes a profound sense of awe and spiritual power.
Oichiyo Observatory (Great Ginkgo Viewpoint):The "Visual Highlight" of the tour. Looking down at the sprawling lake and the dam from this height gives you a true sense of being in "The Tibet of Kyushu."
Yokoidokoro Shiibaya:More than just a restaurant, it’s a hub for local food culture. Their Soba is a gift from the steep, terraced fields of the village.
Tsurutomi Yashiki & Folklore Museum:Discover the "Heike Legend." The unique architecture of the house, with its long veranda, is designed specifically for the steep mountain terrain.
■ Why Choose This Tour? Shiiba is often called the "Tibet of Kyushu." Because of its remote location, it has preserved a culture unlike anywhere else in Japan. For travelers who have already seen Kyoto and Tokyo, Shiiba offers the "Real Japan"—raw, spiritual, and deeply welcoming.
Guide Services
Languages Spoken by Guides
- English
- Mandarin Chinese
- Japanese
Itinerary
- Include: Lunch
- 08:30Pick-up from Kumamoto City or Airport.
- Okubo no Ohinoki (The Giant Cypress)
- 12:00Lunch at "Yokoidokoro Shiibaya" or other Savor authentic Shiiba Soba
- Oichiyo Observatory Capture the panoramic view of the emerald lake.
- Kamishiiba Dam
- Tsurutomi Yashiki & Itsukushima Shrine
- Tea Time with Locals A warm exchange with villagers over mountain tea.
- 16:30Departure from Shiiba Village.
- 19:00Drop-off in Kumamoto.
Price Details
How to Use
- Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.
Purchase Notice
This is a private tour. This tour will have a maximum of 8travelers. The minimum number of participants is 4 person.
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 4 ~ 10 day(s) of departure, will charge 20%
- Cancel during 0 ~ 3 day(s) of departure, Non-refundable (0% refund)