In the Steps of Legendary Swordsman Miyamoto Musashi Tour

Kumamoto , Japan

In the Steps of Legendary Swordsman Miyamoto Musashi Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

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.

Available options

Half Day Tour

Duration: 4 hours

What's included

Admission fees, experience fees, and transportation costs included in the tour

National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter fee

Hotel drop-off (Only for hotels in Kumamoto City)

Detailed itinerary

The Shimada Museum of Art houses many items related to Miyamoto Musashi. Look forward to seeing swords said to have been owned by Miyamoto Musashi, as well as portraits such as those of this legendary swordsman and that of his duel with rival Sasaki Kojiro at Ganryujima. Enjoy a guided tour by the director along with explanations from the English-speaking guide. If the director is unavailable, explanations will be given by the the English-speaking guide.

At Nishi-no-Musashizuka, in the family grave of Terao Nobuyuki, one of Miyamoto Musashi's students, there is a natural rock inscribed with characters for "Harunobu Koji." Harunobu is Musashi's real name, and Koji is the title for a man who devotes himself to Buddhism without becoming a priest. Terao Nobuyuki's brother, Terao Magonojo, is said to have been Musashi's most important student, and to whom the manuscript of The Book of Five Rings was given. There are several places in Kumamoto City that are thought to be Musashi's grave. There is a theory that his body was actually buried in the Terao family grave, so this tour will visit the Nishi-no-Musashizaka, "The Western Grave of Miyamoto Musashi."

Spending his last 5 years in Kumamoto, Miyamoto Musashi retreated to the Reigando cave and composed The Book of Five Rings. The Book of Five Rings is a text on the essentials of the art of war, such as secret techniques of swordsmanship. Take a moment to imagine the fabled swordsman in this cave, and spend some time meditating. At Unganzen-ji Temple, a swordsmanship display by Musashi's disciples and The Five Hundred Disciples of Buddha can be viewed. The Five Hundred Disciples of Buddha (Gohyaku Rakan) are a large number of stone statues, each distinctly shaped like disciples of Buddha, placed alongside a narrow path on the rocky mountainside from Unganzen-ji Temple to Reigando. In case of inclement weather, the meditation experience will not be held in the cave; instead it will be in a hall in Unganzen-ji Temple.

What's not included

Fees other than those listed in Includes

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note that participants may not join partway through the tour. Customers who are late for the departure time will have their reservations canceled

Itinerary locations and itinerary order may be changed depending on weather conditions and operating conditions of locations to be visited. Even when changed, the tour charge will not be refunded

If it is difficult to have the meditation experience in the Reigando cave due to inclement weather or other reasons, the experience will be held in a hall in Unganzen-ji Temple

There will be an accompanying National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter from the tour meeting location to the tour end location

Children up to 5 years old may join free of charge, but will not be provided with hired car seats and experience activities. If seats or experience activities are required, please make a booking under the child rate

As Reigando Cave is located within the grounds of Unganzen-ji Temple in the mountains, some paths may have poor or uneven footing. Please be sure to participate in shoes which are easy to walk in. Furthermore, as some locations require shoes to be taken off, please bring socks or wear them in advance

As large luggage such as suitcases cannot be brought during the tour, please leave them in a locker or at your hotel before participating

Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour

Meeting point

Meet In front of Information Center entrance inside Kumamoto Station building. Access: Inside Kumamoto Station Building. Customers who are late for the departure time will have their reservations canceled. Please give yourself plenty of time.

Important notes

• If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.
• In case bookings have been made separately, you may be assigned to be on separate tour buses.

About Kumamoto

Kumamoto is a vibrant city in Kyushu, Japan, known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and the iconic Kumamoto Castle. The city offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban living, with lush gardens, hot springs, and a thriving food scene. Its warm hospitality and diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination in Japan.

Top Attractions

Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's most famous castles, known for its impressive stone walls and historical significance. The castle played a crucial role in Japan's feudal history and is a symbol of the city.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Moderate (500-1,000 JPY)

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Suizenji Jojuen Garden is a beautiful Japanese landscape garden that features a miniature representation of Mount Fuji and other famous landmarks. The garden is known for its serene atmosphere and traditional design.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget (400 JPY)

Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art

The Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of artworks, including traditional Japanese art and contemporary pieces. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (500-1,000 JPY)

Mount Aso

Mount Aso is one of Japan's most famous active volcanoes and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a cable car to the crater's edge and explore the volcanic area.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate (1,000-2,000 JPY)

Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen is a traditional hot spring resort nestled in the mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture. The village offers a variety of public baths, private baths, and ryokan (traditional inns) for visitors to relax and unwind.

Relaxation Half day to overnight Moderate to Expensive (2,000-5,000 JPY for baths, higher for ryokan stays)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kumamoto Ramen

A local specialty, Kumamoto Ramen features a rich, pork-based broth with thin noodles, topped with chashu (braised pork), egg, and green onions. The broth is known for its creamy texture and savory flavor.

Dinner Contains pork and eggs, vegetarian and vegan options available in some restaurants

Basashi (Horse Sashimi)

A delicacy in Kumamoto, Basashi is thinly sliced raw horse meat, often served with soy sauce and grated ginger. It is known for its tender texture and slightly sweet flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Contains raw horse meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Kumamoto Karashi Renkon (Spicy Lotus Root)

A popular side dish, Kumamoto Karashi Renkon is lotus root slices stuffed with a spicy mustard mixture. The dish is known for its unique texture and bold flavor.

Side Dish Vegetarian and vegan-friendly

Kumamoto Onigiri

A local variation of the classic Japanese rice ball, Kumamoto Onigiri is often filled with savory ingredients like pickled plum, salmon, or tuna mayo. It is a convenient and tasty snack.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Aso Exploring Takachiho Gorge Canyoning in Kurokawa Onsen Soaking in hot springs Visiting Suizenji Jojuen Garden Exploring Kumamoto Castle Visiting Shinto shrines and temples Experiencing traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers pleasant weather with cherry blossoms in full bloom, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Korean (limited), Chinese (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kumamoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi companies and agree on fares before starting the journey

Getting there

By air

Kumamoto Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Kumamoto Station

By bus

Kumamoto Station Bus Terminal, Kumamoto City Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is convenient and easy to use, with frequent services. It's a great way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Chuo Ward Nishi Ward Higashi Ward Minami Ward

Day trips

Mount Aso

100 km from Kumamoto • Full day

Mount Aso is one of Japan's most famous active volcanoes, offering stunning views and unique geological features. Visitors can take a cable car to the crater's edge and explore the volcanic area.

Kurokawa Onsen

80 km from Kumamoto • Half day to overnight

Takachiho Gorge

120 km from Kumamoto • Full day

Takachiho Gorge is a stunning natural landmark known for its lush forests, clear streams, and traditional boat tours. The gorge is also home to several Shinto shrines and is an important cultural site.

Festivals

Kumamoto Castle Festival • April Yatai (Food Stall) Festival • November Kumamoto Fireworks Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit Kumamoto Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the castle in the morning light
Try local specialties like Kumamoto Ramen and Basashi (horse sashimi) at local restaurants and food stalls
Explore the city's parks and gardens, such as Suizenji Jojuen Garden, for a peaceful and scenic experience
Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Mount Aso, Kurokawa Onsen, and Takachiho Gorge for a diverse and memorable experience
Experience traditional Japanese culture by participating in a tea ceremony, visiting a temple, or staying in a ryokan (traditional inn)