Kumamoto Private Customizable Half Day Tour
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This private and customizable tour for Kumamoto is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace.
Available options
Public Transport
Bus, Trains or other: This tour includes public transportation costs with your tour expert (1 tour guide only). All transportation costs included.<br/>Pickup included
Private Vehicle
Private Car: This tour includes private chartered vehicle (1 driver) with a tour expert (1 tour guide). All transportation costs included.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
4-hour fully customized tour with reservations and bookings made on your behalf
English-speaking professional tour guide
Choose 3 to 3 sites for a personalized tour of Kumamoto
Transportation within the city only
Detailed itinerary
1
3-chōme-15 Kasuga, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto, 860-0047, Japan
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Kumamoto Castle (熊本城, Kumamotojō) is one of the most impressive castles in Japan. With large castle grounds and a variety of buildings, Kumamoto Castle offers its visitors one of the most complete castle experiences in Japan.
3
Suizenji Garden (水前寺成趣園, Suizenji Jōjuen) is a spacious, Japanese style landscape garden in Kumamoto, best enjoyed by strolling along a circular path. It was built by the Hosokawa family in the 17th century.
4
The Former Hosokawa Residence (旧細川刑部邸, Kyū Hosokawa Gyōbutei) is the former residence of a branch family of the Hosokawa Clan, the powerful clan that ruled over Kumamoto during the Edo Period. The building is a great example of a high-class samurai mansion.
5
2-1 Honmaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0002, Japan
6
１-1-1-3 Ninomaru, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0008, Japan
7
1 Chome-3-10 Shimotori, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0807, Japan
8
Unnamed Road 8, 10 Kamitoricho, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0845, Japan
9
8-11 Suizenji Koen, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 862-0956, Japan
10
8-1 Suizenji Koen, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 862-0956, Japan
What's not included
Meals, food and drinks not specified
Fees for optional tours and activities for guests and tour guide
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Moderate Cancellation Policy:
We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 14 days or less before event
We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 21 days or less before event
We will charge a cancellation fee of 25% if booking is cancelled 30 days or less before event
PLEASE FILL OUT THE TOUR FORM:
After your booking, you will receive a link to the Kumamoto Form (within 48 hours) that asks for pertinent information required for this booking. Please ensure that this Kumamoto Form is completed accurately at least 7 days before your tour date
Every city in Japan has a lot to offer. There are many aspects to the city and many hidden and local spots that you may not have seen or heard of before. In the Custom Tour form that will be sent to you after your booking, you’ll be able to let us know of any attractions you have already visited and would not like to see again on this tour. We will carefully review your requests and will create an itinerary based on your preferences
If you cancel the tour any time after we have sent you the custom Itinerary, the service fee of 15% of your total tour cost will be nonrefundable
Japan Awaits is a licensed tour operator in Japan, with hundreds of registered and vetted tour guides nationwide. We offer tours in any location in Japan and manage all details, including transportation and tickets. Visit Japan Awaits to learn more about our tours or inquire about a custom experience today
Mode of transportation: Transportation within the city only (either public transportation or private vehicle, based on your booking)
Custom Itinerary:
Organizing and planning a trip requires a lot of time, and if we have made reservations on your behalf, it may be challenging to cancel some booking requests. Once we receive your booking and responses from the Custom Tour form, we’ll begin creating your itinerary and organizing the necessary arrangements for your tour
How far in advance should I book?
Preparing a customized tour takes time, especially if restaurant or venue reservations are needed. We recommend booking as early as possible—ideally 3 months in advance, or at least 1 month before your travel date. For requests made within 7 days of travel, we may not be able to arrange the tour in time, and your booking request may be canceled with a full refund
What if I'm late?
We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time
Guests are provided with the tour guides’ phone number before the tour and you can call the tour guide if you need help
Although this is a private tour, the tour guide will only wait for you for up to 30 minutes of start time before the tour is cancelled
Attire: Please dress appropriately for all weather conditions
Passports may be required to verify age on the day of the tour
Meeting point
More details will be provided after booking.Please kindly confirm with us again if your tour detail does not have meeting point
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
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.
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)
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
