Kumamoto Castle Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour is a delightful 3-hour journey through Kumamoto Castle Town, guided by a local expert well-versed in the history and culture of Japan and Kumamoto. While strolling through streets rich in history and tradition, we will visit shops dedicated to preserving historical heritage for future generations. This tour offers enjoyable interactions with the guide while experiencing the culture of the castle town, enjoying food, drinks, and conversations.
The itinerary includes visits to organic food shops, Japanese sweets stores, and coffee shops. In the "Shinmachi" area, we will explore Nagasaki Jiro Shoten, Japan's second oldest bakery (the oldest in Kumamoto), and Yoshida Shouka-do, located along the historic Satsuma Road. Additionally, we will shop at Muroya, a traditional Japanese toy wholesaler, and Fukushiro-ya, a Japanese-style sake shop and bar.
※After booking, the guide can adjust the tour's start time as much as possible.
Available options
Kumamoto Castle Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
What's included
Guided tour for 3 hours with one guide.
Detailed itinerary
1
Meeting Point : Around Gofuku-machi tram stop Chuo-Ward, Kumamoto City.
（１）Reception and briefing of the itinerary at the meeting point
（２）Overview of Kumamoto Castle Town (Furu-machi, Shin-machi area)
（３）Guided tour of the highlights around Furu-machi area including Toujin-machi: Organic grocery store, Japanese sweets shop, Coffee shop, Johka-machi fountain etc.
（４）Guided tour of the highlights around Shin-machi area: Visiting the second oldest bakery shop in Japan (The oldest in Kumamoto), walking Satsuma-kaido ancient road, seeing Historic buildings such as Nagasaki Jiro Bookstore and Yoshida Shokado. Shopping at Kinomoto-ya (Japanese traditional toy wholesaler), and experiencing KAKUUCHI at Fukushiro-ya (traditional KAKUUCHI liquor store. A KAKUUCHI is a (combined) liquor store and bar in traditional Japanese style.)
(5) Conclude the tour
CAUTION: This tour includes places where credit cards are not accepted for purchases. Please be sure to prepare cash in Japanese yen.
What's not included
Round-trip transportation expenses to the tour meeting point Costs for food, drinks, and purchases at the shops during the tour
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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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
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting around the GOFUKUMACHI tram stop.
Under the canopy of the IDETA Eye Clinic.
Important notes
There are no places in this program that require an admission fee.
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
Instant confirmation
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