6-Hour Tour: Pick 2 – Kumamoto Castle, Castle Town, Suizenji Park

Kumamoto , Japan

6-Hour Tour: Pick 2 – Kumamoto Castle, Castle Town, Suizenji Park

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About this experience

This 6-hour tour allows you to explore your favorite places while learning about Kumamoto’s history and Japanese culture with a knowledgeable guide.

Choose two locations from the following: Kumamoto Castle, Kumamoto Castle Town (Furu-machi and Shin-machi), or Suizenji Jojuen Garden. Refer to the itinerary for details of each area.

The meeting place and start time are flexible. After booking, you can discuss your specific requests with your assigned guide via WhatsApp.

Transportation costs (taxi, bus, tram), lunch, and shopping or dining expenses during the tour are not included in the guide fee. The guide will recommend lunch venues based on your preferences.

This plan was designed for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Japan and Kumamoto’s history and culture by visiting two areas.

Available options

6-Hour Tour: Pick 2 – Kumamoto Castle, Castle Town, Suizenji Park

What's included

Admission fees for Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji Jojuen are included.

Guided tour for 6 hours with one guide and one attendant.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Location 1: Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's three great castles, is a stunning embodiment of the philosophy and strategy of samurai from 400 years ago. It serves as a symbol and source of identity for those born and raised in Kumamoto. Inside the castle, rich in information about Japanese castles, visitors can head to an observation floor located approximately 14 stories above ground. The tour, guided by an expert, offers engaging explanations and interactive experiences.

Highlights include:The outer structures of Kumamoto Castle (stone walls, Kato Kiyomasa statue, etc.).
The special walkway (a path 6 meters above the ground, made of locally sourced cypress wood).
The stone walls and remains of the main palace built by the master castle builder, Kato Kiyomasa.
Visits to the basement to the 4th floor of the castle tower (museum) and the 6th floor (observation deck).
The Josaien complex (souvenir shops, restaurants, and the Kumamoto Castle Museum "Excitement Zone").

Location 2:Kumamoto Castle Town
The castle town, which supported and flourished around the "impregnable" Kumamoto Castle, still retains historical buildings and streets in the "Old Town and New Town" area, where you can feel the history even today. Visitors can also explore shops and cafes that offer a sense of Japanese and Kumamoto culture. The guide will take you to hidden gems for shopping, tea time, or even casual drinks.
Examples of spots include:
Organic food stores, traditional Japanese confectionery shops, coffee shops, the oldest bakery in Kumamoto.
A walk along the historical Satsuma Kaido road.
Nagasaki Jiro Bookstore and other historical buildings.
A traditional Japanese toy wholesale store.
Kakuchi experience at a traditional liquor store (Kakuchi refers to the Japanese-style liquor shops that serve drinks on-site in addition to selling bottles).

Location 3:Suizenji Jojuen This beautiful park, cherished by Kumamoto’s citizens, features a circuit-style garden centered around a large pond fed by natural spring water. Visitors can enjoy Japanese landscapes that showcase the beauty of all four seasons: vibrant spring cherry blossoms, lush summer greenery, fiery autumn leaves, and serene winter scenes. The garden offers a tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation.

Inside the park, visit Izumi Shrine or enjoy the "Kokin Denju-no-Ma," a thatched-roof room relocated from the Kyoto Imperial Palace (optional admission includes Japanese sweets and matcha). From this room, enjoy breathtaking views of the garden, unchanged for over 150 years.
Highlights include:
A circuit-style garden with a large natural spring-fed pond.
Izumi Shrine, located within the park.
"Kokin Denju-no-Ma" (optional admission includes matcha and sweets).
Old-fashioned souvenir shops at the park entrance.

What's not included

Costs for food, drinks, and purchases at the shops during the tour.

Transportation costs to the meeting point and between areas are not included.

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour primarily involves walking, except for transitions between areas. Therefore, it is not recommended for those who may have concerns or difficulties with extended periods of walking.

Meeting point

The meeting location will be decided after coordination between the guide and the customer.Example: If starting the tour from Kumamoto Castle, the meeting location will be Kumamoto City Hall.

Important notes

Please show your ticket to the guide during the reception. The admission ticket for Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji Jojuen will be provided to you upon entry.

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)