Escape the Crowds: Hita’s Historic Charm & Scenic Rivers from Fukuoka
「This plan offers a more exclusive and personalized experience than standard Fukuoka city tours.」
Escape the crowds and discover a quieter side of Japan on this relaxing day trip to Hita, a riverside town known for its Edo-period charm and pure water cuisine. Stroll through historic streets, savor river fish and eel dishes, and, if time allows, visit Fukuoka’s iconic Kushida Shrine. While others rush tourist hotspots, enjoy a peaceful journey—set to your favorite Apple Music playlist in the car.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Fukuoka airport, Hakata port, station, and anywhere
- I am located within a 20-minute drive from Fukuoka Airport, Hakata Station, and Hakata Port, so if you book a hotel near these facilities we can ensure a smooth meeting.
Strolling Through Mameda Town
Step back in time as you explore Mameda Town, a charming Edo-period district in Hita. Wander through preserved streets lined with historic merchant houses, traditional shops, and local museums. A perfect place to soak in Japan’s timeless culture and craftsmanship.
Optional 1: Lunch Time, A cozy local restaurant in Hita
Traditional river fish and eel dishes, specialties of Japanese cuisine, can be enjoyed here thanks to the exceptionally pure waters of Hita—an experience unique to this region.
Optional 2: Lunch, Sapporo Beer Kyushu Hita Brewery Restaurant
Savor freshly prepared dishes that pair perfectly with beer at the on-site Sapporo brewery restaurant. With views of the surrounding nature, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy local flavors in a refined, modern setting.
**Advance reservation required at least 4 weeks in advance.**
**The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.**
Optional 1: Michi-no-Eki Mizube no Sato Oyama
Michi-no-Eki Mizube no Sato Oyama is a scenic roadside station in Hita, Oita, set along the Mikuma River. It’s famed for fresh local produce, Oyama-grown fruits, and seasonal delicacies. Visitors can enjoy riverside views, shop for regional specialties, or savor light meals at the on-site restaurant, making it a relaxing stop on any Kyushu road trip.
Optional 2: Sapporo Brewery Tour
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Sapporo beer is crafted during an English-friendly guided tour of the Kyushu Hita Brewery. Explore the brewing process, discover the brewery’s history, and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
**Advance reservation required at least 4 weeks in advance.** **The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.**
Photo spots along the Mikuma River
The Mikuma River in Hita offers picturesque photo spots year-round. Stroll along its serene banks to capture reflections of historic ryokan, charming bridges, and seasonal scenery—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery leaves in autumn, and misty winter mornings. A perfect backdrop for unforgettable travel memories.
Departure time from Hita
Farewell time, Hakata Port Central Pier Cruise Center
Please share your memories of this tour.
Ending Point
Your Accommodation in Fukuoka city
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55306/da6c5f65-c7fe-4367-91cc-ddca04b27d0c.png)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
-I will be both the guide and the driver.
-Free mobile Wi-Fi
-My own private car (8-seater van “Nissan Serena”)
Non-smoking vehicle
Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning
Front passenger seat with a sliding function for wheelchair users
-Gasoline fee
-Parking fee
-Expressway tolls (Fukuoka Urban Expressway and Kyushu Expressway)
-Free Apple Music and Netflix
-Guide gratuity
Cost of meals (guide and customers)
Entrance fees of facilities (guide and customers)
**Sapporo Brewery Tour**
Adults: 500 JPY / Ages 13–19: 300 JPY / Children under 12: Free
Includes one sample beer.
Please pay in cash.
Closed: Every Monday and Tuesday (or the following days if they fall on national holidays), year-end and New Year holidays, and other unscheduled closures.
Tour Important Information
1.If you want to do cashless payments on your entire itinerary, please let me know in advance. I will need to have a payment machine ready.
2. Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
3. Extra time is assumed, but it is an itinerary that will be difficult to proceed if the meeting time is delayed. I hope we can meet on time:)
4. My car can accommodate up to 7 guests comfortably.
If your group has 8 or 9 guests, please contact me in advance — I can arrange a rental van (Toyota Hiace Grand Cabin) upon request and provide a customized quote.
Unfortunately, I’m not licensed to operate tours for 10 guests or more, so larger groups cannot be accommodated.
If the brewery tour is closed, I will propose an alternative plan.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Katsu N.
Hi, I’m glad you found my page!
I’m a local guide based in Kyushu who loves sharing the region’s history, food, and landscapes in a relaxed and friendly way. Think of me as someone who can make your trip comfortable and memorable, while keeping things easygoing and fun.
I began guiding to share the history, scenery, and food of my home with visitors from around the world. Before this, I worked in luxury retail, where I learned how important details and genuine hospitality are. Now I bring that same spirit to my tours, making sure every guest feels comfortable, cared for, and free to enjoy their journey.
I specialize in private car tours around Kyushu, so you don’t have to worry about train schedules or carrying luggage. We can stop where you like, take things at your own pace, and enjoy the scenery along the way. Onboard you’ll have free Wi-Fi, music, and a comfortable ride—perfect for families, couples, or friends who want both convenience and a touch of luxury.
Some of my favorite places to share are:
Nagasaki: Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Museum, and the city’s cultural blend
Fukuoka: Dazaifu Shrine, city highlights, and Yanagawa’s river cruise with eel dishes
Kumamoto: Mt. Aso’s volcanic views, Kumamoto Castle, and Kurokawa Onsen
Oita: Hita’s riverside town, plus Beppu and Yufuin hot springs
Saga: Arita’s ceramics and the Yoshinogari ancient site
Takachiho Gorge: A mystical canyon tied to Japanese legends
What I enjoy most is helping guests discover both famous sights and hidden corners of Kyushu, while keeping the experience comfortable and stress-free. Whether you’re drawn to culture, food, history, or beautiful scenery, I can adjust the plan to match your style.
I’d love to share my part of Japan with you and create memories that last long after your trip. If you have any questions or requests, please feel free to send me a message. I look forward to welcoming you to Kyushu and showing you what makes this region so special!
Reviews
Jacob M.
“Exploring Kyushu off the beaten track”
We were interested in the period between 1850 to 1900 during Japan modernization as well as exploring the beautiful Kyushu geography. Katsu did a lot of research to make sure we went to Hagi castle as well as some of the houses of the Samurai who helped in the revolution. He also made sure we had a great lunch within our dietary guidelines. We used translations on occasion to augment his English
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55306/da6c5f65-c7fe-4367-91cc-ddca04b27d0c.png)
Katsu N.
Hi Jack and Jennifer,/// Thank you very much for posting the review. And regarding the language, my apologies for the light mistakes. /// Hagi and Taketa are not areas I usually cover, and since my major was geography, I did my best with the research. However, some of the historical terms did not fully stick in my head, so I may have caused some inconvenience. However, I believe there were no language issues in places like Mt. Aso and Takachiho, so I would appreciate your understanding. /// I will continue in my reply to the Nagasaki tour review.
Jacob M.
“Amazing ceramics and pottery trip plus Glover Garden”
This is our second trip with Katsu and he adapted the itinerary based on our interest. We are more interested in Japanese culture and the Glover history
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55306/da6c5f65-c7fe-4367-91cc-ddca04b27d0c.png)
Katsu N.
Hi Jack and Jennifer,/// While talking at the coffee shop in the morning, we were able to sketch out a draft of the itinerary, and then we fine-tuned the details improvisationally as we moved along. I was relieved that, in the end, you were able to enjoy the sunset view at Glover Garden./// Actually, there was one more place I wanted to take you. It is a reservation-only ceramic painting gallery where a professional gives a one-on-one explanation of the pieces on display. So when we meet again, I would love to guide you there./// I look forward to seeing you both again.
Silke und oliver K.
“Katsu ist der beste Tourführer”
Katsu ist die beste Wahl für eine privat geführte Tour, da wir keine Lust darauf hatten mit vielen anderen Personen (meist Chinesen) eine Tour zu unternehmen. Eine andere Tour hat dies bestätigt, denn sobald die meisten der Personen nicht englisch spricht, macht es keinen Spaß mehr. Ab der Buchung der Tour mit Katsu, waren wir regelmäßig in Kontakt mit ihm und konnten sagen was wir gerne sehen wollen um die Tour so individuell wie möglich für uns zu machen. Katsu war schon vor uns da und erwartete uns. Er führte uns zu seinem Fahrzeug, das sehr geräumig war. Das Fahrzeug war bequem ausgestattet, mit Sitzkissen, Decken, einer kleinen Kühlbox mit Getränken und seiner bebilderten mit Text versehenen Begrüßung zum Nachlesen, sowie perfekter Musik. Die Fahrt führte uns aus der Stadt hinaus, über den Highway in Richtung Kumamoto zum Mt. Aso. Katsu führte uns zu den grünen Wiesen (Kusasenri-Grasland), und erkundigte sich bei der Parkverwaltung ob der Krater auch geöffnet ist. Nachdem die Parkverwaltung grünes Licht gab, denn das Wetter war sehr windig und mit etwas Regen versehen, ging es nach oben auf den Berg. Der Berg war sehr beeindruckend. Für das geplante Mittagsessen hatten wir uns für Rahmen entschieden. Leider war ausgerechnet an diesem Tag das Lokal geschlossen. Die Alternative war ein kleines Privathaus in dem der Besitzer in seinem Wohnzimmer gutes Essen serviert. Die Kommunikation mit Katsu in Englisch war gut, er weiß selber das er etwas mehr englisch üben muss, damit man sich besser versteht. Manchmal ist es etwas schwierig ihn zu verstehen, vor allem wenn er die Wörter im englischen nicht genau kennt, aber mit helfen und langsam sprechen hat das alles perfekt geklappt. Alles in Allem war dies eine perfekt von Katsu organisierte Reise, die wir gerne wiederholen würden. Sollten wir wieder dort sein ist Katsu für uns die erste Wahl für eine private Tour. Katsu, viele Grüße aus Deutschland, wir sehen uns in der Zukunft wieder. Silke und Oliver
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55306/da6c5f65-c7fe-4367-91cc-ddca04b27d0c.png)
Katsu N.
Dear Silke and Oliver, /// Your feedback truly means a lot to me. /// Thank you very much for your kind and generous words. It took me a little time to reply, as I was reading your message while recalling the bits of German I learned back in university. /// As for English conversation, I sometimes tend to speak too quickly when discussing something technical for the first time. I actually remember getting a bit confused when I tried to explain why Japan’s and Germany’s climates are similar — using Köppen’s climate classification, which I learned long ago in my earth science class. /// That aside, I always take great pride in my hospitality and guest care, so please rest assured that you’ll be in good hands when we meet again. /// Warm regards from Japan, Katsuhisa /// P.S. For the benefit of future guests, I’ve included an English summary of your message below. /// Katsu is the best tour guide and the perfect choice for a private tour. We preferred not to join large groups, and after another experience, we realized how much better it is when everyone speaks English. From the moment we booked, Katsu stayed in touch and tailored the itinerary to our wishes. He was already waiting for us before the tour and guided us to his spacious, comfortable car, prepared with cushions, blankets, drinks, and great music. /// Our drive from Fukuoka to Mt. Aso through Kumamoto was scenic and smooth. Katsu checked with park staff to ensure the crater was open despite wind and rain. The green Kusasenri Grassland and volcanic scenery were breathtaking. When the ramen restaurant we planned to visit was closed, Katsu quickly found a cozy local home where we enjoyed delicious homemade food. /// His English communication was good — sometimes a bit challenging, but always clear with patience and teamwork. Overall, this was a perfectly organized and memorable tour. If we return to Japan, Katsu will be our first choice again.
$605/ per group
More tours by Katsu N.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15805/d70c1d57-3f7d-4f56-b55c-ab2e1358d3ed.png)
For Cruise Passengers 1-Day History & Lunch in Nagasaki, Private car
This exclusive tour offers "The One-Of-A-Kind Experience"—a journey through Nagasaki’s rich history and its pivotal role in shaping the world. Relax in a private car and follow "The Time-Sequenced Itinerary", revealing how this city influenced global events in the 16th–18th centuries—all without the packed tourist scenes. Book now to receive "The Exclusive Guidebook" I personally created before your visit. A perfect balance of comfort, depth, and discovery awaits you.
For Cruise Passengers 1-Day History & Lunch in Nagasaki, Private car
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17242/d5c288a5-1114-4490-ac68-1884e5edb53e.png)
Autumn Leaves: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater, Kikuchi Gorge Falls & Daikanbō Panorama, 1-Day Private Car
[Extend your journey with my tours and enjoy multi-day discount. Please send me a message before booking.] Escape the bustle of Fukuoka on a refreshing private day trip to Mt. Aso. Walk shaded trails in Kikuchi Gorge to admire crystal-clear waterfalls, then stand at Daikanbō for sweeping caldera views. Visit the crater of one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, and enjoy a handmade soba lunch. Travel in comfort by private car with your personal guide, blending nature, culture, and luxury.
Autumn Leaves: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater, Kikuchi Gorge Falls & Daikanbō Panorama, 1-Day Private Car
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15807/8267549e-68cf-42ec-b031-e84306494eb2.png)
Samurai's castle, volcano activity, Shimabara in Nagasaki 9 hours, Private car.
Discover Shimabara’s samurai heritage and dramatic volcanic landscapes on this 9-hour private tour. Explore the reconstructed Shimabara Castle and stroll through a historic samurai district. Enjoy local cuisine in a peaceful town atmosphere before heading to Unzen Jigoku, a geothermal area known for its steaming vents and bubbling springs. Though farther than most Nagasaki tours, this full-day journey blends comfort, culture, and nature—well worth the drive.
Samurai's castle, volcano activity, Shimabara in Nagasaki 9 hours, Private car.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/14743/f4185a71-3edb-4126-8fbc-4a4de21ba5d0.png)
Fukuoka-Nagasaki round trip,1 Day, Private car, History, Local dining.
[Extend your journey with my tours and save with a multi-day discount. Please message me before booking.] Journey through Nagasaki and world history in chronological order on this private car tour—from Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum to the iconic One-Legged Torii. Enjoy Omura Bay views and local seafood or Wagyu. Book now to receive The Exclusive Guidebook I created for your visit—a perfect balance of comfort, depth, and discovery awaits.
Fukuoka-Nagasaki round trip,1 Day, Private car, History, Local dining.
Other Popular Car Tour (driving guide) Tours in Fukuoka
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13965/c03adb34-b468-4924-8555-cafd14c91f9f.jpg)
Visit to NANZOIN Temple by car
The guardian deity Fudo Myoo and the 41m (or 134 ft) long bronze reclining Budda statue are must-sees In Japan, Buddhism and Shinto coexist. I will explain the coexistence of the two religions.
Visit to NANZOIN Temple by car
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/9445/b1adea0a-707d-44d2-b488-12ad05acde2c.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20911/86d9bc3b-9e0f-4597-8c2f-366e119ee04d.jpg)
FUKUOKA "First time in Fukuoka" FULL DAY TOUR
This tour is designed for 1st time visitors covering "must-visit" places such as Dazaifu shrine, Giant wooden budha, Daimyo shopping area, Nakasu bar area and Yatai experience (outdoor food stalls).
FUKUOKA "First time in Fukuoka" FULL DAY TOUR
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/83493/d40c7728-da24-4c09-afec-f857838eb005.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17242/d5c288a5-1114-4490-ac68-1884e5edb53e.png)
Autumn Leaves: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater, Kikuchi Gorge Falls & Daikanbō Panorama, 1-Day Private Car
[Extend your journey with my tours and enjoy multi-day discount. Please send me a message before booking.] Escape the bustle of Fukuoka on a refreshing private day trip to Mt. Aso. Walk shaded trails in Kikuchi Gorge to admire crystal-clear waterfalls, then stand at Daikanbō for sweeping caldera views. Visit the crater of one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, and enjoy a handmade soba lunch. Travel in comfort by private car with your personal guide, blending nature, culture, and luxury.
Autumn Leaves: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater, Kikuchi Gorge Falls & Daikanbō Panorama, 1-Day Private Car
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55306/da6c5f65-c7fe-4367-91cc-ddca04b27d0c.png)
Takachiho gorge & Aso national park
A driving tour through Takachiho Gorge, the land of myths featuring a beautiful canyon, and Aso–Kujū National Park, where you’ll also find plenty of memorable experiences. These include a walking trail along the beautiful gorge with cliffs rising, a boat ride along the mountain stream, and visits to shrines and historical monuments related to Japanese mythology, as well as a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic viewing experience of the Five Peaks of Aso and the Kuju Mountain Range.
Takachiho gorge & Aso national park
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55798/2acc5f75-ecde-4564-917c-acb1fbcde4a1.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/8b173463-81d3-434f-b3a0-19eb3fc4a0ff.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/a4359e34-ecd6-48e2-99ab-633e094993ab.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/f0a44619-2168-49f9-999c-8a1ba5f7f4b5.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/0496491c-9f44-4271-926c-99ebc2d17c14.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/5d879ec9-ca8d-4edd-a597-f95d6a8a2532.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/8506596b-d507-493b-b4af-e13b122dc0b2.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/9704c735-b51f-4058-ba36-f0b9db1671f3.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/1d92f0e8-6895-4ec0-b9de-d4d87a742413.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/14906c41-99ac-4131-ad9b-b91c1710149c.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/e3e174c4-6a59-44a0-9337-0e5ab4a605cf.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/9f7b9aca-84f0-4ea8-af82-18dc8ee24633.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/a1d9fb7e-fa7d-4675-a4a9-03268c7a8720.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/3b98eff5-7096-44b5-b2d6-dd07b9f0b83f.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/63e7795d-b508-4218-8c7d-1d9cff0aecf2.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/0bf281fe-5b5b-4888-9d52-198f58280623.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/9f6b6426-8482-48d2-83c5-9f2072632d6b.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/e922a5d2-a661-4d90-8a2b-2b68c1f8cb7f.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/c58ba3bd-2bdf-46b1-9ca1-303144abf184.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/550f3e2e-c1a2-46c5-a665-a1e1f773417d.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/d7c6af2c-842b-4b7b-a766-ed43749367e2.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/7ae43bcc-c498-440a-a8af-361b6e505120.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/e2cef817-8555-460f-adbd-87d4f6face2a.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/a8892bee-fa97-4896-a0b9-38579d54224a.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/5bac53f0-f73a-46e1-b443-5a44c38a0a9a.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/cfc5c361-6a0d-45b6-8f2c-f54d25af4db3.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/1e8ae711-5e37-4c96-a4a5-b1b6c1f5c280.png)