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Hot Springs & Samurai Legacy: Beppu, Kinrin Lake (Yufuin) & Nakatsu Castle
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Joined 2024
Extend your journey with my tours and enjoy a multi-day discount. Please send me a message before booking.
Begin at Nakatsu Castle, a rare samurai-era “water castle” privately owned by descendants of its last feudal lord. Savor a unique Beppu experience with Jigoku-mushi (Japanese Steam Barbeque), relax at the aromatic Herb Steam Spa, and explore the vivid hot spring landscapes of Umi Jigoku and Chinoike Jigoku. Stroll briefly along Yufuin’s scenic Kinrin Lake.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your Hotel in Fukuoka City
- 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.
Estimated travel time is 2 hours included 1 bathroom break
Nakatsu Castle
Nakatsu Castle, built in 1588 by daimyo Kuroda Yoshitaka, is one of Japan’s rare “water castles,” with moats connected to the sea. Rebuilt in the early 20th century, it houses a museum showcasing samurai armor, weapons, and local history. From the top floor, enjoy sweeping views of the town and coastline. Uniquely, it is not municipally owned but privately held by descendants of the last feudal lord, the Okudaira family.
Admission: 1,000JPY (Per Person)
Lunch Time; Jigoku-mushi: Japanese Steamed Barbecue
Jigoku-mushi, or “Japanese Steamed Barbecue,” is a traditional Beppu cooking style using natural hot spring steam to cook seafood, meat, and vegetables in bamboo baskets. The gentle, mineral-rich steam preserves flavors and nutrients, offering a healthy, interactive dining experience unique to Beppu. It can accommodate most dietary restrictions.
The Herb Steam Spa
The Herb Steam Spa is a soothing wellness experience where guests sit in a warm, mist-filled room infused with aromatic herbs. The gentle steam opens pores, promotes circulation, and relaxes muscles, while the herbal scents provide calming effects for the mind. It’s a rejuvenating treatment that blends traditional therapy with natural fragrance.
Admission is 700 JPY, plus 220 JPY for yukata rental.
Recommended set: Admission + yukata rental + towel for 1,100 JPY.
Umi Jigoku Hot Spring Garden
Umi Jigoku (“Sea Hell”) is one of Beppu’s most famous hot spring attractions, featuring a striking cobalt-blue pond created by volcanic activity over 1,200 years ago. Stroll through the landscaped gardens, enjoy onsen footbaths, and see tropical plants thriving in the steam.
Admission: 500 JPY. (Per Person)
Chinoike Jigoku Hot Spring Garden
Chinoike Jigoku (“Blood Pond Hell”) is Japan’s oldest natural hot spring, famous for its striking crimson color caused by iron oxide-rich clay. Steaming at around 78°C, it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare. The site includes a foot bath and shop selling clay-based products.
Admission: 500 JPY. (Per Person)
Departure time to Your Hotel
Estimated travel time is 2 hours plus 1 bathroom break
Kinrin Lake (short stop)
Kinrin Lake, a serene pond in Yufuin, is famed for its misty morning views created by hot and cold springs mixing. Surrounded by cafés and small shops, it’s an easy stroll with photo spots at every turn. This stop is kept short to avoid the area’s heavy crowds, giving you just enough time to enjoy the scenery.
No admission fee
Farewell time: Your Hotel in Fukuoka City
I would appreciate your understanding that the arrival time may be delayed due to traffic congestion. Traffic congestion is expected around Fukuoka at this time due to the cars and public transport of local business people.
See you again:)
Ending Point
Your Hotel in Fukuoka City
Want to personalize this tour?
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
-Free Apple Music and Netflix
-My own private car (5-seater van "SUBARU JUSTY")
-Gasoline fee
-Parking fee
-Expressway tolls (Fukuoka Urban Expressway and Kyushu Expressway)
-Guide gratuity
-Cost of meals (guide and customers)
-Facility Admission fees (guide and customers)
**Nakatsu Castle**
1,000JPY (Per Person)
**The Herb Steam Spa**
700 JPY, plus 220 JPY for yukata rental.
Recommended set: Admission + yukata rental + towel for 1,100 JPY.
**Umi Jigoku Hot Spring Garden**
500 JPY. (Per Person)
**Chinoike Jigoku Hot Spring Garden**
500 JPY. (Per Person)
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 4 guests. If you are a group of 5 or more, please contact me so that I can arrange a rental-car tour;
5-7 guests +33,000yen (8 person van)
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
Joined 2024
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
Renee D.
“Hita Tour with Katsu”
Katsu was an excellent guide. I appreciated how communication was easy. He explained choices well and was able to pivot when the group wanted to try a different lunch. It was a nice experience away from the crowds and gave us a good feel for what a smaller village was like away from the big city. I recommend him for your tours. Great day. He is friendly and very sweet. We appreciated his kindness and happiness in showing the city.
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Katsu N.
Dear Renee and everyone, /// Thank you so much for joining my tour. I truly appreciate your kind words. One of the highlights of this tour is the contrast between the big city of Fukuoka and the charm of a small town, so I’m very happy that you enjoyed it. I have many other wonderful tours prepared, so perhaps next time we could even meet at Fukuoka Airport to start another journey. I look forward to the day we can meet again. /// Enjoy the rest of your cruise tour. “ARIGATOU” Your private guide, Katsuhisa
Lori W.
“2 Days in Shimabra and Hita.”
After looking for quite a few tours we found Katsu. He was very professional and organized thoughout the whole tour. He gave us a wonderful insight to the areas we visited. Even though we had some family members that were unable to complete some more of the strenuous items on the itinerary he was very accommodating and took those would could make the trek very worth while. He took us to places we would have never got to visit taking a normal tour that were just amazing. We highly recommend Katsu for a tour guide.
Katsu N.
Dear Lori and everyone, /// Thank you so much for joining my tour, and I truly appreciate your kind words. The places we visited may not yet be widely known, but they are incredibly charming, and I am very glad you enjoyed them. In all my tours, I aim to combine major highlights with hidden gems, creating an experience that is uniquely my own. I sincerely look forward to the day we can meet again. /// Yours truly, Your private guide, Katsuhisa
Jachin L.
“The best Guide for a tour in Japan”
With out family of 4 we wanted to have a customized tour around Kyushu. Katsuhisa created a beautiful itinerary and perfectly on time he waited for us at our hotel in Kumamoto. What followed was two days of relaxed driving. The first day to Mount Aso, Kusasenri Grassland and the Takachiho Gorge. Also for lunch he found us a traditional Japanese restaurant we normale no western tourists come. The second day we drive to Beppu to see different Onsen. Again we had a lunch a a special place. This time we could cook our own good a natural steam source. During a quick visit at a beach one of our Sons had an accident. Katsuhisa immediatelly helped us by going to a drugstore and get us the right bandage (thanks!!) Even after this unfortunat moment we could see another Onsen. Finally after two beautiful days our driver brought us to our new hotel in Fukuoka! So, if you need a nice and skilled tour guide, you should contact Katsuhisa.
Katsu N.
Thank you very much for your kind and thoughtful review. I'm truly glad to hear that you and your family enjoyed the tour. As a small note for future reference, I’ve learned that moist wound care isn’t widely practiced in Europe, but similar products may be available through major online retailers. Also, for your next trip, I’d be happy to guide you through Saga Prefecture—an area we didn’t visit this time. It’s known for its beautiful ceramic art and even has a ninja-themed park that children and adults alike can enjoy. I look forward to seeing you again someday! ///**Aan jullie allebei: Hebben jullie genoten van de tour? Ik schrok echt toen je grote broer zich pijn deed op het strand, maar hopelijk wordt het later een grappige herinnering. Of misschien is het nog beter om dat moment gewoon te vergeten en alleen de leuke herinneringen te bewaren. Ik hoop jullie ooit weer terug te zien. Tot dan!**
$748/ per group
More tours by Katsu N.
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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
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Cool Escape: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater with 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.
Cool Escape: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater with Kikuchi Gorge Falls & Daikanbō Panorama – 1-Day Private Car
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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.
Escape the Crowds: Hita’s Historic Charm & Scenic Rivers from Fukuoka
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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.
Other Popular Car Tour (driving guide) Tours in Fukuoka
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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
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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
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Cool Escape: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater with 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.
Cool Escape: Mt. Aso Volcano Crater with Kikuchi Gorge Falls & Daikanbō Panorama – 1-Day Private Car
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Yanagawa rafting and Dazaifu Tenmangu day trip by car
In the morning, we will go down the Yanagawa River, and in the afternoon we will visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. I will guide you using my own car. Yanagawa: going down the river in Yanagawa is a moat tour. It makes seven turns and seven circuits before descending. Dazaifu Tenmangu is a shrine built over the grave of Michizane Sugawara venerated by the Japanese throughout the country as the Tenman-Tenjin(the deified sprit of Michizane), or the God of literature or calligraphy.
Yanagawa rafting and Dazaifu Tenmangu day trip by car