- USD ($)
- Wishlists
Kumamoto Earthquake Legacy: Castle, Suizenji Garden & More Sites – 1 Day from Fukuoka
Extend your journey with my tours and enjoy multi-day discount. Please message me before booking
Discover Kumamoto’s heritage and resilience on this private day tour. Explore the iconic Kumamoto Castle, learning how the 2016 earthquake reshaped its walls. Stroll through the serene Suizenji Garden, then witness the dramatic Futa River Fault scarp at Tanigawa. Conclude at the Aso Bridge Observatory, overlooking the new bridge built after the disaster—a journey through history, nature, and recovery
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 plus 2 bathroom breaks
Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s most impressive fortresses, is renowned for its towering stone walls and elegant black-and-white keeps. Severely damaged in the 2016 earthquake, it has become a powerful symbol of resilience. Nearly ¥5.6 billion (approx. USD 37 million) has been spent over about 10 years on repairs, yet full restoration is expected to take another 30 years—offering insight into traditional construction, advanced restoration techniques, and the city’s enduring spirit.
Admission Fee
- Adult: ¥800
- Elementary & junior high school students : ¥300
- Preschool children: Free
Lunch Time
Kumamoto is a large city, so I can flexibly choose restaurants to accommodate dietary restrictions and specific requests.
Suizenji Jojuen Garden
Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden completed in the 17th century, was originally built by the Hosokawa clan. Designed as a strolling garden around a spring-fed pond, it features miniature representations of famous Japanese landscapes, including a small Mount Fuji. Seasonal flowers, pine trees, and elegant teahouses create a serene atmosphere. The garden has been fully restored after past earthquake damage, so this stop focuses purely on its scenic and cultural beauty.
Admission Fee
- Adult (16 and over): ¥400
- Child (ages 6–15): ¥200
The Futagawa–Hinagu Fault Zone
The Futagawa–Hinagu Fault Zone, over 100 km long, is Kyushu’s largest active fault system and the source of the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes. A ~40 km surface rupture created a striking example of strike-slip faulting. In the Tanigawa area, preserved former farmland shows original entrance tiles and a partially collapsed barn, vividly conveying the earthquake’s impact and offering rare, tangible insight into seismic geology.
The Shin Aso Ohashi Bridge
The Shin Aso Ohashi Bridge, opened in 2021, stands as a symbol of recovery after the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes destroyed the original span. Located in Minamiaso, the new bridge stretches 525 meters across a dramatic gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. From the observatory, visitors can see both the modern engineering achievement and the preserved remains of the old bridge piers, a striking contrast between loss and renewal.
Estimated travel time to next location: 2 hours included 1 bathroom break
Your Hotel in Fukuoka
Ending Point
Your Hotel 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
-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)
**Kumamoto Castle**
- Adult: ¥800
- Elementary & junior high school students : ¥300
- Preschool children: Free
**Suizenji Jojuen Garden**
- Adult (16 and over): ¥400
- Child (ages 6–15): ¥200
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
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
Catherine W.
“Professional and Caring ”
Katsuhisa was extremely professional and communicative throughout our trip. He kept us updated on weather conditions and checked in about preferences before our journey began. Despite our very ambitious itinerary - which includes about 6 hours of driving in a single day - Katsuhisa fulfilled all of our requests with a positive attitude and no complaints. We were also traveling with our 2-year-old, and Katsuhisa took extra care to ensure our little one was comfortable and happy. At the end of our trip, Katsuhisa even surprised us by buying a thoughtful adorable gift for our child. We truly appreciate how Katsuhisa made our trip extra special. Joining his tour was definitely the highlight of our time in Japan.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55306/da6c5f65-c7fe-4367-91cc-ddca04b27d0c.png)
Katsu N.
Thank you very much for your warm and kind review. I am truly grateful for your thoughtful words, and I am delighted to hear that you were satisfied with the tour.///Under Japanese road traffic regulations, child seats are required in private vehicles and rental cars, so I am glad that having one prepared was helpful during your trip.///I was also pleased to hear that your child was able to enjoy the tour comfortably. Traveling with a young child can involve many considerations, but I am happy that your family was able to enjoy the journey together in a relaxed and pleasant manner. I also have a family member who works as a childcare professional, and I benefit greatly from their advice in situations like these.///Kyushu Island still has many wonderful places to explore, and I would be very happy to welcome you again in the future.///Warm regards,///Katsuhisa
Nutan S.
“Relaxing trip to Hita”
We had a great time with our wonderful guide Mr Katsuhisa who showed us beautiful sites and cultural shopping at a very relaxed pace. Really well done!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/55306/da6c5f65-c7fe-4367-91cc-ddca04b27d0c.png)
Katsu N.
Thank you very much for your kind review./// I’m really happy to hear that you enjoyed Hita at a relaxed pace./// It was a pleasure showing you the scenery and local culture, and spending such a comfortable day together./// I hope to see you again on your next trip to Japan.
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.
$702/ per group
More tours by Katsu N.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15805/1a9aec3e-a95b-4c70-8726-133c3bf5eda1.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/17242/196f8c75-faad-4356-99f4-b5d53e194702.png)
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.
Mt. Aso Volcano Crater, Kikuchi Gorge Falls & Daikanbō Panorama, 1-Day Private Car
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15524/6adcb5ed-89c2-4bbc-a5e5-228f2b7b0066.png)
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15807/9b365467-181c-470d-9106-7921a4738db1.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.
Other Popular Car Tour (driving guide) Tours in Fukuoka
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13965/98bc5f69-8b5d-47ca-b6ee-c775316e2276.jpeg)
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/17242/196f8c75-faad-4356-99f4-b5d53e194702.png)
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.
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)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21316/0386dc8c-7e42-4739-8c67-715e409ce807.jpg)
Itoshima Private Custom Tour
Escape the city crowds and unlock the hidden gems of Itoshima, Fukuoka, on this exclusive 6-hour private custom tour. Renowned for its stunning coastlines, vibrant local art scene, and tranquil “Satoyama” landscape, Itoshima offers a unique blend of nature and culture right next to Fukuoka City. We’ve provided this curated sample itinerary featuring coastal legends and hidden viewpoints to spark your inspiration.
Itoshima Private Custom Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/65754/c231415e-3981-4531-9cca-7825e7aec5e2.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/19719/a3369103-3eaa-4fb8-89c3-8e79013515df.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/7c3272a3-a0d3-40c6-b0d7-25787a579d63.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/9a19d7c5-a9cb-4681-aae0-544f325265ad.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/a0def59c-5aa9-4e94-a9e2-cc9ea200c465.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/efe75582-1fb8-4aa1-a3a4-0e161c08f311.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/a438f304-78fc-44b1-9502-d69c4b842b05.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/f4788b49-66f3-4152-a5ec-bbf678a95c2a.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/8316a123-c59a-4462-be4d-102f75cb8d42.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/7c91e5d1-c5d7-458a-94bf-349050bba384.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/e6d4c5c0-27cf-4033-9ab3-260c5233a582.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/f6f95a53-b481-42ea-962d-72645e3cf254.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/5bf45d5d-fac8-483d-9e79-5061053f97a1.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/1ee23b94-24f6-48f4-b64b-3f2a5d6f7301.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/28e08495-c9dd-4972-99f5-dfc09d26915c.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/258ababd-e0f8-42a4-8e64-36f6934cc265.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19719/6e3a62c5-3dcd-4114-a0ce-c5282bc6e2e8.png)