Amakusa (天草), which means "Heaven's Grass," is a picturesque region located in the western part of Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, known for its stunning coastal landscapes, historical sites, and unique cultural heritage. It comprises a group of islands scattered in Kumamoto Prefecture.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
- Your hotel or Airbnb.
Higashi Bypass ( the new Route 57 )
From your hotel/Airbnb we will use the new Route 57 until we get to Route 3. From there will make a right turn traveling to Amakusa.
Uto Marina.
Pass by Uto Marina (subject to traffic conditions).
Pyramid Of The Sea.
Visit Pyramid of the Sea.
The First Bridge.
Cross the first of five bridges linking the Amakusa island chain.
The Pearl Center/Garden.
Stop at Amakusa Pearl Center & WWII Amphibious Airplane.
The rest of the journey.
Journey through the remaining bridges, with multiple stops for photos and videos. Mount Kuratake.
Return to your hotel or Airbnb.
On the way back, just let me know if you'd like to stop anywhere to take pictures or videos of anything you missed on the way there.
Ending Point
At your hotel or Airbnb
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Private guide/driver.
Nissan Xtrail SUV.
Fuel fee.
Transportation fee.
Lunch $10 per person.
This tour includes a private guide and driver, with plenty of walking involved, so comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Please note that all the photos featured in these tours were taken at specific times of the day, night, and during particular seasons. Depending on the time of year you visit, the locations may appear different. Above all, you can expect an unforgettable experience in Kumamoto.
It’s very important that you inform me of any food allergies you may have. This way, I can make sure to notify the restaurant staff and ensure your safety and comfort.
Hello! I'm Steve and I’m originally from Sydney, Australia, but I’ve lived in Kumamoto City for the past 28 years. I hold a Gold license. I’d love to take you on a tour of some of the region’s most historic and stunning sites. I took my profile picture on the balcony of my home, which sits high on a hill, offering great views of the city both day and night, with majestic mountain ranges in the distance.
I was a school teacher here for 25 years, starting in Japanese public schools before transitioning to an American institution.
I understand that when traveling abroad, many people prefer a local tour guide. While I wasn’t born in Japan, after nearly three decades here, I consider myself as local as it gets! Not only can I share insights about the local culture, but I can also offer a unique perspective as a foreigner who has grown to love this country as my own.
With our comfortable 4x4 full leather interior SUV, we’ll explore hidden gems that typical tour buses can’t reach, making your experience even more special.
On our way to the sites, I’ll describe anything that catches your eye so you don’t miss a thing. I know that returning back from a great trip can feel like the end of something special, so if there’s anything I can do to make the ride more enjoyable, just let me know. On the way back, feel free to play any music you like on the BOSE sound system in the car.
C W.
“One Piece Statue Tour”
Honestly dunno how he could of done a better job. He was great banter from start to finish with a neverending list of recommendations and advice for the rest of my trip. On top of all of that he gave me a much better understanding of the devastation the earthquake had on Kumamoto and ultimately the reason for the statues. Which just made the trip even more special. Could not recommend enough!
Steve R.
Thank you C.W.! It was great taking you to all the locations!. We had great conversations throughout the trip, I hope you win big on your next poker game!. You were my first guest ever from Scotland! I wish you a great stay on the rest of your trip in Japan.
Arif O.
“10 one piece statue”
Very highly recommended On time schedule, funny guy, helping me so much, Informative, really know to please the people Thank you steve! Hope we meet again
Steve R.
Thank you Arif! We had wonderful conversations throughout the trip. I wish you well in your new position as a Pediatric Surgeon in your new position. I also wish our paths cross again :).
Richard H.
“The Best Day!”
What to say, it was an amazing day and experience. I don’t think we stopped talking the entire trip. We saw the active volcano and a dormant volcano, some waterfalls, and amazing history in between. The guide was also kind enough to stop at amazing restaurant so I could try some Kobe, chicken, and other steaks. It was the most amazing day of my trip by far! He was also kind enough to hold steady for me as our ship and everyone on it had to clear customs. We still got it done with time to spare for a fantastic afternoon nap. I would use him again ten times out of ten. Thank you!
Steve R.
Thank you, Richard! What a beautiful drive toward the volcano, at one point, we passed through a mist that looked like something straight out of a video game or a movie. We drove right through it and made it all the way to the crater. Thank you so much for lunch, the beef was incredibly tender and juicy! The restaurant is called Nabeshima, in case you’d like to visit it again while you're in Tokyo.
$350/ per group