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.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Anywhere in Nagasaki City
- Hotel, port, airport and others.
Shimabara Castle
Shimabara Castle in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, was originally built in 1624 by the samurai lord Matsukura Shigemasa. The castle is known for its role in the Shimabara Rebellion (1637-1638), where Christian peasants rose against samurai rule. Reconstructed in 1964, it now serves as a museum showcasing artifacts from the rebellion and samurai culture, offering visitors a look into Japan’s feudal history.
Shimabara castle town, samurai village, Japanese garden
Shimabara Castle Town in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, is a historic area centered around Shimabara Castle. Renowned for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, the town features "samurai residences" (bukeyashiki) where lower-ranking samurai once lived. Visitors can explore these restored homes, offering a glimpse into samurai life. The town is also known for its scenic waterways, like Shimeiso, a traditional garden with a clear spring-fed pond. Shimabara Castle Town is a must-visit for those interested in Japan's feudal history and samurai culture.
Lunch time
Shimabara offers a variety of delicious lunch options that showcase the region's unique flavors. A popular choice is the local specialty, *Guzoni*, a hearty soup featuring mochi (rice cakes), vegetables, and chicken or seafood in a rich broth. It’s a dish deeply connected to Shimabara’s history and perfect for a satisfying lunch.
Another option is *Shimabara Tenobe Somen*, thin hand-pulled noodles served either cold with dipping sauce or in a hot broth. These delicate noodles are a must-try for those looking to experience a traditional Japanese meal.
For something quick, there are many cozy cafes in the area serving fresh seafood, sandwiches, and local delicacies, offering a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy your meal while exploring the historic town.
Mt.Unzen Jigoku, watching the volcanic activity
Unzen Jigoku, or Unzen Hell Valley, is a volcanic area located in the Unzen volcanic region in Nagasaki Prefecture. This geothermal hotspot is known for its steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and sulfurous fumes. The volcanic activity creates a dramatic landscape, with boiling mud pools and geysers that illustrate the intense heat and geological forces beneath the surface. It's a popular destination for visitors interested in experiencing the raw power of an active volcano.
Depart for the disbandment location
Farewell time
Ending Point
Anywhere in Nagasaki City
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
-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 (Nagasaki Expressway)
-Free Apple Music and Netflix
-Guide gratuity
Cost of meals (guide and customers)
Entrance fees of facilities (guide and customers)
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.
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!
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
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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.
Дмитрий О.
“Amazing nature of Kyushu”
What an amazing trip! From the majestic views of Mount Aso to the stunning beauty of Takachiho Gorge, the nature was awesome. Katsu-san was fantastic—a very safe and smooth driver who made the long journeys comfortable and enjoyable. A perfect, stress-free tour thanks to him!
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Katsu N.
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I’m really glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour, even though we finished a bit later than planned. There are many more beautiful places to explore in Kyushu, so I hope we can meet again someday. I’m already looking forward to that day!
Graeme L.
“Bomb museum was worth the visit for sure”
Katsu is a nice guy and did his best for us Unfortunately we had trouble understanding each other
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Katsu N.
Thank you, Graeme, for your honest feedback. I’m truly sorry that communication was not as smooth as I hoped. I appreciate your understanding and your kind words. I’ll make sure to improve from this experience so I can offer an even better tour next time. I’m glad you enjoyed the Atomic Bomb Museum, and I’d be happy to welcome you again to Nagasaki someday. /// Best regards, Katsu
$777/ per group
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