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
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guiding fee
Private car (SUBARU JUSTY)
Free mobile Wi-Fi
Free Apple Music and Netflix
Driving fee
Gasoline fee
Parking fee
Highway fee
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 4 guests. If you are a group of 5 or more, please contact me so that I can arrange a rental-car tour.
5. 5-7 guests +36,000yen (8 passengers van)
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!
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!**
Isao S.
“A Perfect Tour”
Katsu-San (Winner!) planned out tour to Shimabara and Unzen with two days notice and did extra research to ensure we had the most meaningful and personalized trip possible. He was incredibly kind, thoughtful, and went out of his way to make sure we were enjoying each part of the tour. He was also very flexible when we asked for something not on the itinerary. There is no better way to explore an unknown area of Japan. Katsu-San took care of everything so we could completely relax and enjoy our time with no stress and no complicated decision making.
Katsu N.
Dear Isao and family, Thank you so much for your heartfelt review. I’m truly honored by your kind words. I hope your memories of quiet gardens, samurai stories, and volcanic steam stay with you for a long time. And whenever you return to Kyushu, I’ll be more than happy to welcome you back. Warmest regards, Katsuhisa Your private guide in Kyushu
Van D.
“Fukuoka day trip”
Katsu is a great guide and terrific driver. Very patient and courteous. He made the experience a wonderful experience
Katsu N.
Dear Van and everyone, thank you for joining our tour last week. And thank you for posting your review. I'm glad that everyone was satisfied. There are still many great towns in Japan. so I hope you'll contact me when you come to Japan again. See you again. Kind Regards Katsuhisa
$806/ per group