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!
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!
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
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
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.
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
$777/ per group