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Discover Samurai Heritage: Kitsuki Castle Town & Cultural Experience from Beppu
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Joined 2025
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of Kitsuki, Kyushu's only "sandwich" castle town. This tour takes you on a fascinating journey through the beautifully preserved samurai and merchant districts of Kitsuki. You'll explore historic residences, charming streets, and a serene temple district, culminating in a traditional tea experience and a visit to the iconic Kitsuki Castle. Discover the rich history and cultural traditions of feudal Japan at your own pace.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Beppu Station or Beppu Cruise Port Terminal
- Other pick-up points available. Pick-up outside Beppu may incur additional charges and require tour duration adjustments upon request.
Samurai Residences
Ohara Residence: We'll visit the meticulously preserved Ohara Residence, a former samurai house offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the elite during the Edo period. Admire its traditional architecture, beautiful gardens, and historical artifacts.
Nomi Residence: Continue to the Nomi Residence, another impressive samurai dwelling that showcases the elegance and architectural style of the era.
Observation Deck
Enjoy panoramic views of Kitsuki Castle, the surrounding castle town, and the tranquil bay from the South Hill observation deck.
Traditional Tea Experience
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a traditional green tea experience. Learn about the art of preparing and serving sencha from a local expert, and savor the delicate flavors of this refreshing beverage in a tranquil setting. This 30-minute experience offers a moment of calm and cultural insight.
Lunch at local restaurant (upon request)
Savor the local cuisines as your requests or preferences.
Kitsuki Castle
Our final stop will be the iconic Kitsuki Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, this charming castle is one of Japan's smallest, yet most picturesque, castles. Explore its grounds, learn about its history, and enjoy the scenic views from its ramparts.
Ending Point
JR Beppu Station or Beppu Cruise Port Terminal
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Drive & Guide fee
Transportation by a private car (Nissan "Serena")
Fuel, parking fees, toll fees
Tea Experience at a tea shop
Admission- Samurai Residences x 2 + Castle: aprox. JPY1,000 per person
Meals (guide & members)
Tour Important Information
* This tour includes a walking up slopes/steps, and not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.
* Tea experience is closed on regular Thursday and other designated dates . If NOT available, the visit to other shops on commercial street
offered optionally.
Important message from the supplier
Draft itineraries and tour options are the starting point to have more insightful conversation. I'm always welcome to discuss further, catering to your particular travel needs!
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
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Kei H.
Hi, I'm KEI! Your friendly local guide ready to show you the real Japan.
With expertise in Oita area (Beppu, Yufuin etc), I'm passionate about guiding my guests around various aspects from commonly known attractions to off-the-beaten tracks, those in the know, know places.
I've been working in tourism for years and love sharing my passion for this beautiful country with visitors. From bustling cities to hidden gems, I'll create a personalized itinerary that suits your interests.
Whether you're a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, I can help you experience the best of Japan. Let's create unforgettable memories together!
Reviews
Cody H.
“Excellent and Unique Tour!”
We had an excellent tour from Kei! We really loved going to some of the sights and experiences outside of the major tourist areas in Oita - we had the opportunity to visit the Kuju flower park, cook onsen eggs in a rustic hot spring, and visit the Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi Bridge. Kei was very knowledgeable and customized the tour to what we were interested in. He even showed us a roadside rice polisher which we had heard about and thought was very cool, so he found one in Beppu and told us all about it! Kei was beyond welcoming and pleasant and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking to go beyond the typical sights and experience true local knowledge.
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Kei H.
Thank you so much for such a wonderful and heartwarming review! It was an absolute pleasure guiding you around Oita.
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Candice W.
“My Attack On Titan Dreams Came True!”
Because many of the iconic Attack on Titan sites in Hita are a bit far from each other I was so grateful to find an English-speaking Tour Guide, Kei, who took care of every detail of this tour! From taking us around to Oyama Dam, that Tree on the Hill, TWO dedicated museums, Isayama sensei yakisoba and Levi gelato, and even the local sites to closely watching the weather and being so mindful of all of our needs, these were the most special and memorable days of my life!!! Kei was super friendly and knowledgeable, and even played the Attack on Titan soundtrack in the car. My greatest dream came true finally making my pilgrimage to the hometown of Isayama sensei, the creator of Attack on Titan!!
Kei H.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I am absolutely thrilled that I could help make your ultimate Attack on Titan pilgrimage come true and that you enjoyed the special touch of the soundtrack.
John F.
“Funai Castle Tour”
Kei was great, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and went above and beyond our expectations. Would highly recommend
Kei H.
I truly appreciate your interest in the castle ruins and district and feeling a connection that your name has :) The day was definitely exceptional for me either to explore the city from the different aspect.
$374/ per group
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