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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
David M.
“Relaxing bike ride through the “land of mountains””
Kei led us on an enchanting ride on a bike path built along a defunct train track that borders the Yamakuni river. The craggy mountains rising on each side, with crashing flumes of water pouring off the slopes, and makeshift gardens next to rice paddies next to the river. Kei told us about the geology, the unique local delicacies such as kabosu fruit. He is a fun guy to chat with and he knows the area very well. It was a great day trip.
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Kei H.
Hi David-san, thank you very much for sharing fruitful memories from your childhood in Japan. I am honored to be your guide while you travel here, having such a nice time together.
Johnene H.
“Fantastic day in Beppu”
Our guide Kei was wonderful.. from booking through to making sure we were back at Port on time he showed such generousity and professionalism.2 couples were met at the port and taken to the comfortable car..our itinerary was perfect for a one day overview of Beppu..we saw so much and Kei explained so well what we were experiencing..Yufuin was good to vist..many tourists (as were we) enjoying local food and drinks at the market ..the croquettes are a must try as is the fresh strawberry juice..and we even had time to enjoy a warm footbath and some snacks cooked in steam at one of the 3 Hell ponds we visited.We thank Kei so very much and highly recommend you book a great Beppu experience with him.
Kei H.
I appreciate your kind support and cooperation to make a wonderful day. I'm more than happy to travel with a big & fun party!
Hayley W.
“Usuki Tour! ”
Kei is fantastic. He worked with us to map out our day according to our interests and introduced to the slower side of life in Japan. He is so knowledgeable about the areas we visited, but also allowed us to get to know him a little as a person. We really enjoyed our tour and left only wishing we had more time to explore. We'll be talking about this day for a long time, and we're so thankful Kei provided us the opportunity. Highly recommend!
Kei H.
Hi Hayley, thank you for being part of the wonderful day. Hope you are coming back to Oita someday in the future, exploring the areas in depth. Safe way back to the U.S.
$408/ per group
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