Login
Sign UpLoginSign Up
Discover the historic gateway where the main island of Honshu meets Kyushu across the dramatic Kanmon Straits. This region is a treasure trove of contrasting experiences—from the bustling energy of world-class fish markets to the nostalgic charm of early 20th-century port towns. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, we specialize in crafting a seamless day trip that connects these two islands. Tell us your interests, and we will design the perfect itinerary using our private vehicle to ensure you see the best of Shimonoseki and Kitakyushu at your own pace.
Primary Area: JR Shimonoseki Station .
*Pick-up at your hotel or any preferred location available.
For cruise passengers: We can also arrange pickup from Shimonoseki Port (Choshu Dejima) or Moji Port. Please inquire when booking.
Return to the same point that the tour starts.
Flexible (between 9:00 AM- 11:00 AM)
English, Japanese
Note: This garden is only open during the Wisteria season (mid-April to early May) and the Autumn foliage season (mid-November to early December). Advanced ticket reservations are required during peak periods.
Please note: This is a sample itinerary based on a 9:00 AM start time. As this is your private tour, the start time and the itinerary are fully flexible and we will adjust the schedule accordingly.
Meet your local guide at JR Shimonoseki Station or designated spots in Shimonoseki City.
For cruise passengers: the request-based pick-up at Shimonoseki Port or Moji Port is also available. Ask us when you inquire about the tour.
Ranked among CNN’s “Japan’s 31 Most Beautiful Places,” this private garden features stunning tunnels of blooming wisteria in spring and vibrant maples in autumn. It is a world-class floral masterpiece. Note: Advanced ticket reservation is required during the peak blooming season (mid April – early May) .
Step back into the early 20th century in this charming port district. Filled with elegant red-brick architecture and historic Western-style buildings, it serves as a nostalgic reminder of Japan’s international trading era. It is also famous for its local specialty, “Baked Curry.”
Indulge in the unique flavors of both islands! Choose from Mojiko’s “Baked Curry”—a savory dish of rice, rich curry, and cheese baked to perfection with an egg—or Shimonoseki’s legendary “Fugu” (pufferfish) and “Kawara Soba.” Kawara Soba is a distinctive dish where green tea noodles are sizzled on a hot traditional roof tile, creating a delicious crispy texture you won’t find anywhere else. Please note: Lunch cost is not included in the tour price.
Located at the northernmost tip of Kyushu, this ancient shrine sits dramatically beneath the massive Kanmon Bridge. Facing the rushing currents of the straits, it offers a powerful spiritual atmosphere and is one of the best spots to view the bridge from below.
A truly unique engineering marvel where you can walk across the border between Kyushu and Honshu beneath the seafloor. The 780-meter path takes about 15 minutes, allowing you to stand in two different prefectures (Fukuoka and Yamaguchi) at the same time!
Known as the “Kitchen of Shimonoseki,” this energetic fish market is world-famous for its Fugu (pufferfish). On weekends and holidays, it transforms into a massive sushi event where local vendors sell fresh, high-quality seafood stalls to hungry visitors.
Your tour concludes as we drop you off at your hotel or another preferred location in Shimonoseki or Kitakyushu.
For cruise passengers: We can also arrange pickup from Shimonoseki Port (Choshu Dejima) or Moji Port. Please inquire when booking.
Kei did a great job communicating in advance of the tour and customized the day to see the beautiful wisteria that I had been wanting to see. He also added in an extra stop that he knew of that had gorgeous wisteria on our way to the actual garden. We enjoyed visiting Moji Retro, walking under the strait in the pedestrian tunnel and visiting the Shimonoseki fish market. Fantastic day off the cruise ship.