Step back in time with us to Kitsuki, one of Japan’s most beautifully preserved castle towns, tucked along the coast of Oita in eastern Kyushu. Often called a “Little Kyoto,” Kitsuki has a townscape found nowhere else — two samurai districts set high on opposing plateaus, with a lively merchant valley running between them, giving the town its famous “sandwich” shape. Far from the crowds of the bigger sights, it’s a place made for unhurried strolling, where every stone-paved slope and white-walled lane carries a story from the age of the samurai.
Together we’ll explore several beautifully kept samurai residences to see how feudal lords and their retainers once lived, pausing in elegant tatami rooms that open onto quiet traditional gardens. We’ll walk the iconic facing slopes that frame the town, then slow down for a simple, authentic tea ceremony at a historic local teahouse. The day draws to a close at Kitsuki Castle — the smallest castle in Japan — perched gracefully above the blue sweep of Morie Bay.
This is more than sightseeing; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the authentic culture and quiet beauty of samurai-era Kyushu.
Every tour is private and fully flexible — just reach out, and let’s shape the perfect Kitsuki day together.
Primary Area: JR Beppu Station or Beppu Cruise Port.
*Pick-up at your hotel or any preferred location available.
Also Available: We can also arrange pickup from Yufuin. Please inquire when booking.
Return to the same point that the tour starts.
Flexible (between 9:00 AM- 11:00 AM)
English, Japanese
Please note: This is a sample itinerary based on a 9:00 AM start time. As this is your private tour, the start time is fully flexible and we will adjust the schedule accordingly.
We’ll meet you at your hotel lobby or chosen pickup point in Beppu. After a warm hello, we’ll set off together in a comfortable private vehicle for the scenic drive to Kitsuki. *Hotel pickup is available.
Our exploration begins in the northern samurai district. We’ll visit several historic residences, including the graceful Ohara Residence, admiring their elegant tatami rooms and the serene traditional gardens just beyond the sliding doors.
We’ll take in Kitsuki’s one-of-a-kind topography, walking down the famous Suya no Saka slope toward the merchant valley. There, at a traditional teahouse, we’ll share a simple, authentic tea ceremony — whisking your own matcha for a quiet, grounding moment.
We’ll pause for a relaxed lunch, and we’ll happily point you toward the best local spots to suit your taste. (Please note: the cost of the meal is not included.)
Our final stop is the charming Kitsuki Castle, the smallest in Japan. We’ll soak in its intimate atmosphere and the lovely panorama over the town and the shimmering Morie Bay.
After our journey through the samurai age, we’ll begin the relaxing drive back toward Beppu.
Our day together comes to a close as we drop you off at your hotel or another preferred spot in Beppu.
Also Available: We can also arrange pickup from Yufuin. Please inquire when booking.
We had a great day with Kei in Kitsuki and Beppu! We did everything we wanted to do and more. We experienced so much and felt immersed in the culture. We learned how to make a proper Matcha! Kei is a great guide and we highly recommend. Thank you!
We had a wonderful tour with Keita today! Got to see a beautiful samurai village and samurai homes, and a castle tour! He even an arranged a private tea experience at a 150 year-old tea house. Our guide brought us treats and local drinks, and was took pictures for us. Highly recommend if you are in the Beppu area. 😀
