Step into the serene heart of rural Japan on this private tour through the Kuma-Hitoyoshi region, one of Kumamoto’s most authentic and least-traveled corners. Famous for its powerful river, deep history, and world-class shochu, this is a side of Kyushu that feels untouched by the modern world — and together we’ll explore it at an unhurried pace, far from the usual tourist crowds.
Over the course of the day, we’ll drift down the legendary Kuma River aboard a traditional wooden boat, step inside a breathtaking National Treasure shrine, and dive into the craft of rice shochu, a distinctive local spirit born of this land’s pure water. More than a simple sightseeing run, this is a chance to slow down and connect with the soul of rural Kumamoto.
*This private tour is fully flexible and can be tailored to your interests — just reach out, and let’s shape the perfect day together.
Primary Area: JR Kumamoto Station .
*Pick-up at your hotel or any preferred location available.
For cruise passengers: We can also arrange pickup from Kumamon Port Yatsushiro. 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 JR Kumamoto Station and set off together for the charming town of Hitoyoshi, around 1.5 to 2 hours away. As we go, you’ll watch the cityscape give way to rolling mountains and quiet river valleys.
At the Kuma River — one of Japan’s three fastest — we’ll board a traditional wooden boat for a relaxing cruise. Drift along with the current and soak in the peaceful flow of the water and the lush scenery on either bank.
Next we’ll visit Aoi Aso Shrine, a designated National Treasure of Japan, famous for its striking, intricately thatched roofs. We’ll share the stories and history that make this sacred place so special.
We’ll take a relaxed break for 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.)
In the afternoon we’ll visit a local distillery for a fascinating look at how Hitoyoshi’s renowned rice shochu is made — and, for those of legal drinking age, a tasting of this distinctive regional spirit.
Our day together comes to a close as we drop you off at your hotel or another preferred spot in Kumamoto.
For cruise passengers: We can also arrange pickup from Kumamon Port Yatsushiro. Please inquire when booking.
We were two couples in Kumamoto for only one day and were so very fortunate to have found such an incredible tour guide. We gave Kei a general idea of what we wanted to do and see and he put together an amazing tour. From taking a riverboat tour to a visit to a Sake Brewery, Kei had our day planned (with special attention paid to making sure we were back to the ship in time) with activities not found on your average excursion. What truly impressed me was that Kei lives more than 3 hours from where the ship docked but was on time when we left the ship. We came to find out that Kei came in the night before and stayed at a hotel just to make sure that was on time. Kei is a true professional and you couldn’t hire a better tour guide.