Discover the Charm of Kokura – Kyushu's Gateway!

Kyushu, especially Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan's top travel destinations. Kokura, the gateway to Kyushu, features key attractions like Kokura Castle, which has stood for over 400 years, offering stunning views and a rich history.

Explore the serene Kokura Castle Garden, a perfect blend of water, rocks, and greenery, especially beautiful in spring and autumn.

Visit Yasaka Shrine, the guardian of Kokura Castle, where you can experience the area's spiritual heritage.

This tour, led by an expert guide, offers an in-depth look at Kokura's history and culture. Book now to experience the best of Kokura without language barriers!

Kokura Castle and Garden Guided Tour in Kitakyushu

Our tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Akizuki Castle Town in traditional Japanese style.
This is a private tour, exclusively for your group, ensuring a relaxed pace and personalized attention.

Guests can rent a kimono at a historic local shop, stroll through seasonal scenery such as cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant autumn leaves, and capture unforgettable photos at iconic spots like Kuro-mon Gate, Sugino-baba Street, and Hisano Residence.

Led by a local host from Asakura, this experience combines authentic culture, history, and stunning photo opportunities into a memorable half-day journey.

MANDATORY: List all allergies & Dietary Restrictions! 
We'll try our best, but cannot guarantee all accommodations due to local limits.

Manual Confirmation: Availability confirmed with partner in 24–48 hours. 
Thank you for your patience.

For smooth operation, we kindly ask guests to cancel at least 48 hours in advance.

Kimono Experience in Akizuki Castle Town

Discover the spiritual heart of Kyushu on this private guided tour to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning. Walk along the lively Omotesando street, learn proper shrine etiquette, and hear the story behind Tenjin's exile and deification. Depending on your option, explore the ancient government ruins of Dazaifu or enjoy convenient access from Tenjin. Experience history, culture, and sacred tradition just outside Fukuoka.

Fukuoka: Private Dazaifu Tenmangu & Ancient Capital Experience

This is a premium experience to view the "Kokura Gion Taiko Festival (Main Event)" from special seats.
You will watch the spectacular Kokura Gion Taiko Festival from special viewing seats beside the judges' stand. Furthermore, an alumnus of the Kokura Gion Taiko Preservation and Promotion Association will provide a detailed commentary on the festival's highlights.

Furthermore, the "Kokura Castle Tea Ceremony Experience" offers a rare opportunity to witness an authentic tea ceremony performed before your eyes – a practice seldom found nationwide. You can also savour the local culture through the uniquely Kokura "Kakuchi (Standing Bar) Experience"*.

*Kakuchi is a "local experience offering a taste of everyday Japan".

Kokura Gion Taiko Tour with Tea Ceremony and Standing Bar Drinks

Sasaguri Town is conveniently located, about 15 minutes by train or 30 minutes by car from Fukuoka City, one of Kyushu's most popular tourist destinations. The town is associated with Kobo-Daishi Kukai, and is also a place where Buddhist culture remains, with the 88 temples of Sasaguri remaining. Here, you can experience a pilgrimage to the 88 sacred sites of Sasaguri Shikoku and Shingon Buddhism meditation under the guidance of a monk from a local temple. The tour will provide information about Sasaguri town and the 88 sacred sites of Sasaguri Shikoku, as well as pilgrimage etiquette and meditation methods on the spot, so even first-time Buddhists can feel at ease. Please spend a calming time through prayer. (A healthy Sasaguri pilgrimage meal set unique to Sasaguri Town is included.)

Buddhist Cultural Experience Spiritual Tours in Sasaguri

"You have safely visited Izumo Taisha and can sympathize with the heart of the Japanese people!!"

It is a chartered bus trip of 1 night and 2 days from somewhere in Fukuoka prefecture. Along the way, you can discover good old Japan that you do not know in the "San'in" region on the Sea of Japan side!

With this plan, you will aim for the Izumo Taisha through the Sea of Japan side while visiting the standard sights.
There are hot springs and fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan along the way.
By all means, please enjoy "Matsuba crab" at Sakaiminato, "Shijimi" at Lake Shinji.

Our bus will give you a comfortable ride throughout the tour.
You don't have to navigate your way using public transportation.
We are very familiar with the area and our private bus will help you save time and visit as many places.

* We support the "Western Golden Route" policy being promoted by Fukuoka City.


2-day One way Minibus Tour around IZUMO from KOKURA to HIROSHIMA

The Kokura Gion Taiko, which colours the summer in Kokura, is a traditional event representing the region, boasting a history of approximately 400 years.
In preparation for the main festival, enthusiastic practice sessions are held throughout the city every year from 2nd July until the third Thursday of the month.
This plan offers the opportunity to participate in these practice sessions alongside local people during this period and experience playing the taiko drums yourself. The resonant sound of the drums, struck with powerful shouts, reverberates through your body with sheer force. Rather than merely "watching" traditional culture, "participating and feeling" it deepens your understanding and appreciation of the festival.

Furthermore, experiencing Kokura's unique culture, "Kakuchi"*, allows you to learn about the local standing bar culture specific to this area.

Kakuchi is a "local experience offering a taste of everyday Japan".

Kokura Gion Taiko Drumming and Local Standing Bar Tour

Dive into the heart of Japan's ramen culture with this flavorful 2-hour guided tour in Kurume—the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen. Located in southern Fukuoka Prefecture, Kurume blends rich tradition, local charm, and incredible food.

Join a passionate local guide and visit two hand-picked ramen shops, each offering their unique version of Kurume-style tonkotsu ramen. One full bowl is included at each stop, perfect for travelers with an appetite.

Hear the legendary story of tonkotsu ramen's accidental invention, and taste how it grew into one of Japan's most iconic dishes. From the creamy pork broth to each shop's secret techniques, you'll experience the essence of true local flavor.

Whether you're a casual foodie or serious ramen fan, this tour is a must. Book now and taste where the tonkotsu tradition began!

Kurume Tonkotsu Ramen Guided Tour with 2 Bowls of Ramen

Enjoy a guided tour of Moji, a port city located near Kokura Station. Cruise through the Kanmon Straits and admire the view of the port and the straits from the observation platform.

Explore Mojiko Port Cruise & Straits Adventure

Take a unique tour to Ainoshima Island, just 8 km off the coast of Fukuoka Prefecture, known as "Cat Island." This remote paradise is home to friendly stray cats that roam freely. On the guided ferry ride from the Kyushu mainland, enjoy scenic views before arriving to see cats lounging by the harbor.

While the cats are not domesticated, they are sociable and enjoy interacting with visitors, though feeding them is prohibited. Explore the peaceful island and connect with its feline residents, all while enjoying the tranquil port-town atmosphere. With few tourists, now is the perfect time to visit this hidden gem in Fukuoka.

Ainoshima Island Private Cat Tour with Ferry Ride

Explore the history of Japan's railway culture and technology with a visit to the Railway Museum in Kyushu. Learn about the Shinkansen bullet train and other unique developments with a guided tour.

Kyushu Railway Museum Private Walking Tour

Discover the Munakata-taisha Shrine, a World Heritage Site in Fukuoka, on a guided tour. Learn about the history of the shrine and the beliefs associated with it.

Fukuoka: Munakata Taisha Shrine Guided Tour – UNESCO Site

Discover the serene beauty of Nanzoin Temple in Fukuoka on a guided tour. Explore its tranquil grounds, sacred landmarks, and the reclining Buddha, a must-see spiritual and cultural experience.

Fukuoka: Nanzoin Temple and Reclining Buddha Guided Tour

Explore Ainoshima Island, a 5-hour tour combining history, nature, and the famous Cat Kingdom. Enjoy the island's culture, scenic beauty, and tranquil atmosphere, guided by an expert in Japanese.

Ainoshima Island Cats Culture and Scenic Beauty Tour

If you want to watch the "REAL" Sumo wrestlers up close, this is one of the closest you can get! Basically, the stables are located at Tokyo, but sometimes in a year, they do practice in Fukuoka! 
Let's watch the wrestler's morning practice right next to the ring and feel the intense and serious atmosphere. The sound of wrestlers colliding to each other, their breath and the scent of the fragrance they wear are something that you can never feel by watching any videos. 

*The practice area is located at outside.

You will meet with your knowledgeable tour guide at the station and walk to the stable (15 to 20 mins walk). 
Please come to the meeting point 9:30am, we would like to start the tour at 9:45am.
Your guide will explain you about Sumo, its history, rules and regulations before entering the stable and then watch it together. You will see the unique traditional sports which is at the same time religious rituals, originally started to entertain the Shinto deities. 

Fukuoka Sumo Morning Practice Watching Tour

My Immersive Experience Tour takes you to three hidden gems of Fukuoka: 
1) Akizuki old capital town
2) Koishiwara Pottery Village
3) Hikosan Temple Village(Weekend only). 

These off-the-beaten-path destinations, primarily frequented by locals, offer a truly authentic Japanese experience. Immerse yourself in everyday life and culture, far from the crowds of popular tourist spots. Whether you're an adventurous nature lover or a history enthusiast seeking a deeper connection with Japan, this tour is perfect for you. Experience the beauty of nature, learn traditional crafts, and interact with friendly locals. All routes travelled by private car.

Inclusive local lunch (vegans and gluten free accepted)

Private Day Tour in Hidden Fukuoka Japan

Fukuchi Town, Fukuoka Prefecture, where Agano ware with a history of over 400 years is still being produced today. This one-day plan allows visitors to experience the history of Agano pottery and its attractions.

Agano ware is a nationally designated traditional craft with its roots in tea ceremony ceramics, which developed as an official kiln of the Kokura clan. This special lunch is served in Agano Yaki pottery, which has inherited its history while infusing it with the essence of the modern age. 

Before lunch, visit the Agano Pottery Kiln and deepen your understanding of Agano pottery through a tour of the kiln, a pottery making experience and a tea ceremony experience. A local guide will also give you a guided tour of the direct sales facilities for Agano ware.

Cultural Tours in Fukuoka Prefecture