Explore the 400-year-old tradition of Kuma Shochu, a rice-based distilled spirit recognized as a Geographical Indication, during a guided walking tour through Hitoyoshi. Visit historic and modern distilleries, meet master distillers, and enjoy tastings of this cultural symbol that blends nature, craftsmanship, and Japanese tradition.

Kuma Shochu: Japan's Hidden Gem of Rice Distillation
Kuma Shochu is a rice-based distilled spirit that has been produced in this region for over 400 years. Recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI), it is crafted using traditional techniques passed down for generations, drawing pure water from the Kuma River. Deeply tied to the region's identity, Kuma Shochu represents the harmony of nature, craftsmanship, and culture. Today, local distilleries are working to share this heritage globally while preserving its artisanal roots, making it a symbol of Japanese tradition with international appeal.

Kumamoto Shochu Distillery Tour

This is a special cultural program in Uto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, where you can experience the soul-shaking sound of Japan. 

The experience begins with you first crafting your own original bachi or drumsticks, which are considered your essential "partner" or aibo for playing the taiko. 

You will then use your custom-made bachi to play the "Uto Amagoi Taiko," a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property with a history stretching back to the Edo period. 

A professional guide provides cheerful and fun instruction, and by the end of the 90-minute session, all participants will be able to play the Amagoi Taiko. The bachi you create can be taken home as a memento of your trip.

Kumamoto: Build Your Own Buddy & Play Japan's Taiko Drums

This plan allows visitors to experience the traditional craft of Yamaga lanterns, followed by a visit to the Hirayama Hot Springs. In the evening, we offer the opportunity to spend a relaxing time in an old house for rent, lighting original Yamaga lanterns and enjoying Yamaga's specialities and Yamaga sake.' Please enjoy a 'unique experience' of staying in an old private house. To make sightseeing more enjoyable, we coordinate visits to Yamaga's sights of interest.

Private Overnight Tours with Original Yamaga Lanterns

Explore the natural and historical cultural spots of Nagomi Town in Kumamoto Prefecture on a guided cycling tour. Visit the Eta Funayama Burial Mound, Higo Minka Village, and the mysterious Tonkararin Tunnel.

Meet your guide and set off on your bike to explore the Eta Funayama Burial Mound, a nationally designated historic site built in the late 5th century. Next, head to Higo Minka Village, a collection of traditional houses featuring unique shops and restored old homes.

Continue to the mysterious Tonkararin Tunnel, whose creator, purpose, and time of construction remain unknown. Finally, cycle through mountain paths that preserve the original rural scenery of Nagomi Town.

Nagomi Town Satoyama Cycling Tour

In this tour, you will experience the pairing of 'ichigu-unaju' (eel stew) from a famous restaurant in Hitoyoshi City with Kuma tea, a local speciality, while cruising down the Kuma River, a precious natural resource of Hitoyoshi City, and then visit a restored steam locomotive (SL Hitoyoshi) and the only working stone engine house in Japan, built in 1911 (Meiji 44), which was used as a The tour is guided by a guide who was involved in the operation of the SL at the time.You will also enjoy a full-course lunch, which was developed especially for this tour, at a stylish restaurant in a converted warehouse next to Okoba Station on the Hisatsu Line, the only station in Japan with a switchback in the loop line, and which makes the most of the bounty of the Kuma River.

SL Hitoyoshi and Terroir Dining Tour

A guide will take you through the streets of Yamaga, a town that prospered thanks to its 'rice' industry!
The Kikuchi River basin in Kumamoto has long been a source of high-quality rice in Kyushu, and the rice harvested here was transported by boat. The Soumon area, where the Buzen street meets the Kikuchi River, still retains an atmospheric townscape, with a 190-year-old malted rice shop, miso warehouses, sake breweries from the Meiji era, hand-baked rice cracker shops and temples. Take a trip back in time as you walk through the town, which is full of emotion!

Guided Tours of Old Town Streets in Yamaga City

We offer a special night to privately enjoy the Yachiyoza Theater, an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
For this day, some special seats have been set up in a historical space where nostalgia and splendor coexist.
Enjoy a dinner made with local ingredients while watching traditional performing arts passed down in the region.

[Highlights]
- Private use of Yachiyo-za, a playhouse built in 1910.
- Special dinner menus by popular local restaurants just for the occasion
- Viewing of traditional Japanese performing arts handed down in the region
- Before dinner, a guided tour inside the Yachiyo-za building is also offered.

Yachiyoza Theater Premium Dining

Explore the region's rich culinary heritage through an unforgettable two-day experience that combines a Samurai Breakfast Hike with an immersive cooking class and farm stay with the renowned local chef, "Sechan."

Two-Day Farm Stay and Culinary Adventure

Sparking the popularity of Japanese whiskey in recent years, and recognized worldwide for its high quality, this distillery specializing in malt whiskey opened in 2021 with technical support from Kagoshima Prefecture's Honbo Sake Brewery. Utilizing the benefits of Yamaga's rich natural climate, we are pursuing a beautiful, gorgeous flavor and noble depth. It is a remarkable up-and-coming distillery that aspires to create single malt that will captivate people around the world.

Whisky Tasting Experience in Yamaga

Glide through picturesque rice fields and chestnut groves, marvel at panoramic valley views, and uncover the secrets of shochu production at a time-honored local distillery. Our guided e-bike tours offer a unique way to experience the Kuma Valley's rich history, culture, and culinary traditions. Choose from half-day or full-day adventures, with options to visit tea fields, enjoy farm-to-table meals, and learn about the fascinating history of the Sagara Clan.

Highlights:
● Scenic rides through rice fields, chestnut groves, and charming villages.
● Visits to historic shrines, temples, and a traditional shochu distillery.
● Home-cooked meals with local culinary expert.
● Learn about tea cultivation and enjoy fresh, local tea.

Kuma Valley E-Bike Adventures

Guided walking tour of Hitoyoshi, including ancient castle remnants and the blacksmith district. Tastings at historic and modern distilleries and foot onsen

Embark on a guided walking journey through two contrasting distilleries – a historic Meiji-era brewery and a leading global producer – where you'll savor the rich flavors of Kuma Shochu. Discover the cultural treasures of Hitoyoshi on foot, including ancient castle remnants and the artisanal charm of the blacksmith district. For a truly exclusive experience, upgrade to the 007 Experience and gain access to Daniel Craig's Shochu Aging Room, where you'll sample the same premium shochu enjoyed by the iconic actor.

Kuma Shochu Tours Uncover the Legacy of Japan's Oldest Spirit

Chiyonosono Sake Brewery is a historic sake brewery that started producing sake in 1896. Its sake, which is made with the desire to enrich the mind of the drinker, has won numerous awards and received high praise both domestically and internationally. 

Sake Tasting Experience in Yamaga

Private training with a Modern-Day Samurai: Learn the ancient art of Hyoho Taisharyu swordsmanship from a dedicated practitioner who embodies the heart and mind of a samurai.

Zen Temple Dojo: Experience the serene atmosphere of an ancient Buddhist Zen temple, a place where samurai once sought wisdom and honed their skills. This sacred space will serve as your dojo, enhancing your connection to the samurai spirit.

Uncover the Secrets: Delve into the techniques and philosophies that underpin Hyoho Taisharyu, gaining insights into the samurai's unwavering focus, discipline, and unwavering spirit.

Meet the Grandmaster: Engage in a rare encounter with the Grandmaster of Hyoho Taisharyu, a living embodiment of the samurai tradition. Learn from their wisdom and experience the profound connection to this ancient martial art.

Discover Your Inner Warrior: Through guided practice and meditation, awaken your inner strength and cultivate the mental fortitude that defines a true samurai.

Historical Tours in Kumamoto Prefecture