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Private tour in Kumamoto Steve R
Takachiho Gorge - Private Tour
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8 hours
1
Tour date
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8 hours
1
Steve R.
3.0
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1
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6 hrs
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Hello! I’m Steve, originally from Sydney, Australia, but I’ve called Kumamoto City home for the past 29 years. I hold a Gold driver’s license and would love to take you on a tour of some of the region’s most historic and breathtaking sites. I spent 25 years as a school teacher here, beginning in Japanese public schools and later moving to an American institution. When traveling abroad, many visitors prefer a local tour guide. While I wasn’t born in Japan, nearly three decades of living here have made me about as local as it gets. I can share not only deep cultural insights but also a unique perspective as someone who has grown to love this country as my own. We’ll travel in a comfortable 4x4 SUV with a full leather interior, perfect for reaching hidden gems that big tour buses can’t access. Along the way, I’ll point out and explain anything that catches your eye so you won’t miss a thing. I know returning from a great trip can feel like the magic is over, so I try to make the ride back just as enjoyable. On the way home, you’re welcome to play your favorite music through the BOSE sound system, just sit back, relax, and enjoy the memories we’ve made.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Steve R.
Discover nature, history and culture of this Kyushu gem
Overview of your Kumamoto tour
Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡, Takachiho-kyō) is a narrow chasm carved through solid rock by the Gokase River. Its nearly vertical cliffs are formed from volcanic basalt columns, their twisted patterns resembling the scales of a dragon. Midway along the gorge, the 17-meter-high Minainotaki Waterfall plunges into the river below, creating a striking scene framed by lush green foliage and towering grey cliffs. Visitors can experience the gorge from two perspectives. The first is from the river itself, by renting a rowboat at the south end. The calm waters make for an easy and enjoyable trip, allowing for an up-close view of both the cliffs and the waterfall, an experience highly recommended. The second perspective is from above, along a paved walking path that follows the gorge’s edge. The trail offers beautiful views throughout, with some spots providing dramatic vertical drops down to the river. Stretching about one kilometer, it eventually leads to the historic Takachiho Shrine.
Your Kumamoto tour itinerary
Meeting point will be your hotel in Kumamoto city. Start time : 7:00 or 7:30. Drive to the Gorge: about 2 hours. Arrive by 9:00 or 9:30. Boat ride: 30 minutes from booking time (morning booking is best) Next stop: Either Kamishikimi Shrine or Takachiho Shrine. Next stop: Aso Nakadake Volcano. Back at your hotel by 3 or 3:30pm.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Suv
4x4 Nissan SUV, full leather interior.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
Kumamoto, Kumamoto, Japan
Your hotel, or the agreed-upon location in Kumamoto
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
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English
Spanish
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8 hours
1
Tour date
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8 hours
1
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.