Hitoyoshi Half Day Tour: Spirits and Local Community Comedian

Aoi Aso Shrine & Special Welcome

Uncover a remarkable National Treasure that boasts more than 1,200 years of revered history. Admire the exquisite craftsmanship and splendor of Japan's sole thatched-roof National Treasure shrine main structure, which harmoniously combines early-Edo architectural elements with vivid Momoyama-style carvings. Experience an unforgettable welcome performance by local comedian Masashi Yasui, featuring his well-known catchphrase, "Iya~n!"

Fukano Brewery Tour & Rare Aged Shochu Tasting

Enter Fukano Brewery, a historic establishment with a legacy spanning 160 years. Take a tour of the traditional sake cellar and participate in a unique tasting session that compares rare aged shochu stored in classic earthenware pots.

Hitoyoshi Craft Park Ishino Park & Shochu Museum

Visit a central venue that houses all 28 Kuma Shochu distilleries under one roof. Attend an exclusive mini-lecture led by Masashi Yasui, delving into the rich history and unique appeal of regional shochu.

Hitoyoshi Onsen Bussankan (Local Souvenir & Food Center)

Browse through a diverse array of local crafts, sweets, and various Kuma Shochu options to discover unique souvenirs. Conclude your tour as Masashi Yasui shares his favorite funny, hyper-local comfort foods that he is truly passionate about!

Highlights

• Exclusive Aged Shochu Tasting: Visit the historic Fukano Brewery, which has been operating for 160 years, and taste rare, long-aged Kuma Shochu aged in traditional earthenware pots.
• Guided by Local Celebrity Masashi Yasui: Join the well-known comedian Masashi Yasui, who enhances the experience with his entertaining welcome performance, amusing local anecdotes, and interactive mini-lectures.
• Explore Historic & Cultural Treasures: Discover the stunning Aoi Aso Shrine, a 1,200-year-old site that is Japan’s sole thatched-roof National Treasure main building, and delve into its sacred local history.
• All-in-One Shochu Experience: Walk through the Shochu Museum located at Hitoyoshi Craft Park Ishino Park, showcasing notable brands from all 28 Kuma Shochu distilleries.
• Hyper-Local Food & Souvenir Shopping: Uncover distinctive regional crafts and sweets at Hitoyoshi Onsen Bussankan, along with amusing comfort food suggestions from your local guide.
• Convenient Itinerary: Enjoy a smooth and seamless round-trip day tour that begins and concludes at JR Hitoyoshi Station.

Itinerary

• Meet your assistant at JR Kumamoto station 【Shirakawa(East) gate】 ※If you choose the From JR Kumamoto Plan. ※Please note that the assistant will not board the highway bus with you. The guide will be waiting for you at Hitoyoshi IC.
• Meet your guide at Hitoyoshi station in front of the mechanical clock
• National Treasure: Aoi Aso Shrine (60 min)
• Fukano Brewery Tour & Exclusive Aged Shochu Tasting (Fee included/50 min)
• Hitoyoshi Craft Park Ishino Park: Shochu Museum Stroll (30 min)
• Shopping at Hitoyoshi Onsen Bussankan (40 min）
• Arrive at JR Hitoyoshi station
• Move to Hitoyoshi IC ※If you choose the From JR Kumamoto Station Plan. ※Transportation is included in this tour price.
• Return to JR Kumamoto Station ※If you choose the From JR Kumamoto Station Plan. ※Please note that your comedian guide will not board the　highway bus with you. ※There is about a 50-minute wait after arriving at the bus stop. The guide finishes their service after confirming the bus stop and handing over the highway bus tickets. ※Estimated arrival time in JR Kumamoto Station is at 19:49.

Price Details

Included

• Guide
• Car fare
• Bottled water
• Tourist attraction ticket
• Round trip highway bus ticket ( If you choose From JR KumamotoStation plan)

Not included

• Lunch

Important Information

Customer Guidelines:

1. Please ensure you arrive promptly at the designated meeting place.

1. Please be aware that weekends, holidays, and event days may experience high levels of congestion.

1. The schedule may be subject to sudden changes or shorter visit durations due to reasons such as traffic congestion.

1. Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).

1. Wearing your seatbelt is mandatory while the bus is in motion due to legal regulations.

1. In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.

1. Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.

Note: These guidelines are provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Thank you for your cooperation.

Purchase Notice

・This is a private tour. Only your group will participate.

・You can customize it as you like. If you have any requests please let us know in advance.

・Please note that bringing large luggage during the tour is not allowed.

How to Use

Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation fee before 11 days of use: Full refund

Cancellation fee 8-10 days before the date of use: 20%

Cancellation fee 2-7 days before the date of use: 30%

Cancellation fee 1 day before the date of use: 40%

Before the start of the trip on the day of use: 50%

If the trip starts on the same day or there is no contact: No refunds