Discover Kumamoto through food, history, and local culture. Choose between a 2-hour food walk through the historic Shinmachi & Furumachi castle-town districts, or extend your experience to 3.5 hours with a guided visit to Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks.
After meeting at Kumamoto Station, we will head to the Furumachi old town district. About 10 minutes from the station. Once there, your guide will lead you through backstreets and preserved townscapes while sharing stories about merchant culture, samurai-era history, and local recovery efforts following the 2016 earthquake. The nostalgic streets of Shinmachi and Furumachi are the castle town area from the Samurai-era.
Along the way, enjoy:
- Two local street-food tastings (such as “ikinaridango” and “karashirenkon”)
• A café break with one coffee included
• Insights into architecture, history, and community life
Rather than a fixed tasting menu, this tour allows flexibility to adapt to the season and guest interests. You may try traditional sweets, savoury specialities, or regional snacks loved by locals.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the experience feels personal, relaxed, and immersive. Spend time together, enjoy the retro atmosphere at a leisurely pace on foot, feeling as if you've slipped back in time to the Edo period.
Through collaborative efforts between Kumamoto City and the community to establish townscape guidelines and preserve/utilise traditional townhouses, the area's timeless retro streetscape has been preserved.
Despite damage from the Kumamoto Earthquake, the community works daily to pass on the value of this history and culture. While strolling through this historic area dotted with charming townhouses and long-established shops, you'll discover hidden cafes and speciality stores.
＜Highlights＞
- Explore the historic Shinmachi & Furumachi castle town area
- Taste two local specialities
- Enjoy a coffee break at a local café
- Learn about the town history & post-earthquake conservation efforts
- Small group (max 8 guests)
＜Itinerary＞
- Meet at Kumamoto Station
- Head to Furumachi area (approx. 10 min)
- Guided historical walk
- Food tasting stop #1
- Food tasting stop #2
- Café break (coffee included)
- Return to Kumamoto Station together or you may depart at the location if you wish.
※Continues to the Kumamoto Castle Guided tour if you select the optional tour.
