Kimono Walk and Tea ceremooy and sake in Historic Kitsuki Castle

Exploring Kitsuki: A Classic Japanese Town with Authentic Charm

This tour offers a rare glimpse into Kitsuki, a beautifully preserved samurai town in Oita Prefecture. For $130.96 per person, you’ll spend about five hours wandering through stone-paved streets, wearing a traditional kimono, and enjoying a tea ceremony. What makes this experience stand out is Kitsuki’s unique layout—Japan’s only sandwich-style castle town—where samurai residences sit on the hillsides, while merchant homes cluster below. The tour is ideal for those interested in history, culture, and authentic local flavors, especially if you want to escape the crowds and explore a quieter, more traditional side of Japan.

We especially liked how the tour combines visual beauty and cultural depth—the kimono rental adds a layer of immersion, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a living museum. The highlight for many is the visit to Nakano Sake Brewery, where you can taste award-winning sake and learn about a six-generation family business. Another thing we appreciate is the small-group feel, which allows for more personal interaction and a relaxed pace.

A possible consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel from Beppu by taxi or bus, which could add to the trip’s overall cost and planning. Plus, kimono rentals are unavailable on Wednesdays, so if you’re visiting then, this experience might need adjusting.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy cultural authenticity, scenic streets, and interactive local experiences. It’s perfect for history buffs, photography lovers, or anyone seeking a tranquil, picturesque day out.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Wear a kimono and walk through historic streets for genuine photo opportunities.
• Unique Town Layout: Kitsuki’s sandwich-style design offers fascinating insights into samurai and merchant life.
• Local Sake Tasting: Visit a multi-generational brewery to sample award-winning sake and learn about its craftsmanship.
• Partially Guided: The tour includes a local guide for some segments, offering richer stories and context.
• Transportation Planning Needed: You’ll need to arrange your own transportation from Beppu, costing roughly ¥20,000–¥25,000.
• Quiet, Scenic Environment: The town’s peaceful streets and well-preserved buildings provide a calm, picturesque setting.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Visiting Kitsuki: A Town Frozen in Time

When we arrive in Kitsuki, we’re immediately struck by how authentically preserved everything feels. The town’s stone-paved slopes wind gently through neighborhoods where wooden samurai homes still stand proudly, and merchant houses sit below on the flatter ground. This layout—the only sandwich-style castle town in Japan—was designed for strategic defense and status, but now it offers visitors a rare chance to walk through history.

The tour begins with you donning a beautiful kimono, which is included in the price. While this might sound simply aesthetic, it really helps you feel part of the town’s history. Our guide shares stories about the town’s layout, explaining how samurai residence areas on the hills were meant for defense, while merchants thrived below, trading goods and cultivating the town’s lively atmosphere.

Walking Through a Living Museum

As you stroll along the stone streets, you’ll admire traditional wooden buildings, many of which are still in use as shops, cafes, or homes. The quiet atmosphere allows you to imagine what life was like centuries ago. The viewpoints atop the hills offer sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside—perfect for photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

One highlight is visiting a historic teahouse, where you’ll participate in a traditional tea ceremony. This is not just about sipping tea but about experiencing a ritual that embodies Japanese hospitality and serenity. The guide explains the significance of each step, adding depth to what might seem a simple act.

Sake Tasting at Nakano Brewery

The tour’s culinary highlight is the visit to Nakano Sake Brewery, run by a family that’s kept the craft alive for six generations. Here, you’ll sample award-winning sake, such as Chiebijin, and learn about the brewing process. It’s a chance to appreciate the artistry behind sake-making and perhaps find a new favorite.

The reviews emphasize how fabulous the sake tasting is—one traveler described it as a highlight of the trip. The brewery tour offers a rare insight into Japan’s sake culture, adding a flavorful dimension to the day.

Practical Details and Logistics

Transportation is not included, meaning you’ll need to arrange a taxi or bus from Beppu. Round-trip taxis could cost around ¥20,000–¥25,000, so it’s worth factoring that into your budget. The tour operates daily from 10 am to 4 pm, and kimono rentals are unavailable on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly.

Since only your group participates, the experience feels intimate and flexible. The local guide shares stories and answers questions, enhancing the overall value.

What Travelers Are Saying

One reviewer captured the vibe nicely: “Nice tour guide, traditional tea ceremony, lovely ladies in kimono shop but very quiet town. Fabulous sake tasting at Nakeno brewery.” This hints at a calm, authentic experience—not crowded or overly commercialized.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates cultural authenticity and enjoys scenic walks, this experience is a superb choice. It’s especially suited for those interested in Japanese history, traditional crafts, and quiet rural charm. Photographers will love the beautiful streets and vistas, while history buffs will find the stories about Kitsuki’s layout and architecture fascinating.

The experience’s small-group nature means it’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, unhurried day in Japan’s countryside. However, if mobility is a concern or you’re traveling on a tight schedule, consider transportation logistics and the unavailability of kimono rentals on Wednesdays.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare opportunity to step back into Japan’s Edo-era while enjoying the comforts of modern hospitality. Wearing a kimono, walking historic streets, and tasting local sake at Nakano Brewery creates a well-rounded cultural experience that balances beauty and authenticity.

It’s especially valuable for travelers eager to see a less touristy side of Japan—a peaceful town filled with stories, scenic views, and traditional crafts. The cost reflects the quality of the experience—small-group, guided, and thoughtfully curated—making it a worthwhile splurge for those craving genuine culture.

If you’re seeking a calm, scenic, and authentic day filled with history, tradition, and good sake, this tour hits the mark beautifully. Perfect for those looking for a relaxing cultural escape from more bustling tourist areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own travel from Beppu via bus or taxi, with round-trip taxi costs roughly ¥20,000–¥25,000.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to walk in a kimono?
Yes, the tour provides kimono rentals and instructions, but keep in mind that walking in a kimono can take some getting used to. The experience is designed to be accessible for most, and your guide will help.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on walking and cultural activities suggests it’s more suitable for older children or teenagers who can enjoy walking and appreciate cultural nuances.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers kimono rental, participation in a tea ceremony, and tasting Japanese sake at Nakano Brewery.

Are there any age restrictions?
The provided information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but typical maturity and mobility considerations apply.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes for walking, and if you want to take photos, your camera or smartphone. Since transportation isn’t included, bring your travel arrangements.

Is the tour available on Wednesdays?
No, kimono rentals are unavailable on Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, usually from 10 am to 4 pm, including travel time, sightseeing, and tastings.

What is the primary appeal of this experience?
The chance to wear a kimono, walk historic streets, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, and taste authentic sake—all in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Final Words

For travelers craving a genuine taste of Japan’s historical and cultural heart, this Kitsuki tour delivers a memorable and enriching experience. It balances visual beauty, culture, and thoughtful storytelling in a way that feels authentic and relaxed. Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful day out, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just remember to plan your transportation, check the kimono availability on your preferred day, and prepare for a calm, scenic journey into Japan’s past.