Kumamoto

Thank you to our tour guide for making our trip so much better! 🧳 The guide provided detailed explanations of local history, culture, and cuisine, and while showing us the beautiful scenery of Takachiho Gorge, they also frequently reminded us of photo spots. Their recommendations for local snacks were fantastic! Most importantly, the tour was excellent value for money, and the explanation of shrine worship etiquette helped us better understand Japanese culture. 👍 They also thoughtfully pointed out scenic spots and photo opportunities along the way. Although Mount Aso was still closed, the tour was definitely worthwhile.

Although the visit was a bit short, it was worth the ticket price to see so many places in one trip. Takachiho was as beautiful as a fairyland when the weather was nice. Our tour leader, Ms. Wu, was very friendly and even introduced us to famous local products and anecdotes.

Convenient and fast, affordable online booking, and driving to the ferry is a unique experience.

No need for a tour guide or large group tours, this "semi-independent" itinerary allows the whole family to enjoy a more in-depth experience! As long as you manage taxi connections and key booking times, even families with elderly members and children can easily conquer Takachiho. 【Itinerary Sharing】(Tested on 2/10) • 09:11 | Depart from Kumamoto Station/Sakuramachi Bus Terminal (take a Kyushu Sanko bus). • 12:19 | Arrive at Takachiho Bus Center. • 12:30 | Takachiho Beef Feast: Upon arrival, a pre-booked taxi will take you to the restaurant. Delicious Takachiho beef is definitely the best start to your trip. • 14:00 | Takachiho Gorge Boat Ride (Reservation Required): Avoid the crowds and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the gorge waterfall. • 14:30 - 15:10 | Takachiho Gorge Stroll: Explore the trails and admire the magnificent columnar jointed landforms. • 15:15 | Miraculous Taxi Rescue: Two taxis were flagged down at the canyon site, taking us straight to the Amaterasu Railway (former Takachiho Station). • 15:40 | Amaterasu Railway Miniature Train (Last Train): This train was the MVP of the trip! The 105-meter-high railway bridge and the interactive bubble-blowing activity on the train were a huge hit with the kids. • 16:15 | Stroll Through the City: After the miniature train ride, we leisurely walked back to the bus station (approximately 15 minutes). • 16:57 | Return Bus: We boarded the bus back to Kumamoto on time.

Our group of 12 friends was advised by customer service to rent an 18-seater minibus. We could easily fit all our luggage in, and there were still seats available for thick coats and bags, making for a comfortable three days. The best part was the driver's professionalism and friendliness; he spoke fluent Mandarin and was patient with the young children. It started snowing on the first night, and some roads were closed the next morning, requiring us to change our plans. The driver helped us call nearby indoor attractions to check if they were open, and we finally found a monkey theater where the children played in the snow – it was cold but fun!

Two weeks before departure, the company created a group chat so we could contact the driver. The day before, we informed them that my mother had difficulty walking, and the company specially upgraded us to a larger vehicle. Throughout the trip, the driver's driving skills were smooth, and he had a great understanding of Japanese geography and customs, providing excellent analysis and sharing. The journey was very smooth, and he managed the travel time perfectly. It's definitely a chartered car service highly recommended!

Easy to install, fast internet speed, and incredibly reasonable price. Highly recommended!