Kimono Walk and Tea ceremooy and sake in Historic Kitsuki Castle
Step back in time and explore Kitsuki, a beautifully preserved samurai town in Oita Prefecture. Kitsuki is Japan’s only “sandwich-style” castle town, with samurai homes on both hills and merchants once living below. Stroll its stone-paved slopes and quiet lanes to feel the Edo-era charm. This cultural experience includes wearing a kimono, walking through historic streets, and enjoying a tea ceremony !
Transportation is not included. Taxis or public transit from Beppu. Round-trip taxi costs are around ¥20,000–¥25,000. You’ll also visit Nakano Sake Brewery, a six-generation family brewery, to taste award-winning Chiebijin sake.
Please note: This tour is partially self-guided. A local guide will join you for part of the experience, while other segments will follow a provided itinerary. This activity does not include insurance. Please ensure you have personal travel insurance for any injuries or damages. To avoid the summer heat, morning or late afternoon tours are recommended.
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Kimono Walk and Tea ceremooy and sake in Historic Kitsuki Castle
What's included in Kimono Walk and Tea ceremooy and sake in Historic Kitsuki Castle
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Kitsuki
Travel back in time and discover the magic of Kitsuki—a hidden gem in Oita, Japan, and the only “sandwich-style” castle town in the country. In this immersive cultural experience, you’ll dress in a beautiful kimono and stroll along the same stone paths once walked by samurai. Surrounded by well-preserved wooden houses, peaceful streets, and breathtaking views, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living museum. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the town’s unique layout, where merchant homes were nestled between samurai residences on both hillsides. The highlight of your journey awaits at a historic teahouse, where you’ll experience a hands-on Japanese tea ritual—choose between matcha (green tea) or sencha (steeped tea), both served with delicate seasonal sweets. This experience isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about feeling the spirit of old Japan through clothing, taste, tradition, and scenery. and sake experience!
Inclusions
- tea ceremony
- kimono rental
- japanese sake
- you need use bus or taxi
- insurance
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Access from Beppu or Yufuin: Take a highway bus to Kitsuki Bus Terminal (about 60–80 min), then a taxi (5–10 min) to Waraku-an near Suya-no-saka. Or take a direct taxi from Beppu (50–60 min) or Yufuin (60–70 min). Tell the driver: “Waraku-an kimono rental in Kitsuki.”
