Beppu to Usuki Historical and Cultural Discovery
9:00 AM: Meet your English-speaking guide
Start your journey at Beppu Station or Beppu Port, where you will be greeted by your English-speaking guide. You will begin your tour in a private car driven by the guide.
For other pick-up points outside Beppu, additional charges may apply, and the tour duration can be customized.
Old Samurai Residence (Inaba Clan)
Your first stop is the former residence of the Inaba family, the feudal lords of Usuki Domain. Built in 1902, the residence was designed as a retreat for the family after they relocated to Tokyo following the abolition of the han system.
Explore the elegant architecture, which includes a formal entrance with a raised platform, a traditional Japanese-style living room, and high-quality materials such as cedar and cypress.
Nioza Historical Path & Shopping Street
Next, visit the Nioza Historical Path near Usuki Castle. This unique path, formed from solidified volcanic ash, winds through a rugged landscape with carved rock formations.
Stroll through narrow streets that transport you back to the Edo period, lined with towering stone walls, tiled roofs, whitewashed buildings, and numerous temples.
Usuki Stone Buddhas
Discover the Usuki Stone Buddhas, monumental sculptures carved into a cliff face amidst a serene natural setting. These statues, carved from solid rock, are an enduring testament to Japan's spiritual beliefs and artistic mastery.
As a national treasure, these stone buddhas offer a rare and invaluable glimpse into Japan's cultural and religious history.
Usuki Pottery Gallery
Visit a pottery atelier and workshop next to the Stone Buddhas. Learn about traditional pottery techniques and explore beautiful handcrafted pieces.
After your exploration, the tour concludes with a drop-off at JR Beppu Station.
