Kumanozu Shrine Takachiho Gorge and Amano Iwato Tour from Fukuoka
$43.36
Per Person
What To Expect
Overview
- Tours depart daily with a minimum of 1 person.
- Kamikuroiwa - Kumanoza Shrine, the filming location of the famous Japanese anime/movie "Hotarubi no Mori e" and "Natsume's Book of Friends".
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The origin of Japanese mythology - "Amanoiwato Shrine" & "Amanoyasukawara".
- Visit the mythical secret realm, Takachiho Gorge, a magnificent canyon in Kyushu.
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Professional local "experienced driver" provides reliable and considerate service, allowing you to have a detailed understanding of the local customs and cultures in Japan.
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Optional Rowing at Takachiho Gorge Explore Japanese Myths and Natural Beauty
Drift downstream on a rustic wooden boat through the crystal-clear streams of Takachiho Gorge. Towering magnificent rock walls stand on both banks, with waterfalls cascading down, allowing you to experience the charm of mysterious culture amid stunning natural scenery. Takachiho Gorge presents distinctive charms in every season, from the tender green of spring and refreshing coolness of summer to fiery red autumn leaves and tranquil snowscapes in winter. An ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this destination is perfect for family trips, romantic getaways for couples, or group outings with friends.
Itinerary
Fukuoka - Kamikuroiwa - Kumanoza Shrine - Amanoiwato Shrine - Amanoyasukawara - Takachiho Gorge - Return
08:30 LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Store 4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan
Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine
Amanoiwato Shrine
Amanoyasukawara
Takachiho Gorge
08:30 Fukuoka
Let's embark on a beautiful journey today.
11:10 Kumamoto
Kamikuroiwa - Kumanoza Shrine (about 30-40 minutes, free activity)
Kamikuroiwa - Kumanoza Shrine is located in Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture. As you climb the worship path lined with nearly 100 lanterns, you seem to enter another world. It is also famous for being the setting of famous comic works ("Hotarubi no Mori e" and "Natsume's Book of Friends"), attracting many tourists from all over the world.
Kamikuroiwa - Kumanoza Shrine primarily honors Izanagi-no-Mikoto, Izanami-no-Mikoto and Ishigami Daishogun. The famous Chuanduyan is said to be a ten-foot hole that was kicked by the demon Hachiboshi to escape from the pursuit of the Aso Great God. Nowadays, it has become a popular attraction where worshippers can absorb the energy of nature. The sacred tree Naegi at the shrine lacks veins on its leaves and is difficult to break when pulled horizontally, symbolizing the perfection of lovers and good relationships in work. As a result, many people come here to pray for marriage and business success.
Chuanduyan
Above the shrine hall, there is a large wind cave (Chuanduyan) said to have been kicked by the demon Hachiboshi, a follower of Kenzanryu-no-Mikoto. The length and width are over 10 meters. The massive rock is penetrated by the large wind cave. Therefore, "Chuanduyan" is a symbol that even the most difficult goals can be achieved and is said to guarantee "success in passing exams.
▼Special Cherry Blossom Season Itinerary: Hundred Cherry Trees at Tsukimawari Park (Approx. 15-20 Minutes) ▼
The annual cherry blossom season is generally from late March to early April (the exact period depends on actual weather conditions). This scenic spot will only be included in itineraries during the cherry blossom season and will not be arranged in other seasons.
Located in Takamori Town, Aso Area, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, this natural park allows visitors to admire the magnificent scenery of Mount Aso up close. Around 100 cherry trees bloom simultaneously in spring here, hence the name "Hundred Cherry Trees". The pink sea of flowers sets off the majestic Five Peaks of Aso in the distance, presenting a spectacular view.
12:40 Miyazaki
Takachiho Gorge (approximately 80 to 90 minutes. If you choose the package excluding the boat ride, you can enjoy free leisure time while other guests go boating.)
One-way shuttle bus service and complimentary Japanese-style snacks are included.
Takachiho Gorge is a valley formed by volcanic eruptions of Mount Aso in ancient times. It features steep cliffs on both sides and the 17-metre-tall Manai Falls. The stunning natural scenery complements the three bridges spanning the gorge, creating the unique charm of Takachiho Gorge.
Take a leisurely stroll through Takachiho Gorge.
There is a roughly 1-kilometre walking trail alongside Takachiho Gorge, which takes around 20 minutes to walk one way. With a generally gentle gradient, it is an easy route for walking. In addition, many must-see attractions of Takachiho Gorge are located along this trail.
① "Manaoi Falls", one of the 100 selected waterfalls in Japan
The well-known waterfall "Manaoi Falls" selected as one of the 100 selected waterfalls in Japan , symbolizing Takachiho Gorge. According to the myth, the god Amatsumura Kumo-no-Mikoto moved the water seed here due to the lack of water, which is now known as "Amatsunamii". It is said that the water gushing from the well turned into a waterfall and flowed down.
② Stone of Oni Yagachi's Power
In the legend of Takachiho, it is said that Oshikuni no Mikoto, the brother of Emperor Jimmu, defeated the evil Hachio and calmed the area. Hachio was proud of his great strength and threw a huge stone at Oshikuni no Mikoto, which is the "Stone of Oni Yagachi's Power. A huge shimenawa will be decorated on the 200-ton boulder. At the Takachiho Gorge year-end ceremony, a new shimenawa will be hung every year.
③ "Takachiho Three Bridges" that feel three eras
Takachiho Three Bridges are located upstream of Takachiho Gorge and are three arched bridges. They started as "Shinkyo" in the Taisho era, "Takachiho Bridge" in the Showa era and "Shinto Takachiho Bridge" in the Heisei era. Only in Takachiho Gorge can you see the scenery of three arched bridges built in one valley in Japan.
The oldest Shinkyo is made of stone, Takachiho Bridge is made of steel, and Shinto Takachiho Bridge is made of cement. The three bridges standing side by side create a sense of the atmosphere of different eras. Shinkyo is particularly surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and has a unique charm.
④ The rock wall "Fairy's Screen Rock" with a height of 70 meters
Standing on the opposite side of the path is Fairy's Screen Rock. Its defining feature is that the columnar jointed rock wall resembles a screen. The beauty of the shape formed over tens of thousands of years, combined with a height of 70 meters, is full of power.
14:30 Miyazaki
Amano-Iwato Shrine
Famous for the tradition of making wishes by stacking stones at Ama-no-Yasugawara, Amano-Iwato Shrine is situated in Takachiho Town, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Enshrining the sacred Amano-Iwato cave inhabited by deities, this shrine is renowned as a spiritual site brimming with powerful energy that can heal body and mind, bring good fortune and boost one’s luck. Countless worshippers flock here to seek divine blessings, collect shrine red seal stamps and obtain protective amulets.
According to Japanese mythology recorded in the *Kojiki* and the *Nihon Shoki*, this place is the sacred setting of the Amano-Iwato legend. The shrine consists of the West Main Shrine and the East Main Shrine, both dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess. The West Main Shrine marks the cave where Amaterasu hid herself, which is revered as the sacred object of worship. Nearby lies the legendary great cave known as Ama-no-Yasugawara. In the myth, Amaterasu retreated into the Amano-Iwato cave out of rage, plunging heaven and earth into total darkness. The eight million deities gathered at the riverbank to devise a plan to lure her out of the cave. To draw Amaterasu forth, the troubled deities commanded Ame-no-Uzume to perform a lively dance outside the cave mouth, sparking raucous laughter among all the gods. Curious about the merriment, Amaterasu peered out through a crack in the rock. At that moment, the deities held up a sacred mirror; upon seeing her own radiant reflection, Amaterasu was filled with delight and stepped out of the cave, restoring brilliant sunlight to the world.
Ama-no-Yasugawara
It is believed that wishes made by stacking stones here will be granted, so numerous wish-makers have built countless stone prayer towers across this site.
Located in Takachiho Town, Miyazaki Prefecture, Ama-no-Yasugawara ranks among Japan’s most iconic sacred sites rooted in mythology. As the legend goes, Amaterasu hid in the Amano-Iwato cave in anger, casting the whole world into darkness. The eight million deities assembled at this riverbank to deliberate on how to persuade Amaterasu to return, earning this place the moniker "the Site of Divine Council".
Nestled within a natural cave beside the Gokase River, Ama-no-Yasugawara stretches approximately 30 meters deep and 40 meters wide. Surrounded by primeval forests and babbling streams, the cave exudes an air of mysticism and solemnity. Upon entering the cave, visitors are greeted by countless stone towers piled up by tourists and worshippers. Folklore holds that sincere stacking of stones paired with heartfelt prayers can make wishes come true, drawing throngs of visitors to pray for blessings.
Strolling along the footpath leading to Ama-no-Yasugawara, visitors can admire the stunning natural scenery of the Takachiho Gorge and immerse themselves in the tranquil ambience of gurgling streams and dense woodland. The seamless integration of mythological tales, natural landscapes and religious faith has made Ama-no-Yasugawara one of the most iconic spiritual power spots in the Takachiho region, as well as an indispensable sacred destination for travellers eager to explore the realm of Japanese mythology.
18:30 Return to Lawson, Fukuoka Oriental Hotel (in front of Hakata Station Chikushi Exit)
- Meals not included
- Hotel not included
- 18:30 Return to the pick-up point, the return time is for reference only.
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Things to Know
- The above itinerary schedule may be adjusted due to weather, road conditions and other reasons, please understand.
- If you choose the package including a boat, please note that one boat is shared by 3 people on a shared-boat basis.
- Prohibitions and Precautions for the Use of Cruise Ships:
- It is forbidden to stand up or change seats on board to avoid the risk of capsizing.
- Only junior high school students and above are allowed to operate (row) small boats.
- Do not drive into the waterfalls within the cruise ship navigation sections to avoid capsizing or accidental triggering of life jackets.
- The life jackets provided by the facility are automatically inflatable and will activate once the sensor comes into contact with water (the gas inside the gas cylinder is released to inflate the life jacket automatically). If a life jacket is activated due to a visitor falling overboard or other reasons, a gas cylinder replacement fee of 3,000 Japanese Yen will be charged for each unit.
- You must wear a life jacket when taking a cruise ship and follow the staff's instructions to put it on correctly.
- Within this facility and the sailing route of the cruise ship, no acts that endanger safety or public order, or cause disturbance or discomfort to other visitors shall be committed.
- Visitors who fail to comply with the above provisions will be required to disembark. We appreciate your understanding.
- The company shall not be held liable for any accidents or property losses arising from improper personal operation, failure to comply with the above regulations, or refusal to follow the instructions of management personnel. We appreciate your understanding.
- Once your belongings fall into the water, they cannot be retrieved. Please keep your valuables safe and secure.
Packages
Bus Tour(boating not included)
Adult
$43.36Child
Same as Adult
Bus Tour (including boating at Takachiho Gorge)
Adult
$69.4Child
Same as Adult
Pick Up/Drop Off Information
Pick Up
| Location | Time | Address |
| LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Store Please arrive 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time. | 08:30 (Depart before 08:00 on June 30, 2026) | 4-23 Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan |
Drop Off
| Location | Time | Address |
Default departure at the pick-up point |
Things to Know
Included/Exclude
- Vehicle service fees listed in the itinerary
- Vehicle fuel costs, tolls, and highway tolls
- Vehicle service time: within 10 hours (Japanese law)
- Guide service fee (Sea Lion (driver works as guide) for up to 10 people, Coaster for up to 17 people, minibus or bus for more than 17 people, the actual number of people will be adjusted according to the number of people on the day of the tour)
- Vehicle service fees listed in the itinerary
- Vehicle fuel costs, tolls, and highway tolls
- Vehicle service time: within 10 hours (Japanese law)
- Driver service fee (exquisite small group of 1-13 people; bus group of 14-45 people, actual will be adjusted according to the number of people in the group on that day)
- Reference model:5-8Car: ToyotaAlphardor equivalent;9-14Car: ToyotaHAICEor equivalent;18-22Vehicle: minibus;twenty twoCars and above: large buses. The above vehicles are for reference only. The actual number will be adjusted according to the number of people traveling on the day.
- Children under 3 years old are free of charge without occupying a seat. Please inform us in advance when registering; children over 3 years old are treated as adults.
- Accommodation, meals, entrance fees to sightseeing spots, local optional programs and other personal expenses.
- Other items not included in the above [Fee Included].
- Accommodation expenses, meals, local self-funded projects and other personal consumption expenses
- One-day Tour, it is not recommended to carry luggage, if you need to carry luggage, please register clearly when you book your order. 1 luggage is allowed per person. An extra 100 yuan per piece will be charged if you failed to make a note when booking your order or if it turns out more than 1 piece of luggage per guest.
- Other items not mentioned in the above [fee included]
Booking and Confirmation Process
- Booking normally confirmed within 5 minutes if available. In the unlikely event that the inventory runs out, we will send you a cancellation notice and a full refund will be issued shortly. Please check your email.
- You will receive your booking information instantly via email. In the event that you do not receive our email, please check your spam folder, or log into your User Center to check your order status and download your voucher when available.
How To Use
- The night before the tour, you will receive a departure reminder email in your mailbox, which contains the vehicle registration number, the contact information of the guide and the pick up time. Guides do not initiate contact with guests.Please wait for the bus at the specified location according to the meeting time in the email.
- One day tour, not recommended to bring luggage, if you need to bring luggage, please make note when registering
- Once confirmed, the date cannot be changed, late or no-show will be non-refundable.
- Be sure to provide complete information (name + number of people + phone number + WeChat ID + pick-up location) when making a reserv
- During the trip, please carry your passport and valuables with you and keep them safe. If there is any loss, theft, damage, etc., you will be responsible for it yourself.
- Elderly people, patients with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and pregnant women are advised to be accompanied by relatives.
- This trip does not accept solo registration from customers under the age of 18. If you want to register, please ask your guardian to sign up for this trip together.
- This itinerary is a fixed itinerary for carpooling. Customers who are also participating in this itinerary must abide by the stay time at each attraction and follow the driver's arrangements. If you want to flexibly adjust your itinerary, please refer to our chartered tour service.
- Please note that if you fail to participate or cancel the trip due to personal problems, lateness, etc., no fees will be refunded.
- If a person leaves the group on his own during the trip, the transaction will be deemed invalid and no fees will be refunded. And if this results in personal or property safety, you must bear the consequences yourself.
- The arrival time of each trip may change due to traffic conditions, weather, festivals, and crowds on the day. If the trip is delayed or canceled due to the aforementioned or other force majeure factors, please forgive me and you will not be able to request a refund.
- Please wear light, suitable travel clothing and shoes to participate in this trip.
- Please be sure to abide by local laws and regulations in Japan, and do not carry items prohibited by Japanese law to avoid violating the law and affecting your own rights and interests.
- When moving freely, you should pay attention to your own personal and property safety. If you fail to listen to advice and an accident occurs or causes losses, you will be responsible for the consequences.
- Traffic jams may occur on weekends and red days, so if you are worried about traffic jams, you can avoid joining the tour on weekends or red days.
- Infants aged 0-2 years old without occupying seats are free of charge; please inform the number of infants in advance when placing an order. If you do not specify the number of children under 3 years old without seats in advance, resulting in insufficient space in the car or overcrowding, the driver and guide have the right to refuse to get on the car, and the fee will not be refunded.
- Reference models: 9-14-seat car: Toyota HAICE equivalent level; 18-22-seat car: minibus; 22-seat car or more: large bus, the above vehicles are for reference only, the actual number of people will be adjusted in accordance with the number of tours on that day.
- Children under 3 years old are free of charge without occupying a seat. Please inform us in advance when registering; children over 3 years old are treated as adults.
Terms & Conditions
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation Period
Policy
What if you miss the appointed time or departure date?
Once the booking is confirmed, an absence or failure to show up on the scheduled date or time is a no-show. No refunds or reschedules will be issued for no-shows and late arrivals.
Other important information
- Seniors aged 70 years and above (inclusive) must ensure that they are in good health and suitable to travel, and must be accompanied by family members or friends over the age of 22 throughout the trip.
- Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger throughout the trip.
- The elderly need a health certificate. To check the health certificate, please fill it out and submit it to the registration office before traveling (electronic version is available).
- Pregnant women, heart disease, fear of heights and other special people should not participate in this tour, there is a risk of being rejected, please book carefully.
- This product can be booked by non-mainland guests and is available in Chinese, English and Japanese.
- The night before the tour, you will receive a departure reminder email in your mailbox, which contains the vehicle registration number, the contact information of the guide and the pick up time. Guides do not initiate contact with guests.Please wait for the bus at the specified location according to the meeting time in the email.
- Due to the unpredictability of traffic conditions, weather, festivals or crowds on the day, the arrival time of each itinerary may change. According to Japanese law, the maximum working time for drivers is 10 hours. In order to ensure the safety of the driver and the stability of driving, the itinerary may be adjusted according to actual conditions, including reducing the time spent visiting attractions or canceling certain attractions. We sincerely hope that all passengers can understand and support the adjustments we have made while ensuring safety.
- Seniors aged 70 years and above (inclusive) must ensure that they are in good health and suitable to travel, and must be accompanied by family members or friends over the age of 22 throughout the trip.
- The elderly need a health certificate. To check the health certificate, please fill it out and submit it to the registration office before traveling (electronic version is available).
- Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger throughout the trip.
- Pregnant women, people with heart disease, fear of heights and other special groups are not suitable to participate in this tour. There is a risk of being rejected. Please book with caution.
- In the event of the aforementioned or other force majeure factors, we deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause you. Please understand our position, we will not be able to provide refund services for this reason. This decision was made out of responsibility for the safety of drivers and passengers, and to ensure the smooth running of the entire team.
- We are always committed to providing you with the best travel experience, but in some cases we need to be flexible and adjust our itinerary plans based on actual conditions. Thank you for your understanding and support. Other force majeure factors may include but are not limited to: Natural disasters: Natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, typhoons, etc. may affect the itinerary. Traffic Accidents: Road traffic accidents, traffic jams, etc. may cause travel delays. Weather conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as heavy snow, heavy rain, fog, etc., may affect transportation and itinerary arrangements. Government regulations: Emergency regulations, traffic controls, etc. issued by the government may cause changes to the itinerary. Health Emergencies: Sudden health problems of travelers or team members may require first aid and emergency treatment, resulting in changes to the itinerary. Social events: Strikes, protests, social unrest, etc. may have unpredictable impacts on transportation and itineraries. Mechanical Failure: Mechanical failure of a vehicle, such as a vehicle, may cause travel delays.
- When moving freely, you should pay attention to your own personal and property safety. If you fail to listen to advice and an accident occurs or causes losses, you will be responsible for the consequences.
- During the trip, please carry your passport and valuables with you and keep them safe. If there is any loss, theft, damage, etc., you will be responsible for it yourself.
- Please note that if you fail to participate or cancel the trip due to personal problems, lateness, etc., no fees will be refunded.
- Please be sure to abide by local laws and regulations in Japan, and do not carry items prohibited by Japanese law to avoid violating the law and affecting your own rights and interests.
- Infants aged 0-2 years old without occupying seats are free of charge; please inform the number of infants in advance when placing an order. If you do not specify the number of children under 3 years old without seats in advance, resulting in insufficient space in the car or overcrowding, the driver and guide have the right to refuse to get on the car, and the fee will not be refunded.
- Please wear light, suitable travel clothing and shoes to participate in this trip.
- Please note that if you fail to participate or cancel the trip due to personal problems, lateness, etc., no fees will be refunded.
Reviews Scores
204
Reviews
5
Latest Review
A peaceful retreat from city life. The shrine’s stillness and the ancient trees made me slow down and breathe.
The winding path lined with lanterns leading to the shrine was magical, especially early in the morning when the forest was still.
From the mossy steps to the sturdy torii gate, the shrine’s understated power stayed with me long after I left. Truly memorable.
Such a refreshing day trip. I felt like I tapped into living history while surrounded by forest air and shrine calm.
I appreciated the meaningful simplicity of this place. The shrine’s energy, silence, and greenery made it one of my favorite stops in Kyushu.
Kumano Taisha felt authentic and grounding—no flashy frills, just an elegant shrine tucked in natural scenery. Perfect for reflection.
The shrine’s architecture is stunning—soothing and timeless. The climb up the mossy steps was worth every step for the tranquility at the top.
Loved the mystical atmosphere of Iwashimizu Kumano Taisha. There’s a subtle energy there that’s rare to find in crowded tourist sites.
Lovely solo discovery: the shrine felt alive with stories, even without a guide. I just wandered, listened, and felt grounded.
Great balance of spiritual depth and simple beauty. I explored the shrine at my own pace and felt deeply connected to the place.