This sightseeing taxi tour runs from Omuta, which is the starting and final stop for The Rail Kitchen Chikugo. The taxi drivers, who are thoroughly versed in the region, will take you to major spots as well as hidden locations. For the “My Personal Omuta Course” choose one from each of the historic shrines in Omuta and a modern industrial World Heritage site, and then enjoy tea at a locally-popular café in this course that travels around within Omuta city. Other courses include the “Okawa/Yanagawa Course” which travels from Omuta to each region, including shops related to The Rail Kitchen Chikugo, the “Yamaga/Hirayama Course” which has a nostalgic feel to it, and also lets you enjoy a hot spring famous for beautifying the skin. Please enjoy your travel that tastes the region both before coming to, and after disembarking on The Rail Kitchen Chikugo.
For Reservations (Omuta Fuji Taxi)
Phone : +81-944-56-3344
- Travel Within Omuta City
- Travel from Omuta City to Each Region
My Personal Omuta Course: 7,000 yen/2 hours (1 compact taxi, seats up to 4 passengers)
Choose 1 of the Historic Local Shrines, Receive a Red Stamp
Choose 1 of the Modern World Heritage Sites
Locally Popular Cafe
A. Choose 1 Shrine/Temple w/Goshuin（Red Ink Stamp）
Please select one.
Kumano Shrine – Mikasa Shrine
- Address
- 87 Toritsuka-machi, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-53-0137
Established in the year 533. Burning coal was discovered in Mt. Inari facing the shrine, and since then it has been regarded as the guardian deity of the Miike coal mine. Though on city grounds, the shrine sits on a nature-rich hill, surrounded by trees hundreds of years old, and together with the nearby Toritsuka Park, it’s known as a shrine that heals the mind and body of those who visit.
Present Included
Fukoji
- Address
- 2538 Imayama, Oaza, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-51-2966
Built around 1,200 years ago it is the oldest temple in the city, and as a monument for Senju Kannon, its attached to the Hieizan Enryakuji headquarters. Since ancient times, it has gathered extraordinary faith as a temple for prayer for protecting and warding off evil, serving as a power spot within the city. “Fukoji Garyubai” is a plum tree that’s over 450 years old and has a total length of 24 meters. The best time to see the plum blossoms is every February-March, and many tourists from within and outside of the prefecture come to view them.
Present Included
Hayame Tenmangu (Yume Makura Shrine)
- Address
- 1-191 Miyahara-machi, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-52-3538
This shrine is famous for the enshrinement of Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. After he was exiled to Dazaifu, to comfort his grieving wife and son he sent them a self-portrait he drew while facing a mirror. This self-portrait is considered to contain a spiritual deity.
Present Included
Omuta Shrine
- Address
- 1-2-22 Honmachi, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-52-5090
Honored with the name of "Bishamon-san" as the god of fire, and as the local Omuta deity. The head of the serpent of the Daijayama Gion Festival, the shrine's largest ritual, is on permanent display. Located inside the shopping district of Omuta's Ginza street, this shrine is in a rare location.
B. World Cultural Heritage Related Facility
Miike Coal Mine Miyahara Pit (Opened 1898)
- Address
- 1-86-3 Miyahara-machi, Omuta-shi
- Fees
- No charge
- Hours
- 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
- Business Days
- Everyday, except Monday
Opened in 1898, this served as the main pit of the Miike coal mine from the Meiji Era (1868-1912) through the Taisho Era (1912-1926). In order to drain water, one of the world's largest British steam pumps was installed, which allowed for even deeper coal mining. Currently, the second shaft miners used for ascent and descent remains, and with the oldest steel tower in the country and the windlass room made of bricks, you can get a feel for how things looked at the time. The mine is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site, as "Meiji Japan's Industrial Revolution Heritage."
Mikawa Mine Ruins (opened 1940)
- Address
- 2-1-1 Nishiminato-machi, Omuta-shi
- Fees
- No charge
- Hours
- 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
- Operating Days
- Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays (excluding New Year's holidays)
This mine was opened in 1940. At the time it was the largest mine in the country, and during and after the war, it served as the primary pit of the Miike Coal Mine until it was closed. It has a depth of 350 m, and the approx. 2 km long inclined shaft leads out to the bottom of the Ariake Sea, carrying out the coal by belt conveyor. It was closed in 1997, but having hosted the Showa Emperor, being the side of the largest domestic labor dispute, and one of the biggest industrial accidents after the war, it remains to tell the light and dark sides of the history of coal mining. Its neighbor is the guest house Mitsui Minato Club, with an over 100-year history
※You can also be taken to the Miike Port Observatory
Coal Industry Science Museum
- Address
- 6-23 Misaki-machi, Omuta-shi
- Fees
- Adults 410 yen, high school students 410 yen, ages 4-15 200 yen
※mutual discount service offered with the Manda Mine (display the Manda Mine admission ticket to get group admission fees)
- Hours
- 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Holidays
- Monday (if the Monday is a public holiday, then the subsequent day), 12/29 - 1/3
A museum where you can learn about the history of coal and the Miike Coal Mine, which supported the energy development of modern Japan. There is a simulated mining shaft in the museum, where you can ride an elevator that descends down the shaft at a speed of 10 m per 1 second, and get some hands-on coal mining experience. You can also learn about the history of Omuta
※You can also be taken to the Miike Port Observatory.
Miike Port Observatory (opened 1908)
- Address
- Shinko-machi, Omuta-shi
- Fees
- No charge
- Hours:
- 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (final admission 4:30 PM)
- Holidays
- Monday, New Years holidays
Opened in 1908 in order to export coal, this is the only lock-gate port in Japan. Until this port was opened, the coal was carried by small boats to the ports in Nagasaki and Kumamoto, and then exported after being transferred to a large ship. However, after this port was established, it became possible to export directly using a large ship. Even in the Ariake Sea, where there is a large difference in the tides, the lock-gate type can keep the water level constant so that large ships can arrive. Even after the coal mines closed, the port continues to be active. The port is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site, as "Meiji Japan's Industrial Revolution Heritage."
※You can also be taken to the Mikawa Mine and the Coal Industry Science Museum.
Miike Karuta History Museum
- Address
- 2-2-3 Takarazaka-machi, Omuta-shi
- Fees
- No charge
- Hours
- 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Holidays
- Mondays (if the Monday is a public holiday, then the subsequent day), the final Thursday of the month (if that Thursday is a public holiday, then the subsequent day), New Years holidays
- HP
- http://karuta-rekishi.com/
The Japanese card game of karuta is said to have originated in Chikugo's Miike region (currently Omuta city) at the end of the 16th Century, introduced from Portugal. As such, Omuta is regarding of the birthplace of karuta in Japan. In addition to traditional Japanese karuta, you can find playing cards from overseas, tarot cards, and various native historical records spanning from ancient to modern times on display.
C. Café
Choose any of the following together with your A and B pairing above.
ROOTH2-3-3
- Addresx
- 2-3-3 Shiranuhi-machi, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-92-984-1131
- Hours
- 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Holiday
- Wednesday
This talk of the town in Omuta opened in August 2018. Situated in a brick warehouse at a coal mine facility, it has become a place where everyone can easily visit and gather. You can find 60 books containing info on recommended shops in the region that everyone put together, and various newspapers. You'll be greeted by a friendly doorman upon visiting. The cafe menu includes Black & White, made from local Omuta-based Omu milk products dairy milk, 15 kinds of colorful donuts, and a hot dog to be eaten together with beet sauce.
Taramu books & café
- Address
- 1-3-15 Kubota-machi, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-85-8321
- Hours
- 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Saturday, Sunday, Holidays: 11:30 AM - 7:00 PM (w/summer time)
- Holiday
- None
Located in a warehouse that hadn't been used for several years in the back alleys, a 5-minute walk from Omuta Station, this old space was reborn as something new in 2016. The 1st floor has a shop that handles carefully selected books and magazines, while the 2nd floor features a space where you can eat surrounded by magazines. You can enjoy just browsing the books and magazines that the owner personally selected.
Sweets Ito (Ichibu-bashi Shop)
- Address
- 133 Ichibu-machi, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-53-5339
- Hours
- 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Holiday
- None (w/periods of temporary closure, including New Years Holidays)
The concept is making Japanese sweets using Japanese ingredients. Ito's "local production for local consumption " feeds the people of the region using good-quality materials from the region. Food makes people better. Upon feeling safe and secure, the region becomes energized and various stories are born.
※You can also be taken to Bakery House Bonheur.
Present Included
Bakery House Bonheur
- Address
- 133-4 Ichibu-machi, Omuta-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-43-6722
- Hours
- 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Holiday
- Sunday
A small bakery operated by a husband and wife. Under the concept of "delicious things, things I want you to eat", they make their 100% homemade products every day. Check out their Facebook and Instagram accounts for the day's updates. We recommend the white bread.
※You can also be taken to Sweets Ito.
Present Included
Gallary & Café Viridian
- Address
- 377-2 Kunugi, Omuta-shi-2
- Phone
- +81-944-56-4788
- Hours
- 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Holiday
- Monday, Tuesday (regular business on public holidays) When there is an event, closed on the final day of the month.
A hidden cafe. Have tea in this at-home atmosphere, and you may find you've lost track of the time. There are galleries and various goods that change in accordance with the season - our no. 1 recommendation is the Hand-Ground Hoshimine (weak green tea). They begin grinding in the mortal as soon as they get an order, so the inside of the shop has a great tea aroma to it.
【Things to Note】
・The ceremonial fee for the red stamp, facility entrance fees, and expenses for goods, foods, and drinks bought at stores are all separate fees.
・For more details, please ask when making your reservation.
Omuta/Yanagawa Course 10,500 yen/3 hours (1 compact taxi, seats up to 4 passengers)
Omuta Station
Factory Shop Hiromatsu
- Address
- 174-1 Onikoga, Okawa-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-87-5911
- FAX
- +81-944-87-5794
- HP
- http://www.hiromatsu.org/
- Holiday
- Tuesdays
- Hours
- Monday – Friday 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Saturday, Sunday, Holidays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Factory Shop Hiromatsu is a furniture maker based in Okawa city, Fukuoka Prefecture. In bringing out the natural beauty of materials such as wood with a natural oil finish fully, and believing that materials deepened by the user have a taste according to their age, they have continued to create family furniture, that serves like a comfortable tool, with a feel that is both simple and functional. On the fourth Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of every month, an original personalized chopsticks-making experience (approx. 45 minutes) is available only to taxi tour participants.
Shoubunsu
- Address
- 548 Enokizu, Okawa-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-88-1535
- HP
- https://shoubun.jp/
- Holidays
- Obon (August 13-15), New Years Holiday
- Hours
- 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM ※The operating hours and fixed holidays for the restaurant are different.
Established in 1624, this vinegar shop has continued for over 400 years in Chikugo, where sake brewing is prosperous. It is made by fermenting and maturing the vinegar within the storehouse of this inherited warehouse with an 80 year history. Using traditional manufacturing methods that take time and effort, together with incorporating modern technology, and under the strictest quality control, this vinegar develops its mellow taste, relaxed acidity and fragrance, and its light-amber color. A tour of the vinegar warehouse and taste-testing is available within this historic shop.
Shikikamaboko (Central Store)
- Address
- 180 Sakemi, Okawa-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-88-3168
- Holidays
- New Year Holidays
- Hours
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (demonstration sales until 4:00 PM)
Founded over 160 years ago, they make their rare and particular kamaboko by using fresh fish paste, from carefully and strictly-selected fish such as the lizardfish, which is carefully prepared by hand by a craftsman. This is a quality that has been awarded in national competitions. There are also some quirky items such as tempura made from sweet potatoes wrapped in fish paste, and freshly-made fried tempura can be purchased at the demonstration sales shop.
Furogu Shrine
- Address
- 726-1 Sakemi, Okawa-shi
- Phone
- +81-944-87-2154
- HP
- http://www.ofurousan.or.jp/
Furogu Shrine, established about 1,800 years ago as a shrine dedicated to Empress Jingu, is called "Ofuro-san" by the locals. Okawa Kumiko woodworking craft is used quite frequently. Additionally, the "Sai no Kami no Yashiro" positioned in front of the shrine gates is said to have divine virtues, such as those that invoke good luck and fortune. The camphor tree roots that are wrapped around the stone deity are a combination of two trees, making it a sacred tree of marital harmony.
Okinohata
- Address
- Okinohata, Yanagawa-shi
The Okinohata district is the final stop of the Yanagawa River boat ride. You can find a variety of stores on both sides of the canal. Among them, you'll find the famous steamed eel, old Japanese sweets, as well as cafes that have been recently opened. You can purchase sashimi fresh seaweed and other delicacies of the Ariake Sea at the Yoake Chaya. For more details, please ask when making your reservation.
Yanagawa Station
【Things to Note】
・The Factory Shop Hiromatsu’s workshop, and purchases as well as food and drink from within the store will all be separate charges.
・For more details, please ask when making your reservation
Yamaga, Hirayama Hot Springs Course 10,500 yen/3 hours (1 compact taxi, seats up to 4 passengers)
Omuta Station
Chiyonosono Shuzo (Chiyonosono Shuzo Co.)
- Address
- 1782 Yamaga, Yamaga-shi
- Phone
- +81-968-43-2161
- HP
- https://www.chiyonosono.co.jp/
- Holidays
- June 30, New Years Holidays
- Hours
- Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Saturday, Sundays Holidays 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Established in 1896, with its focused attention on the rice used, Chiyonosono Shuzo is a brewery that has been taking home the excellence award in national competitions since before the war, never faltering in its continuing pursuit of thorough quality. You can observe the items that are used in the brewing at the archives. You can also buy Japanese sake that cannot be purchased anywhere else at the sales shop.
※Komekome Soumon Tour Info
You can join a walking tour throughout the city, in which you'll be told all about rice. Explore the area together with a delightful local guide. The participation fee is 600 yen (souvenir included), and the tour will cover Chiyonosono, Kiya Honten, and the Senbei Kobo.
Present Included
Yachiyoza
- Address
- 1499 Yamaga, Yamaga-shi
- Phone
- +81-968-44-4004
- HP
- https://yamaga.site/?page_id=2
- Closed
- 2nd Wednesday of the month, December 29 – January 1
- Hours
- 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (reception until 5:15 PM)
- Fees
- Adults 520 yen, children (6-12 years old) 260 yen
Yachiyoza is a playhouse that was established in 1910, built through the efforts of Yamaga businessmen "gentlemen." It's been designated as a nationally important cultural property. It has fully-realized functionality, such as a round stage and seats that use rails made in Germany, and even today continues in the style of kabuki playhouses from the Edo Period (1603 - 1868). It had been closed for a while, but was reopened due to the citizen's restoration efforts. In 1990, at the "Bando Tamasaburo Dance Performance" the audience was charmed by the magnificent Tamasaburo dance, performed in the playhouse from Meiji era, Yachioza. This performance become a major tailwind towards reconstruction, as the name of Yachiyoza spread throughout the country.
Yamaga Hot Springs – Hirayama Hot Springs
Yamaga Hot Springs Tourism Association Homepage：http://www.y-kankoukyoukai.com/
One of the most historic hot springs in Kumamoto Prefecture. As there is plenty of hot spring water, it's sometimes called the "Yamaga Senken Tarainashi" - meaning you can just run the hot spring water without using a basin even for doing the laundry. It's one of the original Yamaga hot springs, and including the Sakura Yu hot spring, there are many traditional and quick-use public hot springs.
Present Included (Some Facilities)
※Please confirm at time of reservation.
Hirayama Hot Springs Tourism Association Homepage：http://www.hirayama-onsen.jp/
Within the inner depths of Kumamoto/Yamaga, the Hirayama Hot Springs Village boasts slimy, syrupy, soft hot spring water, similar to cosmetic essence, called hot spring water for beautiful skin. There are around 25 hot springs facilities in the area, where you can enjoy hot spring water coming from the source while taking in nostalgic village-forest scenery.
【Things to Note】
・Returning to Omuta is optional (fees charged). For more details, please ask when making your reservation.
・Facility entrance fees, purchases as well as food and drink from within the store will all be separate charges.
An Arao Course 7,000 yen/2 hours (1 compact taxi, seats up to 4 passengers) is also available.
