Every journey is privately arranged and tailored to your interests, preferred travel dates, and the season. Rather than following a fixed schedule, each itinerary is carefully planned around the daily lives of the local people you will meet. This allows every journey to feel natural, personal, and connected to the rhythm of everyday life. Tours are available for groups of two or more guests. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your ideal journey.

Discover Nakatsu Through the People Who Call It Home

Nakatsu isn’t simply a castle town or the home of Japan’s famous karaage.

Easily reached in about 75 minutes by Sonic Limited Express from Hakata Station, it’s an ideal gateway to a slower, more personal side of Kyushu.

It’s a place where people know one another, where conversations continue around the table, and where one introduction naturally leads to the next.

Your journey begins with Kanae Nakashima and Koji Mikumo, two locals who love Nakatsu and the people who make it special. Through their friendships and personal connections, you’ll be welcomed into everyday life in ways that ordinary travelers rarely experience.

You’ll share meals with local people, spend time in places they genuinely love, and meet the friends, shop owners, and neighbors who make Nakatsu feel like home.

By the end of your journey, you won’t simply remember the castle town or the scenery of Yabakei.

You’ll leave with people you’ll want to come back and see again.

Where This Journey Fits into Your Japan Itinerary

Many travelers visit Hakata, Yufuin, or Beppu, but few take the time to explore the castle town of Nakatsu and the dramatic landscapes of Yabakei that lie between them.

Nakatsu fits naturally into a wider journey through Kyushu. Spend two nights discovering the region through the people who know it best, from local food lovers and sake enthusiasts to the communities that have shaped Nakatsu’s culture for generations.

Located just 30 minutes from Kokura and about 75 minutes from Hakata by Limited Express, Nakatsu is an easy addition to a journey across northern Kyushu.

One Example of a Kyushu Itinerary

Hakata

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Limited Express (Sonic)

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Nakatsu

(2 Nights with Kanpai Meets Japan)

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Limited Express (Sonic)

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Beppu / Yufuin

This is just one example of how this journey can be included in a wider trip through Kyushu. You’re welcome to start or end your journey wherever it best fits your travel plans.

Perfect for Travelers Who…

• Are planning a 7–14 day trip to Japan
• Want to discover rural Kyushu beyond major Golden Route destinations
• Enjoy meeting local people through food, sake, and meaningful conversations
• Prefer immersive, small-group journeys over traditional sightseeing

Why You’ll Love This Journey

Discover Nakatsu through the friendships and local connections of two people who know the town by heart

Experience both the castle town and the dramatic landscapes of Yabakei through local eyes

Explore the cafés, restaurants, and hidden places that locals genuinely love—not simply the places visitors usually go

Experience Nakatsu as a place where conversations naturally lead from one person to the next.

Meet the People Who Call Nakatsu Home

Welcoming You to the Everyday Life of Nakatsu

Kanae Nakashima
Owner of TATEYA, a community inn where travelers naturally become part of local life.

“The world is small, but home is infinite.”

This is a phrase that Kanae Nakashima holds close to her heart.

After graduating from university, she built her career in Japan’s hospitality industry, working for major resort hotels and accommodation providers before returning to her hometown of Nakatsu. In 2024, she opened TATEYA.Glocally HOTEL, a unique place designed to connect travelers with the local community.

Kanae’s Nakatsu is not limited to famous landmarks. She introduces visitors to the town’s living culture through its shopping streets, hidden alleyways, neighborhood cafés, and the small businesses that locals frequent every day.

As you walk through the castle town together, you’ll meet local residents and discover the places and stories that rarely appear in guidebooks. Through Kanae’s perspective, you’ll experience Nakatsu not as a tourist destination, but as a community where people live, work, and gather.

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Introducing the Nature and Community of Yabakei

Koji Mikumo
Regional producer, forester, and longtime local who introduces the landscapes, traditions, and people that shape life in Yabakei.

Koji Mikumo works for the Nakatsu Yabakei Tourism Association while also pursuing his work as a forester and regional producer.

After gaining experience with an international hotel chain, he returned to his roots and took over his family’s forestry business. Today, he is involved in a variety of projects that draw on the region’s natural and cultural resources while helping shape its future.

The places Koji introduces are not limited to the famous scenery of Yabakei. Along the way, you’ll meet local producers, hunters, and community leaders who are creating new opportunities in the region while maintaining a close connection to the land.

Yabakei and Yamakuni are known for their dramatic landscapes, but their true character is found in the people who live there. Through conversations and encounters with local residents, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the traditions, livelihoods, and stories that continue to shape this remarkable part of Japan.

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Discover the Heart of Nakatsu

Nakatsu: A Living Castle Town

Nakatsu is a historic castle town that flourished during the Edo period (1603–1868) as the seat of the Nakatsu Domain. At its center stands Nakatsu Castle, a landmark closely associated with the renowned samurai strategist Kanbei Kuroda. The city is also known as the birthplace of Yukichi Fukuzawa, one of Japan’s most influential thinkers and educators, whose former residence and memorial museum can still be visited today.

Yet Nakatsu’s appeal extends far beyond its historical landmarks.

Traditional shopping streets, family-run businesses, neighborhood cafés, and local eateries continue to shape everyday life in the town. In recent years, a new generation of entrepreneurs has opened cafés, accommodations, and creative spaces, bringing fresh energy to the community while preserving its character.

During your walk with Kanae Nakashima, you’ll visit not only Nakatsu Castle and sites connected to Yukichi Fukuzawa, but also the shops, cafés, and hidden corners that locals enjoy in their daily lives. It’s an opportunity to experience the castle town through the eyes of someone who calls it home, where history and everyday life naturally blend together.

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Yabakei and Yamakuni: Where Nature and Community Thrive

Stretching across western Nakatsu, the Yabakei and Yamakuni region is known for some of Japan’s most spectacular natural scenery. Famous viewpoints such as Hitome Hakkei and Aonodomon showcase dramatic rock formations, deep valleys, and landscapes that have inspired travelers for generations.

But the true character of this region lies beyond the scenery.

In these satoyama landscapes, where forests, farmland, and villages exist in close balance, forestry and agriculture remain an important part of everyday life. Local residents continue traditions that have been passed down for generations while also creating new opportunities that support the future of their communities.

As you explore the region with Koji Mikumo, you’ll enjoy the iconic scenery of Yabakei while meeting local producers, hunters, and community builders who are shaping the area’s future. Through these encounters, you’ll discover the stories, livelihoods, and connections that bring this landscape to life and gain a deeper understanding of Yabakei and Yamakuni beyond what can be seen from a viewpoint alone.

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The Flavors of Nakatsu

Nakatsu is known throughout Japan as the “home of karaage,” but its food culture extends far beyond its famous fried chicken. From Tsunoji Hamo, a prized conger eel caught in the Buzen Sea, to Higata Bijin, a premium local oyster, Nakatsu’s seasonal specialties reflect the changing flavors of both the sea and the surrounding mountains.

Local ingredients play an important role in everyday life here. Seasonal seafood, produce from the satoyama countryside, and regional sake all reflect the character of the region and the people who call it home.

Throughout this journey, you’ll visit restaurants and food spots recommended by Kanae Nakashima and Koji Mikumo, experiencing Nakatsu through the flavors that locals love. In the evening, you’ll gather around the table with local residents, sharing food, drinks, and stories. A lively debate about who serves the best karaage in town may even become part of the experience.

In Nakatsu, food is more than something to eat. It’s a way to connect with people, culture, and community.

Nakatsu: The Home of Karaage

Nakatsu is famous for its many karaage specialty shops, each with its own secret seasoning and frying style. Ask local residents where the best karaage can be found, and you’ll likely hear a different answer from everyone.

During the tour, you’ll stop at one of Kanae or Koji’s favorite spots to experience this beloved local specialty for yourself.

Tsunoji Hamo from the Buzen Sea

Large conger eel caught in the Buzen Sea off the coast of Nakatsu is known locally as Tsunoji Hamo. The name comes from the way exceptionally fresh hamo naturally curls into the shape of the Japanese character “tsu.”

Known for its rich flavor, delicate texture, and tender flesh, it is considered one of the region’s signature summer delicacies.

Higata Bijin Oysters

Raised in the vast tidal flats of the Buzen Sea, Higata Bijin is Nakatsu’s signature oyster brand.

The area’s dramatic tidal changes help create firm, flavorful oysters with a rich umami taste and creamy texture. They are among the most celebrated seafood products of the region.

Local Sake and Izakaya Culture

A night in Nakatsu is about more than great food.

Together with Kanae, Koji, and local residents, you’ll visit izakaya pubs and standing bars where people naturally gather after work. Over local sake, shared dishes, and KANPAI, conversations flow easily between travelers and locals.

These spontaneous encounters and shared moments are an important part of what makes Nakatsu special.

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A Town Connected by People

One of the first things you’ll notice in Nakatsu is how naturally people connect with one another.

Whether it’s a shop owner in the shopping district, a local producer, or a regular at a neighborhood izakaya, new encounters seem to happen wherever you go. Walking through town with Kanae Nakashima and Koji Mikumo opens doors to conversations and connections that most travelers would never experience on their own.

In the evenings, you’ll share drinks with local residents at izakaya pubs and standing bars. Before long, you may find yourself chatting with the person sitting next to you, exchanging stories, and perhaps even deciding to visit one more place together.

The memories that stay with us after a journey are not always the famous sights or the meals we enjoyed. More often, they are the conversations we shared, the people we met, and the moments of laughter around the same table.

The connections that Kanae and Koji make possible are what make this journey truly special. Through the people of Nakatsu, you’ll discover a side of Japan that can’t be found in guidebooks.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 | Discover Everyday Nakatsu with Kanae

Your journey begins in Nakatsu, where you’ll be welcomed by Kanae Nakashima, owner of TATEYA.Glocally HOTEL and one of the people helping shape a new generation of local tourism in the city.

Together, you’ll explore Nakatsu beyond its famous landmarks. Wander the historic castle town, visit sites connected to Yukichi Fukuzawa, stroll through shopping streets and hidden alleyways, and stop by cafés, shops, and local favorites that reveal the town’s everyday character.

The pace is relaxed and flexible, allowing Kanae to tailor the day around your interests, the season, and whatever unexpected encounters may arise.

After checking in at TATEYA.Glocally HOTEL, the evening takes on a different rhythm. Join Kanae, Koji Mikumo—who will guide you through Yabakei the following day—and their local friends for dinner, drinks, and conversation.

What begins as dinner rarely ends there. Someone suggests another favorite spot, familiar faces appear, conversations continue over another drink, and before long you’re enjoying Nakatsu’s nightlife like an old friend. The evening often ends the way many local nights do—with one last bowl of ramen before heading home.

Day 2 | Explore Yabakei with Koji

Today you’ll discover a different side of Nakatsu with Koji Mikumo, a forester, regional producer, and lifelong resident of Yamakuni.

Travel through the dramatic landscapes of Yabakei while meeting the people who shape life here today. Visit local producers, learn about forestry and satoyama culture, meet a local hunter, and hear how people continue to build their lives in this remarkable region.

Along the way, enjoy lunch featuring local ingredients and stop at one of Koji’s favorite countryside karaage shops. In Nakatsu, everyone has their own opinion about which shop serves the best karaage—and Koji is no exception.

Return to Nakatsu in the late afternoon and enjoy another relaxing evening at TATEYA.Glocally HOTEL.

The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. If you’d like, Kanae and Koji will be happy to recommend some of their favorite neighborhood restaurants, cafés, and izakaya—giving you another chance to experience Nakatsu through the places local people genuinely love.

Day 3 | Discover Nakatsu Through Its Local Flavors

Before saying goodbye, spend one more morning exploring Nakatsu through the flavors local people love.

Depending on the season, Kanae and Koji may introduce you to specialties such as Tsunoji Hamo from the Buzen Sea, Higata Bijin oysters, or other seasonal ingredients that reflect the region’s rich food culture. You may also visit another favorite karaage shop—because no visit to Nakatsu is complete without hearing one more local opinion on which shop is truly the best.

Like every part of this journey, the final morning is shaped by the people you meet, the conversations you share, and the places your hosts genuinely want you to experience.

Your journey concludes at Nakatsu Station in the afternoon.

Notes

• This is a sample journey and may change depending on the season, weather, and the availability of local hosts.
• As a private and customized experience, every journey is tailored to your interests, preferred travel dates, and travel pace.
• Specific people, restaurants, activities, and locations may vary throughout the year, allowing each visit to reflect the season and the everyday rhythm of life in Nakatsu.
• Dinner on Day 2 is not included, allowing you the flexibility to explore Nakatsu’s local food scene at your own pace.

Make This Journey Your Own

Practical Information

Price	Indicative price From ¥235,000 per person (based on 2 guests) Final pricing varies depending on the season, itinerary, accommodation, and experiences selected.
Journey Style	Private, fully customized journey Recommended duration: 3 days (flexible) Available year-round 2–6 guests
Accommodation	TATEYA.Glocally HOTEL (Private Room) Your home in Nakatsu is TATEYA.Glocally HOTEL, owned by your host Kanae Nakashima. More than simply a place to stay, it serves as the starting point for the conversations, introductions, and local connections that shape your journey.
What’s Included	・Two nights’ accommodation at TATEYA.Glocally HOTEL ・Meals (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner) ・Private transportation for all scheduled experiences on Day 2 ・English-speaking interpretation support during scheduled experiences ・All scheduled experiences and entrance fees ・Visits and introductions to local producers, shop owners, and community members ・Evening gathering with Kanae Nakashima, Koji Mikumo, and local residents ・Exclusive experiences arranged through KMJ’s local relationships ・Coordination with local hosts before and during your journey ・WhatsApp support before and during your trip ・Domestic travel accident insurance
Not Included	・Transportation to and from the meeting point ・Personal expenses ・Optional food and beverages not included in the itinerary
Meeting Point	JR Nakatsu Station Meet Kanae Nakashima at JR Nakatsu Station, where she’ll personally welcome you to Nakatsu and your journey into local life begins.
Cancellation Policy	20–11 days before departure: 20% of the tour price 10–1 days before departure: 50% of the tour price Same-day cancellation or no-show: 100% of the tour price
Payment	Credit card (Visa and Mastercard) Detailed payment instructions will be provided after booking.
Additional Information	Each journey is individually designed. Your final itinerary will be confirmed after your consultation and booking request. Evening gatherings with your hosts and local residents are included as part of the experience. If the evening naturally continues after the included gathering, you’re welcome to join. Any additional food and beverages purchased afterward are at your own expense. Bookings must be made at least 20 days before your preferred departure date.
Language Support	Most experiences are hosted in Japanese. A professional English-speaking interpreter accompanies the journey to support communication while allowing conversations with local people to remain natural and authentic. Italian-language interpretation is also available upon request.
Getting Around	Private Transportation (Included) Private transportation is provided for all experiences included in your itinerary. If you’d like to arrange transportation during your free time, we’re happy to discuss the available options. Self-Drive Option (Available on Request) A self-drive version of this journey can also be arranged upon request.