Deluxe Private Tour: Aso, One Piece Statues and Shrine Visit

Exploring Kyushu with the Deluxe Private Tour: Aso, One Piece Statues, and Shrine Visit

Traveling in Japan offers endless surprises, but this private tour from Fukuoka to Kumamoto blends pop culture, natural beauty, and local spirituality into a single day. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a highly tailored experience that balances fun with authenticity.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s completely private, meaning your own small group (up to three people) gets total flexibility in pacing and stops. Second, it hits all 10 One Piece statues in the region—an absolute must for anime fans—and combines this with scenic stops like Mount Aso and Kamishikimi Shrine. Lastly, the opportunity to enjoy local food, relax at a shrine, and explore hidden Kyushu spots makes it a well-rounded adventure.

A potential consideration? The day involves around 8-16 hours on the road, so comfort and weather readiness are key. It’s best suited for those who love a mix of pop culture and natural landscapes, and who appreciate a personalized, flexible itinerary that adapts to your interests. If you’re after a curated, intimate experience that balances sightseeing with the chance to dive into local life, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Exclusive private experience with a maximum of three guests, ensuring personalized attention.
• All 10 One Piece statues are covered in one day, ideal for fans and collectors.
• Flexible route and timing allow you to prioritize stops or explore hidden gems.
• Expert local guides share insider stories and take you off the beaten path.
• Includes pick-up from Fukuoka, making the start easy and hassle-free.
• Ideal for diverse interests — from pop culture lovers to nature enthusiasts and foodies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Private Nature of the Tour

One of the biggest perks of this experience is its private setup. With just your group (maximum 3 guests), the day feels intimate and relaxed. You won’t be stuck behind strangers, and your guide can adapt the schedule based on your pace and interests. The tour provider, Alien to Me, emphasizes this flexibility—so if you want to linger longer at a shrine or skip certain stops for more photos, it’s all possible.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Fukuoka: Your adventure kicks off with a pickup in Fukuoka City, a major hub that’s convenient for travelers staying there. From the start, the focus is on feeling free—your guide will set the tone for a laid-back yet explorative day.

All 10 One Piece Statues: The core highlight is visiting all 10 statues scattered across Kyushu, each representing a different Straw Hat crew member:

• Zoro Bronze Statue: Often the first stop, this photo moment sets the tone with its detailed craftsmanship.
• Robin, Usopp, Nami, Sanji, Brook, Jimbei, Chopper, Monkey D. Luffy, and Franky: Each statue is a dedicated photo stop, with some guests noting the surprise of how well the statues capture the characters’ personalities.
• Strategic Stops: Between statues, expect scenic drives, with views of the countryside and mountains, making every photo opportunity unique.

Nakadake Craters: This stop is a definite highlight—expect stunning views of Japan’s most active volcano. The crater area offers both impressive scenery and a chance to learn about the region’s volcanic activity. Reviewers appreciated the well-timed stop here, describing it as “breathtaking” and a good contrast to the pop-culture stops.

Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine: Known for its peaceful atmosphere, this shrine offers a spiritual break amidst your adventure. The guided visit allows for some meaningful moments and quiet reflection, especially appreciated after the energetic statue stops.

Lunch at Takamori: The tour includes a one-hour break for lunch at a local spot, giving you a chance to sample Kumamoto’s famous ramen. Reviewers often mention how the lunch is a highlight, with some describing the ramen as “a bowl of comfort,” perfect after a busy morning.

Additional Statue Stops: After lunch, your guide takes you to the remaining Nami, Sanji, Brook, Jimbei, and Chopper statues. Each provides a chance for quick photos and some shopping or sightseeing if desired. The guide’s insider stories make these moments more engaging.

What to Expect on the Road

Traveling in a comfortable vehicle, you’ll enjoy scenic Kyushu landscapes—green rolling hills, volcanic vistas, and rural villages. The guide’s commentary is both friendly and informative, and many reviews mention how the guide (sometimes speaking Dutch, English, or French) makes the experience feel personalized.

Guests also appreciate the freedom to stop whenever they want for photos or to explore a hidden corner. The flexible timing means you won’t feel rushed, and you can customize the day based on your preferences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Access, Comfort, and Practicalities

Transportation: The private vehicle is described as comfortable, ideal for a full day on the road. Since weather can change quickly, packing layers, rain gear, and sun protection is advisable.

Timing: The full day on the road means around 8 hours of sightseeing, so comfortable clothes and sunglasses are recommended. The tour starts with a pickup in Fukuoka, making logistics straightforward.

Group Size: Small groups (max 3 guests) translate into more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. This is not a crowded bus tour but a tailored experience.

Costs and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the focus on private, flexible, and personalized service suggests a premium experience. Considering that all the major stops are included, and the tour covers transport, a guide, and special photo opportunities, it offers solid value for fans who want a curated experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Food and Cultural Highlights

The inclusion of local Kumamoto ramen adds culinary authenticity, giving you a taste of regional flavors. The stop at Kamishikimi Shrine also offers a peaceful cultural experience, contrasting the lively statue stops with serene spirituality.

Insider Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking around shrines and crater viewpoints.
• Have your camera or smartphone fully charged for numerous photos.
• Weather can be unpredictable—layer your clothing and bring rain protection just in case.
• If you have specific interests, communicate with your guide beforehand to tailor stops further.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who crave a personalized and relaxed day with a mix of pop culture, scenic landscapes, and local culture. Anime fans will enjoy the opportunity to see all 10 statues, but the tour’s scenic stops and shrine visits make it appealing even if you’re not a hardcore fan—they provide a genuine taste of Kyushu’s natural beauty and spiritual sites.

It’s particularly valuable for those who want to avoid large groups or organized bus tours, and prefer having a guide who can share local stories and hidden spots. The flexibility makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who value comfort and customization.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a well-balanced journey through Kyushu’s scenic and cultural highlights, with a fun pop-culture twist thanks to the One Piece statues. Its personalized approach, combined with scenic stops like Mount Aso and Kamishikimi Shrine, means you’ll enjoy a full day tailored to your interests.

The inclusion of local food and insider stories makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an authentic taste of Kyushu’s spirit, all with the convenience of door-to-door pickup and a relaxed pace.

If you’re a fan of One Piece, love exploring Japan’s natural landscapes, or simply want a private, flexible day trip that combines fun with culture, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially great for small groups who want a customized experience without the crowds.

FAQ

How many guests can join this tour?
This tour is limited to a private group of up to 3 guests, making it ideal for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers pick-up in Fukuoka, transportation in a private vehicle, a local guide, and all the planned stops—including all 10 One Piece statues, scenic viewpoints, and the shrine visit. Food and shopping are not included but can be enjoyed during scheduled breaks.

Is there flexibility in the schedule?
Yes, the route and timing are flexible and can be adjusted based on your pace and interests. Stops can be extended or shortened, and detours to hidden spots are possible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, weather-appropriate layers, sun protection, rain gear if needed, and a camera or smartphone for photos. Since it’s a long day, consider bringing snacks or water.

How long is the total driving time?
The full-day tour involves around 8 hours of on-the-road time, with multiple stops for sightseeing and breaks.

Can I customize the stops?
While the main stops are fixed, the private nature of the tour means your guide can help customize the experience if you have special interests or requests.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility concerns?
Mobility considerations should be discussed in advance; some stops involve walking or standing, especially at shrines and crater viewpoints. Your guide can advise on accessibility.

This private tour offers a unique blend of Japan’s natural beauty, cultural serenity, and vibrant pop culture, all wrapped into one memorable day. Whether you’re a dedicated anime fan or a curious traveler seeking authentic Kyushu experiences, this flexible journey promises both fun and discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby