1 Day Tour Onomichi Temples Exploration and Saijo Sake Tasting

Set out on a cultural excursion that blends the serene ambiance of historic temples with the delightful flavors of local sake. This one-day tour through Onomichi and Saijo promises an immersive experience, where travelers can explore the timeless architecture of revered shrines and indulge in a sake tasting that unveils the nuances of this beloved Japanese beverage. Whether you’re a history buff or a connoisseur of fine spirits, this captivating adventure offers a remarkable opportunity to discover the rich heritage and culinary delights that await.

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Key Points

A one-day guided tour exploring historic Onomichi temples and shrines, followed by a sake tasting experience in the Saijo region near Hiroshima.
Tour priced at $170.65 per person, including guide, entry fees, transportation, and lunch, with a maximum group size of 25 travelers.
Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, with departure and return at Hiroshima Station.
Inclusions cover English-speaking guide, all entry fees, transportation, sake tasting, and a provided lunch.
Tour not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available for those traveling with infants.

Tour Overview

This one-day tour allows visitors to explore the historic Onomichi temples and experience a sake tasting in the renowned Saijo region.

Priced from $170.65 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, all entry fees, transportation, and lunch.

The maximum group size is 25 travelers, and the tour is confirmed upon booking.

Participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour departs from Hiroshima Station at 9:15 am and returns to the meeting point.

Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

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Inclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking guide to provide commentary and lead the activities throughout the day.

The tour also includes:

Entry fees at all tour locations
Transportation to/from activities, including a ropeway ride
A sake tasting experience at a local brewery
Lunch to fuel the exploration
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start time, offering flexibility.

Together, these inclusions provide a comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the cultural and culinary delights of Onomichi and Saijo without having to worry about logistics.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for this tour is Hiroshima Station, located at 1-2番37号 Matsubarachō, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan.

Look for the guide holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign under the Tourist Information sign outside the Shinkansen gates.

The tour starts at 9:15 am and returns to the same meeting point.

Transportation to and from the tour activities, including the ropeway, is provided.

Please note this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can sit on laps with infant seats available.

Most travelers can participate.

Tour Schedule

The tour begins at 9:15 am. This gives travelers ample time to arrive at the meeting point – Hiroshima Station – where they’ll meet the English-speaking guide holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign.

The guide will then lead the group through the day’s activities:

Explore the historic Onomichi temples and shrines
Admire the scenic views from the Senkoji ropeway
Indulge in a sake tasting experience at a local brewery in Saijo
Enjoy a included lunch during the tour
Return to the original meeting point at the conclusion of the day

The tour schedule is designed to maximize the experience within the allotted time.

Onomichi Temples Exploration

After the group meets the guide at Hiroshima Station, they embark on the first part of the tour – exploring the historic Onomichi temples and shrines.

The guide leads them through the charming temple town, sharing insights into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. Travelers wander the atmospheric streets, admiring the historic structures and taking in the serene atmosphere.

They visit several key sites, including the iconic Senkoji Temple, renowned for its stunning views over the Seto Inland Sea.

Throughout the exploration, the guide provides engaging commentary, bringing the area’s history and culture to life.

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Saijo Sake Tasting

Next, the group heads to the renowned sake-producing region of Saijo. Here, they’ll enjoy a guided sake tasting experience:

Explore the historic sake breweries and learn about the traditional brewing process.
Sample a variety of premium sake, from light and delicate to bold and complex.
Discover the distinct flavors and aromas that define Saijo’s acclaimed sake.
Gain insights into the cultural significance of sake in Japanese cuisine and hospitality.
Take home a newfound appreciation for the art of sake-making in this picturesque region.

Transportation

The tour includes transportation to and from the various sites visited throughout the day. Participants will be picked up from the designated meeting point at Hiroshima Station and transported via private vehicle to the temples and sake tasting venue. The tour also includes a ropeway ride as part of the transportation. At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped off back at the original meeting point.

Transportation Includes	Details
Pickup and Drop-off	Hiroshima Station
Private Vehicle	For temple and sake tasting
Ropeway	For temple exploration
Roundtrip	Start and end at Hiroshima Station

Additional Information

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, with infant seats available. Most travelers can participate, though it’s likely to sell out.

Customers can reserve now and pay later for flexibility. This tour is supplied by Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.).

Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps; infant seats available
Most travelers can participate
Likely to sell out

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

The tour itself can’t be customized, but customers can request specific preferences like dietary needs or accessibility requirements. The tour provider will do their best to accommodate individual requests within the set tour parameters.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Visitors should dress appropriately for the temples and activities, such as closed-toe shoes for hiking. There’s no need for formal wear.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour. The tour overview doesn’t mention any restrictions, so participants can take photos at the temples, during the sake tasting, and throughout the day’s activities.

Can I Purchase Additional Sake Bottles During the Tasting?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional sake bottles during the tasting session. The tour includes a sake tasting experience, and you will have the opportunity to buy more bottles if they wish.

What Is the Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Refunds are available for cancellations within that timeframe, providing flexibility for travelers.

The Sum Up

This captivating one-day tour takes travelers on a cultural journey through the historic temples of Onomichi and the renowned sake region of Saijo. With an English-speaking guide, transportation, and a delicious lunch included, it’s the perfect day trip for those seeking to enjoy Japan’s rich heritage and indulge in the country’s acclaimed culinary offerings.