Explore the rich cultural heritage and renowned sake-making tradition of Japan’s Onomichi and Saijo regions on this immersive 1-day tour. Visitors can expect to visit historic temples, sample premium local sake, and savor delicious regional cuisine – all while learning about the unique history and traditions that shape this captivating corner of the country. With an expertly curated itinerary and insider access, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the essence of this fascinating destination.
Key Points
- This 1-day tour explores the renowned sake brewing town of Saijo and the historic temples of Onomichi, including a scenic ropeway ride.
- The tour is priced from $173.69 per person and includes an English-speaking guide, entry fees, transportation, sake tasting, and lunch.
- Highlights of the tour include visiting Saijo’s sake breweries, Saikokuji and Senkoji Temples, and enjoying panoramic views from Senkoji Peak Observatory.
- The tour starts and ends at Hiroshima Station, and directions are provided for various arrival methods.
- Comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing are advised, and cash is recommended for personal expenses.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The 1-Day Tour: Onomichi Temples & Saijo Sake Tasting is priced from $173.69 per person and lasts 9 hours.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entry fees, transportation, sake tasting, and lunch.
Highlights include exploring Saijo’s sake breweries, visiting Saikokuji and Senkoji Temples, and taking a scenic ropeway ride.
The meeting point is at Hiroshima Station, with directions provided for various arrival methods.
Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring cash for personal expenses, as credit cards may not be widely accepted.
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Tour Highlights
Discover Saijo, one of Japan’s famous sake brewing towns, and learn about the sake brewing process while tasting high-quality sake.
Explore Hondori Shopping Street and enjoy local specialties for lunch.
Visit Saikokuji Temple and climb 108 stone steps to the Main Hall.
Board the ropeway to Senkoji Peak Observatory for panoramic views.
Walk the Bungakuno Komichi path and read passages from Japanese authors.
The tour culminates at Senkoji Temple, which enshrines Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion.
Itinerary
After meeting at Hiroshima Station, the group heads to Saijo Honmachi Historical Square, the heart of one of Japan’s famous sake brewing towns. They stroll along Saijo Sake Brewery Street, visiting two local breweries for a sake tasting experience. Next, there’s free time in Onomichi to explore the Hondori Shopping Street and enjoy a local specialty lunch. The tour continues with a visit to Saikokuji Temple, climbing 108 stone steps to the Main Hall. Boarding the ropeway, the group ascends to Senkoji Peak Observatory for panoramic views before visiting Senkoji Temple.
| Activity | Location |
|---|---|
| Sake Tasting | Saijo Sake Brewery Street |
| Lunch | Onomichi |
| Temple Visit | Saikokuji Temple |
| Ropeway Ride | Senkoji Peak Observatory |
| Temple Visit | Senkoji Temple |
Inclusions
This tour includes an English-speaking guide, entry fees to all the tour locations, transportation to and from the activities (including the ropeway), a sake tasting experience, and lunch.
The sake tasting allows you to learn about the brewing process and sample high-quality local sake. The guided transportation ensures you reach each stop efficiently, including the scenic ropeway ride for panoramic views.
Lunch in Onomichi offers a chance to try regional specialties like Onomichi ramen or Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
With these inclusions, you can enjoy a comprehensive experience exploring Onomichi’s temples and Saijo’s sake culture.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Important Information
The meeting point for this tour is under the Tourist Information sign outside the Shinkansen gates at Hiroshima Station.
Directions are provided for various arrival methods, including the Shinkansen, JR line, bus, streetcar, and taxi.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
Cash is recommended for personal expenses, as credit cards may not be widely accepted.
Participants should prepare for a full day of activities, as the tour ends back at Hiroshima Station.
Following these guidelines will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Discover Saijo: One of Japan’s Famous Sake Brewing Towns
Saijo, one of Japan’s famous sake brewing towns, is the focal point of the tour’s sake tasting experience.
Visitors will stroll down Saijo Sake Brewery Street, exploring two local breweries and learning about the sake-making process. They’ll have the opportunity to sample high-quality sake, gaining a deeper appreciation for this iconic Japanese beverage.
The tour allows ample free time to enjoy Onomichi’s local specialties, like Onomichi ramen and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, before moving on to explore the area’s historic temples and scenic vistas.
Explore Onomichi: Scenic Views and Local Specialties
After exploring the sake breweries of Saijo, the tour shifts its focus to the historic and scenic wonders of Onomichi. Visitors wander the charming Hondori Shopping Street, sampling local specialties for lunch. Next, they climb 108 stone steps to the Main Hall of Saikokuji Temple, one of the region’s most revered Buddhist sites. A scenic ropeway ride then carries them up to the Senkoji Temple and Peak Observatory, offering panoramic views over the historic town and surrounding Seto Inland Sea.
| Onomichi Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Hondori Shopping Street | Saikokuji Temple | Senkoji Temple & Peak |
| Local specialty lunch | 108 stone steps | Panoramic vistas |
Spiritual Journey: Visiting Onomichi’s Historic Temples
As visitors ascend the 108 stone steps leading to the main hall of Saikokuji Temple, they’re struck by the serene and reverent atmosphere that permeates this historic Buddhist site.
This 700-year-old temple is just one of the spiritual landmarks they’ll encounter on this tour:
- Saikokuji Temple, with its elegant pagoda and tranquil grounds.
- The iconic Senkoji Temple, perched atop Mt. Senkoji and offering panoramic views of Onomichi.
- The Bungakuno Komichi path, where visitors can read passages from renowned Japanese authors.
This spiritual journey through Onomichi’s temples provides a profound connection to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not mention if participants can bring their own food and drinks. It’s best to check with the tour operator to understand their policies on outside provisions. Bringing your own snacks and beverages may not be allowed.
Is the Tour Suitable for Wheelchair Users?
The tour doesn’t appear well-suited for wheelchair users. There are several activities, like climbing 108 stone steps, that may pose accessibility challenges. It’s best to contact the tour operator to inquire about accommodations for travelers with mobility needs.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?
The tour operator may allow customizing the itinerary or extending the duration, but customers should inquire directly. Additional fees or restrictions may apply. It’s best to discuss any special requests with the tour provider in advance.
Do I Need to Tip the Guide at the End of the Tour?
No, tipping the guide is not required on this tour. The tour price includes the guide’s services, and additional tipping is not expected. The tour company handles all compensation for the guide.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions or requirements. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. Guests should be able to walk comfortably for the duration of the 9-hour tour.
The Sum Up
This 1-day tour offers an immersive experience into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can savor the flavors of Saijo’s renowned sake, admire the scenic beauty of Onomichi, and explore the region’s historic temples – all within a convenient 9-hour itinerary. With guided explorations and local cuisine, this tour provides an excellent introduction to the unique charms of Hiroshima Prefecture.
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