Hiroshima: Hiking Guide Tour With Open-Air Tea Ceremony

Hiroshima’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage come together in this guided hiking tour. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, exploring iconic sites like the Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine and witnessing a serene open-air tea ceremony. With a small group size and bilingual guidance, this 3-hour adventure promises an enriching blend of nature and tradition. The stunning vistas and tranquil forest bathing along the way make this tour a must-try for anyone seeking to discover Hiroshima’s captivating blend of the old and new.

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided hiking tour in Hiroshima’s scenic landscapes, including a visit to Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine, Kinko Inari Shrine, and Hiroshima Peace Pagoda.
• An open-air tea ceremony at the top of Futaba Mountain, providing a unique cultural experience.
• A forest bathing practice to connect with nature during the tour.
• Priced from ¥2,621 per person, with a maximum of 6 participants and availability in Japanese and English.
• Positive customer reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the blend of outdoor exploration with traditional cultural elements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a hiking guide through Hiroshima’s scenic landscapes, culminating in an open-air tea ceremony. Priced from ¥2,621 per person, the 3-hour experience is limited to 6 participants and available in Japanese and English.

With free cancellation up to 2 days in advance, the tour includes a guided visit to shrines, forest bathing, and the tea ceremony with stunning mountain views.

While not suitable for those with heart problems, the hike ascends 500 steps, making it an immersive cultural encounter amidst Hiroshima’s natural beauty.

Experience Highlights

Hikers can look forward to an immersive cultural experience on this tour. The hike up Futaba Mountain offers stunning views of Hiroshima in the morning light.

At the top, you will enjoy an open-air tea ceremony, taking in the tranquil atmosphere. Along the way, the group will visit significant sites like Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine, Kinko Inari Shrine, and Hiroshima Peace Pagoda, learning about the area’s history.

Guests can also engage in forest bathing, a Japanese practice of connecting with nature. This tour provides a well-rounded adventure blending outdoor exploration and traditional cultural elements.

Itinerary Details

Participants start the tour at either the Seven Bank ATM or HIROSHIMA STATION.

First, they visit Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine for a 30-minute guided tour.

Next, they hike 25 minutes to Kinko Inari Shrine.

At the Hiroshima Peace Pagoda, they stop for a photo opportunity.

The highlight is the 1-hour open-air tea ceremony at Kinko Inari Shrine.

Finally, the tour ends with a drop-off at HIROSHIMA STATION or the Seven Bank ATM.

Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights about the area’s history and culture as participants enjoy the natural surroundings.

Inclusions and Restrictions

This guided tour includes several amenities for participants. The tour provides a knowledgeable guide, an open-air tea ceremony, and opportunities for forest bathing. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also included. However, the tour may not be suitable for those with heart problems, as it involves ascending 500 steps. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed. To help you understand the inclusions and restrictions, here is a table:

Inclusions	Restrictions
Guide	Not suitable for those with heart problems
Open-air tea ceremony	500 steps must be ascended
Forest bathing	Alcohol and drugs not allowed
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Breakfast (if selected)

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

The hiking tour has earned an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 47 reviews.

Customers have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Many have highlighted the tour’s highlights, including the beautiful hike and views, as well as the unique experiences of the tea ceremony and forest bathing.

One reviewer from Germany said, "The guide was so sweet and nice!"

A traveler from the Netherlands noted, "Learned more about Shinto, loved the modern tea ceremony."

A UK guest raved, "Phenomenal tour! Forest bathing was a beautiful way to connect with nature."

Exploring Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine

As visitors approach the Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine, they’re greeted by its ornate architecture and rich cultural significance. This Shinto shrine, dedicated to the first Tokugawa shogun, offers a glimpse into Japan’s historical legacy:

• The shrine’s intricate carvings and vibrant red lacquer exemplify traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

• Visitors can explore the main hall, which houses sacred Shinto artifacts and serves as a gathering place for religious ceremonies.

• The peaceful grounds, dotted with towering trees, provide a serene respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to connect with the shrine’s spiritual essence.

Hiking to Kinko Inari Shrine

After exploring the ornate Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine, the hiking guide leads participants on a 25-minute trek to the Kinko Inari Shrine.

The path winds through a lush, green forest, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Along the way, the guide shares insights into the area’s history and culture.

Reaching the vermilion-colored Kinko Inari Shrine, participants can admire the intricate architecture and snap photos of the picturesque scenery.

This stop on the tour provides a serene moment to connect with nature before the next activity – the open-air tea ceremony.

Experiencing the Open-air Tea Ceremony

What happens next on the hiking tour is the open-air tea ceremony at the Kinko Inari Shrine.

The guide leads the group to a serene spot on the shrine grounds, overlooking the picturesque landscape.

The guide demonstrates the elegant movements of the traditional tea ceremony:

• Meticulously whisking the matcha powder into a frothy brew
• Presenting the tea bowls with care and precision
• Inviting each participant to sip the refreshing green tea

The ceremony provides a moment of tranquility and culture, allowing the hikers to connect with the essence of Japanese tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider first to ensure any restrictions or recommendations. The tour includes breakfast, so additional food may not be necessary.

Is the Hiking Trail Family-Friendly and Suitable for Children?

The hiking trail is generally considered family-friendly, but it involves ascending 500 steps. Parents should assess their children’s physical abilities before booking. The tour may not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility.

How Much Walking Is Involved and What Is the Difficulty Level?

The tour involves a moderate 500-step hike up Futaba Mountain. While not overly strenuous, the ascent may be challenging for some. The guide can advise participants on the difficulty level and suitability for children.

Is There an Option to Skip the Shrine Visits and Just Do the Hike?

There doesn’t seem to be an option to just do the hike without the shrine visits. The tour itinerary includes stops at three shrines, and the description states the hike is part of the overall experience.

Can I Request a Private Tour or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, you can request a private tour or customize the itinerary. The tour provider offers flexible options to accommodate your preferences, such as adjusting the activities or focusing solely on the hike.

The Sum Up

This unique Hiroshima tour offers a blend of nature and culture. Hikers will visit iconic sites, partake in a tranquil open-air tea ceremony, and enjoy stunning views. With a maximum of six participants and bilingual guidance, it promises an enriching adventure for those seeking to explore Hiroshima’s scenic landscapes and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: