Cherry Blossom Buddha and Mt.Yoshino With Strawberry Picking Tour

The Cherry Blossom Buddha and Mt. Yoshino with Strawberry Picking Tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of Japan’s iconic spring. Visitors will marvel at the renowned Senbonzakura blossoms adorning Mt. Yoshino while exploring the serene Tsubosaka Temple. But the true delight lies in delectable strawberry picking and a traditional bento picnic. With comfortable transportation and an English-speaking guide, this tour promises an immersive cultural experience amidst the breathtaking cherry blossoms. What else awaits on this extraordinary journey?

Key Points

• A day tour from Osaka that showcases the stunning cherry blossoms of Mount Yoshino, known as ‘Senbonzakura’ or Thousand Cherry Blossoms.
• Includes visits to Tsubosaka Temple and a local strawberry farm for picking, along with a traditional Japanese bento box lunch.
• Provides round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a maximum group size of 40 travelers for a personalized experience.
• Tour not suitable for wheelchair users, and dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in the bento lunch.
• Generally positive reviews highlighting the scenic beauty and informative guide, though some mention language barriers.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of Mount Yoshino during the cherry blossom season.

Known for its ‘Senbonzakura’ or Thousand Cherry Blossoms, the mountain features multiple viewpoints to admire the pink hues.

The experience also includes a visit to Tsubosaka Temple and a strawberry picking session at a local farm.

With round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a boxed lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of the region’s natural and cultural highlights during the fleeting spring bloom.

Transportation and Meeting Details

The tour provides comfortable, air-conditioned bus transportation from Osaka. Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point, the Mainichi Newspaper building in Kita Ward.

Details	Information
Meeting Point	Mainichi Newspaper building, 3-chōme-4-5 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0001, Japan
Departure Time	08:30 am
Maximum Participants	40 travelers

The tour may use bus or train transportation, subject to change based on traffic or other factors. Participants should note that smoking is prohibited on the bus, and seatbelts are mandatory.

Lunch and Dietary Information

A picnic bento is included as part of the tour, which features a variety of Japanese dishes.

The bento box includes Kakinohazushi, fried food, Japanese rolled omelet, a seasonal side dish, and green tea.

While the tour provider can’t accommodate dietary restrictions by modifying the bento contents, guests with allergies or other dietary needs can opt for the "No Lunch" plan instead.

The bento provides a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine, complementing the culture of the tour.

Guests should expect a fulfilling and authentic meal amidst the scenic cherry blossoms and Buddha temple.

Tour Conditions and Regulations

Although the tour is accessible to most travelers, the experience does have some important conditions and regulations to consider.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Participants should be aware that the tour may be canceled if the minimum of 10 travelers isn’t met 14 days prior, though a full refund is provided for natural disasters.

Smoking is prohibited on the bus, and seatbelts are mandatory. Large luggage is also not allowed on the tour.

Reviews and Feedback

Based on the 4.5 rating from 4 reviews, travelers have generally reported positive experiences on the Cherry Blossom Buddha and Mt. Yoshino tour.

Highlights include:

1. The tour’s unique experience, with one reviewer praising the "informative guide" and "beautiful locations."
2. However, some feedback noted language barriers with the guide.
3. The tour received positive reviews for the food and scenic beauty, with one traveler describing it as a "must-see" during cherry blossom season.

While a few minor issues were raised, the tour seems to deliver on its promises of a memorable spring adventure in Japan.

Exploring Mount Yoshino

Mount Yoshino is the centerpiece of this tour, renowned for its remarkable ‘Senbonzakura’ or ‘Thousand Cherry Blossoms‘.

Visitors explore multiple viewpoints along the mountain’s slopes, showcasing the vast expanse of delicate pink blooms. The tranquil Tsubosaka Temple provides a serene respite, its golden Buddhas contrasting beautifully against the cherry blossoms.

Travelers can wander the historic paths and take in the stunning vistas, capturing the essence of Japan’s celebrated springtime.

With numerous observation decks and hiking trails, Mount Yoshino offers an immersive experience amidst the natural splendor of the cherry blossom season.

The Cherry Blossom Buddha

The cherry blossoms surrounding the Tsubosaka Temple create a breathtaking backdrop for the golden Buddha statues within.

This centuries-old temple is a highlight of the tour, offering visitors a chance to:

1. Admire the intricate architecture and ornate design of the temple
2. Witness the serene, contemplative atmosphere as worshippers pay their respects
3. Capture stunning photos of the cherry blossoms framing the golden Buddha figures

The Tsubosaka Temple’s tranquil ambiance and spiritual significance make it a perfect complement to the natural beauty of Mount Yoshino’s cherry blossom landscapes.

Strawberry Picking Adventure

After exploring the serenity of the Tsubosaka Temple, the tour takes visitors to a local strawberry farm for a fun picking experience.

Guests delight in the opportunity to wander through rows of plump, juicy strawberries, plucking the freshest ones directly from the vines. The guide provides tips on how to identify the ripest berries and encourages everyone to sample the sweet, fragrant fruit.

Following the picking, participants enjoy a picnic-style bento lunch featuring local specialties.

The strawberry experience offers a delightful contrast to the contemplative atmosphere of the temple, providing a well-rounded day immersed in Japan’s spring beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

According to the tour details, bringing your own food is not recommended. The tour includes a picnic bento lunch, and there are no changes allowed to the lunch ingredients. Bringing your own food is not mentioned as an option.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for Strawberry Picking?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment for strawberry picking. You can simply use your hands to pick the fresh strawberries at the on-site farm. Just be sure to follow the guide’s instructions during the strawberry picking experience.

Is Photography Allowed at the Temples and Shrines?

Photography is generally allowed at temples and shrines on this tour, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting worship or ceremonies. Check with the guide for any specific restrictions.

How Long Do We Spend at Each Location During the Tour?

The tour spends approximately 1-2 hours at each location, including Mount Yoshino’s scenic viewpoints and Tsubosaka Temple. The exact duration may vary depending on the group’s pace and any unforeseen circumstances during the day.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Lunch Option?

According to the tour details, there are no changes to the standard lunch ingredients. However, travelers with dietary restrictions can choose the "No Lunch" plan option instead.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture. Witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms of Mount Yoshino, visit the serene Tsubosaka Temple, and indulge in the delightful experience of strawberry picking. With comfortable transportation and an English-speaking guide, it’s an unforgettable opportunity to explore Japan’s iconic spring landscape and savor the country’s rich heritage.