Osaka serves as the starting point for this enriching 11-hour tour, which showcases some of Japan’s most captivating cultural attractions. Guests will enjoy the serene beauty of Okayama Korakuen, one of the country’s premier landscape gardens, before delving into the art of sushi-making. The journey continues with a charming walking tour through the historic town of Kurashiki, renowned for its picturesque canals and well-preserved architecture. With an experienced guide, transportation, and meals included, this tour promises a delightful blend of cultural and culinary delights.
Key Points
- This 11-hour tour from Osaka visits Okayama Korakuen, offers a hands-on sushi-making experience, and includes a walking tour of the historical town of Kurashiki.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and includes admission fees, transportation, lunch, and a sightseeing coupon.
- The tour has a maximum of 10 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
- Participants must arrive at the meeting point by 7:40 am, and the tour departs from Hotel Granvia Osaka at 7:50 am.
- The tour is not recommended for travelers with medical conditions or pregnant women, and vegetarian meal options are available upon request.
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Tour Overview
The "Okayama Korakuen, Sushi Making and Kurashiki Walking" tour provides travelers with a comprehensive experience exploring iconic landmarks, engaging in a hands-on sushi-making activity, and discovering the picturesque town of Kurashiki.
The 11-hour journey begins at 7:40 am in Osaka, with a maximum of 10 participants. The tour includes admission fees, transportation, a sushi-making class, lunch, and a sightseeing coupon for Kurashiki.
An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day. Participants will travel by Shinkansen to Okayama and Kurashiki, with opportunities to explore at their own pace within the provided itinerary.
Inclusions and Costs
Although admission fees and transportation costs are included in the tour package, participants should be aware of some additional details.
The tour provides a Kakushi Sushi Making Experience and Lunch, as well as a Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon. A National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter is also included, along with Shinkansen Tickets.
The tour is priced at $351.90 per person, with a lowest price guarantee. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience.
However, allergy-friendly, halal, or gluten-free meal requests aren’t available, though vegetarian options can be requested at booking.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The meeting point for the tour is Hotel Granvia Osaka, 1F in front of the elevator, where you will depart at 7:50 am.
The assistant will guide the group to the Shin Osaka Station Shinkansen platform, but they’ll not board the train.
The tour includes the following pickup and meeting details:
- Participants must arrive at the Hotel Granvia Osaka by 7:40 am to meet the guide.
- The group will depart the hotel at 7:50 am and be escorted to the Shinkansen platform.
- The assistant will ensure everyone is at the correct location before the group proceeds to their first activity.
Participant Guidelines and Restrictions
Infants must sit on laps, and children up to 5 years old can join the tour free of charge, though they’ll not receive Shinkansen tickets, lunch, or sightseeing coupons.
The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, serious medical issues, or pregnant women.
Parental permission is required for participants under 18, and those under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Allergy-friendly, halal, or gluten-free meal requests aren’t available, but vegetarian options can be requested at the time of booking.
Suitable walking shoes and clothing are recommended, as the total walking distance is approximately 3 miles.
Okayama Korakuen
Okayama Korakuen is one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, renowned for its harmonious design and stunning natural beauty.
Visitors can stroll through the garden’s serene pathways, admiring:
- The picturesque landscape with ponds, bridges, and meticulously pruned trees.
- The iconic Yuishinkan, a traditional teahouse offering visitors a chance to experience Japanese tea ceremony.
- The unique views of Okayama Castle, known as the "Crow Castle" for its striking black exterior.
The garden’s tranquil atmosphere and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Okayama region.
Sushi Making Experience
After exploring the serene Okayama Korakuen garden, the tour takes participants to a local sushi restaurant for a hands-on sushi making experience.
Under the guidance of a skilled sushi chef, travelers will learn the art of creating traditional kakushi sushi. They’ll prepare and shape the rice, select fresh ingredients, and assemble their own sushi rolls.
The experience culminates with a delicious sushi lunch, allowing participants to savor the fruits of their labor. This interactive culinary activity provides a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s renowned sushi culture.
Kurashiki Walking Tour
Following the sushi making experience, the tour heads to the historic town of Kurashiki.
Travelers are provided with a Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon, which can be used to explore the well-preserved traditional architecture and charming canal-side shops.
The walking tour highlights key attractions, including:
- The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, known for its striking black-and-white storehouses and scenic canals.
- The Ohara Museum of Art, housing a renowned collection of Western artworks.
- The Ivy Square, a former textile mill now transformed into a vibrant commercial and cultural hub.
The tour allows ample time for independent exploration and souvenir shopping before returning to Osaka.
Additional Information
The total walking distance during the tour is approximately 3 miles, so travelers are advised to wear suitable walking shoes and clothing.
Seating isn’t guaranteed at Okayama or Kurashiki as all seats are unreserved. If the Inoue House is closed, visitors will go to the Former Ohara House or Hashimoto House instead.
The Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon facilities and shops may change. The order of activities and arrival times may vary based on conditions.
It’s important for participants to understand these details to have a smooth and enjoyable tour experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Refund for the Tour?
The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Customers can request a refund within this timeframe, however, refunds may not be available for last-minute cancellations or no-shows.
Can I Change the Start Time of the Tour?
Yes, the tour’s start time can be changed, but it’s subject to availability. Participants should contact the tour provider at least 24 hours in advance to request a time change, which may incur an additional fee.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour guidelines state that only infants sitting on laps are permitted, and children up to 5 years old can join for free without a Shinkansen seat, lunch, or coupon.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Unfortunately, the tour itinerary cannot be customized. The details provided are set and fixed for this particular tour experience. Customers must follow the predetermined itinerary, as the tour operator does not offer any options to modify or personalize the activities and schedule.
Can I Purchase Additional Activities During the Tour?
No, additional activities can’t be purchased during the tour. The tour package has a fixed itinerary and inclusions that can’t be customized. Any requests for extra activities or modifications must be made when booking the tour.
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The Sum Up
This 11-hour tour from Osaka offers a well-rounded cultural experience. Visitors can explore the stunning Okayama Korakuen garden, learn the art of sushi-making, and discover the historic charm of Kurashiki. With an English-speaking guide, transportation, and lunch included, this tour provides an immersive blend of natural beauty, culinary traditions, and architectural wonders, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive cultural adventure.