Set out on a remarkable 2-day bus journey from Kokura to Hiroshima. This tour offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage, starting with a visit to the historic Izumo Taisha Shrine. Unwind at the luxurious KAIKE ONSEN hotel before exploring the Adachi Museum of Art and local seafood centers. With an English-speaking guide and a private charter bus, you’ll witness the scenic beauty of the Japanese countryside. What surprises await as you venture from Kokura to Hiroshima?
Key Points
- A 2-day one-way bus tour from Kokura to Hiroshima, with a stop at the significant Izumo Taisha Shrine and other attractions along the way.
- The tour is priced at $2,655.74 for up to 15 people and includes private bus transportation, driver, English-speaking guide, and other amenities.
- The itinerary includes visits to Izumo Taisha Shrine, Adachi Museum of Art, and a guided walk along Mizuki Shigeru Road, with meals and overnight stay at KAIKE ONSEN hotel.
- The tour offers a scenic countryside journey, with comfortable transportation and accessibility for wheelchair users, as an alternative to the Shinkansen high-speed rail.
- Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the reserve now and pay later option.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The 2-day one-way bus tour from Kokura to Hiroshima covers the Izumo region, providing participants with the opportunity to explore the area’s cultural and historical sites.
Priced at $2,655.74 for up to 15 people, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also opt for the reserve now and pay later option.
The tour includes private bus transportation, driver, and English-speaking guide, as well as insurance, toll, and parking fees.
Accommodation, meals, and entrance fees are excluded, allowing participants to customize their experience.
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Day 1 Itinerary
After pick-up at Kokura Station at 7:30 AM, the tour begins with a break at the Chugoku Highway Kano Service Area at 9:00 AM.
The group then continues to the Chugoku Highway Asa Service Area for another break at 10:15 AM.
The next stop is the Tataraba-Ichibanchi Roadside Station at 11:45 AM.
The highlight of the day is a 1:15 PM to 4:15 PM visit to the Izumo Taisha Shrine, including a guided walk and lunch.
The day concludes with dinner in Sakaiminato, Tottori, before arriving at the KAIKE ONSEN hotel for an overnight stay.
Izumo Taisha Shrine Visit
Reaching Izumo Taisha Shrine, one of Japan’s most significant Shinto shrines, marks the highlight of the day.
The group explores the vast, serene grounds, taking in the majestic main hall and the lesser-known sites. The guided walk provides insights into the shrine’s history and religious significance. Participants learn about Izumo’s role as the land of the gods and the shrine’s importance in Japanese mythology.
After the tour, they savor a local lunch, sampling regional specialties in a peaceful setting.
This immersive experience at Izumo Taisha leaves a lasting impression, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Dinner in Sakaiminato
Participants then head to Sakaiminato, a coastal city in Tottori Prefecture, for a delightful dinner.
They’ll enjoy a wide selection of fresh seafood, local specialties, and traditional Japanese dishes at a restaurant overlooking the harbor.
The group will have ample time to savor the flavors and relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
The seaside setting provides a tranquil atmosphere, allowing the travelers to unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
With the sun setting over the waters of the Sea of Japan, it’s a perfect way to end the first day of the tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDay 2 Itinerary
The second day of the tour begins with participants being picked up from their hotel at the KAIKE ONSEN resort.
First, they’ll visit the Adachi Museum of Art, admiring its stunning Japanese gardens.
Next, they’ll take a guided walk along the Mizuki Shigeru Road, celebrating the work of the renowned manga artist.
Lunch is at the Sakaiminato seafood center, followed by a brief stop at the Shinji-Ko Service Area.
The tour then heads to the Hiroshima Miyoshi Winery for some shopping before dropping off participants at Hiroshima and Miyajimaguchi Stations, and finally returning to Kokura Station.
Adachi Museum of Art
The Adachi Museum of Art boasts a stunning collection of Japanese art, highlighted by its exquisite garden landscapes.
The museum features works by renowned artists, including Yokoyama Taikan and Maeda Seison.
Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the gardens, which are meticulously maintained to reflect the changing seasons.
The museum’s architecture seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings, creating a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere.
With an entrance fee of ¥2,300, the Adachi Museum of Art offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the essence of Japanese art and culture.
Mizuki Shigeru Road
A lively celebration of the acclaimed manga artist Mizuki Shigeru’s work, the Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato, Tottori, offers visitors a delightful stroll through whimsical statues and murals depicting his beloved characters.
Highlights include:
- Over 100 bronze statues of Mizuki’s iconic yokai (supernatural creatures) lining the 800-meter stretch.
- Murals and illustrations showcasing his most famous works, such as "Ge Ge Ge no Kitaro."
- Interactive elements like touchpads that play sound effects and voice recordings.
- Photo opportunities with life-size statues of the manga artist himself.
Transportation and Accessibility
Though this bus tour from Kokura to Hiroshima provides comfortable transportation, it takes longer than the Shinkansen high-speed rail option.
Participants will travel in a private charter bus with an English-speaking guide. The bus is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusive access.
While the journey may be longer, it offers the chance to soak in the scenic countryside between the two cities. Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride, without the hassle of navigating public transportation.
This mode of travel balances convenience and accessibility for a memorable experience.
FAQ
How Reliable Is the Tour Company’s Punctuality and Schedule Adherence?
The tour company appears punctual and committed to adhering to the schedule, with multiple breaks and timed activities throughout the itinerary. Participants can expect a well-organized and timely experience based on the detailed itinerary provided.
What Happens if There Are Unexpected Delays or Traffic Issues During the Tour?
If there are unexpected delays or traffic issues, the tour guide will communicate with the group and adjust the schedule as needed. They have contingency plans to ensure the overall tour experience is not significantly disrupted.
Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Personal Items That Can Be Brought?
Participants can bring standard-sized luggage and personal items. There are no strict restrictions, but the bus has limited storage space, so travelers are advised to pack light. Valuables and fragile items should be kept with the owner during the tour.
What Is the Policy for Travelers With Dietary Restrictions or Special Needs?
The tour offers flexibility for travelers with dietary restrictions or special needs. They can notify the tour provider in advance, who will work to accommodate their requirements to the best of their ability.
Does the Tour Offer Any Options for Extending the Stay or Customizing the Itinerary?
The tour does not offer options to extend the stay or customize the itinerary. It’s a set 2-day, one-way bus tour from Kokura to Hiroshima with a fixed schedule and activities.
Sum Up
This 2-day bus tour from Kokura to Hiroshima offers a unique opportunity to explore Japan’s cultural heritage. Travelers will visit the iconic Izumo Taisha Shrine, experience the luxurious KAIKE ONSEN hotel, and discover the Adachi Museum of Art and local seafood centers. The private charter bus with an English-speaking guide ensures a seamless and immersive journey through the picturesque Japanese countryside.
You can check if your dates are available here:More 2-Day Experiences in Hiroshima
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