From Nara: Sock Factory Tour, Strawberry Picking, and Lunch

Nestled in the heart of Nara, this captivating tour promises a unique blend of culture and culinary delight. From exploring a captivating sock factory to indulging in a strawberry-picking frenzy and savoring the flavors of Miwa somen noodles, this experience offers a tantalizing glimpse into the rich tapestry of Japanese traditions. Guided by an English-speaking host, visitors can expect a seamless journey that blends history, artistry, and the bounty of nature. What lies in store for those who embark on this remarkable excursion?

Key Points

• This 4-hour tour from Nara includes a 1.5-hour sock factory tour, 30 minutes of strawberry picking, and a 50-minute lunch for $101.32 per person.
• The tour features an English-speaking guide, covers the entrance fee to Horyu-ji Temple, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The sock factory tour includes a history of the sock industry and a workshop to create a smartphone shoulder pouch.
• The all-you-can-eat strawberry picking is followed by a lunch featuring Miwa somen noodles and sake tasting.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years or wheelchair users, and outside food and drinks are not allowed.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

This activity provides a comprehensive experience from Nara, featuring a sock factory tour, strawberry picking, and a delicious lunch.

The tour lasts 4 hours and costs $101.32 per person. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without paying today.

The experience includes a 1.5-hour sock factory tour, 30 minutes of all-you-can-eat strawberry picking, and a 50-minute lunch of Miwa somen noodles and sake.

An English-speaking guide is provided, and the entrance fee to Horyu-ji Temple is included.

The activity isn’t suitable for children under 10 or wheelchair users.

Itinerary and Highlights

After departing from 法隆寺駅, the tour first takes guests on a 1.5-hour sock factory tour.

Here, they’ll discover the history of the sock industry in Koryo and even create a smartphone shoulder pouch from factory offcuts.

Next, the group enjoys 30 minutes of all-you-can-eat strawberry picking.

The experience culminates with a 50-minute lunch featuring Miwa somen noodles and a sake tasting.

Optionally, guests can explore the World Heritage Site of Horyu-ji Temple.

The tour’s highlights include immersing in the local sock-making tradition and savoring authentic Japanese cuisine and beverages.

Inclusives and Exclusions

The tour includes the factory tour, workshop participation, strawberry picking, lunch with Miwa somen noodles and sake tasting, as well as an English-speaking guide and entrance fee for Horyu-ji Temple.

The tour isn’t suitable for:

• Children under 10 years
• Wheelchair users

Participants are recommended to bring comfortable shoes and a camera.

Food and drinks aren’t allowed during the tour.

Meeting Point and Directions

Where’s the meeting point for this tour?

The meeting point is the north exit of JR Horyuji Station. The guide will be waiting at the meeting point to welcome participants.

Getting to the meeting point is straightforward – simply exit the train station at the north exit, and the guide will be there, ready to begin the tour.

Participants should plan to arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour will depart promptly.

With clear directions and an attentive guide, finding the meeting location should be a breeze for tour-goers.

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Recommendations and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended for this tour, as you will be walking through a sock factory and picking strawberries.

Certain items aren’t permitted, so be mindful of the restrictions:

• No outside food or drinks allowed
• Children under 10 years old aren’t suitable for this activity
• Wheelchair users may have difficulty accessing certain areas

It’s important to keep these guidelines in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the history of the sock industry and indulge in freshly picked strawberries.

Sock Factory Tour

At the heart of this tour lies the captivating sock factory, where participants can enjoy the rich history and intricate craftsmanship of the local sock industry.

Visitors are guided through the factory’s various departments, witnessing the meticulous process of sock production, from spinning the yarn to weaving the fabric and meticulously sewing the final product.

The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to create a unique smartphone shoulder pouch using the factory’s offcuts, allowing participants to take home a personalized memento of their experience.

Strawberry Picking

After the captivating sock factory tour, visitors are ushered to the nearby strawberry fields for a delightful pick-your-own experience.

Visitors can delight in:

• Plucking juicy, vibrant strawberries right from the vine
• Savoring the fresh, sweet flavor of the sun-ripened berries
• Indulging in an all-you-can-eat strawberry picking session

The 30-minute activity offers a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of harvest.

Guests can take home their freshly picked bounty, creating a lasting memory of their Nara adventure.

Lunch

Following the satisfying strawberry picking, the group makes their way to the next stop on the itinerary – a delightful Miwa somen noodle lunch accompanied by a sake tasting.

The traditional Japanese cold noodle dish is a regional specialty, crafted with care and served alongside a sampling of local sake. Guests have the chance to savor the flavors of Nara while learning about the area’s culinary heritage.

The 50-minute lunch break provides a chance to recharge before continuing the day’s adventures, which may include an optional visit to the nearby Horyu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for the activities, such as the factory tour and strawberry picking.

Can We Bring Souvenirs From the Sock Factory?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs from the sock factory during the tour. The tour includes a workshop where participants can make a smartphone shoulder pouch from factory offcuts, which can be taken home as a souvenir.

Is the Strawberry Picking Experience Suitable for Vegetarians?

The strawberry picking experience is suitable for vegetarians, as they can enjoy the fresh, all-you-can-eat strawberries without any restrictions. The tour focuses on the sock factory and lunch, which would also accommodate vegetarian dietary needs.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The lunch includes Miwa somen noodles and sake tasting. While the noodles themselves are vegetarian-friendly, the sake may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Alternatives like soft drinks are available.

Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Temples?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional temples. Speak to the guide about customizing the itinerary to include stops at nearby World Heritage sites like Toshodai-ji or Yakushi-ji Temple.

The Sum Up

Discover the charm of Nara on this 4-hour tour. Enjoy the intricate world of sock-making, indulge in fresh strawberry picking, and savor delectable Miwa somen noodles paired with sake. With an English-speaking guide, you’ll explore the historic Horyu-ji Temple, blending cultural, natural, and culinary experiences for an unforgettable day in this captivating region.

You can check if your dates are available here: