Fukuoka Tour: Sacred Island of Munakata and Heritage Sites!

The Sacred Island of Munakata is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history and natural beauty. Embark on this nine-hour tour from Fukuoka, where you’ll uncover ancient burial mounds, visit revered shrines, and learn about the scenic landscapes. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this private tour promises a hassle-free experience, ensuring you explore the rich cultural heritage of this sacred site. What fascinating discoveries await as you explore this enchanting island?

Key Points

• Explore the sacred island of Munakata, known for its ancient burial mounds, revered shrines, and stunning natural landscapes.
• Visit key cultural sites like the Shinbaru-Nuyama Kofun Group, Nakatsumiya Shrine, Migakuyama, Okitsumiya Worship Site, and Hetsumiya Shrine.
• Enjoy a hassle-free experience with a private tour, comfortable transportation, and inclusions like hotel pick-up, lunch, and entrance fees.
• Bring appropriate footwear, sun protection, and a camera to capture the scenic beauty and cultural attractions.
• The tour operates rain or shine, and visitors are advised to respect the sacred sites and worshippers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Fukuoka Tour provides visitors with an immersive experience to explore the sacred island of Munakata and its rich heritage sites.

On this 9-hour tour, guests will be picked up from their Fukuoka hotels and embark on a journey to uncover ancient burial mounds, revered shrines, and picturesque natural landscapes.

The tour includes visits to the Shinbaru-Nuyama Kofun Group, Nakatsumiya Shrine, Migakuyama, Okitsumiya Worship Site, and Hetsumiya Shrine.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to stop at the Munakata Roadside Station to sample local snacks and purchase souvenirs before being dropped off back at their Fukuoka hotels.

Itinerary Highlights

This Fukuoka Tour takes visitors on a journey to discover the sacred island of Munakata and its rich heritage sites.

The tour begins with a visit to the Shinbaru-Nuyama Kofun Group, a collection of ancient burial mounds. Next, explore the Nakatsumiya Shrine to learn about local traditions and customs.

Stroll through the natural beauty of Migakuyama, followed by visits to the Okitsumiya Worship Site and Hetsumiya Shrine, both of significant cultural importance.

The tour concludes with a stop at the Munakata Roadside Station to sample local snacks and souvenirs.

• Shinbaru-Nuyama Kofun Group
• Nakatsumiya Shrine
• Migakuyama
• Okitsumiya Worship Site
• Hetsumiya Shrine

Tour Inclusions

The Fukuoka Tour includes a private tour and transportation, with hotel pick-up and drop-off. Gas, toll, lunch, parking fees, entrance fees, and other charges are all covered. This ensures a hassle-free and immersive experience for the participants.

Inclusions	Details
Private Tour	Guided tour with a knowledgeable local
Transportation	Comfortable vehicle for the entire journey
Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off	Convenient door-to-door service
Meals & Fees	Lunch, as well as all necessary fees

With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can focus on exploring the sacred island of Munakata and its rich heritage sites without worrying about additional expenses.

What to Bring

When embarking on the Fukuoka Tour, visitors should bring a few essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

This includes:

• Comfortable walking shoes to navigate the historic sites and natural areas
• A hat or sunscreen to protect against the sun
• A camera to capture the stunning scenery and cultural attractions
• A water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day
• Any personal medications or snacks that may be needed during the tour.

Dressing in layers and checking the weather forecast can also help visitors be prepared for the environmental conditions.

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Important Information

Moderate walking is involved throughout the tour, so visitors should wear appropriate footwear.

Checking the weather forecast and dressing accordingly is recommended, as the tour takes place rain or shine.

Visitors are welcome to bring their cameras, but they should respect the sacred sites and worshippers by being mindful of their presence.

Smoking and consuming food or drinks aren’t permitted during the tour.

Exploring Shinbaru-Nuyama Kofun Group

Visitors to the Shinbaru-Nuyama Kofun Group, a series of ancient burial mounds, will uncover a glimpse into Fukuoka’s rich history.

This UNESCO World Heritage site features:

• Over 140 keyhole-shaped burial mounds dating back to the 3rd-7th centuries AD
• Impressive scale and size, with some mounds reaching up to 15 meters in height
• Unique architectural design, reflecting ancient Japanese burial traditions
• Artifacts and relics discovered, offering insights into the region’s past
• Scenic natural setting, with the mounds nestled amidst lush greenery

Exploring this revered archaeological site provides a profound connection to Fukuoka’s ancestral legacy.

Discovering Nakatsumiya Shrine

After exploring the ancient burial mounds of the Shinbaru-Nuyama Kofun Group, the tour proceeds to the sacred Nakatsumiya Shrine.

This important Shinto shrine is one of the three main shrines of the Munakata Shinto faith. Visitors can learn about local traditions and customs as they explore the shrine’s grounds.

The tour guide explains the significance of the shrine’s architecture, rituals, and role in the region’s cultural heritage.

Visitors have the opportunity to witness some of the shrine’s ceremonies and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before continuing on to the next stop on the itinerary.

Visiting Munakata Roadside Station

The Munakata Roadside Station serves as a convenient stop for the tour group, offering an opportunity to sample local snacks and browse through a selection of souvenirs.

Visitors can explore:

• Handcrafted pottery and ceramics
• Traditional Japanese confections
• Locally-sourced honey and jams
• Artisanal woodwork and lacquerware
• Unique gifts and trinkets

This charming rest stop allows the group to enjoy the regional culture and purchase mementos to commemorate their journey through the sacred sites of Munakata.

FAQ

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific sites. Travelers can work with the tour provider to create a personalized itinerary that focuses on their interests and preferences within the overall tour area.

Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for group bookings. The price starts from $694.01 for up to 4 participants and goes down to $624.61 per group, making it a more affordable option for small groups.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?

The tour guide is fluent in English, able to provide informative commentary throughout the tour. This ensures a seamless and engaging experience for English-speaking participants.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you cannot bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour guidelines explicitly state that "No smoking or consuming food/drinks during the tour" is an important rule to follow. The tour includes lunch, so participants should not need to bring their own food.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Sacred Sites?

The best time to visit the sacred sites is during spring or fall when the weather is mild. Crowds are smaller, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Dress appropriately for the season to make the most of your visit.

Sum Up

This Fukuoka tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Island of Munakata. Visitors can explore ancient burial mounds, visit revered shrines, and admire the scenic landscapes, all while learning about the area’s significant history from a knowledgeable guide. With comfortable transportation, local snacks, and a hassle-free experience, this private tour provides an excellent opportunity to take in the sacred wonders of this unique destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: