Okayama and Kurashiki offer a captivating glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage. Travelers can enjoy this experience through the "Okayama Korakuen Sushi Making and Kurashiki Walking" tour. From learning traditional Kakushi sushi techniques to exploring the charming Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, this 7-hour journey promises an enriching encounter with the region’s fascinating history and traditions. Participants can look forward to a delightful lunch featuring their handcrafted sushi, providing a truly authentic taste of Okayama’s culinary delights.
Key Points
- This 7-hour 40-minute tour offers a unique cultural and culinary experience, including sushi-making, a visit to Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden, and exploration of historic Kurashiki.
- The tour includes a hands-on sushi-making class where participants learn traditional "hidden sushi" preparation techniques and craft customized sushi rolls with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Participants will enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch featuring the prepared sushi, miso soup, side dishes, and dessert, along with cultural insights gained during the workshop.
- The tour explores the historic Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, showcasing charming canals and traditional architecture, as well as access to Kurashiki Ivy Square, a cultural hub.
- The tour is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible, and a lact-ovo-vegetarian meal option is available upon request.
Overview of the Tour
This tour offers a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the cultural heritage and culinary traditions of Okayama and Kurashiki.
Guests will meet at the Momotaro Tourist Information Center in Okayama Station, where a licensed English guide will lead them on a 7-hour 40-minute journey.
The highlights include a hands-on sushi-making class, a traditional Japanese lunch, and sightseeing in the historic town of Kurashiki.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour provides an intimate, personalized experience.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, as the itinerary includes approximately 3 miles of walking.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Okayama.
Exploring Okayama and the Momotaro Tourist Information Center
As travelers arrive at the Momotaro Tourist Information Center in Okayama Station, they’ll be greeted by the licensed English guide who’ll lead them on this immersive cultural journey.
The guide will provide an overview of the day’s activities, which include:
- Visiting the iconic Okayama Castle, known as the "Crow Castle" for its distinctive black exterior
- Exploring the serene Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens
- Discovering the historic Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, with its well-preserved Edo-period architecture
The group will then depart for their first stop, ready to dive into the unique experiences that await.
Kakushi Sushi Making Experience and Lunch
After departing the Momotaro Tourist Information Center, the group makes their way to a local sushi restaurant where they’ll participate in an immersive Kakushi sushi-making experience.
The guide leads them through the traditional "hidden sushi" preparation, teaching the intricate techniques. Participants craft their own customized sushi rolls, learning about the fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Following the hands-on experience, they’re served a delightful lunch featuring the sushi they prepared, along with miso soup, side dishes, and dessert.
The group enjoys a satisfying meal while discussing the unique cultural insights gained from the Kakushi sushi workshop.
Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon
With the sushi-making experience complete, the group now turns its attention to exploring the historic town of Kurashiki.
Armed with a Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon, travelers can enjoy discounted access to various attractions, including:
- Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, with its charming canals and preserved merchant houses
- Ohashi House, a well-preserved example of traditional architecture
- Kurashiki Ivy Square, a former cotton warehouse now transformed into a cultural hub
The coupon offers an opportunity to delve deeper into Kurashiki’s rich history and culture, enhancing the overall experience of this comprehensive tour.
Accessibility and Health Considerations
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children.
Infants must sit on laps, so the experience isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. Most travelers, however, can participate.
The tour is located near public transportation, making it easy to reach. Parental permission is required for participants under 18, and those under 15 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Meal Options and Dietary Restrictions
The tour offers a lact-ovo-vegetarian meal option, which includes vegetables for the sushi, eggs, and dairy in other items, available upon request at the time of booking.
However, the tour doesn’t accommodate other dietary restrictions, such as:
- Allergy-friendly
- Halal
- Gluten-free
Parental permission is required for participants under 18, and those under 15 must be accompanied by a guardian.
The tour give you a well-rounded culinary experience, catering to vegetarian preferences, while maintaining the authenticity of the traditional Japanese dishes.
Additional Information and Conditions
Confirmation of the tour is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The order of activities and arrival times may vary due to road conditions. The Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon provides access to various facilities, but these are subject to change, and alternative sites may be offered if the Inoue House is unavailable.
Suitable walking shoes and clothing are recommended, as the total walking distance is approximately 3 miles.
Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is available.
The price starts from $173.60 per person, with a Lowest Price Guarantee.
Price and Booking Details
This tour is priced from $173.60 per person, with a Lowest Price Guarantee.
Booking options include:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
- Reserve Now and Pay Later
- Confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability
To book, travelers must provide parental permission for participants under 18, and those under 15 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, bringing one’s own food and drinks is generally not allowed on this tour. The tour includes a sushi making experience and a set lunch, so outside food and beverages are typically not permitted unless for special dietary needs arranged in advance.
Is There a Dress Code for the Sushi Making Experience?
There’s no formal dress code for the sushi making experience. Travelers should wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for light walking. The tour provider recommends dressing in layers and avoiding anything too restrictive or formal.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Sushi Making Workshop?
There are age restrictions for the sushi making workshop. Participants under 18 require parental permission, and those under 15 must be accompanied by a guardian. Children under 5 may join for free but won’t receive lunch or a sightseeing coupon.
Can I Purchase Additional Items at the Kurashiki Sightseeing Sites?
Visitors can purchase additional items at the Kurashiki sightseeing sites. The Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon provides access to various attractions, but any additional purchases made at these sites are the responsibility of the traveler.
Is There a Maximum Group Size for Private Bookings?
The maximum group size for private bookings is 10 travelers. This is stated in the tour overview details, which specify a "Maximum Participants: 10 travelers" for the overall experience.
Recap
The "Okayama Korakuen Sushi Making and Kurashiki Walking" tour offers an immersive cultural experience. Participants learn traditional sushi-making techniques, explore historic sites in Okayama, and stroll through the charming Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. This 7-hour journey provides a delightful blend of hands-on culinary skills, scenic beauty, and fascinating insights into the rich heritage of the region.