YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour

The YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour promises a captivating cultural journey for those seeking to enjoy the rich heritage of Japan. Offering a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences, this tour guides travelers through an enchanting landscape, inviting them to uncover the fascinating stories that lie within the historic Hikosan Jingu Shrine and the charming Showa-era market. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this remarkable adventure?

Key Points

• The tour features visits to Hikosan Jingu Shrine and a Showa-era market, with a maximum of 20 participants.
• Includes an Oidashi-neko painting experience and a Hikosan Slope Car ride for scenic views.
• Offers a traditional Shinto worship experience and a provided lunch with an English-speaking guide.
• Pickup and drop-off available at Hakata Station, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Requires a minimum of 15 participants, with the tour subject to cancellation if the minimum is not met.

Tour Overview and Details

The YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour offers a comprehensive experience that allows travelers to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Fukuoka, Japan.

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour takes guests on a journey to explore the historic Hikosan Jingu Shrine and the captivating Showa Era Market.

With a maximum of 20 participants, the tour features an air-conditioned vehicle, an Oidashi-neko painting experience, a ride on the Hikosan Slope Car, and a traditional Shinto worship experience.

Lunch and an English-speaking guide are also included, ensuring a seamless and immersive cultural adventure.

Inclusions and Experience

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to ensure a comfortable journey.

Travelers will have the opportunity to experience:

1. Oidashi-neko Painting Experience: Participants can try their hand at creating a traditional Oidashi-neko, a cat-shaped good luck charm.

2. Hikosan Slope Car: A unique mode of transportation that takes guests up the slopes of Mount Hiko, offering breathtaking views.

3. Traditional Shinto Worship Experience: Visitors will have the chance to participate in a Shinto ritual at the renowned Hikosan Jingu Shrine.

In addition, an English-speaking guide will accompany the group and a delicious lunch is included in the tour.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Travelers can meet the tour group at the Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station, located at 4-23 Hakataekichūōgai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan.

The tour will return to the same meeting point at the end.

Pickup is available at the Hakata Station Chikushi Gate Parking Area, in front of LAWSON Oriental Hotel Fukuoka 1F.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

If the tour is canceled, travelers will be notified by email.

Cancellation and Confirmation Policies

Confirmation of the tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time). The tour may be canceled if the minimum participant count of 15 travelers isn’t reached 7 days prior.

Cancellation and Confirmation Policies:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time).
2. Notification by email if the tour is canceled.
3. Confirmation received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Oidashi-neko Painting Experience

One of the highlights of the YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour is the Oidashi-neko Painting Experience. Oidashi-neko, or "pushed cat" paintings, are a traditional Japanese art form dating back to the Showa era. During this activity, you will learn the techniques and symbolism behind these whimsical cat paintings. The experience includes:

Supplies Provided	Painting Techniques
Canvas Acrylic Paints Brushes	Brush Strokes Color Mixing Composition

Unleash your creativity and capture the playful spirit of the Oidashi-neko cat in a one-of-a-kind painting to take home as a memento of the tour.

Hikosan Slope Car

As part of the YokaBus tour, you will have the opportunity to experience the Hikosan Slope Car, a unique mode of transportation that carries visitors up the steep slopes of Mount Hikosan.

The Hikosan Slope Car is a small, open-air tram that navigates the winding, inclined path to the Hikosan Jingu Shrine.

Riders will enjoy:

1. Panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscape.
2. A leisurely, scenic ascent up the slope, providing a relaxing break from walking.
3. A chance to witness the historical and cultural significance of the Hikosan Jingu Shrine from a different perspective.

Traditional Shinto Worship Experience

After experiencing the Hikosan Slope Car, the tour takes participants on a traditional Shinto worship experience at the Hikosan Jingu Shrine.

Here, travelers will witness an authentic Shinto ritual, learning about the history and customs of this ancient Japanese religion. The guide will explain the significance of the shrine’s architecture, the purification process, and the proper etiquette for making offerings.

Visitors can participate in traditional practices like throwing coins into the offertory box and writing wishes on wooden tablets.

This immersive cultural experience provides a unique glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Lunch and Personal Expenses

Following the traditional Shinto worship experience, the tour includes a lunch stop at a local Showa-era market.

Visitors can indulge in a hearty, authentic Japanese lunch, featuring seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. The tour also allows ample time for personal expenses, such as:

1. Browsing the vibrant market stalls and purchasing unique souvenirs or local snacks.
2. Trying traditional Japanese street food, like yakisoba or takoyaki.
3. Visiting a nearby temple or shrine for additional cultural exploration.

With flexibility built into the schedule, travelers can enjoy the local atmosphere and create cherished memories during this comprehensive Fukuoka tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this tour is 17.5 travelers. The tour has a maximum capacity of 20 participants, but requires a minimum of 15 travelers for the tour to proceed.

Do Participants Need to Bring Their Own Camera?

Participants are welcome to bring their own cameras to capture the tour’s highlights. The tour doesn’t provide cameras, so having your own is recommended to document the unique cultural experiences and sights throughout the day.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children Under 5 Years Old?

The tour may not be suitable for children under 5 years old. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Parents should consider the child’s ability to participate and enjoy the activities included in the tour.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no specific dress code requirements for this tour. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and exploring during the tour. No formal attire is necessary.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

The tour can accommodate certain dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian or halal, if requested in advance. However, the availability and details of the accommodations may vary. Guests should communicate their needs when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour is a captivating cultural experience. Travelers will enjoy a scenic journey, participate in traditional activities, and enjoy the rich history of the region. From the Oidashi-neko painting session to the Hikosan Slope Car ride and the Shinto worship experience, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Japan’s unique heritage and local charm.