Experience the feeling of spring in Japan on an easy day trip to Wakayama. Travel by coach and enjoy cherry blossom viewing at two memorable locations, from the calm atmosphere of Dojoji Temple to the iconic scenery of Wakayama Castle. Along the way, enjoy a seasonal Sakura sea bream lunch, try all-you-can-eat strawberry picking, and browse local treats at Kuroshio Market. It is a smooth, well-paced day that blends sakura, culture, and local tastes without the hassle of planning.
After meeting your tour conductor, you will board the bus and head south toward Wakayama, a region known for coastal flavors, historic temples, and classic cherry blossom scenery. You will arrive at OTERA MAE ANCHIN, where a special seasonal lunch showcases Wakayama’s regional tastes and ingredients. The highlight is Sakura Tai (sea bream), prepared in multiple styles so you can enjoy both flavor and variety in one meal. The set typically includes a sea bream hot pot with a special burdock miso seasoning, sashimi featuring Kishu plum sea bream, local pressed sushi, plum soba, sea bream rice, Kishu-style Kinzanji miso, and umeboshi (salted plum). This lunch is a wonderful introduction to Wakayama’s culinary identity, combining the area’s famous plums with seafood traditions. Please note that menu items may change slightly depending on ingredient availability.
From the strawberry farm, the drive to Kuroshio Market takes about 45 minutes. This lively market is a great place to browse at your own pace and explore Wakayama’s food culture beyond the included lunch. You can look for souvenirs, local specialties, and snacks to take home, or simply enjoy the energetic atmosphere of a popular seaside marketplace. It is an easy and enjoyable stop that adds variety to the day, mixing sightseeing with casual discovery.
Next, you will walk to Dojo-ji Temple, a historic site with a calm, traditional atmosphere and a strong connection to Japanese culture and legend. During the cherry blossom season, typically late March to early April, the temple grounds become especially popular for gentle spring walks and photo stops. Enjoy free time for independent worship and exploration, taking in the architecture, the serene setting, and the seasonal blossoms that frame the temple’s scenery. You will have 70 minutes in total with lunch
After leaving Dojo-ji, the bus ride to the next stop takes about 20 minutes. You will arrive at a tourist farm where you can enjoy a fun and classic spring activity in Japan: all-you-can-eat strawberry picking. Step into the growing area and pick sweet, ripe strawberries directly from the plants, tasting them at their freshest. For many visitors, this is one of the most memorable “hands-on” experiences of the day—simple, joyful, and uniquely seasonal.
After the market, the drive to Wakayama Castle takes about 30 minutes. This landmark is celebrated as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Castles, and the surrounding park is especially loved during cherry blossom season, typically late March to early April. Enjoy free time to stroll the grounds and take in the castle scenery alongside spring flowers. If you would like to enter the main keep, admission is not included and costs 410 yen. Whether you explore the park paths or choose to go inside, this stop offers a classic “Japan spring” atmosphere that many first-time visitors hope to experience. After the final visit, you will board the bus and return to your original place of departure, with arrival planned for around 19:30, depending on traffic and road conditions.
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If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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