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Offered languages
- English
Explore the rich history of Himeji area on this one-day tour from Kyoto, featuring a swordsmith workshop visit and the UNESCO World Heritage Himeji Castle, known as the "White Heron." The journey begins with a comfortable ride in a deluxe bus designed for relaxation, offering a selection of complimentary drinks and snacks. Visit a traditional Japanese Sword (Katana) workshop for an authentic sword-making demonstration and enjoy a delicious lunch at a renowned local sake brewery. An experienced English-speaking guide will lead you through the breathtaking Himeji Castle, showcasing its original architecture and samurai history. After a memorable day, we will accompany you by bus to Himeji JR Station and provide you with a train ticket to go to Kyoto or Osaka on your own (ticket included in the price).
- Deluxe bus transportation from Kyoto to Himeji
- Meet a swordsmith and learn about Katana
- Visit Himeji Castle with an English-speaking guide
- Lunch included at a local sake brewery
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Exit the JR Lines (Hachijo East Side) ticket gates and leave the station. Cross the street and proceed straight towards KYOTO AVANTI. Turn left and cross the street again, heading towards the Tourist Bus Terminal. Our bus attendant will be waiting for you in front of our blue bus.
Itinerary
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1
Observe the process of making an authentic Japanese Sword (Katana) with an experienced swordsmith in the countryside of Himeji. Here, you will have the opportunity to learn about this ancient technique by witnessing firsthand the process of heating, hammering, and folding the metal. You will also have the unique chance to ask questions to the artisan and learn about the true essence of the katana and what it takes to become a real swordsmith.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
2Nadagiku Shuzo Sake Brewery
Enjoy lunch at a famous sake brewery in Himeji.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
3Himeji Castle
Visit Himeji Castle, a World Heritage site, accompanied by an English-speaking guide. Himeji Castle is one of the 12 original castles in Japan that remains untouched by war and natural disasters, preserving its original appearance. Explore the same floors that samurai once walked 400 years ago and immerse yourself in the atmosphere while listening to your guide's castle trivia that even locals don't know.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Only passengers who are able to walk up the bus stairs and to their seats autonomously can participate in the tour.
- Please note that only one large piece of luggage. (20-23 kg) per person can be stored in the bus trunk. You may carry your small bags with you to your seat.
- Please note that if you are late for the tour start time or for an activity during the tour, you will not be able to join the tour midway.
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Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Only passengers who are able to walk up the bus stairs and to their seats autonomously can participate in the tour.
- Please note that only one large piece of luggage. (20-23 kg) per person can be stored in the bus trunk. You may carry your small bags with you to your seat.
- Please note that if you are late for the tour start time or for an activity during the tour, you will not be able to join the tour midway.
- Please note that the total duration of the trip includes the travel time.
- The vehicle used is a deluxe bus designed by the famous industrial designer, Eiji Mitooka. The interior is made of wood materials to recreate the essence of Japanese harmony and aesthetics.
- Selected skilled bus driver.
- English-speaking service attendant on board.
- We recommend arriving 10 minutes before departure.
- Important note: we only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 20 years old and above. Minor travelers below 20 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
- Please be aware that the return time is an estimate and may vary depending on traffic conditions along the way.
- Please be aware that Himeji Castle has many steps. Additionally, you will be required to remove your shoes inside the castle, so we recommend bringing a pair of socks.
- You may leave this tour upon the arrival at Himeji Station.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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