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Dream Experiences: Beyond Himeji Castle
Experience the serene beauty of Engyoji Temple, a sacred site in northern Himeji with over a millennium of history. Adding to this journey, savor a culinary masterpiece crafted by chef Yamaguchi of Kobe’s renowned Kitano Hotel, celebrated for offering the world’s best breakfast. This tour fuses the old with the new, presenting innovative shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) that incorporates French culinary techniques.
At Engyoji Temple, enjoy privileged access to rarely seen temple structures, along with a hands-on experience in gold leaf application, an essential craft in creating Himeji's traditional Buddhist altars. Accommodation includes one night at Kobe’s Kitano Hotel and another at the Yumenoi-an Yuyake-koyake, nestled in the Yumesaki Onsen area. Other highlights include picking strawberries that were grown using the latest technology, a tour of a 400-year-old sake brewery, and a workshop in a historic Cultural Property tea house overlooking Himeji Castle, where you can make Japanese confections and enjoy matcha tea. This is a fully-packed tour that allows you to fully enjoy the charms of Himeji beyond the castle. -
Explore the KATANA of Another Kyoto
In Kyotango city, there are several significant historical sites, including the ancient ironwork ruins remains at the Enjo Ruins Ironworks Workshop, the oldest workshop of its kind. There are also legends associated with swords at local shrines, such as the Takano Shrine, where it is said that Prince Maroko, the half-brother of Prince Shotoku, dedicated a sword after slaying an ogre. Enshrined at Kamitani Shrine (Kamitani Tachinomiya) is the legendary Kunimi no Tsurugi, a treasured sword said to have been wielded by the deity Tanba no Michinushi no Mikoto. Many shrines in the area preserve such legends connected to treasured swords and swords. In this area, rich with legends and history related to swords, three young swordsmiths have established the Nippon Genshosha Workshop, where they craft traditional Japanese swords. The Japanese sword, historically revered for its reliability as a weapon and its mystical beauty, has been believed to house divine spirits. It is regarded as a symbol of the Japanese spirit and has garnered significant international interest.
Among inbound tourists, we provide an opportunity for Japanese sword enthusiasts to fully immerse themselves in the allure of the Japanese sword, offering experiences such as visiting local swordsmith workshops, hands-on activities, and engaging in conversations with artisans. Additionally, this special tour includes visits to local workshops producing Tango Chirimen (crepe fabric) and sake breweries, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the Japanese spirit. -
Learn about Ninja and Complete a Course on the Art of the Ninja from a Modern-day Ninja! Authentic training in the Art of the Ninja in the hometown of Sasuke, a Koga Ninja!
Mt. Hando (or Mt. Iwao) or Mikumo Castle Site, home of Mikumo Sasuke, the model for Sarutobi Sasuke, were a few of the training grounds for Koga Ninja and the heart of Shinto mountain worship. There, you will be guided by Takamaru, a first-year student of Ninja Studies at Mie University Graduate School, and a Ninja YouTuber. You'll learn ninja techniques such as breathing control, three-leg walking, double breathing, ascent walking, kujikiri meditation, and descent walking through ascetic training. You also have the option to listen to the story, in English, of hero ninja Sarutobi Sasuke from 4th-generation story-teller Tamada Gyokushusai, another graduate of Ninja Studies at Mie University Graduate School. The in-depth training will also enable you to learn how ninja's practical wisdom, such as the use of various herbs, links to the present day.
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Nara Gastronomy Night Expo with MICHELIN Guide
It’s not only about deer and the giant Buddha statue. For our guests, this first nighttime event in Nara Prefecture will bring together chefs from restaurants listed in the Michelin Guide Nara 2024 and Nara's traditional craftsmen, with about 30 stores participating on different days. Spend time in this special ambiance and atmosphere.
In the Michelin Guide area, chefs from restaurants listed in the Michelin Guide Nara 2024 will offer special one-day-only, limited-quantity menus using Nara Prefecture ingredients and, for the first time in Japan, they will also demonstrate their skills in CULINARY-POPUP live cooking performances.
There are many other extraordinary areas.
The Japan Craft area offers sales and workshops of Nara's traditional crafts, such as “chasen” bamboo whisks, Akahada ware, Nara “uchiwa” fans, Japanese swords, and other crafts representative of Nara and Japan, as well as opportunities to interact directly with the artisans.
The event includes CULINARY-POPUP live cooking featuring chefs from Michelin Guide Nara 2024 restaurants, and a special stage event featuring live painting by a world-renowned Japanese illustrator.
The Premium Food area features a very popular ramen restaurant, as well as Japan's unrivaled and globally renowned sake. Each day, different chefs, producers, and traditional craftspeople will make appearances at the event. -
A Trip to Nara, the Cradle of Japanese History and Spiritual Culture, for a Full-Course Experience of Hospitality with an Overnight Stay for Evening and Morning Activities That Satisfy All Five Senses
We offer a full-course hospitality trip with an evening and morning stay in Nara, the birthplace of Japanese history and spiritual culture; an experience for all five senses.
Nara is where Japan began its history, where the blessings of nature and religious beliefs coexist. Nara has fostered its own culture while introducing various cultural and technological systems from around the world. In the late Muromachi period (1336-1573), the practice of tea ceremony began, merging the appreciation of artworks collected from around the world with the custom of tea drinking.
Three unique activities have been prepared for visitors to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. During this event, admire artistic tea ceremony utensils that reflect Japan's unparalleled craftsmanship while viewing the Former Daijo-in Temple Garden, which embodies the concept of “yugen” (the subtle grace of nature), the underlying philosophy of Japanese culture in the Muromachi period.
Experience (1) a tea ceremony held in the early morning, (2) a tea ceremony in the evening to admire shadows cast by candlelight, and
(3) a full-course tea ritual (with an authentic light Kaiseki meal accompanying the ritual)
Through these three activities, visitors will come to understand firsthand why Japan is rich in nature, why it excels in manufacturing, and why its people enjoy socializing through tea ceremonies. Come and immerse yourself in Japanese culture. -
KUKAI JOURNEY OF THE SKY
・Chartered helicopter. For your convenience, we provide travel in the comfort of a private space.
・A priest from Ninnaji Temple will accompany you on the tour and introduce you to the teachings of Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), the fascination of the Shikoku Pilgrimage of 88 Temples, and the mysticism of the Shingon Sect, in an easy to understand way.
・Our journey begins at Ninnaji Temple in Kyoto, a place that boasts a history of over 1,200 years.
・Kukai was a monk who had a profound influence on Japan's spiritual culture. We invite you to join us on this special journey to retrace his footsteps.
・Fly over the beautiful Shikoku region and connect with the essence of Japan's spiritual culture from high up in the sky.
Visitors will have the chance to experience the region’s beautiful nature, rich history, vibrant culture, and local cuisine.
・The tour follows Kukai's footsteps and brings a sense of deep peace and healing to participants' hearts. Experience this extraordinary journey for yourself.
＜Accommodations＞
1. Stay overnight in Iya Valley, one of Japan’s three most mysterious regions.
2. Stay overnight at Nipponia Hotel Ozu Castle Town in Ozu. Nipponia Hotel Ozu Castle Town is one hotel with buildings dispersed around Ozu. Guest rooms, the front desk, and the restaurant are housed in historical buildings dotted around the town, enabling you to get a explore Japanese culture while staying at the hotel. -
Savor a sushi course dinner at the historic former residence of Kichirobe Yamaguchi
A sushi course dinner, available only as a part of this tour, will be served at the former residence of Kichirobe Yamaguchi (Tekisui Museum of Art), located in a tranquil area of Ashiya City.
The special course menu caters to various dietary needs, including halal and vegetarian options. It is overseen by Chef Ryosuke Kawai, a sous chef at a three-star Michelin restaurant (availability of halal and vegetarian options vary according to the date of the event).
The former residence of Kichirobe Yamaguchi (Tekisui Museum of Art) is a historic building constructed in 1932 and filled with Important Cultural Properties. It was included in the "DOCOMOMO 20 IN KANSAI,” a symposium celebrating architecture.
Tour participants will first solve a mystery in a program led by a heritage manager, who is an expert on historic buildings, as he helps them understand the building’s background. Guests can then enjoy themselves with a sushi course meal replete with Japanese vegetables in a space that previously served as a reception room. -
High-End Craft Tour “DENTO”
・Rakunyu:
Participants will enjoy matcha tea served in a Raku tea bowl alongside Japanese sweets in a traditional tea room. After a brief history lesson on Raku ware and the tea ceremony, participants will also visit the workshop and to see the kiln.
・Makoto:
After an introduction to his work, participants will watch a demonstration of his methods with a pottery wheel.
・Takeshi:
Participants will be introduced to the studio and receive an explanation of the techniques used, along with a discussion about the philosophy and story behind the work. A demonstration of Yuzen carving will follow. Afterward, participants will use a drill to create stencils and use them to carve their own initials.
・Keiko:
After an introduction to the lacquer techniques, the history of the artisans, and the works in the gallery, participants will go to the workshop to watch a demonstration of the production process.
・Kyoji:
Participants will tour the workshop and exhibition space, learn about the techniques used, and hear about the story and philosophy behind the craft. The tour will include a demonstration of the process of cutting and shaping seashells for inlay work.
・Tomoki:
Participants will take a tour of the workshop, receive an introduction to the techniques, hear about the story and philosophy of the craft, and watch a demonstration. Those interested can make paper knives or other types of blades. -
Experience Being a Lord at “Akashi Castle,” a National Historic Site A First-Ever Event Featuring the “Daimyo Feast Experience” and the Gastronomy and History of the Old Saigoku Kaido Road
"Daimyo Feast Experience" at Akashi Castle and Akashi Park (Overnight Stay)
For the first time in history, the “Daimyo Feast Experience” will be held at Akashi Castle, a nationally designated Historic Site. This event recreates, in a modern style, the menu served when the 8th lord of the Akashi domain took over Akashi Castle. The feast includes traditional dishes such as Akashi sea bream, which was once presented to the shogun, thereby showcasing the essence of Japanese hospitality.
Akashi Premium Gastronomy Walking Tour along the Old Saigoku Kaido Road (One-Day Tour)
This plan includes a ticket for the Premium Gastronomy Walking Tour, which takes visitors around Akashi Castle and explores the rich history and food culture of the Akashi Clan. You will visit places like the Uonotana Market, a historic site that has been in existence since the castle’s construction 400 years ago, and learn about the history of the Old Saigoku Kaido Road.
Akashi Premium Gastronomy Walking Tour along the Old Saigoku Kaido Road (Overnight Stay)
This package includes a stay at the Castle Hotel in Akashi City, along with a ticket for the Premium Gastronomy Walking Tour. This tour takes visitors around Akashi Castle and explores the rich history and food culture of the Akashi Clan. You will visit places like the Uonotana Market, a historic site that has been in existence since the castle’s construction 400 years ago, and learn about the history of the Old Nishikuni Kaido Road.
Old Saigoku Kaido and Akashi Gastronomy Hopping (One-Day Tour)
This gastronomy hopping tour lets you explore Akashi City along the old Saigoku Kaido Road. You’ll visit historic sites such as the Akashi Castle ruins (Akashi Park), the Uonotana Market, and other locations, focusing on the Uonotana Shopping Arcade. This plan is flexible, allowing you to purchase tickets in advance and follow a special map to visit three designated spots, incorporating a fun "town bar" element as you explore.
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A special tour to discover the secrets of Kobe Beef
(1) Visitors will undergo a strict entry process (dedicated gates, protective clothing, air showers, acrylic panels to prevent transmission of droplets) to prevent infections such as foot-and-mouth disease and take part in the first public tour of a Kobe Beef breeding facility. The tour will include a lecture by staff on breeding methods and the ingenuity of the breeding environment, etc., which have not been made public.
(2) Enjoy a special dinner of Kobe Beef and Nada-Gogo region Japanese sake served in an exclusive hotel room with a normally inaccessible nighttime view of Kobe Port as you learn more about the history of Kobe Beef and its compatibility with Japanese sake from a master teppanyaki grill chef.
Example: This cut of Kobe Beef goes well with this particular sake from this particular brewery.
(3) The first-ever "Premium Plan" tour (1 night, 2 days).
(4) Learn about the history of Kobe Beef and how this luxury item has been enjoyed locally while making and eating your own gyoza dumplings.