1 Day Tour Onomichi Temples Exploration and Saijo Sake Tasting

Exploring the picturesque temples of Onomichi and savoring the renowned sake of Saijo make for an unforgettable day in Japan. This comprehensive tour guides visitors through the serene beauty of historic sites, culminating in a delightful tasting of the region’s finest brews. With an expert leading the way, travelers can enjoy the rich cultural heritage and captivating scenery that define this remarkable experience.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour exploring Onomichi’s iconic temples, including Senkoji and Tenneiji, followed by a sake tasting experience in the renowned Saijo district.
• Tour priced at $171.54 per person with a maximum group size of 25, including English-speaking guide, entry fees, transportation, and lunch.
• Meeting point at Hiroshima Station, with pickup and drop-off at the same location, and a start time of 9:15 am.
• Flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.
• Tour highlights include stunning views, serene gardens, the famous "Temple Walk," and sampling various premium sake styles.

Tour Overview

The tour is a full-day experience exploring the historic Onomichi temples and offering a sake tasting in the renowned Saijo region.

It’s priced from $171.54 per person, with a maximum of 25 travelers. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entry fees, transportation, and lunch.

Participants will meet at Hiroshima Station and return to the same location at the end of the day. The tour starts at 9:15 am, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.

Inclusions

Included in the tour package are an English-speaking guide, entry fees to all tour locations, transportation to and from the activities (including ropeway), a sake tasting experience, and a lunch.

The guide will provide commentary and lead the group throughout the day’s events. All necessary fees to visit the Onomichi temples are covered.

Participants will be transported to the various sites, including the ropeway ride up Mount Senkoji. The sake tasting takes place in the renowned sake-producing region of Saijo.

A delicious local lunch is also provided as part of the comprehensive tour.

Meeting and Pickup

According to the tour details, the meeting point is Hiroshima Station, located at 1-2番37号 Matsubarachō, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan.

The meeting location is under the Tourist Information sign outside the Shinkansen gates. The tour guide will be holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign to help identify them.

The tour starts at 9:15 am, and the tour ends by returning to the original meeting point.

Travelers should arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour has a maximum of 25 participants and is likely to sell out.

Schedule

The tour starts promptly at 9:15 am, as confirmed upon booking.

Travelers meet the guide under the Tourist Information sign outside the Shinkansen gates at Hiroshima Station. The guide will be holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign, making it easy to identify.

The day-long exploration of Onomichi’s temples and sake tasting in Saijo concludes back at the original meeting point. Travelers can expect to return by the end of the experience.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can join while sitting on laps.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Additional Information

Although this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants can join while sitting on laps. Infant seats are available for those with young children.

Public transportation is nearby, making this tour easily accessible. Most travelers can participate, as the activities aren’t overly strenuous.

Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing flexibility in their plans. Reserving now and paying later is also an option, allowing travelers to secure their spot without an immediate payment.

Onomichi’s Temples and Shrines

Dotting the landscape of Onomichi, a picturesque port city in Hiroshima, are a series of historic temples and shrines that offer visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich religious heritage.

These sacred sites range from the 12th-century Senkoji Temple, with its striking hilltop pagoda, to the tranquil Jōsenji Temple, renowned for its beautiful gardens.

The tour explores these architectural gems, allowing participants to enjoy the spiritual traditions that have shaped the region.

Along the way, travelers can admire stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the city’s charming streets lined with traditional merchant houses.

Saijo Sake Tasting Experience

After exploring the historic temples and shrines of Onomichi, the tour shifts gears to introduce travelers to the renowned sake-brewing region of Saijo. Guests will visit a local brewery and partake in a guided sake tasting experience. During the tasting, they’ll sample various styles of premium sake, learning about the region’s rich sake heritage and production methods. The tasting is complemented by a traditional Japanese lunch, providing a well-rounded culture. The Saijo sake experience is a highlight of the tour, offering a unique opportunity to discover Japan’s finest artisanal beverages.

Sake Sampling
Junmai
Ginjo
Daiginjo
Honjozo
Namazake

Highlights of the Tour

The tour begins with an exploration of Onomichi’s historic temples and shrines, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich religious heritage. Highlights include:

1. Visiting the iconic Senkoji Temple, perched atop a hillside with stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.

2. Discovering the tranquil Tenneiji Temple, known for its beautifully preserved architecture and serene gardens.

3. Exploring the Onomichi Temple Complex, a network of temples connected by the famous "Temple Walk" that winds through the charming town.

After the temple tour, the experience continues with a sake tasting at the renowned Saijo sake-brewing district, allowing participants to sample the region’s finest artisanal offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement specified for this tour. Infants must sit on laps, and infant seats are available, suggesting this tour is suitable for families with young children.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on This Tour?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions. Travelers with dietary needs can notify the tour operator in advance, and the guide will ensure appropriate arrangements are made for the included lunch.

How Much Time Is Allocated for the Temple Exploration?

The tour allocates approximately 2-3 hours for the temple exploration in Onomichi. This allows ample time for visitors to wander the historic temples and beautiful scenery at their own pace.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes lunch, so additional food may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the tour operator if there are any restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length or Add Activities?

The tour company doesn’t seem to offer options to extend the tour length or add extra activities. However, travelers can contact the company directly to inquire about customizing the tour to suit their needs.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating beauty of Onomichi’s temples and the rich flavors of Saijo sake on this full-day tour. You’ll visit iconic sites, enjoy a scenic Temple Walk, and savor a delightful sake tasting, all while relishing the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. With an expert guide, transportation, and included lunch, this adventure offers a well-rounded cultural experience.