Saddle up for a truly unique adventure in Shimane Prefecture, Japan. From April 2023 to June 2025, visitors can experience the thrill of horseback riding while dressed in authentic Samurai attire. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage as you explore scenic landscapes on guided trails. Savor traditional Japanese snacks and embrace the spirit of the Samurai. Whether a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, this captivating experience promises an unforgettable blend of history, nature, and culinary delights. What other secrets await those who embark on this remarkable journey?
Key Points
- Participants can wear authentic Samurai costumes, including jackets, pants, headpieces, and traditional Japanese footwear, during the horseback riding experience.
- The guided horseback riding takes place in the scenic landscapes of Shimane Prefecture, Japan, with options for rides ranging from 60 to 180 minutes.
- The experience is available daily from April 2023 to June 2025, with the meeting point located in the parking lot in Kiamicho, Masuda, near the Fureai Hiroba bus stop.
- Participants will be provided with a selection of traditional Japanese snacks, such as mochi, onigiri, wagashi, and matcha tea, during the experience.
- The horseback riding is suitable for riders of all skill levels, with the horses being breeds like Thoroughbred, Arabian, and Akhal-Teke.
Overview of the Experience
Although set in the picturesque Shimane Prefecture, this horseback riding experience transports participants back in time, allowing them to don traditional Samurai attire and explore the Japanese countryside on horseback.
Available from April 2023 to June 2025, the activity runs daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Riders will meet at the parking lot in Kiamicho, Masuda, a short walk from the Fureai Hiroba bus stop, before setting off on their adventure.
The experience includes the Samurai costume, horseback riding, and snacks, with a private tour just for your group.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Shimane Prefecture.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The meeting point for this horseback riding experience is the parking lot in Kiamicho, Masuda, located just a one-minute walk from the Fureai Hiroba bus stop.
After meeting at the designated spot, you’ll be transported to the nearby riding location. At the end of the activity, you’ll return to the original meeting point.
The experience is a private tour, so only your group will participate. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
Most travelers can join, but those with certain medical conditions may not be recommended. The experience lasts from 4/12/2023 to 6/29/2025.
Samurai Costume Included
As part of this unique horseback riding experience, participants are provided with an authentic Samurai costume to wear during the activity.
The costume includes:
- A traditional Samurai-style jacket made of high-quality fabric.
- A pair of loose-fitting Samurai pants.
- A headpiece, often a distinctive helmet or headband.
- Tabi socks and traditional Japanese sandals.
Wearing the Samurai costume adds to the immersive and historical nature of the horseback riding experience, allowing participants to truly feel like they’ve been transported back in time to the era of the legendary Japanese warriors.
Horseback Riding Experience
Participants embark on a captivating horseback riding adventure through the scenic landscapes of Shimane Prefecture. Expertly guided rides take them through lush forests, rolling hills, and tranquil valleys. The experience allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the region and connect with the cultural heritage of Japan.
| Horse Breed | Riding Duration | Terrain |
|---|---|---|
| Thoroughbred | 60-90 minutes | Wooded trails |
| Arabian | 90-120 minutes | Open meadows |
| Akhal-Teke | 120-180 minutes | Steep inclines |
Riders of all skill levels can enjoy the journey, with opportunities to trot, canter, and explore the breathtaking vistas. This unique activity offers a seamless blend of outdoor adventure and culture.
Provided Snacks
During the horseback riding experience, riders are provided with a selection of traditional Japanese snacks to enjoy.
These snacks include:
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Mochi – Soft, chewy rice cakes in various flavors like green tea, strawberry, and plain.
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Onigiri – Triangular-shaped rice balls, often filled with salted salmon, pickled plum, or seasoned cod roe.
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Wagashi – Delicate, bite-sized Japanese confections made with rice flour, red bean paste, and seasonal ingredients.
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Matcha tea – Powdered green tea that can be savored alongside the equestrian adventure.
These traditional Japanese treats offer a cultural complement to the Samurai-inspired horseback riding experience.
Tour Details and Participant Information
The horseback riding experience is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate.
You’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. Most travelers can join, but it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns.
The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Once you book, you can take advantage of the free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the start time. If needed, you can also choose the Reserve Now and Pay Later option for greater flexibility.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Although the horseback riding experience is priced from $336.59 per group (up to 5 participants), travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the start time.
This flexibility allows for last-minute changes in plans. For those who prefer to pay later, the "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is available.
The booking process is straightforward:
- Check availability and select the desired date.
- Provide traveler information and choose the payment method.
- Receive a confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.
- Arrive at the meeting point on the scheduled day to begin the memorable journey.
Getting to the Meeting Point
Travelers can easily reach the meeting point, located in the parking lot at Kiamicho, Masuda, Shimane 699-3764, Japan.
It’s just a one-minute walk from the Fureai Hiroba bus stop. The meeting point is convenient and easily accessible.
Once participants arrive, they’ll meet the guide and get fitted for their samurai costumes before embarking on the exciting horseback riding experience.
The return trip will bring them back to the same meeting point at the end of the activity.
With clear directions and a centralized location, getting to the starting point is a seamless part of this unique adventure.
Since You Asked
Can We Choose the Color of the Samurai Costume?
The information provided does not indicate whether participants can choose the color of the samurai costume. The experience appears to include a pre-selected costume, though the specific details about customization options are not specified.
Is There an Option to Extend the Ride Duration?
The experience doesn’t offer options to extend the ride duration. The standard package is 4 hours long, from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. Extending the ride time isn’t possible, but visitors can book additional experiences if they’d like to explore further.
Do We Need to Bring Our Own Riding Equipment?
No, the package includes the necessary riding equipment. Participants don’t need to bring their own gear as the samurai costume and horseback riding equipment are provided as part of the experience.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Larger Groups?
The tour can accommodate larger groups, but the pricing is per group (up to 5 participants). Customers can contact the tour provider to inquire about customizing the experience for their group size and specific needs.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no minimum age stated, but the activity isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions. Children would need to be able to safely ride a horse and wear the samurai costume.
The Sum Up
This one-of-a-kind horseback riding adventure in Shimane allows visitors to fully enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Riders will don authentic Samurai attire and explore scenic landscapes, enjoying traditional Japanese snacks along the way. Whether a beginner or experienced rider, this thrilling experience blends history, nature, and culinary delights for an unforgettable journey through the spirit of the Samurai.