YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour

The YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour offers a chance to take in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning Hikosan Jingu shrine, participate in traditional Shinto rituals, and then venture into the nostalgic Showa Era Market, where the charm of post-war Japan comes alive through vibrant stalls and local delicacies. Led by an English-speaking guide, this tour promises a memorable experience filled with historical insights and culinary delights. But there’s more to uncover about this unique journey.

Key Points

• This tour offers an immersive Japanese cultural experience, including a visit to Hikosan Jingu shrine and a Showa Era-inspired traditional market.
• The tour begins at 9:00 AM at the Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station, providing a convenient meeting point near Hakata Station.
• Participants will enjoy a ride on the Hikosan Slope Car and engage in a traditional Oidashi-neko painting session.
• A traditional Shinto worship ritual and a provided lunch are also part of the tour’s inclusions.
• The tour accommodates a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 20 participants, with an English-speaking guide accompanying the group.

Tour Overview

The YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour takes travelers on a captivating exploration of Fukuoka, Japan.

The tour begins at 9:00 AM, meeting at the Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station. Guests will travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to experience an Oidashi-neko painting session, ride the Hikosan Slope Car, and participate in a traditional Shinto worship ritual.

Lunch is included, and an English-speaking guide accompanies the group. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point.

With a minimum of 15 and maximum of 20 participants, this excursion offers an immersive Japanese cultural experience.

Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at the Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station, located at 4-23 Hakataekichūōgai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0012, Japan.

This hotel serves as the meeting point for the YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour.

Situated near the Hakata Station, the meeting location provides a convenient starting point for the day’s activities.

Travelers will gather at the hotel at 9:00 AM to begin their journey, exploring the cultural and historical highlights of the Fukuoka region.

From this central location, the tour will depart and return, ensuring a seamless experience.

Inclusions and Experience

As part of the YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour, travelers enjoy an air-conditioned vehicle that transports them to the various sites.

They’ll have the chance to experience the traditional Oidashi-neko painting technique, as well as take a ride on the Hikosan Slope Car.

The tour also includes a traditional Shinto worship experience, and a delicious lunch is provided.

An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.

While personal expenses like souvenirs and drinks aren’t included, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive look at Japanese culture and history.

Participant Information

Minimum of 15 participants are required for the YokaBus Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market Tour, with a maximum of 20 travelers.

The tour is conducted with other guests, so travelers won’t be alone. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. However, most travelers can participate.

Guests should note that the schedule and timing are subject to change without notice due to factors like traffic congestion.

The tour may utilize a small or large bus depending on the number of participants.

Cancellation and Confirmation Policy

Travelers receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts in the local time zone. However, if the minimum number of participants (15) isn’t reached 7 days before departure, the tour may be cancelled. In that case, travelers will be notified via email.

Weather, traffic, or other reasons may alter the schedule or delay arrival times at each stop.

The tour may use small or large buses depending on the number of participants.

Oidashi-neko Painting Experience

The tour includes an Oidashi-neko Painting Experience, where participants can create their own traditional Japanese cat figurine.

Oidashi-neko are handcrafted ceramic cats believed to bring good luck. During the experience, travelers learn the history and significance of these whimsical felines.

Under the guidance of a local artist, they’ll paint and decorate their own Oidashi-neko to take home as a unique souvenir.

This hands-on activity allows guests to enjoy Japanese culture and craftsmanship. The finished cat figurine serves as a lasting memento of the Hikosan Jingu and Showa Era Market tour.

Hikosan Slope Car

As part of the tour, guests have the opportunity to ride the Hikosan Slope Car, a historic funicular railway that transports visitors up the steep incline of Mount Hikosan.

The slope car’s wooden carriages and traditional design offer a charming trip as they climb nearly 150 meters in elevation.

Passengers enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forest and shrines along the way.

This unique mode of transportation provides a glimpse into Japan’s past, allowing travelers to experience the traditional transport methods that have served pilgrims visiting the Hikosan Jingu shrine for generations.

Traditional Shinto Worship Experience

After riding the historic Hikosan Slope Car, the tour’s participants approach the Hikosan Jingu shrine.

The guide explains the significance of the shrine and leads the group through a traditional Shinto worship experience.

This includes:

• Cleansing hands and mouth at the temizuya (purification pavilion)
• Offering a coin at the saisenbako (offering box)
• Ringing the large shrine bell to call the kami (Shinto deities)
• Bowing twice, clapping twice, then bowing once more to pay respects

Participants are immersed in the sacred rituals, gaining a deeper understanding of Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Since You Asked

What Kind of Food Is Included in the Lunch?

The lunch included in this tour features a traditional Japanese set meal, known as a "bento box". It typically includes rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables, and a selection of cooked meat or fish dishes, providing a well-rounded and authentic dining experience.

Is Photography Allowed at the Shinto Shrine?

Photography is generally allowed at Shinto shrines, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the spiritual atmosphere. Guests are advised to check with the guide for any specific restrictions at the shrine visited during the tour.

Can Vegetarian or Halal Meals Be Accommodated?

The tour does not explicitly mention vegetarian or halal meal options. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate special dietary requests if notified in advance. Travelers should inquire about this when booking the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome, though infants must sit on their parents’ laps. Most travelers can participate in the various activities and experiences offered during the tour.

What Should I Wear to the Shinto Shrine?

When visiting a Shinto shrine, it’s best to wear modest, conservative clothing. Avoid revealing or overly casual attire. Women should consider covering their heads with a scarf or hat. Dress respectfully for this traditional religious experience.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will explore the stunning Hikosan Jingu shrine, experience traditional Shinto rituals, and discover the nostalgic charm of the Showa Era Market. Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour promises a memorable day filled with historical insights and delightful culinary experiences, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for Japan’s enduring traditions.