• Saihoji Fumeikaku Temple - The tour commences at Hiroshima Station at 8:00 AM. The guide will meet participants by the Shinkansen Gates beneath the Tourist Information sign. Coin lockers are available at the station for those who wish to store belongings, but it is recommended to arrive a bit earlier if utilizing this service.

The first destination is the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area. Within this historic area, the guide will lead a brief walk along Honmachi Street, making several stops to provide insights and information.

The initial visit is to Saihoji, a Zhen Buddhist temple showcasing mid-Edo period architecture. Within the temple grounds is Fumeikaku, also known as Kannon Hall, which was constructed later to house an eleven-headed Kannon statue.

Followed by some free time

• Former Matsusaka Family Residence - The next stop is the former Matsusaka family residence, an exemplary model of Takehara’s architecture and the typical home of a wealthy Edo period merchant. Inside, visitors can view numerous artifacts from its former residents, offering a glimpse into the life of a historical Japanese merchant.

Subsequently, the guide will lead the group to the Okakae Jizō Statue, located in a nearby hut. Jizō statues are believed to protect children and travelers, and this particular statue is renowned for its supposed mystical powers.

A visit to Takehara would not be complete without sake tasting. Since the Edo period, the city has been famous for its sake production using high-quality “soft water.” The guide will take participants to one of the townscape’s historic breweries to explain the brewing process and the history of sake in Takehara.

• Takehara Townscape Preservation Area - A visit to Takehara would not be complete without sake tasting. Since the Edo period, the city has been famous for its sake production using high-quality “soft water.” The guide will take participants to one of the townscape’s historic breweries to explain the brewing process and the history of sake in Takehara. Participants will then have the opportunity to taste these renowned beverages.

Afterward, there will be free time to explore the townscape. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the many local restaurants or engage in other activities. Additional residences, souvenir shops, and sake breweries offering tasting experiences are available for exploration.

The guide will then lead the group to the next destination, Tadanoumi Port, where they will board a ferry to Rabbit Island.

• Tadanoumi Port - At the port, there is an opportunity to purchase souvenirs or food for the rabbits on the island. The cost of one bag of rabbit food is included in the tour, but additional purchases or personal contributions are welcome. Japanese visitors often bring fresh produce to feed the rabbits, so feel free to do the same.
  Upon arrival on the island, the guide will lead a short walk along the coast, stopping at various ruins to discuss the island’s somber history. Sites include the Power Station Ruins and the Nagaura Poison Gas Storehouse Ruins, where participants will learn about the island’s role in Japan’s military history and the effects of chemical weapons production on its inhabitants.

The tour concludes with a final ferry ride back to the mainland and a train journey to Hiroshima Station, where the guide will bid farewell in front of the Shinkansen gates.

• English speaking guide
• Transportation between activities (ferry included)
• Entry fees at all tour locations
• Sake tasting
• Rabbit food

• Lunch
• Transportation prior and after the tour

Nestled in Hiroshima Prefecture, Takehara is a delightful and picturesque city situated along the Seto Inland Sea. Historically, Takehara thrived as a port town renowned for its sake and salt production. Today, the city boasts numerous buildings from the Edo period, meticulously preserved to give visitors the sensation of strolling through historical streets. With its serene ambiance and traditional architecture, Takehara is affectionately referred to as the “Little Kyoto” of Aki.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.