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Kurashiki
Kurashiki Cycling Tour: History, Culture & Hidden Gems
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Overview
Explore Kurashiki's rich heritage on the Kurashiki History and Culture Guided Cycling Tour. Pedal through time in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, where the atmosphere of 400 years past still lingers. This bike tour isn't just a ride; it's a journey through history and culture.
Follow the guide upstream along the Kurashiki River towards the Sakazu Reservoir. Discover how the river once thrived with Takasebune boats, now partially flowing underground. See remnants of this era and experience Kurashiki's blend of past and present. The tour stops at the Sakazuyaki Kamamoto Pottery Workshop, a cultural landmark.
The destination, Sakazu Reservoir, is about 3 kilometers away. Along the way, discover former entertainment districts, transportation hubs, and old spinning mill sites. The tour includes a rental bicycle and insurance. Food and drinks are not included. This is a small-group tour that ensures personalized attention. 
Highlights
Explore the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: See what Kurashiki was like 400 years ago!
Cycle to Sakazu Reservoir: Enjoy a beautiful ride along the Kurashiki River.
Visit Sakazuyaki Kamamoto Pottery Workshop: Discover local art and culture.
Small Group Tour: Enjoy a personalized experience with an expert guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Overall, customers loved the cycling tour for its blend of history, culture, and scenic views, although some found the cycling distance a bit challenging.
Customers enjoyed exploring the historical sites with a knowledgeable guide.
Many reviewers highlighted the fun and easy bike ride.
Visitors appreciated the opportunity to learn about local culture.
Guests loved the beautiful scenery along the cycling route.
Some found the cycling distance challenging.
A few reviewers wanted more time at specific stops.
The Journey
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
Step back in time in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, a living museum where the spirit of old Japan thrives. Wander along willow-lined canals, where stone bridges arch over tranquil waters reflecting the traditional white-walled storehouses (kura) that define the area's iconic landscape. Originally a vital rice distribution center, the quarter now houses charming boutiques, craft shops, and cafes. Imagine the bustling scene from centuries past as you stroll through streets preserved to evoke the Edo period, a journey into Japan's rich mercantile heritage. Don't miss the Ohara Museum of Art, a treasure trove of Western and Japanese masterpieces housed in a stunning classical building.
Sakazu Reservoir Cycling Route
Embark on a refreshing cycling adventure from the historic Kurashiki Bikan Quarter to the serene Sakazu Reservoir. Pedal along the picturesque Kurashiki River and irrigation canals, uncovering remnants of a bygone era. Witness the transformation of the landscape as you pass former entertainment districts, cross historic train tracks, and navigate through areas where spinning mills once stood, now evolving into modern spaces. Conclude your ride at the Sakazu Reservoir, a peaceful oasis where you can reflect on the journey and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Stop for a break at a local café to soak in the ambiance.
Sakazuyaki Kamamoto Pottery Workshop
Delve into the world of Sakazuyaki pottery at the Kamamoto workshop, where the legacy of Kurashiki's oldest pottery tradition lives on. Meet Kensaku Okamoto, the sixth-generation potter, and discover the artistry and craftsmanship behind each unique piece. Explore the workshop, witness the traditional techniques, and learn about the connection between Sakazu ware, the region's abundant water, and the high-quality clay. Marvel at the Nobori-gama (climbing kiln), ingeniously built into the embankment of the now-vanished Higashi Takahashi River, a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and artistry.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a rental bicycle and insurance. Food and drinks at the cafe are not included. Children are welcome to participate if they are 140cm or taller. The meeting point is at [Insert Meeting Point].
Hot Tip
Many travelers suggest wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water, especially during warmer months. Also, be sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery along the cycling route.
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240
Kurashiki
Kojima E-Bike Tour: Scenery, Denim & Free Shuttle
Kurashiki Kojima Scenic E-Bike Tour Adventure with Free Shuttle lets travelers explore Kojima, the birthplace of Japanese denim, on an easy electric-assist bicycle ride. This tour takes people along the pretty “Kaze no Michi” path, showing them the history of Shimotsui, an old fishing town from the Edo period. A friendly guide tells stories about the old streets and buildings as riders pedal to Mt. Washu to see amazing views of the Seto Inland Sea and Great Seto Bridge. What to Expect: The tour includes stops at key places like the Kaze no Michi Cycling Path, the Shimotsui Railway Memorial Site, and the Former Shimotsui Customs House. Riders will also enjoy views from Mt. Washuzan Second Observatory and the Seto Ohashi Bridge Viewpoint, and then wander down Kojima Jeans Street. This street is full of local denim shops. The tour is easy to get to with a free pick-up from Kurashiki Station. This experience includes the use of an electric-assist bicycle and helmet, insurance, and a guide. Lunch is not included. It’s a great way to see the sights and learn about the area’s history and culture.
From
¥ 12000
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240
Okayama Prefecture
Naoshima's Hidden Gems: A Kayaking Adventure in the Seto Inland Sea
Setouchi Sea Kayak Private Adventure explores the art island of Naoshima via kayak, venturing to hidden, serene islands inaccessible by ferry. Enjoy a unique perspective of the Seto Inland Sea, with snacks and drinks provided. Paddling distance is approximately 5 km, adjusted for conditions and skill levels.
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80
Hiroshima
Hiroshima Peace Park VR Tour: A Journey Through Time
PEACE PARK TOUR VR: Journey through Hiroshima's past, witnessing pre-bomb cityscapes, the atomic blast's aftermath, and the city's inspiring recovery. Guided by English-speaking experts, this virtual experience uses survivor testimonies and historical photos for an immersive, educational tour. Note: excludes transportation and refreshments.
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Himeji
Shiso E-Bike Tour: Cycle Harima's Sake History!
E-bike Cycling through the naturally rich Shiso region lets people see old places where sake was first made in Harima. It's a fun bike ride through the pretty countryside. Folks will visit Ichinomiya Shrine, where the oldest sake recipes are written. They'll also see Niwata Shrine and Iwa Shrine, which are important to the area's history. The tour uses electric bikes, so it's easy to ride through the quiet countryside. People can expect a yummy lunch with local, healthy, fermented foods. At the end, the tour goes to a sake place. There, people can learn how sake is made the old way. This tour is great for anyone who likes history and yummy food! The tour includes a guide, a helmet, and the use of an electric bike. Lunch at Sake Brewery, visits at Sake no Furusato no Jinja (Sake Hometown Shrine), and Iwa Jinja Shrine are included. It does not include private transportation or tips.
From
¥ 13000
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