Hyogo Centers of Culture: Pottery, Sake, and Serenity (5 days,4 nights)

Who is this for?
For adventurous travelers who want to delve into Japanese culture through the lens of great craftsmanship. Find authentic experiences and unique treasures through off the beaten path destinations.

- This is a private tour. Only you and your group will participate. 
- This trip can be tailored according to your preferences. Please feel free to inquire about any specific requests ahead of time.

Physical Activity: Low
Length of Trip:  5 days, 4 nights
Capacity:  1-4 people
Cost: Calculated for 4 people. Will change depending on party size. 

Visualize yourself:
- Strolling through a samurai house
- Engaging in traditional pottery making
- Savoring the excellence of one of Japan’s top sake breweries
- Learning about the construction of Japan’s manmade landmarks
- Relaxing in natural hot springs
- Crafting your own soy sauce to take home  

Itinerary: 

KOBE    |    2 nights
Day 1: Travel Day
Arrive an Kansai International Airport. Then into a private vehicle for a transfer to a hotel recommended by us in the city. Use this day to rest up or take some time to explore Kobe: Visit the Harborland, eat at Chinatown, or take the Ropeway up to Mt.Rokko for a city view.

Day 2: Tamba Traditional kilns and pottery making
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover the rich heritage of Tamba through a unique cultural journey.Start with a visit to the Anma Samurai Residence Museum, then explore the Tanba Traditional Arts and Crafts Garden (Tachikui Sue-no-Sato). Enjoy an exclusive guided tour of a traditional pottery kiln, where you will meet local artisans and learn about their craft. Finally, take part in a hands-on pottery workshop and create your own original Tamba-yaki masterpiece to take home.

ARIMA ONSEN   |     1 night
Day 3: Learn the Crafts! Breweries and Woodwork
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Delve into the craftsmanship of Nada's sake, where ancient techniques meet modern innovation in sake production, honoring centuries-old traditions. Explore the intricacies of traditional Japanese woodwork, architecture, and construction methods before unwinding in a relaxing hot spring town for the night.

HIMEJI - OSAKA    |     1 night
Day 4: Himeji Castle and Shoyu Making
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner 
Marvel at the gleaming white Himeji Castle, stroll through a serene Japanese garden, and savor a meal in a traditional Japanese structure, indulging in local cuisine. Discover the rich history of shoyu (soy sauce) in the town of Tatsuno and even craft your own as a souvenir of your Japanese journey. Conclude your culinary adventure with a taste of akashiyaki, a beloved local dish expertly prepared by skilled chefs. 

Day 5: Fly home
Included meals: Breakfast
Your next destination? Home sweet home. But remember, it's not sayonara yet, it's "See you soon!" The question is, where to from here?

OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP!

Add another trip of ours on top of this journey and we will be happy to send you off.