Okayama Korakuen, Sushi Making and Kurashiki Walking from Osaka
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
・Take a thorough tour of Korakuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, and Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter accompanied by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter.
・Experience making "kakushi sushi" (seafood chirashi sushi), a local dish from Okayama with a history of about 300 years, invented during the Edo period (1603-1868), and enjoy lunch.
・At Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, after touring the Inoue House which is one of the largest, most iconic townhouses in the Important Traditional Building Preservation District, freely enjoy exploring Kurashiki's traditional townscape with a sightseeing coupon which can be used for your choice among admission to the Ukiyo-e Museum, eating out on the go, or a simple experience activity.
・Enjoy a comfortable Shinkansen ride between Shin-Osaka and Okayama or Hiroshima.
・Please book a Okayama round-trip tour if you have a JR Pass.
Available options
Tour end at Hiroshima
Lunch: If you would like a lact-obo vegetarian meal, please indicate them when booking. On the day of the tour, can NOT be changed<br/>Please note: vegan, allergy-friendly, halal, gluten-free, and other meal requests are not available.<br/>From Hiroshima Station: No drop-off service to hotels will be provided. Please head to your next destination on your own from Hiroshima Station.
Round Trip from Osaka
Lunch: If you would like a lact-obo vegetarian meal, please indicate them when booking. On the day of the tour, can NOT be changed.<br/>Please note: vegan, allergy-friendly, halal, gluten-free, and other meal requests are not available.
What's included
Shinkansen Tickets
National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter
Admission fees and transportation costs included in the tour
Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon
Kakushi Sushi Making Experience and Lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
Take the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Okayama Station. Upon arrival in Okayama, walk to Momotaro Tourist Center by yourself [Immediately on the left side after leaving through the Shinkansen ticket gate]
The tour guide will be waiting for customers in front of Momotaro Tourist Information Center.
2
Hop on the charming Okayama Electric Tramway at Okayama Station! After a quick 4-minute ride to Shiroshita Station, walk to Okayama Korakuen Garden
3
Stop 3
One of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Okayama Korakuen is a beautiful landscaped garden from the Edo period (1603-1868) covering an area of approximately 13 hectares. With vast ponds, elegant teahouse, and lovely seasonal flowers, the garden showcases the changing atmosphere throughout the four seasons for visitors to enjoy. The neighboring Okayama Castle is also known as "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior, and is quite spectacular when viewed from across the garden.
4
Head to Okayama Station by tram and on foot
5
Kakushi Sushi Making Experience & Lunch: Experience Japanese cuisine by crafting your own chirashi sushi on our hands-on tour. Arrange fresh sashimi, seafood, and colorful vegetables on sushi rice. Then savor your creation as a delightful and authentic lunch.
6
Take the JR local train from Okayama to Kurashiki
7
Stop 7
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is an attractive area with a charming townscape featuring white-walled storehouses and black roof tiles. Relish the traditional Japanese scenery while visiting many museums, cafes, and shops.
8
The Inoue House is one the largest, most iconic townhouses in the Important Traditional Building Preservation District of Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. This 300-year-old house was designated as an important cultural property of Japan in 2002.
9
Stop 9
Free time for sightseeing. Enjoy exploring on your own using the Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon which can be used when entering the Ukiyo-e Museum and eating out on the go.
10
Take the JR local train from Kurashiki to Okayama. At Okayama Station, board a bullet train "Shinkansen" to Shin-Osaka or Hiroshima Station. Please note that no guide will accompany you from Okayama Station.
What's not included
Fees other than those listed in Includes
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All seats in the Okayama/Kurashiki area are unreserved, as public transportation is used. Please note that seating is not guaranteed
Children up to 5 years old may join free of charge, but will not be provided with Shinkansen seats, lunch, and Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupons. If Shinkansen seats, lunch, or sightseeing coupons are required, please book them under the child rate
If the Inoue House cannot be entered, the tour will visit the Former Ohara House or the Ohashi House instead
The order of activities and arrival times may differ depending on road conditions and congestion at destinations
Allergy-friendly, halal, gluten-free, and other meal requests are not available
As this is a walking tour, please wear shoes and clothing that are suitable for walking. The total walking distance for this tour is approximately 3 miles
For those who would like a lact-ovo‐vegetarian meal (vegetables will be used instead for kakushi sushi; eggs and dairy products are used in other menu items), please be sure to request at the time of booking. If requests are not provided in advance, same-day changes cannot be accepted
Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour
Kurashiki Sightseeing Coupon applicable facilities and shops may be subject to change
For lunch, the menu includes kakushi sushi made by customers during the experience, side dish, red miso soup, and dessert
Tour's total duration is 11 hours, although the total duration listed in the itinerary is 4 hours 30 minutes. The remaining hours are allotted for travel time.
Meeting point
Hotel Granvia Osaka 1F in front of elevator, not the 19th floor with front desk. 7:40am Meet-up, 7:50am Departure. An assistant will guide participants to the Shin Osaka Station Shinkansen platform, but will not board the Shinkansen.
Important notes
• If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.
• In case bookings have been made separately, you may be assigned to be on separate tour buses.
About Osaka
Osaka is a vibrant, bustling city known for its rich culinary scene, historic sites, and modern entertainment. As Japan's second-largest metropolitan area, it offers a dynamic mix of traditional culture and contemporary urban life.
Top Attractions
Osaka Castle
A iconic symbol of Osaka, this castle was originally built in the 16th century and has been beautifully restored. It offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history and features a museum and scenic park.
Historical
2-3 hours
600 JPY
Dotonbori
A lively and colorful entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. Dotonbori is a must-visit for foodies and those looking to experience Osaka's energetic atmosphere.
Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free (food and shopping vary)
Universal Studios Japan
A popular theme park featuring attractions based on famous movies and characters, including Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park. It's a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.
Entertainment
Full day
8,400-10,600 JPY (varies by season and tickets)
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including whales, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium is known for its impressive exhibits and educational programs.
Nature
2-3 hours
2,600 JPY
Shinsekai
A retro district with a nostalgic atmosphere, featuring the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and a variety of local eateries. Shinsekai is known for its unique blend of old and new, offering a glimpse into Osaka's past.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (food and shopping vary)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Takoyaki
Octopus-filled batter balls, cooked to perfection and topped with savory sauces and bonito flakes. A must-try street food in Osaka.
Snack
Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request
Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, cooked on a griddle. Often referred to as 'Japanese pizza.'
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request
Kushikatsu
Deep-fried skewers of various meats, vegetables, and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. A specialty of the Shinsekai district.
Dinner
Contains seafood and meat, can be made vegetarian upon request
Ramen
Noodle soup dish with various broths, toppings, and noodle types. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Cycling tours
Kayaking and water sports
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional workshops (e.g., calligraphy, ikebana)
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Cherry blossoms in March and April add to the appeal.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 50 km from city center
- Itami Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station
By bus
Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of eight lines that connect major attractions, shopping districts, and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Umeda
Namba
Shin-Osaka
Tennoji
Day trips
Kyoto
50 km • Full day
A historic city known for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
Nara
40 km • Half day to full day
A historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. Nara offers a mix of history, culture, and nature.
Kobe
30 km • Full day
A port city known for its historic sites, scenic views, and delicious beef. Kobe offers a mix of culture, history, and culinary delights.
Festivals
Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15
Osaka Castle Illumination • December (specific dates vary)
Pro tips
- Use an IC card, such as ICOCA or Suica, for easy and convenient payments on public transportation, vending machines, and convenience stores
- Try local specialties, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, at street food stalls and local restaurants
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines
- Explore the city's unique neighborhoods, such as Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Den Den Town, to experience the diverse culture and atmosphere of Osaka
- Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including the Osaka Metro, JR trains, and buses, to easily navigate and explore the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
