Half-Day Shared Tour at Kurashiki with Local Guide

Kurashiki , Japan

Half-Day Shared Tour at Kurashiki with Local Guide

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Hiroyuki Hara, the famous Hara family that lived in Kurashiki for 400 years (Edo period), represents a deeper history of Kurashiki with an interpreter.

Speaking of the origin and history of Kurashiki, we will visit places in the Bikan Historical Quarter.

At the end of the tour, we will enter Cafe Ueda, established in 1972 and loved by the locals for a long time, you can talk with Hiroyuki Hara.

You will experience the "real Kurashiki" that you cannot find on the Internet.

You will be able to discover the charm of the Bikan Historical Quarter, which only locals who actually live in Kurashiki can talk about.

Let's learn more about Kurashiki from the city's history, not just sightseeing.

At the end of the tour, you will receive a wonderful souvenir.

Available options

Half-Day Shared Tour at Kurashiki with Local Guide

What's included

Guide fee

insurance

Cost of one drink at Cafe Ueda

Translator fee

Tiny gifts※Please let us know if there is anything you cannot eat due to allergies or other reasons.

Detailed itinerary

Let's learn about the history of Kurashiki! The guide will wait for you in front of Mukaimatsu Dorm.
At the meeting place, the guide will explain the origin and history of Kurashiki. (Our interpreter will also accompany you from this part to the end of this tour.)

Visit Kanryuji Temple,one of the oldest temples in Kurashiki with a history of over 1000 years. The temple is deeply connected to the history of Kurashiki, and you can actually see the remains of a samurai battle that took place over 150 years ago. It is also a mysterious place where a shrine exists inside a temple.

Achi Shrine

Visit Achi Shrine, a shrine that protects the peace of Kurashiki.Achi Shrine, Zodiac sanctum and all, is such a place, always welcome when just the thought of yet another tourist shop makes one tired.
The Shrine is located at the top of Mount Tsurugata, overlooking the kurashiki Bikan Hitotrical Quarter.

Tsurugatayama Tunnel.
The tunnel was built in 1927 and runs from Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter to the north passing under Tsurugata Mountain. The tunnel is also associated with Emperor Showa. Why was the tunnel built here? Let us tell you some of the rumors surrounding the tunnel.

Stop 5

About the alley.
We will move while talking about the alley, including the story of World War Ⅱ.

Kurashiki Ivy Square. We will tell you about Kurashiki Ivy Square, which is now a hotel, in relation to the history of Kurashiki.

Yurinso Villa
We would like to tell you about Yurinso Villa, a place associated with the Ohara family.
The villa was built by Magosaburo Ohara, the founder of the Ohara Museum of Art, for his sickly wife, and is also called "Midori-goten" (green palace) because of the unique color of its roof tiles, which glow green depending on the angle of view.

Stop 8

The Ohara Museum of Art
It is the first private western art museum in Japan built by Magosaburo Ohara, who is indispensable to the history of Kurashiki.
We will show you the relationship between the history of Kurashiki and the Ohara Museum of Art while looking at the exterior of the museum.

Come and talk with Hiroyuki Hara at a coffee shop loved by locals for more than 50 years. Also, let us know what you think of the tour and any questions you may have!

What's not included

Money offered to the gods.(Saisen) 10 yen per one prayer

Cost of food and beverages other than one drink at Cafe Weda

Admission to Ohara Museum of Art

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our guide will wait for you in front of LOGIN Kurashiki Annex / Mukaimatsu Dorm.

About Kurashiki

Kurashiki is a charming city in Japan's Okayama Prefecture, renowned for its well-preserved Edo-era canal district, known as the Bikan Historical Quarter. This picturesque area, with its traditional storehouses, willow-lined canals, and lantern-lit streets, offers a glimpse into Japan's rich history. The city is also a gateway to the famous Kojima jeans and the scenic Mount Kojima.

Top Attractions

Bikan Historical Quarter

The Bikan Historical Quarter is the heart of Kurashiki, featuring a well-preserved canal district lined with traditional Edo-era storehouses, willow trees, and lantern-lit streets. This picturesque area offers a glimpse into Japan's rich history and is a popular spot for photos and leisurely strolls.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Kurashiki Ivy Square

Kurashiki Ivy Square is a unique and iconic building covered in ivy, featuring a large Ferris wheel and a rooftop garden. The building houses shops, restaurants, and a small museum, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.

Architecture/Cultural 1 hour Free to enter, Ferris wheel rides cost around 600 JPY

Ohara Museum of Art

The Ohara Museum of Art is a renowned art museum featuring a collection of Japanese and Western art, including works by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. The museum is housed in a beautiful building with a traditional Japanese garden.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours 1,000 JPY for adults, discounts available for seniors and groups

Kurashiki Arimatsu Festival Floating Lanterns

The Kurashiki Arimatsu Festival is a vibrant and colorful event featuring floating lanterns, traditional performances, and food stalls. The festival takes place annually in October and is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

Cultural/Event Evening event, lasting several hours Free to attend

Kojima Jeans Street

Kojima Jeans Street is a famous shopping district known for its high-quality denim and jeans. The area is home to numerous jeans shops, factories, and museums, making it a popular destination for fashion enthusiasts and shoppers.

Shopping/Cultural Half-day Varies depending on purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kurashiki Yakitori

Grilled chicken skewers, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, and served with a side of rice or noodles

Snack Contains meat and soy

Kurashiki Ramen

A local variety of ramen, featuring a rich and flavorful pork-based broth, topped with sliced pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and soy

Kurashiki Sushi

Fresh and delicious sushi, made with locally sourced seafood and served in various styles, including nigiri, maki, and sashimi

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and soy

Popular Activities

Hiking on Mount Kojima Kayaking and paddleboarding on nearby islands Picnicking in the Bikan Historical Quarter Relaxing at a traditional ryokan or onsen Exploring the Bikan Historical Quarter Visiting the Ohara Museum of Art Trying local crafts and workshops Swimming and sunbathing on nearby islands

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the city's charm.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kurashiki is a very safe city, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of community. The city is well-maintained, clean, and welcoming, with a focus on safety and security. Travelers can feel comfortable and secure when exploring the city and its attractions.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares
• Research and book tours and services through reputable and licensed providers

Getting there

By air

Okayama Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Kurashiki Station

By bus

Kurashiki Station Bus Terminal, Kurashiki ICBS (Intercity Bus Terminal)

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with routes covering most of the city's major attractions. Buses are clean, punctual, and equipped with English announcements and signs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bikan Historical Quarter Central Kurashiki Kojima

Day trips

Mount Kojima

10 km from Kurashiki • Half-day to full-day

Mount Kojima is a scenic and picturesque mountain located near Kurashiki, offering hiking trails, panoramic views, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Okayama Castle

20 km from Kurashiki • Half-day

Okayama Castle is a stunning and well-preserved castle located in nearby Okayama City, featuring a beautiful black exterior, a five-story main keep, and a surrounding park with cherry blossom trees.

Kurashiki's neighboring islands

Varies by island, typically 30-60 minutes by ferry • Full-day

Kurashiki is located near several beautiful and scenic islands, offering a variety of outdoor activities, beaches, and relaxation opportunities.

Festivals

Kurashiki Arimatsu Festival • Annually in October Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter Illuminations • Annually from late November to early March

Pro tips

Visit the Bikan Historical Quarter in the evening, when the lanterns are lit, for a magical and romantic atmosphere
Try local specialties, such as Kurashiki yakitori, Kurashiki ramen, and Kurashiki sushi, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Explore the city's unique and charming neighborhoods, such as the Bikan Historical Quarter, Central Kurashiki, and Kojima, for a more in-depth and immersive experience
Use an IC card, such as ICOCA, for easy and convenient payments on public transportation, as well as discounts and special offers
Visit the Ohara Museum of Art to see a collection of Japanese and Western art, including works by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh