Enjoy the atmosphere of Takehara the little Kyoto in Hiroshima

Hiroshima , Japan

Enjoy the atmosphere of Takehara the little Kyoto in Hiroshima

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About this experience

Takehara has been called Hiroshima’s "Little Kyoto.” The townscape, which has been selected as one of Japan's Preservation Districts for Groups of Historic Building, offers a sense of serenity and relaxed passage of time. This tour, on which you’ll learn about and taste locally produced salt and sake, will let you enjoy an atmosphere different from that of the city center.
You can also experience the Japanese art of “ikebana (flower arrangement)” and enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea from the train.

Available options

Enjoy the atmosphere of Takehara the little Kyoto in Hiroshima

What's included

・Bus fare from Hiroshima Station to Takehara Station

・Licensed Hiroshima local English interpreter guide

・Lunch fee

・Shinkansen fee from Mihara Station to Hiroshima Station.

・Sake tasting fee

・Ikebana flower arrangement fee

・JR fare from Takehara Station to Mihara Station

Detailed itinerary

The meeting place is in front of the entrance of Hiroshima Station General Information Center at 9:25 in the morning.
Take the express bus “Kaguyahime-go” from JR Hiroshima Station to Takehara Michino-eki (Roadside Station) (About 60 min.).Walk to Takehara Historical District (About 5 min.)

Learn how to produce Takehara’s salt at the old Kasai family house.
Takehara flourished as a salt producing town. You will learn about the origins of salt production from a number of documents that still exist today.

Lunch at Saryo ICHIE, having “Aji-iroiro Masuya” made Shokado-style bento and taste 3 kinds of local sake.
After learning about salt production, you’ll enjoy lunch in a private room with a view of the city of Takehara, where you will enjoy a Shokado bento box filled with dishes using Takehara’s salt, as well as local ingredients grown in Takehara and local Taoshita beef.
After lunch, you’ll taste three kinds of local sake brewed in Takehara. Please enjoy comparing the three styles of sake, each with its own unique flavor.

Ikebana flower arrangement at Saihoji Temple.
After lunch, visit Saiho-ji Temple, which offers a panoramic view of the city of Takehara. The view of the sea, mountains, and ancient Japanese houses blended with the present is a view that can only be experienced at Saiho-ji Temple. Here you can experience the Japanese art of ikebana. Come and experience flower arrangement with your teacher.

Explore the Takehara Historical District.
Takehara, Hiroshima’s “Little Kyoto,” has preserved its old townscape. You will stroll with a guide through the atmospheric town as if you had time-traveled back to Japan’s old days.

Local train from JR Takehara Station to JR Mihara Station.
After Takehara, head to the neighboring city of Mihara. The train will take you to Mihara, where you can enjoy the view of the sea and islands unique to the Setouchi area from the train window. On the way, there are sections of the tracks that seem to run on the sea, so enjoy the ride.

Daruma doll face painting (optional) or visit Mihara castle ruins near JR Mihara Station.

Shinkansen from JR Mihara Station to JR Hiroshima Station and finish the tour.
On the way back, you’ll take the Shinkansen to JR Hiroshima Station for an easy ride!

What's not included

・Souvenirs and personal purchases

・Daruma mask writing experience in Mihara, 800 yen.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of the entrance of Hiroshima Station General Information Center

About Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a vibrant city known for its poignant history and remarkable resilience. It is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and serves as a powerful reminder of the atomic bombing during World War II, while also offering rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Peace Memorial Park and Museum

A poignant and powerful site dedicated to the memory of the atomic bombing in 1945. The park and museum serve as a symbol of peace and a reminder of the horrors of war.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (Museum: ¥200)

Miyajima Island

A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.

Nature/Historical Full day Ferry: ¥360 (round trip), Shrine: ¥300

Shukkeien Garden

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and meticulously landscaped areas. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥260

Hiroshima Castle

A reconstructed castle that offers a glimpse into Hiroshima's feudal past. The castle houses a museum and provides panoramic views of the city.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours ¥370

Hiroshima Okonomimura

A multi-story building dedicated to Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki (savory pancake). It houses several restaurants and offers a fun, interactive dining experience.

Food/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

A layered savory pancake made with noodles, cabbage, and various toppings, typically cooked on a teppan (iron griddle).

Dinner Contains wheat, meat, and seafood. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.

Hiroshima-style Oysters

Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which are often grilled, fried, or served raw. They are typically harvested from the Seto Inland Sea.

Snack/Dinner Contains shellfish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Hiroshima-style Udon

Thick, chewy wheat noodles served in a hot broth, often with various toppings like tempura or beef.

Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.

Hiroshima-style Anago Meshi

Grilled saltwater eel served over rice, a local delicacy with a rich, savory flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Popular Activities

Hiking on Miyajima Island Cycling around Hiroshima Kayaking in the Seto Inland Sea Visiting Shukkeien Garden Taking a leisurely streetcar ride Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum Exploring the Hiroshima Castle

Best Time to Visit

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

Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. These are the best times to visit for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

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

Hiroshima is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and pickpocketing or petty theft is uncommon. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of unlicensed taxis and always check that the taxi has a meter.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour guides and services, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.

Getting there

By air

Hiroshima Airport • 50 km from city center

By train

Hiroshima Station

By bus

Hiroshima Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The streetcar system is the main form of public transport in Hiroshima, offering an affordable and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Naka-ku Higashi-ku Nishi-ku Minami-ku Asaminami-ku

Day trips

Miyajima Island

10 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.

Onomichi

80 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A charming port city known for its historic temples, scenic views, and literary connections. Onomichi offers a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty.

Iwakuni

50 km from Hiroshima • Full day

A historic city known for its stunning castle, beautiful gardens, and traditional samurai district. Iwakuni offers a mix of cultural attractions and scenic views.

Festivals

Hiroshima Flower Festival • May 3-5 Hiroshima International Animation Festival • August (varies by year) Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony • August 6

Pro tips

Get a Hiroshima Amazing Pass for unlimited rides on the streetcar, bus, and ferry to Miyajima Island, as well as entry to major attractions.
Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum early in the morning for a more serene and reflective experience.
Try cooking your own Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Hike Mount Misen on Miyajima Island for stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding area.
Use IC cards like ICOCA for seamless payments on public transport and to save money on fares.