Kobe Authentic Katana workshop and Kurashiki luxury guided tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Departure: Kobe Sannomiya/Himeji Arrival: Kurashiki/Uno Port
Join our exclusive bus tour to discover the ancient art of katana and the secrets of Kurashiki Bikan historical quarter.
The included activities for this day are the following:
・Katana workshop with an experienced swordsmith
・Exploring Kurashiki's historical district with a local guide
Personalize your trip by choosing the point you want to board and disembark the bus!
[ROUTE] Kobe Sannomiya (boarding) → Himeji (boarding) → Katana Experience → service area → Kurashiki (drop off) → Kurashiki guided tour → Uno port (drop off)
Yui Prima Olivia vehicle will provide you with hassle-free access to local areas that would not be easily reachable by other means of transportation.
Inside the bus, our dedicated attendants cater to your every need, providing beverages, travel tips, and unparalleled service in both English and Japanese.
Available options
From Himeji to Kurashiki
Katana & Kurashiki tour: If you choose this option, you will be able to participate in the katana visit and the Kurashiki guided tour.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Yui Prima Olivia exclusive tours [Himeji bus stop], 100 Minamiekimaechō, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0962, Japan
From Himeji to Uno Port
Katana workshop: If you choose this option, you will be able to participate in the katana visit, but not in the Kurashiki guided tour.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Yui Prima Olivia exclusive tours [Himeji bus stop], 100 Minamiekimaechō, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0962, Japan
From Kobe to Kurashiki
Katana & Kurashiki tour: If you choose this option, you will be able to participate in the katana visit and the Kurashiki guided tour.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Yui Prima Olivia exclusive tours [Kobe Sannomiya bus stop], 3-chōme-1-274 Kotonoochō, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0094, Japan
From Kobe to Uno Port
Katana workshop: If you choose this option, you will be able to participate in the katana visit, but not in the Kurashiki guided tour.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Yui Prima Olivia exclusive tours [Kobe Sannomiya bus stop], 3-chōme-1-274 Kotonoochō, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0094, Japan
What's included
USB plugs on board
Amenities
Air-conditioned vehicle
Visit to a professional swordsmith's katana workshop.
Selected local soft drinks (only on board)
Restroom on board
Kurashiki guided tour participation fee
A blanket per person (upon request)
Bottled water
Selected local Japanese sake (only on board)
WiFi on board
English speaking service attendant inside the bus
Yui Prima Olivia luxury bus fare
All you can drink service on board
Selected local coffee and/or tea (only on board)
Detailed itinerary
1
Observe the process of making an authentic katana with an experienced swordsmith in the countryside of Himeji. Here, you will have the opportunity to learn about this ancient technique by witnessing firsthand the process of heating, hammering, and folding the metal. You will also have the unique chance to ask questions to the artisan, and learn about the true essence of the katana and what it takes to become a real swordsmith.
*Attention*
This activity is available for all the costumers.
After the customers get off, the bus will wait for them and then depart for the next destination, Kurashiki.
2
Stop 2
Take a leap into Japan's past by visiting the historical quarters of Kurashiki. You will be accompanied by a local guide who will share fascinating trivia about this unique city.
*Attention*
This activity is available only for customers who get off at the Kurashiki bus stop. After the customers get off, the bus will proceed to the next destination (Uno Port).
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Lunch
We do not provide for hotel bookings
We do not provide for the meals during this tour except the ones indicated in the inclusions section
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We recommend arriving 10 minutes before departure.
Please note that if you are late for the tour start time or for an activity during the tour, you will not be able to join the tour midway.
If you decide to get off at the [Kurashiki] bus stop, you will be able to take part in both activities: the katana workshop and the guided tour of Kurashiki.
If you decide to get off at the [Uno Port] bus stop, you will be able to participate in the katana making workshop, but not in the guided tour of Kurashiki.
We do not supply any extra pick up & drop off service.
The vehicle used is a luxury bus designed by the famous industrial designer Eiji Mitooka. The interior is made of wood materials, to recreate the essence of Japanese harmony and aesthetics.
Our bus has 21 seats. The seat pitch, which is the distance from your seat to the one in front of you, is 50 centimeters (approximately 19.7 inches).
Selected skilled bus driver.
English-speaking service attendant on board.
Important note: we only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 20 years old and above. Minor travelers below 20 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
Please note that the total duration of the trip includes the travel time.
Please be aware that the return time is an estimate and may vary depending on traffic conditions along the way.
Foldable wheelchairs can be accommodated in the trunk of the bus.
For security reasons, only passengers who are able to walk up the bus stairs and to their seats autonomously can participate in the tour.
Please note that only one large luggage (20-23 kg) per person can be stored in the bus trunk. You may carry your small bags with you to your seat.
Meeting point
We will pick you up at the Yui Prima Olivia exclusive tours Himeji bus stop. You can find us on Google Maps. Our bus and bus attentand will be waiting for you.
When you arrive, please show your ticket.
About Kobe
Kobe is a vibrant port city known for its stunning harbor views, diverse architecture, and world-class cuisine. It's a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban living, with a rich history as an international trading hub.
Top Attractions
Kobe Port Tower
A iconic red tower offering panoramic views of Kobe's harbor and skyline. It's a symbol of the city and a popular photo spot.
Architecture
1-2 hours
¥800
Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)
One of the largest and most vibrant Chinatowns in Japan, filled with colorful shops, restaurants, and street food stalls.
Cultural
1-3 hours
Free to explore, varies for food and shopping
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway
A beautiful garden with a variety of herbs and flowers, accessible by a scenic ropeway ride offering stunning views of Kobe.
Nature
2-3 hours
¥1,600 (includes ropeway and garden entry)
Kobe beef
Kobe beef is one of Japan's most famous and luxurious culinary delights, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It's a must-try when visiting Kobe.
Cultural
1-2 hours (for a meal)
Expensive (¥10,000-¥30,000 per person)
Arima Onsen
One of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring resorts, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a beautiful mountain setting.
Religious
Half day to overnight
¥1,000-¥5,000 (varies by bathhouse and ryokan)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kobe beef
Tender, marbled beef from Tajima cattle, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Dinner
Contains beef
Ikayaki (grilled squid)
A Kobe specialty, this grilled squid is seasoned with soy sauce and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Snack
Seafood, gluten (soy sauce)
Kobe-style sushi
A local twist on traditional sushi, featuring fresh seafood and unique toppings.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)
Menki crab
A popular winter delicacy, Menki crab is known for its sweet and tender meat.
Dinner
Seafood
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Rokko Mountains
Mountain biking
Ropeway ride to Nunobiki Herb Garden
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic harbor cruises
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional crafts workshops
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers vibrant foliage.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas)
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60Hz (varies by region)Hz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kobe is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic precautions to protect their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
Getting there
By air
- Kobe Airport • 12 km from city center
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 30 km from city center
By train
Shin-Kobe Station, Sannomiya Station
By bus
Sannomiya Bus Terminal, Kobe Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sannomiya
Kitano-cho
Nada
Day trips
Himeji Castle
30 km from Kobe • Half day to full day
One of Japan's most famous and well-preserved feudal castles, known for its elegant white exterior and beautiful gardens.
Osaka
30 km from Kobe • Full day
A vibrant, bustling city known for its modern architecture, historic sites, and delicious street food. Osaka offers a mix of traditional and contemporary attractions.
Koyasan
50 km from Kobe • Full day to overnight
A sacred mountain and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Koyasan is home to numerous temples, monasteries, and beautiful gardens.
Festivals
Kobe Luminarie • Early December (dates vary)
Kobe Port Festival • Early May (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway for stunning views of Kobe and beautiful gardens.
- Try Kobe beef at a high-end restaurant for an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Explore the historic Kitano-cho neighborhood for a glimpse into Kobe's international past and beautiful views of the harbor.
- Take a day trip to Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most famous and well-preserved feudal castles.
- Visit the Kobe Luminarie festival in December for a breathtaking light display along the harbor.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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