Exclusive Owara Tour: Walk, Practice View & Hands-on

Toyama Prefecture , Japan

Exclusive Owara Tour: Walk, Practice View & Hands-on

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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

Experience the Story of Owara: A Journey into Yatsuo’s Living Tradition

This immersive tour traces the narrative behind "Owara Kaze no Bon," the enchanting traditional festival held annually from September 1st to 3rd.

Your journey begins with a guided walk through the historic streetscapes of Etchu-Yatsuo, visiting key sites such as the Owara Museum and the Hikiyama (Float) Exhibition Hall.

As night falls, you will be granted exclusive access to a special experience normally hidden from the public. You will visit the community centers of the 11 historic districts to witness the locals’ nightly practice sessions—a dedication they maintain throughout the entire year. You will even have the rare opportunity to touch and try playing the traditional instruments yourself.

Important Note: This tour is exclusively for guests staying overnight in the Etchu-Yatsuo area. Please ensure you make a separate reservation for your accommodation.

Available options

Exclusive Owara Tour: Walk, Practice View & Hands-on

What's included

Admission Fee (Owara Museum, Hikiyama Exhibition Hall)

Guide fees, experience fees (special tours/practice sessions)

Detailed itinerary

The Owara Museum is dedicated to the beautiful and historic "Owara Kaze no Bon" festival, a famous event held every September in the town of Etchu-Yatsuo.

For those who visit outside of the festival season, this museum is the perfect place to experience its magical atmosphere. Inside, you can discover the rich history of the festival through exhibits of traditional costumes, distinctive straw hats (amigasa), and the soulful kokyū (a traditional string instrument).

The Etchu-Yatsuo Hikiyama Exhibition Hall showcases the magnificent festival floats, known as Hikiyama, which are the centerpiece of the town's annual Spring Festival held in May.

Inside this impressive, high-ceilinged hall, you can stand right next to three of the town's six towering Hikiyama floats (displayed on a rotating basis). Each float is a masterpiece of local craftsmanship, adorned with exquisite wood carvings, beautiful lacquerware, and intricate metalwork. The hall allows you to admire the incredible detail and artistry up close, in a way that is not possible during the bustling festival.

Suwamachi Street is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved historic streets in Etchu-Yatsuo, offering a picturesque glimpse into traditional Japan. Its authentic charm has been officially recognized, as it was selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan."

What's not included

Dinner costs and other items not included

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please gather in front of the reception desk.

About Toyama Prefecture

Toyama Prefecture, located on the west coast of Japan's main island Honshu, is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Tateyama Mountain Range and the picturesque Toyama Bay. The region is also celebrated for its rich culinary traditions, particularly its seafood and the unique 'white rose' shrimp. With a mix of modern cities and traditional towns, Toyama offers a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Tateyama Mountain Range

The Tateyama Mountain Range is a stunning alpine area known for its dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and hot springs. It's part of the Chubu-Sangaku National Park and offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

Nature Full day to overnight Moderate to Expensive

Toyama Bay

Toyama Bay is famous for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. It's a prime spot for whale watching, scuba diving, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Nature Half day to full day Budget to Moderate

Gokayama Historic Villages

Gokayama is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof houses (gassho-zukuri) that have stood for centuries. The villages offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life and architecture.

Historical Half day to full day Free to Budget

Toyama Castle Park

Toyama Castle Park is a beautiful park featuring the ruins of Toyama Castle and a reconstructed keep. The park is surrounded by cherry blossom trees and offers a peaceful escape in the city.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (¥300 for the museum)

Kurobe Dam

Kurobe Dam is one of the tallest dams in the world and a marvel of modern engineering. The dam is part of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and offers stunning views and a thrilling experience.

Engineering Half day to full day Moderate (included in Alpine Route tickets)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Toyama Bay Shrimp (Shiroebi)

Small, sweet shrimp harvested from Toyama Bay, often served as sashimi or in hot pots.

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Houtou

A hearty noodle soup made with miso broth, vegetables, and various meats, similar to a Japanese version of ramen.

Main Course Vegetarian options available

Toyama Ramen

A local ramen variety with a rich, soy-based broth and thick, chewy noodles, often topped with chashu pork and green onions.

Main Course Contains pork

Kurobe Beef

High-quality beef from the Kurobe region, known for its tenderness and marbling, often served as steak or in hot pots.

Main Course Contains beef

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tateyama Mountain Range Skiing and snowboarding in winter Scuba diving in Toyama Bay Onsen (hot spring) visits Picnicking in Toyama Castle Park Strolling through Gokayama villages Visiting museums and historical sites Trying local crafts and workshops

Best Time to Visit

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

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn are major attractions.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 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: Generally safe

Toyama Prefecture is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Use reputable tour operators and check reviews before booking
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Toyama Airport • 3.5 km from Toyama City center

By train

Toyama Station

By bus

Toyama Station Bus Terminal, Toyama Chiho Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are efficient and punctual, with frequent services. IC cards like Suica and ICOCA can be used for easy payment.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Toyama City Tateyama Gokayama Shirahama

Day trips

Kanazawa

50 km from Toyama City • Half day to full day

Kanazawa is a beautiful city known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and traditional crafts. It's a great day trip from Toyama for history and culture enthusiasts.

Shirakawa-go

80 km from Toyama City • Full day

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof houses (gassho-zukuri) that have stood for centuries. The village offers a glimpse into rural Japanese life and architecture.

Takayama

120 km from Toyama City • Full day

Takayama is a charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-era streets, traditional inns, and sake breweries. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and local crafts.

Festivals

Toyama Festival • August Gokayama Festival • August Tateyama Snow Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route for breathtaking views and a unique experience
Try local specialties like Toyama Bay shrimp, Houtou, and Toyama Ramen
Stay in a traditional ryokan with onsen baths for an authentic Japanese experience
Explore Gokayama's historic villages for a glimpse into rural Japanese life
Visit Toyama Castle Park for a peaceful escape in the city and cherry blossom viewing in spring