Himeji Castle Cherry Blossom and Strawberry Picking 1 Day Bus Tour
- Admire cherry blossoms at Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Enjoy the beauty of traditional Japanese Kokoen Garden.
- Experience spring strawberry picking.
- Shopping at Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets, one of Western Japan's largest outlet malls featuring approximately 210 stores.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 20 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Historic site tour, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
Purchase Notice
This is not a private tour, and you will be enjoying the experience with other guests.
If the minimum number of 20 participants is not reached 14 days prior to the scheduled date, the tour may be cancelled.
Please note that bringing large luggage during the tour is not allowed.
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions when you book.
Reminders
Customer Guidelines:
Please arrive at the meeting location 15 minutes prior to the departure time.
IMPORTANT: The bus will depart according to the schedule and will not wait for late arrivals.
Please be aware that weekends, holidays, and event days may experience high levels of congestion.
The schedule is subject to change without prior notice.
This tour basically utilizes a bus, and there may be delays in arrival time due to traffic or other factors.
Due to traffic or other reasons, the duration of visits at each destination may be shortened, and arrival times may be delayed.
Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).
In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.
Wearing your seatbelt is mandatory while the bus is in motion due to legal regulations.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the bus.
Please refrain from standing up while the bus is in motion.
If you accidentally leave any belongings on the bus, please be aware that they will be disposed of.
Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions when you book. especially if the tour includes lunch.
This tour includes hiking. Please wear comfortable clothing on the tour.
Please note that cherry blossoms may not be seen due to weather conditions.
Note: These guidelines are provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Thank you for your cooperation.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 11 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 8 to 10 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Himeji Castle is celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of Japan's most well-preserved feudal castles. Its pristine white exterior, often called the "White Heron Castle," intricate defensive structures, and original architectural details from the 17th century make it a prime example of Japanese castle design, drawing visitors worldwide to appreciate its historical significance and beauty.
Himeji Castle's iconic appearance has made it a popular filming location for numerous movies and TV shows. Notable appearances include its use as a backdrop in the James Bond film "You Only Live Twice," Akira Kurosawa's "Kagemusha," and portions of "The Last Samurai." Its traditional Japanese architecture makes it ideal for historical dramas and period pieces.
Himeji Castle stands out due to its exceptional state of preservation, having survived civil wars, bombardments, and natural disasters without being rebuilt. Its complex defensive system includes a triple moat, high stone foundations, and a confusing maze of paths designed to disorient attackers. The seamless integration of functionality and aesthetic elegance, with its beautiful white plasterwork, is unmatched among existing Japanese castles.
Himeji Castle is located in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, within Japan's Kansai region. It is situated west of Kobe and is easily accessible from major cities like Osaka and Kyoto by Shinkansen (bullet train). Its prominent hilltop location makes it a visible landmark within Himeji City.
From Himeji Station, the castle is approximately a 15-20 minute walk straight down Otemae-dori Street, offering a pleasant approach with views of the castle. Alternatively, local buses from Himeji Station's North Exit can take you closer to the castle gates. Taxis are also readily available for a more direct ride.
Visitors typically need about 2 to 3 hours to explore Himeji Castle's interior, climbing to the main keep, and wandering through its expansive grounds and various baileys. If you also plan to visit the adjacent Kokoen Garden, allocate an additional 1 to 1.5 hours to fully enjoy its beautiful traditional landscapes.
Kokoen Garden is a collection of nine distinct Edo-period style gardens, designed to complement Himeji Castle. Visitors can stroll through a meticulously manicured landscape featuring koi ponds, waterfalls, a tea ceremony house, and diverse plant life. The garden offers breathtaking views of Himeji Castle, making it a perfect spot for photography and peaceful relaxation.
During spring, strawberry picking in the Himeji area typically involves visiting a local farm, often in a greenhouse setting. Guests are usually provided with a basket and scissors, then allowed to pick and enjoy fresh, ripe strawberries directly from the plants within a designated time limit. It's a popular, family-friendly activity offering a taste of local seasonal produce.
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