Important Notes During Bus Tour
Please refrain from drinking alcohol on the bus.
Members of the odd-numbered group may need to share seats with other passengers on the bus.
As stipulated by Japanese law, please wear your seat belt on the tour bus.
Please remain seated and avoid walking while the tour bus is moving.
Seating on the bus is assigned by H.I.S staff. Please do not change your seat during the tour.
Please be punctual and arrive at the designated meeting place on time. The bus will depart on time and will not wait for latecomers.
Latecomers who wish to rejoin the group will be responsible for all transportation fees.
8.Please wear the sticker provided by the tour guide visibly.
Avoid sticking the sticker on leather goods, as it may leave marks.
Do not use the seat reclining function or adjust the seat settings.
Please set all electronic devices, including mobile phones and game consoles, to silent mode.
Talking on mobile phones and making video calls are prohibited on the tour bus.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the tour bus.
Arrival times at each sightseeing spot may vary depending on traffic conditions.
The use of drones for filming or other purposes is prohibited during the tour.
Please do not use perfume, sprays, or change baby diapers on the bus, as it may disturb other passengers.
Manage your valuable belongings yourself.
After the tour, please take all your trash with you and do not leave any on the bus.
Ensure you do not forget or leave any personal belongings on the bus after the tour.
If you fail to follow these regulations and cause a disturbance on the bus, you may be asked to leave the bus, even during the tour.
Izumo Taisha is one of Japan's oldest and most sacred shrines, dedicated to Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, the deity of good relationships and marriage. It is uniquely revered as the gathering place for all Shinto deities (kami) from across Japan during the tenth lunar month, a period known as the Kamiari Festival. This makes it a focal point for spiritual blessings and connection, particularly for those seeking good fortune in relationships.
Unlike most Japanese shrines that follow the 'two bows, two claps, one bow' ritual, Izumo Taisha Shrine observes a unique 'two bows, four claps, one bow' procedure. Visitors typically approach the main hall, offer coins as a gesture, then perform this specific bowing and clapping sequence to show respect and convey their prayers to the enshrined deity, Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto.
Izumo Taisha Shrine boasts ancient origins, with legends tracing its establishment back to the Age of the Gods. It is widely considered one of Japan's oldest and most historically significant shrines, though specific founding dates are debated. Its unique architectural style, Taisha-zukuri, is regarded as the oldest shrine architectural style in Japan, reflecting its deep historical roots and profound cultural heritage.
Izumo Taisha is distinct for its dedication to Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, fostering strong ties to marriage and good relationships. Its unique 'four clap' prayer ritual sets it apart from other shrines. Annually, during the Kamiari Festival, it becomes the revered assembly point for all Japanese deities, emphasizing its unparalleled sacred and cultural importance as a spiritual epicenter.
At Yaegaki Shrine, the famous Mirror Pond fortune-telling is a unique ritual for love and relationships. Participants place a coin on a piece of paper (a fortune slip) and float it on the pond's surface. The speed at which the paper sinks indicates how quickly romantic wishes will come true, while how far it floats before sinking suggests the proximity of one's destined partner.
Mizuki Shigeru Road offers a unique cultural immersion where visitors can encounter numerous bronze statues of 'yokai' (supernatural beings from Japanese folklore), inspired by the famous manga artist Mizuki Shigeru. The road is lined with shops selling yokai-themed merchandise, local crafts, and specialty treats, creating an entertaining and nostalgic atmosphere for all ages.
Kaike Onsen Fuyo Bekkan provides guests with a comfortable overnight stay experience at a traditional Japanese hot spring resort. Visitors can expect well-appointed accommodations and access to rejuvenating onsen baths, which are known for their therapeutic properties. It offers a relaxing retreat, allowing guests to unwind and revitalize after a day of exploring the region's attractions.
At Nakauura Seafood Market, visitors can explore and shop for a variety of fresh seafood and an array of local specialties, perfect for experiencing regional flavors and culinary delights. Kotobuki Castle, a sweets theme park, offers a wide selection of unique local sweets, confectionery, and charming souvenirs inspired by the region, making it an ideal spot to find distinctive gifts.