[Travel conditions]
Departure point/Destination: Tokyo/Toyama
Trip duration: 1 night, 2 days
Transportation used: chartered bus, Shinkansen (bullet train)
Bus companies operating the service: Alpen Kotsu and other equivalent contracted bus companies.
Meals: Breakfast 1 time, Lunch 1 time, Dinner 1 time
Minimum number of participants: 15 people
Tour guide: 1 person
[Travel planning/execution]
Company Name: T-LIFE Holdings Co., Ltd.
Address: 4F, Hikarigaoka MK Building, 5-11-26 Takamatsu, Nerima-ku, Tokyo
Registration Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 197
Affiliated travel industry association: Japan Association of Travel Agents
A minimum of 15 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 14 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location 5 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The Owara Kaze no Bon festival may be canceled in case of rain, as musical instruments cannot be used and to protect the expensive costumes.
Even if the street dancing is canceled, you can still watch the competition stage.
The decision regarding the cancellation of the Owara Kaze no Bon festival will be made on the day of the event. Therefore, if the minimum number of participants is reached, the tour will depart. Please note that in this case, we will not be able to issue refunds.
Yatsuo is known as a town of hills because it has many slopes and stairs, so please come dressed in comfortable clothing and shoes that you are used to walking in.
Extreme heat is expected on the day, so please take care of your health by staying hydrated and bringing a small folding chair.
Please refrain from taking photos from under the dancers' straw hats. In particular, please refrain from using flash photography.
The Owara Kaze no Bon festival, held in Etchu Yatsuo, Toyama, is a traditional autumn festival with a history spanning over 300 years. It's deeply rooted in the local culture, primarily to pray for a good harvest, ward off typhoons, and honor the spirits. The festival is renowned for its melancholic yet elegant folk dances and music, creating a unique and deeply moving atmosphere.
The tradition of dancers covering their faces, often with large woven hats, during the Owara Kaze no Bon festival adds an element of mystery and anonymity to the performances. This custom is believed to emphasize the collective spirit and the beauty of the dance itself, rather than individual performers. It also contributes to the dreamlike and ethereal atmosphere that characterizes the festival.
The Owara Kaze no Bon festival is traditionally held annually from September 1st to 3rd. Due to its significant popularity, visitors should plan their trip well in advance, especially regarding transportation and accommodation. The tour includes paid viewing seats for the competition, ensuring a comfortable experience, and also offers free time to explore the town.
During your visit to Etchu Yatsuo for the Owara Kaze no Bon festival, you will have free time to wander through the town's charming streets. This allows you to soak in the festive atmosphere, observe the local architecture, and potentially discover traditional crafts or local eateries. It's a chance to experience the authentic cultural ambiance of the festival beyond the main performances.
At the World Heritage site of Gokayama's Suganuma Gassho-zukuri Village, visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture. The tour includes the opportunity to watch the ancient folk performing art of 'Kokiriko Dance,' known for its unique musical instruments. Additionally, guests can participate in a 'Sasara dance' experience, offering a hands-on encounter with this historical tradition amidst the iconic thatched-roof houses.
Takaoka's Zuiryuji Temple is designated as a National Treasure of Japan, renowned for its magnificent Zen architectural style. It serves as a significant example of early Edo period temple construction. Visitors can explore its grand halls, intricate wooden carvings, and beautifully maintained temple grounds, gaining insight into Japan's rich Buddhist history and architectural artistry.
Amaharashi Coast, part of a National Park, offers breathtaking and unique panoramic views. It is famous for the spectacle of the Tateyama mountain range, including mountains over 3,000 meters high, appearing across the sea. On clear days, the combination of the coastline, the ocean, and the distant snow-capped peaks creates an unforgettable and picturesque landscape.
The tour ensures comprehensive guidance for international visitors through a tour conductor and a multilingual simultaneous interpretation system. This system can be accessed via your smartphone (no app installation required) and supports various languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, and Korean. This allows travelers to fully understand the explanations and immerse themselves in the cultural experiences.