[Tohoku Day Tour with Shared Car] Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geibikei Gorge, and Genbikei Gorge (Departing from Sendai)
- The Tohoku one-day carpooling tour starts from Sendai and connects the three most beautiful sights in Tohoku, Japan.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hiraizumi Chuson-ji Temple and soak in its historical beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
- Enjoy a boat cruise on Geibi Gorge and marvel at the stunning autumn maple scenery.
- Genbikei is considered the most beautiful river in Japan. The scenery along its banks changes with the seasons, creating a breathtaking spectacle. As a result, it has been designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument.
- Book now on KKday to enjoy exclusive offers and easily embark on a healing journey to Northeast China.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Departure Time | Standard Departure (8-9 am) |
| Minimum participant requirement | 15 travelers |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Lunch included |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Temples & shrines, Historic site tour, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
| Cruise type | River boating |
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
- Itinerary Highlights -
・Visit Hiraizumi Chuson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most famous temple in Tohoku. ・Travel to the famous sights of Iwate Prefecture in Tohoku, Japan, in a comfortable private vehicle. ・Enjoy the excellent service of a professional Japanese driver, with departure and return points conveniently located at JR Sendai Station.
- Itinerary Information -
・Meeting time: 08:50
・Departure time: 09:00
・Meeting location: JR Sendai Station East Exit ・Duration: Approximately 9 hours
- Itinerary Introduction -
・Yibi River (げいびけい)
Named one of Japan's 100 Most Scenic Views, Geibi Gorge in Iwate Prefecture, Tohoku, boasts over 100 years of history, offering a comprehensive experience of Japan's four seasons. The scenery changes throughout the year, each offering a captivating experience. Rafting is particularly popular, making it a favorite way to experience Geibi Gorge's scenery.
Hiraizumi Chuson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a renowned tourist destination known to all ages. Hailed as a symbol of the 100-year history of the Fujiwara clan in Tohoku during the Warring States period, the lush cedar forests from the Konjiki-do Temple to Tsukimi-zaka Slope evoke a sense of its former glory. Mother-of-pearl inlay and gilt paintings further enhance the grandeur of the Konjiki-do Temple. Chuson-ji Temple's autumn leaves are a popular sightseeing spot in Tohoku. Over 800 years later, they still blend beautifully with the surrounding trees, maintaining a beauty untouched by the ancient times. Embracing the thousand-year-old history of Hiraizumi Chuson-ji Temple, you'll find a tranquil yet unchanging charm, a glimpse into the splendor of the past.
Genbi Gorge: Japan's most beautiful gorge, flanked by towering cliffs, its waters flow endlessly through the valley floor, creating a dazzling display of water. The scenery along its banks changes with each passing season, resulting in its designation as a National Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument. The local specialty, kuo gong dango (dumplings), is also available (open from mid-March to November 30th) (optional).
- Important Information -
・Infants under 3 years old do not occupy a seat and do not receive lunch. Each adult may only bring one child who does not occupy a seat.
・Vehicles will be arranged based on the number of people in the group. Please do not bring luggage on board. Please be advised.
- Exchange Methods -
・Please show your voucher to the driver before boarding.
Beautiful Yanmei Creek
Geibikei Gorge: Picturesque Seasons
Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple, a World Cultural Heritage Site
Chusonji Temple Maple View
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Miyagi and Iwate
Travel days: Round trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: Torotron Bus Co., Ltd., Tokarita Bus Co., Ltd., Yabuki Kotsu Co., Ltd.
Meals included: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 1 time, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 15 people
Team leader: 0
Tour guide: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: (Yes) Torotron Technologies
Address: 980-0021 Miyagi Prefecture Sendai City Aoba District Chuo 2-8-11 Premium Green Hills 3F M-LABEL ROOM027
License number: Yamagata Prefecture Governor's Travel Business Registration No. 2-200
Travel Industry Association Name: Japan Travel Industry Association
Reminders
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 5 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 15:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Meals are not included for children under the age of 3
In the event of a delay due to traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors, or if the Geibi Gorge cruise is suspended, we will refund the Geibi Gorge cruise ticket of 1,600 yen per adult and 800 yen per child.
If traffic is congested during holidays, your return trip may be delayed.
Please be advised that the itinerary or duration of stay at each attraction may be adjusted due to traffic congestion, facility maintenance, etc.
Please arrive at the meeting point in advance. The bus will depart on time. Latecomers will not be accepted and will not be able to join the tour midway.
Passengers are advised to wear light clothing and shoes and bring their own warm clothes.
If traffic is congested during holidays, please allow sufficient time for your next trip.
Infants under 3 years old do not occupy a seat and lunch is not provided. Each adult can only bring one child who does not occupy a seat.
The vehicle type will be determined based on the number of passengers. Please do not bring luggage on board.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 6 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 4 to 5 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 3 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 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
Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple is a profound symbol of Japan's ancient culture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its appeal lies in its rich history, serene atmosphere, and significant architectural treasures from the Heian period. Visitors are drawn to its tranquil setting amidst nature, offering a peaceful escape and a deep dive into Japanese heritage, particularly the distinct culture of the Tohoku region.
To reach Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple from Sendai, travelers typically take a train from JR Sendai Station to Hiraizumi Station. From Hiraizumi Station, local buses are available directly to Chusonji Temple, or you can take a taxi. For a more convenient experience, many visitors choose a shared car tour departing from Sendai, which often includes direct transportation to Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple as part of a curated itinerary alongside other Tohoku attractions.
The main attractions at Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple include the exquisite Konjikido (Golden Hall), covered entirely in gold leaf and adorned with intricate mother-of-pearl inlay. Other highlights are the Sanko-zo (Treasure House), which exhibits artifacts from the Fujiwara family, and the expansive grounds with numerous sub-temples, offering peaceful walking paths and historical insights into the temple's past.
Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple's historical significance lies in its role as a key religious and administrative center of the Tohoku region during the 12th century. It embodies the unique culture developed by the Northern Fujiwara clan, who sought to create a Buddhist Pure Land in this world. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site acknowledges its outstanding universal value, preserving its historical structures and artistic expressions.
During a boat cruise at Geibikei Gorge, visitors can enjoy a serene journey along the river on traditional wooden boats, often guided by boatmen who sing folk songs. The experience offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs, lush greenery, and stunning autumn maple scenery in season. It's a peaceful way to appreciate one of Japan's 100 Most Scenic Spots and immerse oneself in nature.
Genbikei Gorge is celebrated for its unique natural features, particularly its dynamic river landscape. The vivid emerald green waters carve through dramatic rock formations, creating waterfalls and rapids. The scenery along its banks transforms with the seasons, from fresh spring growth to vibrant autumn colors, making it a picturesque spectacle designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument.
Konjikido (Golden Hall) at Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple is renowned for its specific architectural and artistic features, including its entire exterior and interior being covered in gold leaf. Inside, it boasts intricate mother-of-pearl inlay, ornate lacquerwork, and detailed carvings. The hall enshrines three generations of the Fujiwara family, with their mummified remains resting within, showcasing exquisite Heian-period craftsmanship.
Exploring the grounds of Hiraizumi Chusonji Temple typically involves a serene walk up a forested path, known as Tsukimisaka, leading to various temple buildings. Visitors can expect to wander through peaceful gardens, discover smaller sub-temples, and absorb the historical atmosphere. The journey culminates at the Konjikido, offering a contemplative and culturally rich experience amidst tranquil natural surroundings.
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