This 2-day bus tour from Osaka promises an immersive cultural experience, blending the vibrant Awa Dance Festival with the artistic charm of Naoshima. Priced at $301.75 per person, the tour includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and admission fees, making it a convenient and affordable way to explore these captivating destinations. With a limited group size of 20, travelers can expect a personalized journey filled with unforgettable memories and insights into Japanese traditions and contemporary art. What awaits those who embark on this tour might just surprise you.
Good To Know
- A 2-day tour from Osaka that includes the Awa Dance Festival and a visit to the island of Naoshima.
- The tour is limited to 20 participants and is priced from $301.75 per person.
- The tour includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and admission fees.
- The itinerary may change, and the Awa Odori event could be canceled due to weather.
- The tour is non-refundable, and travelers should be aware of the cancellation policies.
Tour Overview
This 2-day Awa Dance Festival and Naoshima tour from Osaka allows travelers to experience the vibrant Awa Odori festival and explore the renowned art island of Naoshima.
The tour is limited to 20 participants and is priced from $301.75 per person. It includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and admission fees.
The tour starts and ends in Osaka, with the first day focused on the Awa Dance Festival and the second day on Naoshima.
The itinerary may change, and the Awa Odori event could be canceled due to weather conditions.
No refunds are provided for cancelations by travelers.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner for participants, ensuring they’re well-fed throughout the experience.
Accommodation is also provided, and travelers will ride in an air-conditioned bus.
Admission fees to all the necessary sites are covered, making it a hassle-free experience.
However, any expenses not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions aren’t part of the package.
Travelers should be aware of this when planning their budget for the tour.
Meeting and Itinerary Details
The tour begins at the Mainichi Newspaper Building in Osaka’s Kita Ward.
Travelers meet at 10:30 am and depart on the air-conditioned bus. The tour isn’t private; it’s shared with other guests. Odd-numbered groups will have shared bus seats.
The itinerary order may change. The tour ends back at the meeting point.
Travelers should note that confirmation is subject to availability and the tour may be canceled if fewer than 20 participants sign up by 14 days before departure.
Alcohol consumption on the bus is prohibited.
Travel Conditions
Confirmation for the tour is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. If there are fewer than 20 participants 14 days before departure, the tour may be canceled. Alcohol consumption on the bus is prohibited.
Accessibility | Participants Required | Alcohol Policy |
---|---|---|
Not Wheelchair Accessible | Minimum 20 | Prohibited on Bus |
Infants Sit on Laps | May Cancel if Less Than 20 | – |
The tour conditions provide important details for travelers to consider before booking this 2-day Awa Dance Festival and Naoshima excursion from Osaka.
Weather and Cancellation Policies
While the Awa Odori at the festival may be canceled due to weather conditions, the tour operator provides a full refund if the tour is canceled before departure.
However, weather may still affect the visibility of the views. Even so, the operator notes that similar photographs are possible under suitable conditions.
Travelers should also note that the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds will be provided for cancellations by the travelers themselves.
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Experiencing the Awa Dance Festival
Nestled in the vibrant streets of Tokushima City, the Awa Dance Festival captivates visitors with its energetic rhythms and colorful costumes.
Dancers clad in vibrant yukata move to the beat of traditional drums, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Highlights of the festival include:
- Watching expert dancers perform intricate choreography
- Enjoying local street food and drinks
- Exploring the lively festival atmosphere
- Participating in group dances with other attendees
- Immersing oneself in the rich cultural heritage of the region
The Awa Dance Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the lively traditions of Japan’s Tokushima Prefecture.
Exploring the Art Installations of Naoshima
After exploring the vibrant Awa Dance Festival, the tour continues to the serene island of Naoshima.
Renowned for its contemporary art installations, Naoshima offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors will explore the iconic Chichu Art Museum, designed by architect Tadao Ando, which seamlessly integrates artwork and natural light.
The tour also includes a visit to the Lee Ufan Museum, showcasing the work of the renowned Korean artist.
With time to wander through the charming villages, travelers can discover Naoshima’s unique blend of art, architecture, and natural beauty.
Practical Tips for the Tour
To make the most of the Awa Dance Festival and Naoshima tour, travelers should plan their packing carefully. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves a considerable amount of time on foot.
Plus, travelers should bring:
- Layers for changing weather conditions
- Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Camera to capture the stunning art installations and vibrant festival
- Small backpack or day bag to carry personal items
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Travelers should also be mindful of the prohibition on alcohol consumption on the bus.
Common Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Needs?
Unfortunately, the tour cannot be customized to accommodate special needs. The tour is non-private and has set inclusions, and the provider doesn’t offer any options for personalization or accessibility accommodations.
How Much Free Time Is Available at the Awa Dance Festival?
This tour provides limited free time at the Awa Dance Festival, as the itinerary is scheduled and shared with other guests. Participants can enjoy the festival performances but won’t have extensive independent exploration time.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
The tour allows photography, but weather conditions may affect visibility and the ability to take clear photos. Participants should be prepared for varying conditions that could impact photographic opportunities during the tour.
Can Participants Purchase Additional Items During the Naoshima Visit?
Participants can purchase additional items during the Naoshima visit. The tour includes admission fees, but any extra purchases like souvenirs are at the traveler’s own expense. Participants are free to explore Naoshima and its shops during the scheduled free time.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Destinations?
The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend or add additional destinations. It’s a fixed 2-day itinerary from Osaka with limited group size. Travelers can only purchase items mentioned in the inclusions during the Naoshima visit.
The Sum Up
This two-day bus tour from Osaka offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing participants to witness the vibrant Awa Dance Festival and explore the artistic charm of Naoshima. With transportation, accommodation, meals, and admission fees included, the tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the region’s rich heritage and contemporary art scene. The limited group size ensures a more personalized journey, creating unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.
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