2-day One way Bus Tour from KOKURA around IZUMO to HIROSHIMA

Exploring Western Japan in Style: A 2-Day Private Bus Tour from Kokura to Hiroshima

If you’re looking to experience Japan’s less-traveled western reaches without the hassle of driving or the time commitment of a lengthy train journey, this 2-day private bus tour might just be what you need. It offers a comfortable and convenient way to visit notable sites like Izumo Taisha Shrine, Mizuki Shigeru Road, and Lake Shinji, all crafted to give you an authentic taste of local culture and scenic beauty.

What we love about this tour are three key points: First, the private bus and guide ensure a relaxed pace and personalized attention, which is often missing in larger group tours. Second, the itinerary balances cultural highlights with scenic stops, making every mile meaningful. And third, the flexibility of drop-offs at Hiroshima or Miyajimaguchi means you can tailor the ending to your plans.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is that the price of nearly $3,000 for up to 15 people might seem steep for some travelers, especially when you factor in your own accommodation costs. Still, this fee includes transportation, guide, and tolls—offering notable value for a tailored experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort and efficiency, want to explore at a relaxed pace, and enjoy having a knowledgeable guide to unlock local stories along the way. It’s perfect for those who prefer private, guided exploration over solo planning, and are comfortable with a slightly higher price point for ease and personalized service.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Private Transport: Travel in a dedicated coach with a friendly, English-speaking driver and guide.
• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of cultural sites, scenic spots, and local cuisine, with enough time to enjoy each stop.
• Flexible Drop-offs: End your trip at Hiroshima or Miyajimaguchi, ideal for those with specific travel plans or connecting trains.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit Izumo Taisha Shrine, Mizuki Shigeru Road, and Lake Shinji, all offering genuine insights into local traditions and scenery.
• All-inclusive Pricing: The fee covers transportation, guide, tolls, and parking, making it straightforward and convenient.
• Self-arranged Accommodation: You are responsible for booking your hotel in Yonago, which allows for tailored stays and budget options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Kokura to Izumo and Yonago
Your journey kicks off early at Kokura Station, where you’ll hop aboard a private charter bus. The ride to Izumo Taisha Shrine takes approximately four hours, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive. Expect a couple of designated rest stops, including the KANO Service Area in Shunan City and the ASA Service Area in Hiroshima, perfect for stretching legs and grabbing quick snacks.

Reaching Izumo Taisha, you’ll explore this revered shrine, famous for its massive torii gate and spiritual significance. The walk to the shrine is lively, with many shops along the way offering local specialties like Izumo Soba—a three-tiered noodle dish that’s a must-try. The guided walk provides insight into the shrine’s myths and local customs, enriching your visit beyond just sightseeing.

Later, you’ll enjoy a leisurely dinner in Sakaiminato, Tottori, renowned for fresh seafood and portside charm. The recommended restaurant, Ajidokoro “Misa,” is praised for its fish dishes—something you’ll appreciate after a day on the road. Post-dinner, you’ll check into your hotel in Yonago at Kaike Onsen, a popular hot spring area. Keep in mind, your hotel stay and dinner are on your own, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred accommodation and budget.

Day 2: Scenic Stops and Cultural Highlights
You’ll start bright and early at your Yonago hotel, headed first to the Adachi Museum of Art. This spot isn’t just about art; many reviewers highlight the stunning Japanese gardens that are often rated among the best in Japan. Opening at 9 am, it’s a calming start with a rich collection of artworks, and the peaceful garden views provide perfect photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll visit Mizuki Shigeru Road in Sakaiminato, a lively street dedicated to the famous manga artist. The colorful statues, shops, and atmosphere make it a delight, and the entrance fee of $7 offers good value considering the quirky appeal. You can expect to see numerous statues and themed souvenirs—great for fans or those wanting a playful cultural break.

Lunch follows at the Sakaiminato seafood sales center, where fresh catches are on display. The seafood here is often fresh and affordably priced, a highlight for many travelers. Afterwards, you’ll visit Lake Shinji, and you might find the Shijimi Soup here a local delicacy worth trying.

In the late afternoon, you’ll stop at Hiroshima Miyoshi Winery, where visitors enjoy tasting local wines and soaking in vineyard views—an unexpected but charming addition to the trip. The tour concludes with the drop-off at Hiroshima Station or Miyajimaguchi Station, depending on your plans, allowing for easy onward travel. The return trip includes a rest break at the Sanyo Highway Service Area, rounding out the experience with a comfortable, scenic end to your journey.

Why the Tour Offers Good Value

While the upfront cost might seem high, especially considering your own hotel and meals aren’t included, the cost covers private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, tolls, and parking—items that can quickly add up if you’re navigating alone. The convenience of having a private coach means no waiting in lines, no navigating unfamiliar roads, and the chance to relax and focus on the sights.

The carefully curated stops strike a balance between culture and scenic beauty, offering a well-rounded glimpse into the Chugoku region. Plus, the flexibility of ending at Hiroshima or Miyajimaguchi makes it adaptable to your travel plans—ideal for those wanting to connect smoothly with train or ferry routes.

Many reviews mention the comfort and personal touch of a private guide, describing the experience as more intimate and engaging than larger group tours. If you’re seeking a hassle-free, culturally rich, and scenic journey, this tour checks many boxes for value and experience.

Practical Details at a Glance

• Transport & Guide: A private coach with an English-speaking guide and driver, ensuring comfort and local insights.
• Duration & Schedule: 2 days, with pick-up in Kokura at 7:30 am and drop-off at Hiroshima or Miyajimaguchi in the evening of the second day.
• Price: $2,984 for a group of up to 15, inclusive of tolls, parking, and guide fees.
• Accommodation: Not included; you need to arrange your hotel stay in Yonago—offering flexibility to suit your budget.
• Meals & Entrance Fees: Not included; expect to pay for your own meals, and entrance fees like the Adachi Museum ($23) and Mizuki Shigeru Museum ($7) are separate.
• Accessibility & Flexibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows reservation with flexible payment options—book now, pay later.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to explore Japan’s less-visited regions comfortably and efficiently. It’s ideal if you prefer private, guided experiences over DIY plans, and are willing to pay a premium for convenience and personalized attention.

Those interested in combining cultural visits with scenic drives will enjoy the balanced itinerary. It’s also suitable for small groups or families who want a relaxed pace with the flexibility to end in Hiroshima or nearer to specific train stations.

If you value insider knowledge, scenic stops, and a hassle-free journey, this tour offers a practical way to see Japan’s western side without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the bus journey from Kokura to Izumo take?
The ride takes about four hours, with scheduled rest stops along the way, like the KANO Service Area in Shunan City.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll find options at various stops, and you may choose to dine at recommended local restaurants or your hotel in Yonago.

Can I choose to end the tour in Hiroshima or Miyajimaguchi?
Yes, you can be dropped off either at Hiroshima Station or Miyajimaguchi Station, making it easy to continue your trip from there.

What kind of sites will I see on this tour?
Expect to visit Izumo Taisha Shrine, Mizuki Shigeru Road, Lake Shinji, and the Adachi Museum of Art, along with scenic coastal stops and a vineyard.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility concerns?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

How much should I budget for extra expenses?
Apart from the tour price, budget for your accommodation in Yonago, meals, entrance fees, and personal souvenirs. Entrance fees like the Adachi Museum are around $23, and Mizuki Shigeru Museum is about $7.

What is the best way to book this experience?
Reservations can be made with flexible payment options—reserve now, pay later. The tour departs from Kokura Station’s north exit, with easy access via the Shinkansen from Hakata Station.

This 2-day private bus tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to explore Japan’s scenic and cultural highlights in the west. Its balance of guided insights and scenic stops makes it especially appealing to those wanting a hassle-free, intimate experience without sacrificing depth or authenticity. Perfect for small groups or families, it provides the kind of personalized adventure that can turn a simple trip into a memorable journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby