Small Group Tour in Miyajima From Miyahama Onsen

Visiting the enchanting island of Miyajima can be an unforgettable experience. This small group tour from Miyahama Onsen promises to whisk travelers away to explore the island’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty. With a max of 8 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized adventure. From a scenic cruise to discovering historic sites, this tour ensures a memorable journey in one of Japan’s most picturesque destinations. What can this tour unveil about the wonders of Miyajima?

Good To Know

• Small group tour in Miyajima from Miyahama Onsen, with a maximum of 8 travelers per tour.
• Scenic cruise to the island and access to iconic sites like the floating Torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.
• Pricing starts at $567.61 per person, varying by group size, with departure and return at Okushin Pier.
• Includes cruise fee, rubber boat boarding fee, and life jacket rental, with food and drink at the café paid individually.
• Tour not wheelchair accessible, with precautions advised for infants, those with back problems, and serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The small group tour in Miyajima offers visitors a chance to explore the iconic island of Miyajima from Miyahama Onsen.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers and provides a scenic cruise to the island. Participants can expect to pay from $567.61 per person, with the exact price varying based on group size.

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour departs from and returns to the Okushin Pier in Miyahama Onsen, easily accessible by public transportation or taxi from the nearby JR Onoura Station.

Meeting and Departure Point

The meeting point for the small group tour in Miyajima is Okushin Pier, located at 1-chōme-3-3 Miyahamaonsen, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0454, Japan.

To reach the meeting point, travelers can take the Ohno Heart Bus from the north exit of Onoura Station, followed by a 5-minute walk to Miyahama Onsen. Alternatively, a taxi from JR Onoura Station is recommended.

The tour ends at the same meeting point.

Here are a few key points to remember:

1. Access is via public transportation or taxi.
2. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
3. Participants should dress comfortably and avoid heels.
4. Waterproof clothing is recommended.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes the cruise fee, rubber boat boarding fee (J-Cat 305), and life jacket rental fee.

Participants will need to pay individually for food and drink at the café, with a minimum of one menu item per person. Self-brought food and beverages are allowed aboard.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Participants should dress comfortably, avoiding heels, and waterproof clothing is recommended.

Safety Considerations

Safety is a key consideration for this small group tour in Miyajima. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Participants are advised to dress comfortably, avoiding heels, and bring waterproof clothing. Additionally:

1. Disembarkation at Etajima may be canceled due to wind/wave conditions, requiring an alternative port (taxi fare at own expense).
2. Participants must take precautions for waterproofing smartphones and preventing injuries at the beach.
3. Natural conditions may lead to changes in the tour course.
4. Participants are advised to consider purchasing personal insurance due to the risk of injury in natural environments.

Weather and Activity Conditions

Cancellations due to bad weather are notified by 3:00 p.m. the day before, with no cancellation fees applying.

The approach to the Great Shrine Gate of Itsukushima-jinja Shrine may vary depending on tide conditions. Participants must take precautions to waterproof their smartphones and prevent injuries at the beach.

Natural conditions like weather, sea, and tides can lead to changes in the tour’s course. Travelers should be prepared for these potential adjustments.

While the tour give you an optimal experience, the guide may need to modify the itinerary based on the day’s prevailing conditions for the safety and comfort of the group.

Exploring Miyajima Island

Once travelers reach Miyajima Island, they’ll find a natural wonderland steeped in history and cultural significance.

The iconic floating Torii gate, one of Japan’s most photographed landmarks, stands as a gateway to the island’s sacred Itsukushima Shrine. Visitors can explore the lush forests, hike to scenic viewpoints, and encounter the island’s famous free-roaming deer.

The tour also includes:

1. Visiting the Daisho-in Temple, a historic Buddhist temple with stunning architecture and serene gardens.
2. Riding a scenic boat cruise around the island’s coastline.
3. Enjoying the local cuisine at traditional cafes and restaurants.
4. Experiencing the island’s spiritual atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

The Itsukushima Shrine

At the heart of Miyajima Island lies the revered Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic floating torii gate.

Visitors can walk the boardwalk around the shrine, which appears to float on the water during high tide. The shrine’s structures, including the famous gate, are built over the tidal flats, creating the illusion of a floating sanctuary.

Participants on the small group tour will have the opportunity to explore the shrine’s grounds and witness the harmonious blending of nature and architecture that makes Itsukushima a beloved destination in Japan.

Rubber Boat and Cruise Experience

After exploring the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, the small group tour takes participants on a unique rubber boat and cruise experience around the island.

The tour includes:

1. A scenic cruise fee to explore the island from the water.
2. Rubber boat boarding to get up close with the natural environment.
3. Life jacket rentals for safety and comfort during the water activities.
4. Opportunities to capture stunning views and photographs of the iconic torii gate and the island’s natural beauty.

Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour offers an immersive way to experience Miyajima from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants are allowed to bring their own food and beverages aboard the tour. However, they’re required to purchase at least one menu item from the café during the tour.

Is There an Age Limit for Participating in the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it’s not recommended for infants, as they must sit on laps. Plus, it’s not suitable for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

What Are the Payment Options Available for the Tour?

The tour can be paid for online at the time of booking. Payment is accepted via major credit cards. There’s no option to pay in cash upon arrival.

Is There a Dress Code or Special Clothing Required for the Tour?

The tour participants are advised to dress comfortably, avoiding heels. Waterproof clothing is recommended as the tour may involve getting wet. No formal dress code, but practical attire suitable for outdoor activities is encouraged.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

The tour can be booked for a private group, though the price may vary based on the group size. Participants are advised to dress comfortably and avoid heels, as the tour involves some walking and natural environments.

The Sum Up

This small group tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Miyajima Island. With a focus on safety, comfort, and personalized attention, it promises a memorable adventure for travelers seeking an intimate and authentic exploration of one of Japan’s most picturesque destinations. The combination of a scenic cruise, historic sites, and local cuisine makes this tour a must-consider for anyone visiting the Hiroshima area.