Hitachi Cultural Adventure to Sacred Trail and Gateway Day Tour
Just under two hours from Tokyo, discover Hitachi’s spiritual and cultural treasures. Begin at the sacred Oiwa Shrine, walking ancient forest paths and receiving a blessing guided by a shrine maiden. Hike to breathtaking peaks, uncover hidden stone Buddhas and gods, and savor a scenic lunch with local rice balls. After descending serene trails, visit a gateway village for tea and heartfelt exchanges with locals, learning their traditions and way of life. This exclusive tour offers an intimate glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage and community warmth.
Data: The itinerary can be flexibly adjusted depending on the physical condition and experience of the guests and the weather on the day. Trekking will be cancelled if more than 2 mm of precipitation is expected. The course may be changed due to the weather on the day or if the guide deems it necessary. Total walking distance : 6.5km Ascent: 439m Descent: 439m Total walking time: 3.5 hours without Lunch time
Options
Hitachi Cultural Adventure to Sacred Trail and Gateway Day Tour
What's included in Hitachi Cultural Adventure to Sacred Trail and Gateway Day Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Hitachi Station
Meet at the JR Hitachi St. on JR Joban Line, the beautiful station with an ocean view. Designed by an architect Kazuyo Sejima who won the Pritzker Prize from Hitachi city. Get a lunch at a local onigiri (rice ball) shop, and then drive to the Oiwa Shrine through the Mountain. You may find remains of the Hitachi copper mine along the road.
Oiwa Shrine
Begin your journey with a special welcome by a shrine maiden at the sacred Oiwa Shrine. Explore its serene grounds and gain exclusive access to a hall enshrined Buddhist statues rarely seen by the public. Participate in a blessing ceremony where you can offer personal prayers and wishes to the divine.
Set off on a hike to the shrine's sacred mountain, Mt Miwa. Walk along the approach, finding stone monuments here and there where the deities reside. When you reach the summit, a breathtaking view awaits you. Head through the peaceful forest to the neighbouring Mt Takasuzu, where you can enjoy the view while eating locally made rice balls. After descending, collect your blessing souvenir from the shrine office and visit a nearby village home for a heartwarming tea gathering. Chat with locals about their lives, the role of the shrine in their community, and the area's rich history, creating a truly unique cultural connection.
Inclusions
- Private transportation
- Lunch
- Guides fee, transport cost during the tour, admission fee
- Additional shopping expenses at shrines and station.
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Your guide will meet you at the station gates. He/She will be waiting for you holding a sign with the name of the tour.
