What is the cancellation policy for an Excursion Tour?

If you need to cancel your trip after completing and sending the online registration form, you must inform Japan Experience as soon as possible. This notification can be sent via registered letter with reply advice, or by email. The date of sending will be considered as the official date of cancellation. In this case, cancellation charges will be applied, calculated as a percentage of the total cost of the trip, as follows: More than 35 days before departure: 35% of the total amountBetween 35 and 21 days before departure: 50% of the total amountBetween 20 and 8 days before departure: 75% of the total amountLess than 7 days before departure, or on the same day: no refund will be issued

All Excursions

100 stepped gardens at Awaji Yumebutai — The Hyakudanen, 100 stepped gardens cascading down the hillside at Awaji Yumebutai
©japan experience

View from Hyakudanen Garden at Yumebutai

Zenbo Seinei, Zen Wellness Center designed by Shigeru Ban

Awaji: Where Zen Meets Architecture

2 days
Kobe

Awaji Island offers a captivating journey through time and design. This two-day itinerary invites you to explore a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary architectural marvels.

From the serene ambiance of historic shrines to the innovative spaces of modern structures, the island showcases a rich cultural tapestry. Discover the architectural genius of Yumebutai, a complex designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, where nature and human-made structures coexist in perfect harmony.

Do not miss the opportunity to visit Zenbo Seinei, a remarkable meditation retreat designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban. This contemporary masterpiece seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, offering a tranquil escape and a profound architectural experience.

Immerse yourself in the island's artistic heritage while exploring its stunning landscapes and experiencing the unique charm of this hidden gem.

2 days itinerary itinerary in and around Ise

Departure city : Kobe
Akashi
Awaji
Return city : Kobe

Please find detailed itinerary information below.

IMPORTANT:
- If your driving license was issued in France, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, or Taiwan, it is not valid in Japan, so you will need a certified Japanese translation, available in option.
- If your license was not issued in one of the countries listed above, please make sure to obtain an international driving permit in your home country, as it is required to drive a car in Japan.

Why choose this excursion to Japan ?

Experience the perfect balance of nature and culture as you explore gardens and shrines.
Admire the masterpieces of world-renowned architects Tadao Ando and Shigeru Ban.
Delight your palate with fresh, local cuisine that showcases the island's culinary treasures.
Escape the stresses of daily life and find tranquility amidst Awaji's serene atmosphere.
Many recommendations available in your digital travel guidebook.

Your excursion in detail

Itinerary

Day 1 : Showcasing Awaji's Architectural Wonders

Begin your Awaji adventure by picking up your rental car from the nearby car rental agency and embark on a scenic drive to the world's longest suspension bridge. Discover the engineering marvel behind this iconic bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the strait.
Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, breathing in the fresh sea air and admiring the coastal scenery. Savor the afternoon with a delicious lunch at a sea-view restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood delicacies.
Continue your exploration with a visit to Yumebutai, a unique architectural complex nestled in nature and designed by the worldwide known architect Tadao Ando. Immerse yourself in the harmonious blend of art and nature as you wander through its various buildings and gardens.
For art enthusiasts, a short drive will lead you to the Artyama Oishi Kakuya Museum, showcasing the works of a renowned artist.
Conclude your day with a serene dining experience at Zenbo Seinei, where you can enjoy a Zen retreat dinner and activities, as well as admire the building designed by Shigeru Ban himself.
Your first day in Awaji will end in style with a restful night at a close-by hotel.
Day 2 : Finding your Inner Peace in Awaji

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a journey to discover Awaji Island's rich history and natural wonders.
Begin with a visit to a local shrine regarded as a sacred site dedicated to the creation myth of Japan. Afterwards, explore an art gallery to gain deeper insights into Awaji Island's rich culture through its fascinating exhibits.
Then, a short drive will take you to the Farmhouse Restaurant Haru San San, where you will indulge in a delicious lunch made out of fresh and local products. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at a popular park, a vibrant floral paradise perfect for leisurely strolls.
For a unique experience, visit Hompuku-ji Temple, a serene oasis surrounded by lush greenery which offers a tranquil retreat and a chance to connect with the natural world.
You can also go to the Nijigen no mori park, to enjoy the Naruto and Godzilla attractions.
Wrap up your day with relaxation at a neighbouring café, where you can unwind and rest your body and mind. After a day filled with discovery and relaxation, return your rental car to an agency near Shin-Kobe station, marking the end of your unforgettable Awaji Island adventure.

From

$857

Contact an advisor

Accommodation
- 1 night in 4-star hotel or equivalent
The base rate includes a twin room.
Transport
- 2-day car rental starting from Shin-Kobe Station
Visit & meals
- Traditional vegan dinner is included at Zenbo Seinei
- Breakfast at the hotel is included on day 2

Other services
- Complete digital travel diary sent 10 days before your departure
- Bilingual English and Japanese telephone support is available 7 days a week, from 9 AM to 6 PM. The number will be provided in your travel diary.
Not included in the price of your excursion
- Optional insurance
- Personal expenses, including lunches (you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack)
- Entrance fees to museums, gardens or temples
- Access to internet (Pocket WiFi or SIM card)
- Everything not included in the "Included in your excursion" section

More information about your trip

Your excursion:

- Please note that at least one person taking part in the trip must have a driving licence valid in their country.

- The prices shown on this page may vary according to the Japanese ¥ exchange rate.

- Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.

- Children aged 3 and over are able to participate. Child rates available for children ages 3 to 11 included.

- Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this excursion.

- This program may be subject to changes due to imperatives such as weather conditions or other vents. Please note that all mentioned information is subject to change or adaptation.

- In order to benefit from an internet connection, book a Pocket WiFi or SIM card with Japan Experience.

- This tour must be booked at least 45 days before the start date of the tour.

- Your travel documents will be sent to you by email before your departure.

Your accommodation:

- Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the town and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the cost of the reservation. It generally amounts to ¥200/night/person (about €1.60) but may be a little higher in 4-star hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception.

- Single room: People travelling alone and/or wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. Please note that a single room supplement for an order of more than 2 people will be applied in all accommodation except ryokan (3 and 4*). As this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people.

- 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, you will be allocated a triple room.

- Hotel names: The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled.

Your transport:

- Car rental and return will take place at a rental car agency near Shin-Kobe Station in Kobe. Locations may change due to availability.

- In Japan, most cars are automatic.

- Costs related to gasoline and possible tolls are not included in the tour price.

- If your driving license was issued in France, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, or Taiwan, it is not valid in Japan, so you will need a certified Japanese translation, available as an option.

- Although the process may vary by country, be sure to apply for your international driving permit well in advance, as it typically takes time to be issued. Additionally, it is your responsibility to check the specific laws and regulations regarding international driving permits in your country.

Your meals:

- Traditional vegan dinner is included at Zenbo Seinei.

- Breakfast at the hotel is included on day 2.

- For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel diary.

A 35% deposit is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 35 days before the departure date.

What kind of insurance coverage is available for your Japan trip ?

When you book with Japan Experience, you have the option of purchasing two types of coverage:

Japan Experience Flex : This insurance covers expenses related to trip cancellations for specific reasons (disease, accident, passing...)

Japan Experience Protect : This insurance provides overall coverage for various aspect of the trip. For instance: cancellation, flight delay or missing flight, lost luggage, travel incident and repatriation, assistance, etc...