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Join this bus tour from central Osaka to explore Hyogo Prefecture’s historical landmarks & natural beauty in one day. Enjoy a relaxing bus tour w/ guided commentary as you travel between stops, including:
Himeji Castle: Renowned for its pristine white exterior & exquisite architecture. In spring, it is framed by a sea of cherry blossoms, their soft pink petals enhancing the castle’s timeless beauty.
Kokoen: Features nine distinct-style gardens showcasing Japan's four seasons.
Kouroen Former Residence Park: Preserves the ambiance of past residences.
Lunch: Senhime Gozen
A delightful Japanese set meal (mini anago rice bowl, warm mini udon, tender mini steak, tempura, & mixed fruit.)
Arima Onsen: One of Japan’s oldest & most famous hot springs.
Mt. Rokko: Breathtaking panoramic views of Kobe & the Seto Inland Sea from its 931-meter peak.
Wrap up the day & return to Osaka, where our memorable journey ends. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Japan in 1 day!
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For those planning to use the hot springs, please be aware that tattoos and swimsuits are not permitted.
Depending on the number of participants, Chinese and English commentary might be given on the same bus.
Please note that the tour schedule may be subject to traffic conditions on the day.
Infants under 3 years old are free of charge without seat. If a seat is required, please book under the children's price.
Please refrain from booking any time-sensitive activities such as restaurant reservations, cruise ship departures, or other scheduled commitments immediately following your tour.
In the event of severe traffic caused by holidays or adverse weather conditions, there may be a reduction in planned attractions without refunds.
The tour schedule may change without prior notice due to weather, road traffic conditions, and other unforeseen reasons. (There might be delays in returning to the designated location.) The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions.
Please be present at the right meeting point 10 minutes before the departure.
Please check the photo in the product page & scan the QR code for the meeting point reference.
Our contact number may be unavailable outside business hours (Mon–Fri, 9:30AM–6:00 PM JST).
Regarding luggage, we allow one piece of luggage per person during the excursion. Please also ensure that the luggage is manageable and fits comfortably within our vehicle. (The maximum size for luggage stored in the trunk should not exceed a total of 155cm- combined height, width, and depth.) Please also be aware that any items stored in the trunk will not be accessible in between stops on the tour, so keep all valuables with you.
Upon arrival, please confirm your name with the guide or staff on the participant list.
In general, we do not send out confirmation emails prior to departure. If you would like more information or need to clarify something, please contact us and we will send you the relevant details.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Entrance fee to Himeji Castle and Kokoen garden
All Fees and Taxes
Lunch (if this option is selected)
Air-conditioned vehicle
English / Chinese-speaking guide
Hot Springs entrance ticket for those wishing to bathe
We do not provide hotel pick-up or drop-off.
Towels
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, also known as "White Heron Castle," holds the distinction of being Japan's first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and is counted among Japan's national treasures. Unlike many historical buildings in Japan, Himeji Castle has never been destroyed or burnt down, making it one of the 12 original castles still standing in Japan today. Visitors to the castle can explore its extensive grounds and climb to the top floor for a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding area. Iakuya Shiji Park preserves the former residential area of the Iakus, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life and cultural heritage of the Japanese during that era. It's a great place to immerse oneself in history and experience Japan's rich cultural past firsthand.
Karoyashikiato Park
When visiting Himeji Castle, a notable area to explore for dining options is Kouroen Former Residence Park. Here, you'll find a charming lineup of restaurants and souvenir shops. This park creatively repurposes Edo-period residences, transforming them into dining establishments where you can enjoy a meal amidst historical surroundings.
Senhime Gozen: A delightful Japanese set meal (mini anago rice bowl, warm mini udon, tender mini steak, assorted tempura, & mixed fruits.)
Osaka Depart (7:50am meet up): Osaka VIP Villa Namba
(3 min-walk from subway Midosuji Line Namba Station Exit 7)
Osaka Depart (7:50am Meet up): Osaka VIP Villa Namba (3 min-walk from subway Midosuji Line Namba Station Exit 7)
15 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
IreneJ T,
Sep 5, 2025
- Viator
Our guide, Harry, was what made the trip better than I expected. I was so looking forward to seeing Himeji Castle, and Harry didn’t disappoint. Harry is a history buff. He gave context to the castle, the occupants especially Hideyoshi, the invaders, and how it weathered through wars relatively unscathed. The lunch was good too!
RAQUEL B,
Aug 17, 2025
- Viator
The tour was well organized Our guide Gary was great. He was very knowledgeable and made the trip very amenable
Deborah B,
Aug 12, 2025
- Viator
I’m giving this a mixed review. First— the tour guide (named Taka) was great—he gets five stars. He was friendly, fun, informative—tops. The sites we visited also get five stars. The castle is beautiful. The onsen was relaxing. The scenery great. But the bus was very uncomfortable—old worn out seats that made your butt sore—because there is a lot of driving on this tour. Also the company that ran this did not advertise accurately how long this tour would take— it takes much longer than they said. This resulted in us missing our Shinkansen train that evening. And finally, I contacted the company before the tour to ask a question about Whether we could bring our luggage with us and they never responded. So the company needs some improvement in terms of their communications and their equipment. But the people on the ground are excellent.
Kristina M,
Jul 20, 2025
- Viator
This is a worthwhile trip, and Harry our guide was excellent. Himeji castle is breathtaking, not to be missed! The lunch (5 course) we added was very good and kept us going the rest of the afternoon. Stops in Arima and Mt Rokko were really enjoyable - we wouldn't have gone to Arima and had the panoramic sight of Osaka otherwise. While in Arima, do the onsen bath if you're up for it, it's truly invigorating. Arima is one Japan's most noted (and oldest?) onsen, (natural seawater makes it different from other hot springs) and a lovely town to walk as well. Recommend!
Nohemi M,
Jun 27, 2025
- Viator
This tour was great. Gary was an excellent tour guide. He had a lot of knowldege and he made sure everyone in the tour knew where we had to go and the meeting points. Strongly recommended.
Operated by VIP Japan Tours