3.5 Hours Tonosho Maze Town Walking Tour

Join us for a 3.5-hour stroll through Tonosho, where history and mystery come alive. Our walk begins in the unique Maze Town, a network of winding streets designed long ago to protect the town. You'll see the world’s narrowest path, Tsuchibuchi Strait, listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, and visit the peaceful Saiko-ji Temple, part of Shodoshima's spiritual heritage. We'll also explore the remains of an old house that played a part in building Osaka Castle.

Next, we'll step into the Yokai Museum, home to an amazing collection of over 800 mythical creatures from around the world. This museum is tucked away in an old building in Maze Town, where you'll get to see incredible Yokai sculptures and learn about the local history of Shodoshima. Our tour wraps up at the Tomioka Hachiman Shrine, sitting atop Mt. Tonosho Tomioka. This shrine, built in the Edo period, offers a special spot to view the area, and it's still used today for the town's yearly festival every fall.

Tour Highlights

• Maze Town's historic pathways

• Guinness-listed Tsuchibuchi Strait

• Saiko-ji Temple visit

• Osaka Castle ruins exploration

• Yokai Museum with 800+ creatures

• Shodoshima history insights

• Tomioka Hachiman Shrine visit

What’s Covered

• Tour guide services

What’s Extra

• Food and drinks

• Souvenir purchases

• Transport to start point

• Extra activities outside tour

Tour Itinerary

Morning Meet-Up at Tonosho Port

• Time: 9:00 AM

• Start your day with us at Tonosho Port, where our guide will welcome you and provide a brief overview of the tour.

First Stop: Maze Town Adventure

• Time: 9:30 AM

• Arrive at the enigmatic Maze Town. Immerse yourself in its winding paths, learn about its defensive history, and explore the captivating architecture that has stood the test of time.

Maze Town to Yokai Museum Exploration

• Within Maze Town, visit the intriguing Yokai Museum. Discover a world of over 800 mythical creatures and dive into the fascinating history of Shodoshima.

Journey to Tomioka Hachiman Shrine

• Time: 11:00 AM

• Depart from Maze Town and head towards the serene Tomioka Hachiman Shrine. The travel offers picturesque views and a moment to reflect on the morning's discoveries.

Tomioka Hachiman Shrine Experience

• Time: 11:30 AM

• Arrive at the shrine nestled atop Mt. Tonosho Tomioka. Explore this historical gem, learn about its significance, and enjoy the panoramic views from the traditional festival viewing spot.

Return to Tonosho Port

• Time: 12:00 PM

• Depart from the shrine and make your way back to Tonosho Port, carrying memories of a morning filled with history, mystery, and cultural insights.

Tour Conclusion at Tonosho Port

• Time: 12:30 PM

• Our tour concludes where we started, at Tonosho Port. Bid farewell to your guide and fellow travelers, and take with you the rich experiences of Tonosho's remarkable heritage.

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• Group size is limited from 1 to 10 people

• Bookings are non-refundable

• Book at least 1 day in advance

• The total tour duration is 3.5 hours

• The tour difficulty level is easy

Tour Starting Point

• Tonosho Port

• 6194-11, Tonosho, Tonosho-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa Prefecture, 761-4101 Tonosho, JP

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear for the Tonosho walking tour?

Comfort is key! We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves a fair amount of walking, including on uneven paths in Maze Town. Dress according to the weather; bring a hat and sunscreen on sunny days, or a light raincoat if showers are expected.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly. However, please note that the walking tour might be challenging for very young children. The Yokai Museum is a particular highlight for kids, with its fascinating display of mythical creatures.

Can I join the tour halfway or leave early?

While we recommend experiencing the whole tour for the best experience, it's possible to join us at Maze Town by 9:30 AM if you miss the Tonosho Port meetup. However, leaving early might mean missing out on key parts of the tour, like the Tomioka Hachiman Shrine visit.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?

The tour involves walking through some areas with uneven terrain, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues. Please contact us in advance so we can discuss possible accommodations or alternative arrangements.

What happens if it rains?

Our tour operates rain or shine! In case of light rain, we will continue as planned, so please bring suitable rain gear. In the event of severe weather, we'll contact you to reschedule or offer a refund.

Do I need to bring any food or drinks?

We recommend bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated. There are also spots to purchase snacks during our breaks, but feel free to bring your own, especially if you have specific dietary needs.

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