Hiroshima's Open-Air Tea Ceremony and Eco-Hiking Adventure

Embrace the serenity of the early morning as you venture into the sacred forests of Futaba Mountain in Hiroshima. The Mt. Futaba & Hiroshima's History with Open-air Tea Ceremony tour is an invitation to connect with nature, history, and tradition in a way that's so much more than a typical trekking tour. When the owners and guides conceptualized this hike, they began by cleaning and fixing the mountain routes to ensure guest safety. In a heartwarming display of community spirit, local volunteers assisted them, many of whom also climbed the mountain regularly. But the soul of this unique experience is its commitment to sustainable development goals (SDGs) and the local community. A portion of your tour fee directly supports environmental preservation and gives back to the area that hosts your unforgettable hike.

The journey leads you through the tranquil, nature-rich forests of the Futaba Mountains, where history unfolds in the form of the Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine and the lessons from Shinto priests about Hiroshima's past as a castle town. Wander through the captivating Kinko Inari Shrine with its vibrant red torii gates, and visit the seven gods who reside there. As you reach the summit, a breathtaking panoramic view of Hiroshima City, the Seto Inland Sea, and Miyajima awaits you. Here, you'll partake in Nodate, the traditional open-air tea ceremony, and enjoy a cup of matcha as you savor the scenic vista. The thoughtful integration of eco-conscious principles and community involvement enriches this one-of-a-kind experience, leaving you with memories and insights that linger long after the tea's last sip.

Tour Itinerary

7:30 (10:00) Meeting and Introduction.
Gather at the Pedestrian deck (2nd Floor) at Hiroshima Station (Shinkansen exit). Your guide will warmly welcome you and provide an insightful overview of the day's route, sharing the significance of the places you'll visit.

7:45 (10:15) Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine: Cultural Exploration
Journey to Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine, a haven of historical importance. Here, you'll explore cultural assets, timeless architecture, and the rich history that resonates within the grounds.

8:10 (10:40) Kinko Inari Shrine: A Refreshing Mountain Trek
After Toshogu, ascend into the mountains of Futaba to the mystical Kinko Inari Shrine. As you hike, you'll discover seven small, unique shrines enveloped in refreshing mountain air, each telling a different story.

8:40 (11:10) Peace Pagoda: A Panoramic Vision
Your climb culminates at the Peace Pagoda atop the shrine. Embrace the breathtaking view of Hiroshima City and the Seto Inland Sea, a serene moment that captures the spirit of the region.

9:00 (11:30) Okumiya: Traditional Ceremony and Scenic Breakfast
Descend to Okumiya, where a calming outdoor tea ceremony, or Nodate, awaits you. Your guide will expertly perform the ceremony, serving a delightful bento box breakfast, matcha, and traditional Japanese confectionery. Amidst the beautiful scenery, you'll savor both the food and a moment of cultural connection.

10:30 (13:00) Tour Conclusion and Reflection
Return to the starting point for a heartfelt summary of the tour. Reflect on the memories, learnings, and connections made, and part ways with a sense of fulfillment and inspiration.

Included in the Tour

• Guiding Services: Expert guide fee to lead and educate you throughout the experience

• Traditional Ceremony: Participation in Nodate, an authentic open-air tea ceremony

• Refreshing Beverage: Enjoyment of Matcha, a finely ground and processed green tea

• Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for peace of mind during your adventure

FAQ

1. What does the tour include?
The tour includes an expert guide, matcha tea during the open-air tea ceremony (Nodate), insurance, and a personalized experience through Hiroshima's mountains and sacred shrines.
2. Is this tour suitable for people with physical disabilities?
Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for individuals with back or heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
3. How long is the tour, and what's the starting time?
The tour lasts approximately three hours and starts at either 7:30 AM or 10:00 AM, depending on the chosen slot.
4. What should I wear or bring for the hike?
Comfortable hiking attire, sturdy walking shoes, a water bottle, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) are recommended for an enjoyable experience.
5. Is food provided during the tour?
The tour includes a bento box breakfast served during the open-air tea ceremony, matcha, and traditional Japanese confectionery.

Key Takeaways

Embrace Serenity and Nature: The tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the early morning serenity of the sacred forests of Futaba Mountain in Hiroshima.
Community Spirit: The tour reflects a heartwarming display of community spirit as local volunteers helped clean and fix the mountain routes, ensuring guest safety.
Commitment to Sustainable Development: A portion of the tour fee directly supports environmental preservation and the local community, aligning with sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Rich Historical Exploration: Explore Hiroshima's history through visits to the Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine and interactions with Shinto priests who share insights about Hiroshima's past as a castle town.
Eco-conscious Principles: The tour integrates eco-conscious principles, promoting responsible tourism and environmental conservation.
Personalized Experience: The tour offers a personalized experience with only your group participating.
Health Considerations: Travelers with back issues or severe medical conditions should be aware of the physical demands of the tour.
Accessibility: The tour is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.
Expert Guide: Benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide who will lead and educate you throughout the experience.
Comprehensive Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind with comprehensive insurance coverage during your adventure.
Convenient Location: The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation options for easy access.
Reflection and Fulfillment: The tour concludes with a reflection on the memories, learnings, and connections made, leaving participants with a sense of fulfillment and inspiration.

Related Read: Exploring Japan Sustainably: Best Eco-Friendly Travel Options