• Located within Hiroshima prefecture, Takehara is a charming and beautiful city on the coast of the Seto Inland Sea. In the past, Takehara flourished as a port town known for its sake and salt production. Today, many buildings dating as far back as the Edo period can still be found in the city, preserved in such a way that one can feel as though they are walking through streets in the past. With its tranquil atmosphere and old-fashioned structures, it is no wonder Takehara is also known to many as the “Little Kyoto” of Aki.

This tour will begin at Hiroshima Station at 8:00 AM. Your guide will meet you by the Shinkansen Gates under the Tourist Information sign. There are coin lockers available at the station if you wish to leave any belongings behind, but we ask that you show up a bit earlier to the meet-up spot if this is the case. From here, you will head to your first destination, the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area. Within the historical townscape, your guide will take you on a short stroll through Honmachi street. Along the way, you will make several stops, where your guide will provide context and information The first place you will visit together is Saihoji, a Zhen Buddhist temple with architecture reflecting that of the mid-Edo period. Within the temple grounds is also Fumeikaku, otherwise known as Kannon Hall. This hall was built later than Saihoji to enshrine an eleven-headed Kannon statue. Followed by some free time