8 DAY TOUR

8-Day Tour of Tamahagane,
Japanese Swords, and Samurai

A week-long samurai and sword odyssey

Join Paul Martin, a specialist in Japanese swords, as you explore the “Great Sword Exhibition,” Japan’s premier Japanese sword market. Following this, embark on an immersive journey through the sword-making hubs of Okayama, Shimane, and Hiroshima, seeking unique experiences related to Tamahagane and Japanese swords. Delve into the rich history and intricate craftsmanship of Japanese swords, uncovering traditional forging techniques and the refined art of Tamahagane production. Be amazed by exquisite examples of Japanese sword artistry, a testament to centuries of technical mastery. The tour highlights include visiting renowned swordsmiths’ forges to witness their passion and dedication firsthand.
Engage in various hands-on experiences, from Bushido and tea ceremonies to handling Japanese swords and wearing armor. Visit iconic locations intertwined with the spirit of Japanese swords, such as shrines, castles, and sake breweries, and immerse yourself in the deep cultural tapestry of Japan.

KEY FEATURES

Premier Sword-Making Regions

Embark on an unbeaten path as you explore the rich history of the Chugoku region, renowned as the premier destination for sword tours.

Expert English Guides

Accompanied by knowledgeable English-speaking guides proficient in interpreting and assisting guests.

Customizable Tours

Tailor your itinerary for flexibility, ensuring the tour suits individual preferences and schedules.

8-DAY

7-NIGHT PLAN

Day 1: November 3, 2024

Morning

Special talk session by Paul Martin, a Japanese sword specialist
Location: Mejiro Station, Gakushuin University, Classroom

Afternoon

Tour the Great Sword Exhibition with Paul Martin, a Japanese sword specialist
The mecca for sword enthusiasts, this museum offers guests exclusive forging experiences before exploring exhibits and observing craftsmen in action. Accommodation

Accommodation

Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Shinagawa Prince Hotel, located in Tokyo, is a large hotel with over 3,500 rooms. It is conveniently located near Shinagawa Station, making it a great base for exploring the city. The hotel has many restaurants, shops, and other facilities, including a cinema and bowling alley.

Day 2: November 4, 2024

Morning

Hayashibara Art Museum

Embark on an immersive journey into Japanese sword heritage at this facility, featuring a rich collection, including digitally displayed swords.

Afternoon

Bizen Osafune Sword Museum
The mecca for sword enthusiasts, this museum offers guests exclusive forging experiences before exploring exhibits and observing craftsmen in action. Accommodation

Accommodation

Ryokan, Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
Guests will stay at this traditional Japanese inn located in the historic Kurashiki Bikan district, famed for its Edo-era architecture and picturesque canal.

Day 3: November 5, 2024

Morning

Momiji-kan
Guests will indulge in Buddhist vegetarian cuisine and enjoy a leisurely walk in the serene surroundings of this establishment.

Afternoon

Adachi Museum of Art
Experience the serene beauty of the world-renowned Japanese garden, complemented by modern art pieces on display within the museum.
Illustrative image, not actual room.

Accommodation

Ryokan, Matsue City
Accommodations will be provided at this traditional Japanese inn located in Matsue City, offering guests a taste of Japanese hospitality in a historic setting.

Day 4: November 6, 2024

Morning

Izumo Grand Shrine
Immerse yourself in Japanese sword appreciation at this historic Shinto shrine, revered as the annual gathering place for Japan’s 8 million gods.

Afternoon

Matsue Castle
Within the vicinity of a designated national treasure, guests can delve into the world of samurai and swords, experiencing a guided tour of the castle tower, a demonstration of the samurai way, and a serene tea ceremony.
Illustrative image, not actual room.

Accommodation

Ryokan, Matsue City

Guests will continue to savor the cozy and authentic ambiance of the traditional Japanese inn during their second night in Matsue City.

Day 5: November 7, 2024

Morning

Tatara Iron History Museum
Guests delve into the rich history of tamahagane production through an essential and immersive video presentation, available exclusively at the museum. Sugaya Tatara Sannai This place offers visitors the opportunity to witness the authentic operation of a real tatara furnace, providing a deeply engaging and authentic experience.
*Lunch will feature a Local Cuisine Experience in a Traditional House.

Afternoon

Kanayako Shrine
Engage in an iron deity invocation ceremony at Kanayako Shrine, dedicated to the goddess of iron making, a unique experience for many.
Illustrative image, not actual room.

Accommodation

Ryokan, Western Shimane Prefecture
Guests will relax at another traditional Japanese inn in Western Shimane Prefecture, offering a serene retreat amidst natural beauty.

Day 6: November 8, 2024

Illustrative image, not actual room.

Morning

Japanese Sword Forge
Interact with a renowned swordsmith at this forge, where guests can appreciate his swords, learn about sword making, and explore the forge firsthand.
*Lunch will feature a Local Cuisine Experience in a Traditional House.

Afternoon

Sengoku no Niwa Historical Museum
Guests will enjoy a memorable Japanese sword drawing and armor experience at this museum, which delves into the rich history of feudal Japan.
Illustrative image, not actual room.

Accommodation

Ryokan, Western Shimane Prefecture
Guests will relax at another traditional Japanese inn in Western Shimane Prefecture, offering a serene retreat amidst natural beauty.

Day 7: November 9, 2024

Morning

Kintai Bridge & Kikkawa Historical Museum
Explore Japanese craftsmanship and history at Kintai Bridge, then delve into the valuable sword exhibit at the Kikkawa Historical Museum.

Afternoon

Itsukushima Shrine
Experience Japanese sword appreciation and enjoy leisure time at this iconic shrine, known for its picturesque seaside setting and historic architecture.
Illustrative image, not actual room.

Accommodation

Hotel, Hiroshima City
Guests will enjoy two consecutive nights at this conveniently located hotel in Hiroshima City, ensuring a comfortable and seamless stay.

Day 8: November 10, 2024

Morning

Kumano Brush Workshop
Participate in a calligraphy experience and view brush-making at this workshop, known for producing world-class Kumano brushes.

Afternoon

Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima
Attend the G7 farewell party at this venue, offering guests a memorable conclusion to their journey.

Booking Flow

Contact Us

Inquiry

Our agent reaches out to gather your preferences and requests.

Provide Details

You share detailed information, preferences, or requests.

Schedule Meeting

We arrange a meeting to discuss your preferences.

Virtual Meeting

We conduct an online meeting to discuss and finalize details.

Proposal

We contact you to present the proposed itinerary for your review.

Confirmation

We contact you to confirm your satisfaction with the proposed itinerary.

Official Agreement

We finalize the official agreement with you.

Welcome

We greet you on the appointed date for the experience.

Travel Fee & detail

from JPY 1,200,000

Minimum number of participants：1
maximum allowed：6

  • Ages 18-75, max of 6 per group
  • Duration: 3 days
  • Start time: Check availability

After confirming all travel dates and the total amount, please pay using the PayPal button below.

Payment Page
  • Breakfast x 7
  • Lunch x 8
  • Dinner x 7
  • Cultural experience: swordsmithing, museum tour, sword dance, armor fitting, working attire
  • Accommodation-6 night
  • Travel insurance
  • Private Car Arrangement (Private Transfer)
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Transportation fees between your home and Tokyo Station
  • Medical expenses related to disability and illness & Optional travel disability insurance premiums
  • Personal expenses

Start:
JR HIROSHIMA STATION: Hiroshima Tourist Information – Located on the 2nd floor at the north end of the building.
1 Matsubaracho, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0822, Japan
Meet our guide in front of the Tourist Information, easily identifiable by holding a sign that says “7-Day Sword & Samurai Odyssey.”

End:
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation

Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.

RESERVE YOUR TRIP
or
QUESTIONS?

Please contact our office anytime.
We are looking forward to planning your special tour.

Contact Form
swordproject@oasabus.com
+81 0826-82-2233
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