Escape from the hustle of the cities and step into the undiscovered, rural side of the country. Ride through the breathtaking Iya Valley and experience a traditional stay. Find out the local hidden gems in the scenic mountains and stop at Nagoro village, famous for its dolls.
Located deep in the mountains on rural Shikoku Island, the Iya Valley is one of Japan’s Three Hidden Valleys. It is particularly famous for its vine bridges, stunning scenery, and exciting white water rafting.
Take the Shinkansen from Kyoto/Osaka to Okayama and then change to a Limited Express train to the picturesque and remote Iya Valley region on Shikoku.
Via private car, start to explore this secluded valley, enjoying a pleasant river boat ride, visiting the traditional Iya Vine bridge, built after the famous Genpei-war ended, and some of the iconic viewpoints of the valley; the statue of Peeing Boy of Iya and Hi-no-Ji valley, before the drop-off at the Japanese-style hotel.
The room features shoji rice paper sliding doors and futon beds on tatami mat floors- the quintessential Japanese experience. The hotel also features natural hot spring onsen baths. Dinner tonight will be a Japanese-style multi-course kaiseki meal made with seasonal ingredients.
Overnight in Iya Valley
Inclusions:
π Dinner
The morning begins with a private drive through Nagoro Village, a village with only around 40 residents, and 1200 handmade dolls. A local woman started making those dolls some 5 years ago, and the villagers started helping. Now, the dolls can be seen everywhere: from the bus station, sports hall, the agricultural fields, schools to community halls, they are basically the main residents of the village!
The following stop is at the Oku-Iya Double Vine Bridges, beautifully located between the trees in a small forest.
Drive through the mountain roads, where views of the river, small towns, beautiful bridges, flowers, rock sculptures and self-made your lunch by cooking fresh soba in a local restaurant.
The afternoon is dedicated to Higashi-Iya, learning about local history and folklore and visit tranquil Ryugugake Park and its suspension bridge over the turquoise Iya River, before returning in hotel for the night.
Time:
Start (activity): 09:00
Duration: 4h
*pickup time will depend on the location of your confirmed accommodation
Overnight in Iya Valley
Inclusions:
β Breakfast, π₯ Lunch, π Dinner
After breakfast, the morning is at leisure until the scheduled transfer back to Oboke Station by taxi. Ride the Limited Express train to Okayama before the short Shinkansen ride to reach your next destination.
Inclusions:
β Breakfast
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