Tokyo Ome: Discover Japan’s Enduring Traditions in Two Days

Discover a Hidden World Just One Hour from Tokyo

Located just an hour from central Tokyo, Ome is a tranquil town where the essence of old Edo is still present in its landscapes, narratives, and customs. Historically, this area served as a crucial route that supported the daily life of the shogun’s capital, fostering a vibrant culture influenced by samurai, merchants, and local families over generations.

The Living Heritage of Iwakura Onsen

This tour offers you the chance to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Iwakura Onsen—believed to have been discovered more than 1,200 years ago and recognized as Tokyo’s sole historic hot spring village. Here, culture is not merely exhibited; it is experienced, safeguarded, and shared by the residents of Ome. Accompanied by local experts and cultural guardians, you will discover the artistry, folklore, and craftsmanship that characterize this exceptional region.

A Journey Into the Craftsmanship of Edo

Explore the enduring art of Japanese sake brewing at one of Tokyo’s renowned distilleries, where traditional methods that have been honed over centuries influence every drop. During this exclusive behind-the-scenes experience, you will trace the brewing process step by step in areas not accessible to the public, culminating in a curated tasting of 2–3 premium sake varieties—spanning top-tier selections as well as seasonal and aged options. Embrace the essence of Japanese aesthetics as you are invited into a tranquil temple to enjoy classical koto music, traditional storytelling, and the subtle harmony of a close tea ceremony—experiences that unveil the gentle heart of wabi-sabi.

Stay at a Historic Ryokan Preserving Japan’s Past

Your accommodation will be at a 180-year-old ryokan, the last remaining inn of Iwakura’s previous onsen village, providing a unique link to Japan’s living history. Nestled among natural rock formations and unspoiled greenery, the hot spring encourages you to unwind and appreciate the gentle pace of this historic community.

Connect with the Land Through Local Farm Traditions

You will also deepen your understanding of Ome’s rural charm by engaging with local farmers who uphold traditional, natural farming practices passed down through the ages. Their seasonal harvest showcases the region’s abundance and the lasting connection between its people and the land.

Meet the Keepers of Ome’s Cultural Soul

Throughout your journey, you will encounter those who protect Ome’s cultural heritage—storytellers, artisans, monks, and families who continually infuse life into the traditions of this distinctive region. Each experience has been thoughtfully crafted to provide insight into the spirit, flavors, and timeless beauty of Tokyo’s hidden cultural enclave.

An Immersive Cultural Journey into Japan’s Timeless Spirit

This experience transcends a simple visit. It is an invitation to engage with the narratives, craftsmanship, and natural beauty that have molded Ome for over a millennium—an immersive cultural journey tailored for travelers in search of authenticity, depth, and a truly significant experience in Japan.

Itinerary

• Meet at Sawai Station
• Ozawa Brewery Brief introduction to the history and craftsmanship of a 320-year-old sake brewery, followed by an orientation at Sasagoya—a dedicated tasting and briefing room used for brewery tours
• Sake brewery tour Follow a special route not open to regular visitors, exploring key parts of the brewing process such as the rice polishing area, fermentation rooms, 300-year-old cedar barrels, and an underground well, followed by a tasting of 2–3 premium sake varieties.
• A souvenir ochoko (sake cup) is included for all participants. Guests under 20 or non-drinkers will receive yuzu cider instead of sake at the tasting.
• Transfer by vehicle
• Check-in at Mamadaya Ryokan Complete check-in procedures, followed by an introduction to the history of Iwakura and the ryokan, then time to rest
• Walk from Mamadaya Ryokan to Jofuku-ji Temple
• Koto performance and “Yuki-onna” storytelling at Jofuku-ji Temple Depart the ryokan on foot about 10 minutes before the event and begin upon arrival
• Dinner Enjoy your meal at Jofuku-ji Temple
• Tea ceremony experience Participate in a traditional tea ceremony at the temple
• Return to the ryokan Walk back to Mamadaya Ryokan; free time and hot spring bath.
• Harvest experience Enjoy picking seasonal vegetables at a local farm
• Breakfast Traditional Japanese breakfast served in the dining room with all guests together
• Check-out
• Transfer from Mamadaya Ryokan to Shiofune Kannon Temple
• Shiofune Kannon Temple visit Guided walk through the temple grounds, including explanations of its history and unique features. Participate in traditional practices such as incense offering and bell ringing, followed by free time to explore
• Lunch Soba or udon lunch served at the dining hall inside the temple grounds.
• Drop-off at Ome Station Farewell greetings and a brief introduction to the station area before dismissal

Price Details

Included

• Transportation fee (as per itinerary)
• Accommodation for 1 night
• Meals: Day 1 dinner (first drink included), Day 2 breakfast and lunch
• English-speaking guide
• Sake brewery tour at Ozawa Brewery
• Souvenir ochoko (sake cup)
• Koto performance
• Tea ceremony experience
• Harvest activity
• Temple visit and participation in traditional practices at Shiofune Kannon Temple

Not included

• Transportation to the meeting point
• Additional drinks at dinner (after the first drink)
• Personal expenses

Important Information

Minimum number of participants: 6

If the minimum number of participants (6) is not met by 13 days before the scheduled date, or due to other operational management circumstances, the tour on that date may be canceled.

Tour Operator Information

Company Name: H.I.S. Co., Ltd.

Department Name: Inbound Travel Division DMC Department Kanto Team

Address: Shinjuku i-Land Tower 9F, 6-5-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN, 163-1309

Registration No.: No. 724 by the Commissioner of Japan Tourism Agency

Membership: Full Member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)

Emergency Contact (Day of Tour)

For immediate assistance on the day of your tour,

the emergency contact details will be provided in the final voucher.

Contact (Sales Office)

Address: Shinjuku i-Land Tower 9F, 6-5-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN, 163-1309

Tel:+81-70-1735-1547(10:00-18:00, Weekdays only)

Tour Operations Manager: Kyota Kasai

(Responsible for transactions regarding this travel contract)

Purchase Notice

Participation Requirements

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Special meal requests cannot be guaranteed; please inform the operator in advance if you have allergies
• Breakfast does not accommodate allergy requests or vegan options.
• Pregnant guests may join the tea ceremony but should avoid drinking matcha
• Age requirement: 18 years or older (due to the farm harvest activity)
• Alcohol service policy: Guests under 20 years old or those who do not drink alcohol will receive yuzu cider and a complimentary ochoko instead of sake. Tour price remains the same

Weather Conditions

• The tour operates in light rain; severe weather may lead to cancellation or itinerary changes

Costs Not Included

• Transportation to the meeting point is not included
• Additional drinks at dinner are not included

Local Environment

• There are no convenience stores or supermarkets near the ryokan; please bring any necessities in advance

(a self-service refrigerator with soft drinks and alcohol is available)

Accommodation Information

• Rooms are Japanese-style, and some may feature futon bedding instead of Western beds
• Room types vary by size and layout and will be assigned based on group size and availability
• Room type cannot be selected
• Guest rooms do not have a private bath or shower; only a toilet and washbasin are available
• The hot spring bath is a shared facility with separate areas for men and women
• There is no private or reservable bath
• Guests who feel uncomfortable bathing with others may wear swimwear
• Bathing hours are until 23:00 on Day 1, and from 7:00 to 9:00 the next morning
• Check-in and check-out times follow the itinerary.

How to Use

Please provide your order number on-site.