Cherry Blossom Buddha and Mt.Yoshino With Strawberry Picking Tour

Explore the enchanting sights of Osaka during cherry blossom season with the "Cherry Blossom Buddha and Mt. Yoshino With Strawberry Picking Tour." Marvel at the breathtaking views of Mount Yoshino‘s 30,000 cherry trees, visit the serene Tsubosaka Temple, and delight in the sweetness of fresh strawberries. This full-day adventure promises to immerse you in Japan’s stunning spring landscape and leave you with unforgettable memories. Discover the hidden gems that make this tour a must-experience for anyone visiting the Kansai region.

Key Points

• The tour offers a full-day experience to explore Mount Yoshino’s stunning cherry blossoms, including a visit to the Tsubosaka Temple and its famous Cherry Blossom Buddha statue.
• Travelers can indulge in a strawberry picking activity at a local farm as part of the itinerary.
• The tour is rated 4.5 stars and costs $117.75 per person, with a maximum group size of 40 travelers.
• Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned bus with an English-speaking guide, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience.
• Dietary restrictions may be accommodated, but no changes can be made to the included boxed lunch featuring regional cuisine.

Tour Overview

The Cherry Blossom Buddha and Mt. Yoshino with Strawberry Picking Tour is a seasonal tour available during spring cherry blossom season in Osaka, Japan.

This 4.5-star rated tour lasts a full day and costs $117.75 per person, with a maximum of 40 travelers.

Highlights include visiting Mount Yoshino for cherry blossom viewing, a strawberry picking experience, and admission to Tsubosaka Temple.

Transportation is via air-conditioned bus, with an English-speaking guide.

Restrictions include no wheelchair access and no changes to the included boxed lunch.

Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Mount Yoshino, famous for its ‘Senbonzakura’ or Thousand Cherry Blossoms, serves as the primary highlight of this tour.

Visitors will experience multiple viewpoints to admire the beautiful cherry blossoms.

The tour also includes a strawberry picking experience at a local farm, allowing participants to enjoy the freshness of seasonal produce.

Admission to Tsubosaka Temple, known for its ‘Cherry Blossom Buddha’, is included.

Travelers will savor a boxed lunch featuring regional cuisine like Kakinohazushi, fried dishes, and a rolled omelet, complemented by seasonal side dishes and green tea.

Exploring Mount Yoshino

Spanning across the mountainous landscape of Nara Prefecture, Yoshino is renowned for its impressive display of over 30,000 cherry blossom trees that bloom during the spring season.

The tour offers visitors multiple viewpoints to marvel at the ‘Senbonzakura’ (Thousand Cherry Blossoms), including:

1. Hanayagura Viewpoint, providing a panoramic vista of the pink-hued treetops.
2. Yoshinoyama Ropeway, whisking guests to a higher elevation for a bird’s-eye view of the ethereal landscape.
3. Mikumari Shrine, where the iconic Sakura trees line the pilgrim path.
4. Zaodō Temple, home to the Thousand Cherry Blossom Festival held annually.

Tsubosaka Temple and the Cherry Blossom Buddha

Tsubosaka Temple stands as a serene sanctuary, its walls adorned with the delicate blossoms of the cherry trees.

This Buddhist temple is known for its stunning Cherry Blossom Buddha statue, a remarkable carving that appears to bloom alongside the ephemeral flowers.

Visitors can admire the intricate details of the ancient statue and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds.

The admission fee is included in the tour, providing a chance to witness this unique cultural treasure during the enchanting cherry blossom season.

The Cherry Blossom Buddha is a highlight that captivates visitors with its timeless beauty.

Strawberry Picking Experience

The strawberry picking experience offers a delightful respite from the tour’s cultural highlights. Participants can enjoy:

1. Handpicking plump, juicy strawberries from a local farm.
2. Savoring the fresh, sweet flavors as they sample their harvests.
3. Learning about the region’s strawberry cultivation techniques from knowledgeable staff.
4. Purchasing additional berries or strawberry-based products to take home as souvenirs.

This interactive activity allows travelers to enjoy the region’s agricultural traditions while appreciating the bounty of the spring season.

It’s a well-rounded addition to the tour’s diverse offerings.

Included Lunch and Local Cuisine

The included boxed lunch features a variety of local Osaka cuisine, providing travelers a taste of the region’s culinary delights. The lunch includes:

Dish	Description
Kakinohazushi	Cured mackerel sushi
Fried Food	Tempura or other fried treats
Rolled Omelet	Fluffy Japanese-style omelet
Seasonal Side	Locally-sourced seasonal dish
Green Tea	Refreshing traditional beverage

This compact yet diverse spread showcases the flavors of Osaka, ensuring a fulfilling midday break amidst the tour’s activities.

Transportation and Logistics

Round-trip transport via air-conditioned bus is provided from Osaka to the tour destinations.

Travelers must arrive 15 minutes early, as the tour departs punctually and late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

The transportation may involve a combination of bus and train, depending on factors such as traffic and logistics. The schedule is subject to change due to these external influences.

The key transportation details are:

1. Air-conditioned bus transportation from Osaka
2. Arrive 15 minutes early for prompt departure
3. Possible use of bus, train, or a combination
4. Schedule subject to change due to traffic or other factors

Important Considerations for Travelers

Although an English-speaking guide is provided, travelers should be aware that language barriers may still arise. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Dietary restrictions may be accommodated, but no changes to the lunch ingredients are possible. Consider the following important details:

Consideration	Accommodation
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Children	Infants must sit on laps
Dietary Needs	No changes to lunch ingredients
Refund Policy	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, no refunds for no-shows

Smoking is prohibited on the bus, and seatbelt use is mandatory. Punctuality is crucial, as late arrivals will not be accommodated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves outdoor activities. Guests should dress for the season and be prepared for potential changes in weather.

Is There an Age Limit for the Strawberry Picking Activity?

There is no age limit for the strawberry picking activity. Participants of all ages can enjoy this part of the tour, as long as infants sit on laps during transportation.

Can We Request Additional Stops During the Tour?

Travelers can request additional stops during the tour, but they’re subject to the tour operator’s approval and may incur extra costs. The tour’s schedule and itinerary are designed to provide the best experience within the allotted time.

Is There Secure Storage for Personal Belongings on the Bus?

The tour buses typically don’t offer secure storage for personal belongings. Travelers should plan to keep valuables with them during the tour. Any large or bulky items may need to be stored under the bus or in the overhead compartments.

Can We Purchase Additional Souvenirs at the Tour Stops?

Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs at the tour stops. The itinerary includes visits to Mount Yoshino and Tsubosaka Temple, where local shops and vendors offer traditional crafts, snacks, and other memorabilia for travelers to browse and buy.

The Sum Up

This enchanting tour allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of Osaka’s cherry blossom season. From the breathtaking vistas of Mount Yoshino to the serene Tsubosaka Temple and the delightful strawberry picking experience, this full-day adventure offers a true taste of Japanese spring. With a delicious boxed lunch and convenient transportation, this tour provides an unforgettable way to explore the region’s natural and cultural wonders.