Private Adventure Tour in Northern Ibaraki and Washi Paper Making

Northern Ibaraki’s private adventure tour offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s cultural tapestry. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of Kairakuen Garden, hike the sacred Mount Oiwa, and engage in the age-old craft of washi paper making. This personalized journey promises authentic encounters, from meeting a shrine maiden to meditating beneath a cascading waterfall. With its hidden gems and enriching experiences, this tour invites travelers to uncover the lesser-known treasures of Ibaraki.

Key Points

• A private adventure tour in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, offering unique experiences like meeting a shrine maiden, hiking, meditating, and washi paper making.
• Personalized transportation, coffee break, and provided lunch included in the tour, priced starting from $760.45 per person.
• Exploration of Ibaraki’s hidden gems, including the serene Kairakuen Garden, sacred Mt. Oiwa, and the Taki-gyo waterfall.
• Opportunity to connect with a shrine maiden, observe Shinto rituals, and participate in a purification ritual.
• Hands-on experience in traditional washi paper making, including soaking, beating, and shaping the mulberry bark pulp.

Tour Overview

This private adventure tour in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, offers an opportunity to escape the bustling crowds of Tokyo and explore the less-visited areas of the region.

Exclusively for your party, the tour includes unique experiences like meeting a shrine maiden, hiking Mount Oiwa, meditating under a waterfall, and hand-making traditional washi paper.

With personalized transportation, a coffee break, and a provided lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded culture.

Priced from $760.45 per person, the tour’s availability and accessibility details are clearly outlined, making it a convenient option for those seeking an authentic adventure.

Inclusions and Meeting/End Points

The tour includes all necessary fees and taxes, as well as private transportation throughout the day.

Guests will enjoy a coffee or tea break at the serene Kairakuen Garden and a provided lunch.

During the hike on Mt. Oiwa, participants can don traditional "dogi" clothing lent by the tour provider.

The tour begins at Uematsu Japanese Art Supply in Tokyo and returns to the same location at the end of the day, allowing for a seamless start and finish.

Confirmation for the tour is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability on the requested date.

Exploring Ibaraki’s Hidden Gems

Although often overlooked in favor of Japan’s more famous tourist destinations, Ibaraki Prefecture harbors a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

This private adventure tour invites travelers to explore:

1. The serene Kairakuen Garden, renowned for its stunning plum blossoms.
2. The sacred Mt. Oiwa, where hikers can experience the tranquility of nature.
3. The powerful Taki-gyo waterfall, where visitors can meditate and rejuvenate.
4. The traditional craft of washi paper making, where participants can create their own unique masterpieces.

Enjoy the lesser-known wonders of Ibaraki and uncover the authentic, off-the-beaten-path charm of this captivating region.

Connecting With Shrine Maiden

How does one connect with a shrine maiden during this private adventure tour in Ibaraki?

The tour includes a unique opportunity to meet a shrine maiden and learn about the rituals and traditions of Shinto. Visitors can observe the maiden’s ceremonial dress and movements, and even participate in a brief purification ritual.

This intimate encounter allows guests to gain insight into the spiritual practices that are deeply rooted in Japanese culture. The guide provides translation and explanation, facilitating a meaningful exchange between the shrine maiden and the touring party.

This exclusive experience offers a glimpse into a world often hidden from outsiders.

Hiking the Majestic Mount Oiwa

After exploring the tranquil grounds of the Shinto shrine, the private adventure tour then whisks participants away to the majestic Mount Oiwa.

The hike offers:

1. Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
2. A challenging but rewarding ascent through verdant forests and dramatic rock formations.
3. Opportunities to spot native wildlife, such as Japanese macaques and rare birds.
4. A profound sense of connection with the natural world and Japanese cultural heritage.

Reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with a profound sense of accomplishment and the chance to meditate beside a tranquil waterfall.

Meditation Under the Taki-gyo Waterfall

Following the energizing hike up Mount Oiwa, the adventure tour group makes their way to the serene Taki-gyo waterfall.

The cascading waters create a soothing ambiance, inviting participants to pause and connect with the natural world. Under the guidance of a local monk, the group engages in a brief meditation session, allowing the rhythmic flow of the waterfall to calm the mind and center the spirit.

This unique experience offers a chance to find inner peace and balance amidst the beauty of Ibaraki’s natural landscapes. Participants emerge feeling rejuvenated, having tapped into the restorative power of this sacred site.

Crafting Washi Paper by Hand

Leaving the serenity of the Taki-gyo waterfall behind, the adventure tour group now turns its focus to crafting washi paper by hand.

They’ll learn the traditional techniques passed down for generations. The process includes:

1. Soaking and beating the mulberry bark into a pulp.
2. Straining the pulp through a wooden frame to create the paper sheets.
3. Carefully transferring the delicate sheets to felts for drying.
4. Applying a natural sizing agent to strengthen the paper.

With guidance from a local artisan, the group will create their own unique pieces of handmade washi paper to take home as a lasting memory of their private adventure in Ibaraki.

The Sum Up

This private adventure tour in Northern Ibaraki offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. From exploring the serene Kairakuen Garden to crafting handmade washi paper, the journey provides an authentic and memorable experience. Connecting with a shrine maiden and hiking the sacred Mount Oiwa add to the spiritual and tranquil atmosphere, making this tour a true gem for those seeking a deeper exploration of Japan’s traditions.