Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Following a 30-minute drive from Osaka port, see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle . One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one mile square, the castle compound contains 13 structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is 5 stories on the outside and 8 stories on the inside. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500's to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts. After a guided tour of the castle, proceed to Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine . Built in the 3rd century, Sumiyoshi enshrine the kami (Shinto gods) who protect travelers, fishermen and sailors at sea. It displays a unique style of shrine architecture, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is free of influence from the Asian mainland. Only two other shrine architecture styles are also considered purely Japanese: Shinmei-zukuri as seen at the Ise Shrines and Taisha-zukuri as seen at Izumo Taisha. Transfer to the airport. Please note : This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. Photography and videos are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd & 4th floors). Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. From the parking lot to Osaka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk. Bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat and wear comfortable walking shoes and conservative clothing for the temple.

Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Following a 30-minute drive from Osaka port, see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle . One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one mile square, the castle compound contains 13 structures , designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is 5 stories on the outside and 8 stories on the inside. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500s to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts. After a guided tour of the castle, proceed to Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine . Built in the 3rd century, Sumiyoshi enshrine the kami (Shinto gods) who protect travelers, fishermen and sailors at sea. It displays a unique style of shrine architecture, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is free of influence from the Asian mainland. Only two other shrine architecture styles are also considered purely Japanese: Shinmei-zukuri as seen at the Ise Shrines and Taisha-zukuri as seen at Izumo Taisha. Transfer to your Windstar hotel. Please note : This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. Photography and videos are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd & 4th floors). Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. From the parking lot to Osaka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk. Bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat and wear comfortable walking shoes and conservative clothing for the temple.

The first visit of this tour will be the Shochu Distillery, makers of the Kokuto Shochu a distilled spirit made exclusively in Amami Islands. Shochu is most often distilled nationwide using ingredients such as rice or sweet potato. However, at the Shochu Distillery in Amami, their K okuto Shochu is uniquely made from brown sugar. You will experience the state-of-the-art distillation process that goes into the creation of this one of a kind Shochu that is rich in flavor and aroma. To conclude the distillery factory tour, you will have an opportunity to taste the different types of Shochu. You will visit Oshimatsumugi Kimono village for a tour of its dyed silk weaving factory. During this tour, you will also participate in the mud dying process to craft a handkerchief of your own. Souvenirs and textile goods can also be purchased at the gift shop to bring an authentic item back home. Afterward, return to the pier. P lease note : Bring local currency sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in. You will be required to take off shoes during dyeing experience and will step into the muddy water for dyeing process. It is highly recommended to wear the slacks which you can roll them up to the knees.

Kuninao is a peaceful village where the island’s natural beauty is preserved through white sand beaches and charming Fukugi tree-lined streets. Your visit begins with a guided walk to learn about the area’s history and everyday life. Afterwards, you’ll head to a local venue to take part in a hands-on culinary experience: making a traditional "Keihan" bowl. This beloved local dish from Amami Oshima features tender chicken over rice, topped with ingredients like thinly sliced omelet, pickled ginger, green onions, shiitake mushrooms, and dried seaweed. You'll have the chance to create and enjoy your own delicious Keihan bowl.

Your day will start with Oshimatsumugi Kimono village where you can see local industry and watch the process of making Tsumugi and Kasuri silk-cotton fabrics. You can enjoy a craft complex in a beautiful hillside setting among flowers and many of the plants used in dyeing. Next is to Tanaka Isson Museum and the Amami Park . Tanaka Isson is a nationally proclaimed artist of Japan who is deeply connected with Amami Island and widely known for his flower and bird paintings. Enjoy his great pieces of artwork as well as the folk museum. You will also have time to stroll around the Amami Park and the observation deck with the great view of the surrounding area. Please note : Bring local currency sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in.

Since Amami Oshima Island is an island where flowers in the deep and dark old-growth forest bloom in profusion throughout the year and where one-of-a-kind plants and animals call home, this island is also known as the "Oriental Galapagos." Amami Oshima Island is a treasure chest of valuable plants and animals including a mangrove primeval forest. It is Japan's second largest in terms of area, and is inhabited by the Amami Rabbit , a national protected species, and seeks to be registered as a World Heritage Site. In Mangrove Park, canoeing through the mangroves is popular. This tour is recommended for athletic lovers. You will be required to wear life jacket and do some practice before canoeing and have enough strength to paddle the canoe on your own.On the way to the pier, you will make a photo stop to see the panoramic view of Naze port. Please note : Bring local currency. sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in. Life jacket will be provided. Guests are required to have enough strength to paddle the canoe on their own. Cameras should be protected from the water and will be the responsibility of the guest. Your feet may get wet in the canoe so it is recommended to wear or bring sandals.

This unique tour not only gives you the opportunity to observe and learn the secrets of the art of Bingata, a multicolored dyeing process used for silk and vegetable fibers, but also allows you to actively participate in making your own creation. Depart the pier by coach for a short drive to Tembusu Naha , where you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of the art of Bingata, originally produced solely for Okinawa's warrior class since the 15th century. Bingata-dyed fabric has been produced in the Ryukyu Islands for centuries, but is believed that the multi-colored dyeing process was originally introduced from southern China. Discover the secrets of this ancient art as you create your very own piece of Ryukyu Bingata, with a complex pattern of alternating light and dark dyes. At the end of this interactive class, you will be able to take home with you your piece of traditional Bingata as a souvenir of your visit. Rejoining your coach, you will travel towards the Shurijyo Castle . This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kindgom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall. Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred back to the pier. Please note : This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The Bingata dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shrijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. We suggest that you bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.

Visit Okinawa's historic battlefield sites and monuments of the Battle of Okinawa in this interesting half-day tour. Departing from the pier, you will first travel towards southeast Okinawa, passing by several residential and commercial areas. Your first stop will be at the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters , located where Rear Admiral Ota and his men desperately fought in 1945. Once you have arrived, you will walk down the 101 steps into the narrow tunnels of the headquarters to see the commanding officer's room, staff room, generator rooms and more, giving you unique insight into the experiences the soldiers and officers had inside the headquarters. You will next make your way to Peace Memorial Park , which is built to commemorate the people who died in the war. In the Peace Park, you will also visit the museum with many displays telling about the battle in Okinawa. The final stop will be at Himeyuri Monument , which stands as a symbol of the severity of the Battle of Okinawa. It was built as a dedication to the more than 200 female students and their teachers who lost their lives as volunteer nurses in the Himeyuri Corps. Please note : This tour includes approximately 3-hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steps and narrow passageways to negotiate at the Naval Underground Headquarters. There are no elevators or ramps at this attraction. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. Weather appropriate clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary. We suggest that you bring local currency for any purchases at the sites.

Your half-day tour begins with a visit to Sefa-Utaki, one of the most sacred sites of the Ryukyu Kingdom and part of the UNESCO World Heritage “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu” in Nanjō, Okinawa. Historically, Sefa-Utaki served as a place of worship for the Ryukyu Religion and holds the highest rank among the sacred sites. Surrounded by lush nature, it offers a peaceful setting where you can enjoy a relaxing walk through the beautiful forest. Next, you will visit an Awamori distillery, where you’ll learn about the traditional distillation process and have the chance to sample this distinctive Okinawan liquor. Awamori, made from Indica rice, has been produced in Okinawa since the 15th century, when the technique was introduced from Thailand. Its flavor and smoothness deepen with age, making it a truly unique spirit. Enjoy discovering the rich history and taste of this beloved local beverage.

You will travel towards the Shuri Castle . This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall. Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred to the local shop where you can have a special coral dyeing experience . There are different shapes of coral's fossil and you will make your own souvenirs with your favorite coral's fossils and colors. Please note : This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The coral dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shuri Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shuri Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shuri Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.

Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has its own separate history, having been the independent kingdom of Ryukyu during the 15th century. On this half-day excursion, you will explore the city of Naha , the capital and largest city of Okinawa Prefecture, and former capital of the Ryukyu kings. Leaving the port, you will drive to Shuri Castle , the administrative center and residence of the Ryukyu royal family for over 400 years, until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the castle rests on a hill providing outstanding views of Naha and the sea. You will see the lavishly decorated Seiden (Main Hall) , and the ornate Shurei Gate . Known as the Gate of Courtesy, it typifies Okinawan architecture and serves as a symbol of modern day Okinawa. After the castle, you will be escorted to Shikina en Garden, which is known as one of the best Japanese Style Gardens in Okinawa. Please note : This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the south hall (Nanden) and the main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shurijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites, sunscreen and a hat. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.

Takeromijima is where you will find a traditional, beautifully preserved Ryukyu village on Taketomi Island just off the coast of Ishigaki Island. The tour will start with taking a 15-minute ferry ride from the Ishigaki Ferry Terminal to Taketomi Island. Once you get in the village, you will see the houses with traditional red-tiled roofs, tutelary Sheesaa clay lions on the roofs, walls made of coral stones, streets paved with white sand. See and enjoy these unspoiled sceneries of Okinawa. The tour will also include the opportunity to ride on a Water Ox Carriage running through the village. Also, take your time and stroll through the streets to feel the tradition and culture still alive in the islanders' lifestyle. After strolling around the village, you will have free time at Kaijihama Beach , which is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Japan. Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and local currency. If you choose to get on the water ox carriage, you will be required to get into the cart by unassisted. It is not allowed to touch the water ox without the permission as a safety precaution.

See the highlights of Ishigaki on a carefully planned tour. You will depart from the pier by motor coach and your 20-minute ride will take you to Yaima Village , a theme park where you can experience the Yaeyama culture and nature . Ishigaki Yaima Village is located on top of the hill where you can view the Nagura Gulf. You will see a Yaeyama row of houses, hear, Sanshin music , see Ryukyu national costuming, Shisa coloring and other experiences will be available. The feeding of the cute squirrels is a popular thing to do. Then you will head to Kabira Bay . With its emerald green and blue hues, Kabira Bay is considered one of the most beautiful places in Japan and definitely on the top of the list for Okinawa. Clear ocean, small boats floating on beautiful water, the cute shapes of neighboring islands, and the sweeping sky. This combination is the greatest feature of Kabira Bay. A touristy 30-minute-long glass bottom boat ride will let you take a look at the bay's underwater world as well. Kabira Bayand Iriomote are the only two cultivation sites of black pearls in Japan. Your last stop will be at Banna Forest Park , a spacious nature reserve located just a few miles to the north of Ishigaki City. It is a place which can be enjoyed by absolutely anybody. The park itself is positioned around what can broadly be described as a mountain (peaking at just 656 feet), and is divided into four zones and a 'Skyline' all of which are linked by paths and roads. You will have a short photo stop at the observation deck inside the Banna Park. Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and local currency. You will have to walk on the beach to reach the glass bottom boat. The actual boat ride is approximately 30 minutes.

Ishigaki Island is the main island of the Yaeyama Islands, the southern-most island chain in Japan. Ishigaki offers several nice beaches and good snorkeling and diving in the surrounding coral reefs. Your first destination will be Banna Forest Park , a spacious nature reserve which is located just a few miles to the north of Ishigaki City. It is a place which can be enjoyed by everyone. The park itself is positioned around what can broadly be described as a mountain (peaking at just 656 feet), and is divided into four zones and a 'Skyline' all of which are linked by paths and roads. You will have a short photo stop at the observation deck inside Banna Park. The guide will then take you to Kabira Bay . With its emerald green and blue hues, Kabira Bay is considered one of the most beautiful places in Japan and definitely on the top of the list for Okinawa. Clear ocean, small boats floating on beautiful water, the cute shapes of neighboring islands, and the sweeping sky. This combination is the greatest feature of Kabira Bay. We will make a short stop at a local café to have some refreshments with a view of the East China Sea. The tour will be followed by a photo stop at Shisa (guardian lions in Okinawa) Square in front of local Yonekoyaki Pottery. This small studio produces unique local pottery and various big monuments at Shisa Square. This square will be completed in 2019, but you will be impressed how unique the local artists are! Please note : This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and local currency.