Overview
In the morning, enjoy a guided walk tour of Himeji Castle, where you’ll be able to fully explore and conquer the castle. Afterward, hop into a minivan for a scenic drive along the Seto Inland Sea coastline. Visit the renowned Nadagiku Sake Brewery in the Harima region, famous for its sake production, where you’ll tour the brewery and enjoy a sake tasting, followed by lunch. Next, explore the historic “Maruyasu,” a former ryokan built over 90 years ago, and then continue your drive along the picturesque Seto Inland Sea coastline. If preferred, the drive can be replaced with a cycling tour—please let us know in advance. The final destination of your journey is the charming, historic streets of Murotsu, known since ancient times as “Muro-no-Tomari.”
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- The sake brewery tour and lunch at Nadagiku Sake Brewery are included in the tour price.
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Gratuities
- Guide
- Parking Fees
What's Not Included
- Dinner
- Starting March 1, 2026, the admission fee for 姫路城 will increase from ¥1,000 to ¥2,500. We sincerely apologize, but for tours on or after March 1, the admission fee will be charged separately.
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Our guide will lead you from the central ticket gate of Himeji Station to the observation deck, explaining the location of the castle’s outer moat, and the tour will begin.
Stop 2
Our certified guide will lead you on foot from the observation deck to the Otemon Gate, guiding you along the main street of the Edo period.
Stop 3
Tickets will be purchased at the Himeji Castle ticket booth (depending on crowd conditions, tickets may be purchased in advance by our company). After entering, a certified guide will provide a detailed tour of the castle (in English or Chinese).
Stop 4
At Nadagiku Sake Brewery, you can enjoy a brewery tour, sake tasting, shopping, commemorative photo opportunities, and lunch. At Nadagiku Sake Brewery, you can enjoy a brewery tour, sake tasting, shopping, commemorative photo opportunities, and lunch.
Stop 5
In the Ebisu area of Shikama Ward, Himeji City, you’ll find the former ryotei-inn Maruyasu, located near Ebisu-no-Miya Tenmangu Shrine. This architectural gem, built in the 1920s and over 90 years old, remains remarkably well-preserved. We offer special access to the interior of this historic building and kindly ask for donations to support its maintenance and preservation. If your visit coincides with one of the shrine’s famous festivals, you may even have the chance to enjoy the festivities from Maruyasu.
Stop 6
One of the finest shallow beaches in the Kinki region, this scenic gem belongs to the Seto Inland Sea National Park. During low tide, an expansive tidal flat stretching 500 meters offshore emerges, offering breathtaking views.
Stop 7
Since ancient times, the cove surrounded by mountains on three sides has been so calm it was named “Muro no Tomari,” meaning “a harbor as tranquil as a room.” During the era of sailing ships, it flourished as a key port in the Seto Inland Sea. Recently, cultural assets related to the Kitamaebune ships of Murotsu have been recognized as a Japan Heritage site.
Stop 8
Michi-no-Eki Mitsu is located along the coastline of Murotsu in Tatsuno City, offering a stunning location with panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. It’s also a great spot to purchase fresh, locally grown vegetables and freshly caught seafood. Among them, oysters are especially popular during the winter season.
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels