Overview
Step into a world of elegance and tradition with this rare and exclusive evening tour to Etchu-Yatsuo, a hidden gem in Toyama Prefecture. Under the soft glow of the autumn moon, youâll witness a captivating dance performance that feels timelessâgraceful movements, haunting music, and a town that seems to pause just for you. This seasonal event Tsukimi no Owara is reserved only for Club Tourism guests, offering a rare chance to experience Japanese culture without crowds or chaos. With special access to photo-friendly viewing areas and a chance to meet the dancers up close, this tour promises an unforgettable night of beauty, serenity, and connection. Operated by Club Tourism, a leading Japanese travel company with over 70 years of experience, this high-quality tour is designed with care and attention to detail. Accompanied by a tour leader known for excellent hospitality, the experience has received high praise from travelers of many nationalities, allowing you to join with confidence.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Japanese-speaking tour conductor using a translation app for assistance
- Viewing of Tsukimi no Owara dance from designated standing area
- Round-trip bus transportation
What's Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, shopping)
- Entrance fee to Etchu Yatsuo Tourism Hall (Hikiyama Exhibition Hall) *optional
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Unlike the famous âOwara Kaze no Bonâ in Septemberâwhich draws massive crowds and takes place in the summer heatâa Club Tourism exclusive event Tsukimi no Owara offers a more relaxed and personal experience. It feels as if the entire town of Yatsuo has been reserved just for you. Held in the historic town of Etchu-Yatsuo, Tsukimi no Owara invites you to enjoy a tranquil evening of traditional Japanese dance under the moonlight. Dancers in flowing kimono and straw hats perform graceful, slow movements to live music played on the shamisen (a three-stringed lute) and kokyu (a bowed instrument with a soft, haunting tone). Youâll watch the performance from a designated standing area with clear views and the rare opportunity to take flash photography, which is usually prohibited at similar events. Even in light rain, the performance continues on a covered stage. Youâll also visit a greeting area where dancers pose for photos, allowing you to capture the elegance of the festival up close.
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adultâs lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour is operated for both Japanese and foreign customers. A Japanese tour conductor will accompany the group and provide key information using a translation app. Please note that the tour conductor is not a tour guide and will focus on sharing essential information during the tour.
- Infants (0-2 years old) are free of charge with no tour inclusions.
- The traditional street dance procession will be canceled in the event of rain.
- If it rains or rain is expected, the outdoor dance performance will be moved to a covered stage area. Admission to the covered venue operates on a rotation basis, and viewing time will be limited to approximately 20 minutes. In case of severe weather, the event may be canceled. Please note that no refunds will be given after the tour has started, even if the performance is changed or canceled due to weather.
- To avoid overcrowding, the dance procession will be held in selected areas of the town only.
- Flash photography is allowed only in designated areas. The use of monopods, tripods, and step ladders is strictly prohibited.
- Return time may be delayed depending on road conditions, etc.
- The âTsukimi no Owaraâ event may be canceled or changed due to requests from national or local government authorities.
- Travel times may vary depending on road conditions. If there is unexpected traffic or crowding at sightseeing spots, the tour schedule may be adjusted. This could include shortening the time spent at certain locations, skipping some stops, arriving late at the accommodation, or departing earlier than planned the next day. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility.
- Arrival in Yatsuo is expected around 6:00 PM. Please note that dinner is not included in the plan. We kindly ask you to prepare your meal in advance or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant after arrival. However, restaurants in the area may be quite crowded, so we recommend arranging your meal beforehand to ensure a smooth and relaxing evening.
- If you are joining the tour with an odd number of people, please note that you may be seated next to someone of the opposite gender
- From the bus drop-off point, it is approximately a 15â20 minute uphill walk to the festival area in Etchu Yatsuo. (The walk back is downhill.)
- During the festival, the bus will leave the area and will not be available until the designated meeting time. Please note that there are no waiting areas or rest facilities at the bus boarding location.
- This tour includes chair seating for festival viewing. Viewing in the designated flash-photography area is standing room only.