Shore Excursion Details

Kobe's Temples Gardens & Sake Traditions

Kyoto (Kobe), Japan

Kobe's Temples Gardens & Sake Traditions

DETAILS

  • 6
    hrs Estimate Duration
  • Age
  • Weight

OVERVIEW

See a remarkable array of attractions in downtown Kobe and come away with an excellent overview of its charms. The Buddhist temple Nofukuji is noteworthy for its Great Buddha, a towering statue erected in 1991 to replace the original, which was melted down for scrap to support Japan’s need for metal during World War II. Sorakuen Garden is an equally serene setting that surrounds a central pond. The camphor trees were supposedly planted nearly 500 years ago to ward off calamity. Architecture will take center stage in Kitano Ijinkan Gai, a historical neighborhood with Western-style residences that British architects designed in the late 19th century for foreign merchants and diplomats. They are handsomely furnished with period pieces. Kobe is also well-known for its sake. While browsing a brewery, you will see how it makes rice wine with high-mineral-content local water and a specific rice variety that imparts a rich flavor.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold the Great Buddha statue outside Nofukuji temple.
• Stroll the winding paths of Kobe’s only traditional urban garden.
• Walk through a neighborhood of unexpected Western-style architecture.
• See how Kobe’s uniquely flavored sake is brewed using traditional techniques.


HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Need to Know:

Note: This tour includes approximately 2 miles of walking at a steady pace, part of which will be on cobblestone and uneven surfaces. Appropriate attire is required for temple/places of worship entry. Please avoid mini-skirts, short shorts, bare-back tops, or singlets. Pants or skirts must cover the knees for both men and women. Please remove all hats and caps before entering the temples. Non-compliance may result in denied entry. Please note that you might be asked to take your shoes off before entering places of worship. Tour sensitive to weather conditions (Rain, wind, and sun). The order and times of the sites visited may vary due to traffic and operational reasons. The tour is not recommended for guests on wheelchairs, scooters or with any limited mobility. Guests who miss the return transportation will be responsible for getting back to the ship. Active participation from guests is required. This tour includes external visits only. Entrances to sites and venues are not included unless otherwise stated. Guests should wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing. Complimentary sake tasting is available for up to 3 types of sake per person. Non-alcohol sake & cider are also available. Fee-based Sake tasting corner available on your own expense. Money exchange machines available at ports. Please make sure to have some Japanese Yen for purchasing as some food stalls & some shops accept cash only. Maximum age to participate is 75 years of age and maximum weight is 350 lbs. Waiver must be signed.

Check Out the

ACTIVITY ATTRIBUTES

Excursion Type:

Scenic & City Tours
Historical Landmarks

Activity Level:

Image Title
  • 1
    Easy
  • 2
    Moderate
  • 3
    Challenging
Tours with this activity level involve a considerable amount of physical activity such as substantial walking over cobblestone streets, uneven or steep terrain, climbing stairs, or extended periods of standing. Not recommended for guests with physical limitations. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.
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