Tour summary
Just under two hours from Tokyo, discover Hitachi’s spiritual and cultural treasures. Begin at the sacred Oiwa Shrine, walking ancient forest paths and receiving a blessing guided by a shrine maiden. Hike to breathtaking peaks, uncover hidden stone Buddhas and gods, and savor a scenic lunch with local rice balls. After descending serene trails, visit a gateway village for tea and heartfelt exchanges with locals, learning their traditions and way of life. This exclusive tour offers an intimate glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage and community warmth.
In detail
Meet your guide at JR Hitachi Station, a beautiful oceanfront station designed by renowned architect Kazuyo Sejima, a Pritzker Prize laureate and native of Hitachi. After a quick stop at a local rice ball shop for lunch, your journey begins with a drive through the mountains—passing remnants of the historic Hitachi copper mine—en route to Oiwa Shrine.
At the sacred Oiwa Shrine, you’ll be welcomed with a special ritual by a shrine maiden. You’ll explore the peaceful shrine grounds and gain rare access to a hidden hall housing Buddhist statues not usually open to the public. A traditional blessing ceremony will offer you a chance to make personal prayers and wishes.
Next, hike to Mt. Oiwa, the shrine’s sacred mountain, following a trail lined with ancient stone markers said to be the dwelling places of deities. From the summit, take in panoramic views before continuing to Mt. Takasuzu, where you’ll enjoy your handmade rice ball lunch with sweeping scenery around you.
After descending, return to the shrine to collect a small blessing souvenir. The experience then takes you to a nearby home in the gateway village, where you’ll be welcomed for a heartwarming tea gathering. Share stories with local residents, hear about their everyday lives and the role the shrine plays in the community, creating a rare and intimate cultural connection.
Finally, your day concludes with a scenic drive back to Hitachi Station—just 90 minutes from Tokyo, yet a world away. Crossing the mountains feels like stepping into another time and place.
Included Sites
- JR Hitachi Station
- Oiwa Shrine and sacred hiking trail
- Forest trails and Pacific Ocean viewpoint
- Village encounter at shrine gatefront
Total walking distance : 6.5km
- Ascent: 439m
- Descent: 439m
- Total walking time: 3.5 hours without Lunch time
Your Guide
Miyuki Abe
Born and raised in Hitachi-Ota, she is a certified adventure guide with experience in both mountain and river activities.
She studied abroad in Cardiff, UK, and now works across multiple fields—from leather craft and tour development to coaching and community events.
Deeply connected to the local community, she offers travelers rare, insider access to the people and culture of the region.
Location
Meeting / End Point: JR Hitachi Station (approx. 90 min from Tokyo by express train)
*Transportation from the station is included
More information
| FIT / Group | Both |
| Min. and Max. # of Participants | Min 2 / Max 6 (larger groups by request) |
| What is Included in the Price | English-speaking guide, activities, local transportation, admission fees, lunch, insurance |
| Duration | 7.5 hours |
| Start/End Time | Start : 9:30am at JR Hitachi Station End: 5:00pm at JR Hitachi Station Not Available: From Jul to Sep, Dec 20 to Jan 15 |
| Meeting / Departing Point | Meeting & Departing point : JR Hitachi Station |
| Transportation | Chartered car or taxi arranged locally |
| Notes: dietary restrictions, age limit. etc. | – Please inform us ahead of time if any guests have dietary restrictions or require a hired car, as we may not be able to accommodate these requests on the day of the event. – We also suggest that guests carry some local currency for personal shopping and other expenses, as certain establishments may only accept cash payments. – Wear appropriate footwear and clothing suited for hiking and the season, and bring a light rain jacket in case of drizzle. A backpack is recommended to carry your personal items during the hikes. |
※Available by 2026. Jun 30th
Scenes from the Tour
