Springtime in the Secret Valley: Majestic Sakura & Hidden Villages of Kochi
On the steep slopes of the deeply carved valleys in the Shikoku Mountains, ancient cherry trees hundreds of years old stand scattered, blooming as if to celebrate life. These rare, historic cherry blossoms—including majestic, commanding giants and weeping trees that resemble cascading waterfalls—color the spring season of this hidden village. On this private tour, you will travel by chartered taxi to explore these historic cherry blossom sites, highly acclaimed by landscape photographers, while experiencing traditional Japanese life and culture.
Meeting Time
9:00a.m. (Please consult us if you prefer a different time.)
Meeting Place
Your accommodation in Kochi City or Kochi New Port
Details of Tour / Activity
This plan is fully customized to your travel dates, adjusting the itinerary to visit 4 to 5 locations where the cherry blossoms and floral villages are at their peak. Some tour highlights include:
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Hidden Mountain Villages: Visit secluded villages in the Shikoku Mountains colored by ancient and giant cherry trees timed perfectly with their blooming season.
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Iconic Varieties: Immerse yourself in Japan's pristine landscape, featuring the famous "Hyotan Sakura" (Gourd Cherry Tree)—renowned for its overwhelming presence and beauty at over 500 years old—and elegant weeping cherry trees with delicately drooping pink blossoms.
Sample Itinerary (Customized based on the blooming schedule):
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Pickup: An English-speaking guide and a chartered taxi will pick you up at your accommodation in Kochi City or at Kochi New Port.
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Sightseeing: Explore the famous cherry blossom spots in Niyodogawa Town (approximately a one and a half hour drive from Kochi City).
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Key Stops: Visit the Hyotan Sakura, the Nakagoshi Residence and its flower peach park, and the weeping cherry blossoms of the Oishi Residence.
Details
Availability
Mid-March to early April (available during the cherry blossom season)
Required time
Approximately 6 hours from 9:00 to 15:00. (to be arranged upon request)
Price
-2 participants: 49,000 JPY per person
-3 participants: 39,000 JPY per person
-4 participants: 31,000 JPY per person
-5 participants: 25,000 JPY per person
-6-8 participants: 22,000 JPY per person
Included
-Chartered taxi
-English speaking guide
-Lunch
Min./Max. participants
Min. 2 people
Max.8 people
Important information
-The blooming period of cherry blossoms varies slightly from year to year, and the blossoms you plan to visit may not be at their peak. Your guide will adjust the itinerary and take you to the best viewing spots based on the conditions of the day.
-The tour will proceed in light rain. However, in the event of severe weather, a decision to cancel may be made the day before.
-Weekends and holidays are excluded from the regular schedule due to expected crowds and traffic congestion. If you still wish to book on these days, we can arrange a customized route to ensure a smooth visit. Please contact us to discuss your options.
Cancellation Policy
-Up to 7 days before the start of the trip: 20%
-6 days before, to the day before: 50%
-Cancellation on the day of the trip or after the trip has started or no contact or non-participation: 100%