Explore the Nature that Inspired Ghibli Movies on an Exciting Kayak Tour (Half Day)

【OUTLINE】

Tomonoura is a beautiful and picturesque port town that served as the inspiration for the town in Studio Ghibli’s anime “Ponyo” and is also where Hollywood’s “Wolverine” was filmed. Explore and discover Tomonoura on this special tour, whose history is intimately entangled with the nature surrounding it. Enjoy a picturesque view of the port town of Tomonoura from the sea, the temple of Abuto Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) that stands on the edge of a cliff-top, and a quiet, deserted beach that can only be reached by sea kayak.

【HIGHLIGHTS】

• Enjoy the beautiful and picturesque port town of Tomonoura, which served as the inspiration for the town in Studio Ghibli’s anime “Ponyo”, and is also where Hollywood’s “Wolverine” was filmed.
  
• The temple to Abuto Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) is located on Abuto Cape and offers a unique view of the Seto Inland Sea.
• A short pleasant 3-hour course of kayaking.
  
• A satisfying tour and the perfect way to enjoy your time in Tomonoura. 
  
  

【SCHEDULE】

Choose from two start times, 9:00 or 13:30. 

[09:00 / 13:30] Gather
Complete insurance and other procedures and change into kayaking gear.

[09:30 / 14:00]
Learn how to paddle and listen to a safety explanation.

[10:00 / 14:30] Departure from Tomonoura Port
Leave Tomonoura Port by kayak for a unique and spectacular view of this port town from the sea.

[11:00 / 15:30] Abuto Kannon OR Sensuijima Island
You will choose whether to go to Abuto Kannon or Sensuijima Island. (We will also consider the tide and weather conditions)

The temple to Abuto Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) was built on a spectacular location overlooking the sea. The view by boat should not be missed. Depending on the tide, you can get ashore here. The temple is a famous place people come to pray for safe childbirth. On display here you will find many "ema" (votive tablets) in the shape of breasts that represent fertility and motherhood.

Sensuijima Island is a place that has been left untouched and, therefore, has kept the beautiful natural scenery of the Seto Inland Sea. Discover an area of pristine beauty and sea life.

[12:00 / 16:30] Finish
Return to Tomonoura by kayak.

【DETAILS】

Enjoy what many say is the best natural scenery in Japan and the picturesque views of the port town of Tomonoura from the sea. This town is rich in scenic spots and served as the inspiration for the town in the Ghibli anime “Ponyo” and was a shooting location for the Hollywood film “Wolverine”.
A local guide will take you around the islands of the Seto Inland Sea on a course based on your interests and the weather that day. Enjoy the outdoors for a satisfying discovery and experience of this part of Japan.

【THINGS TO NOTE】

• Time：3 hours
• Meeting point：Kayaker's Cafe [MAP]
  849, Tomocho-tomo, Fukuyama-shi, Hiroshima 720-0201
• Access：
  From Hiroshima station with the shinkansen and bus: 1 hour 15 min.
  From 'Fukuyama station' on JR Lines: take the Tomotetsu bus (to Tomo, 37 min) and get off at Tomo-kou. Walk for 3 minutes.
  Walk for 180 meters in a southwestward direction near the Prefectural Highway 22 along the seashore and turn left at the intersection. On your left side, you will find the Kayaker's Cafe.
  * There is a free transfer from Fukuyama Station, but it may not be possible depending on the number of people and the situation of the day. Please contact us if you need it.
• Minimum number of participants：2 persons
• Language support：English, Japanese
• Included： 
  ・Experience fee
  ・guide fee
  ・rental fee of all kayak equipment
• Items to bring：Beverages
  
• Participation requirements ：
  ・Exercise level: Beginner to intermediate (for those who exercise regularly)
  ・Minimum age: 3 years old
  ・If you suffer from back pain, participation is not recommended
  ・If you suffer from any serious conditions or illnesses, for example heart problems, participation is not recommended
• Free Wi-Fi：No
• Toilet：Yes (Western Style)
• Other things to note：
  ・This plan is only available during the summer season from June 1 to October 31.
  ・The activity will be held in the Tomonoura area.
  ・The activity may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions. We will contact you by 18:00 the day before. In such cases, full refunds will be given.

【HEALTH AND SAFETY MEASURES】

・Face masks required for travelers in public areas
・Face masks required for guides in public areas
・Face masks provided for travelers as needed
・Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
・Social distancing enforced throughout the experience
・Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
・Guides required to regularly wash hands
・Regular temperature checks for staff
・Temperature checks for travelers upon arrival
・Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
・Contactless ticket redemption

【CANCELLATION POLICY】

7 to 4 days before the tour date 40% of the tour price
3 to 2 days before the tour date 60% of the tour price
The day before the tour date, On the day of the tour 100% of the tour price
※Right after the online settlement is made, a cancellation fee of 10% will be incurred in case of cancellation.
※The cancellation fee includes handling charges.