Oshima: Island of Prayer. A Journey from Myth to Light.

【OUTLINE】

【HIGHLIGHT】

• A unique walk across the 224m vermillion Oshima Bridge
• Explore mystical sites steeped in myth and legend
• The tour climax: Reaching the iconic Oshima Lighthouse
• Experience the mystery of the "Magnetic Rock"
• Relaxing nature walk with breathtaking scenic views

【SCHEDULE】

Please choose your preferred starting time from either 10:30 AM or 2:30 PM.

[10:30 / 14:30] Meet and Check-in (Registration opens from 10:20 / 14:20)
[10:30 / 14:30] Guidance: Safety instructions and tour overview
[10:35 / 14:35] Tour Start: A guided journey through the fascinating highlights of Oshima.
[12:30 / 16:30] Tour Ends / Dismissal

【DETAILS】

This guided walking tour takes you through the mystical Oshima Island alongside a local expert.

1. A Symbolic Walk Across the Vermillion Oshima Bridge
Your journey begins on the iconic red bridge, serving as a "sacred path" to the Island of the Gods. Learn about the bridge's history and the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs of the area as you make your entrance.

2. Explore Sites Steeped in Myth and Legend
Visit Ominato Shrine, dedicated to the guardian of the sea, and discover ancient stone lanterns and myths involving whales. Our local guide will share captivating stories of this sanctuary of "Prayer and Protection."

3. The Climax at Oshima Lighthouse
Experience a powerful moment as the tour’s narrative comes together at the lighthouse. We connect the "guiding light" to the sacred spots visited earlier, creating a profound and memorable finale.

4. Experience the "Magnetic Rock" Mystery
One of our most popular activities! Witness the strange phenomenon of a rock that makes compasses go wild. This interactive segment with a fun quiz is a hit with guests of all ages.

5. Healing Nature Walk and Stunning Views
Engage your five senses: listen to the rhythmic waves, the wind, and birdsong. Capture the perfect photo of Oshima’s unique "whale-like" silhouette and enjoy a peaceful moment of natural healing.

【THINGS TO NOTE】

• Duration：120 minutes
• Meeting point：
  Oshima Parking Lot / Right next to the Keifuku Bus "Oshima"stop [MAP]
  Address: 25-17 Anto, Mikuni-cho, Sakai City, Fukui 913-0064　
• Access：
  ・From JR Awara-Onsen Station:
   Take the Keifuku Bus (Lines 85 or 97, Tojinbo Line) to "Oshima" for 35 mins.
  ・From Fukui Station:
  Echizen Railway (Mikuni-Awara Line): Take the train from Fukui Station to Mikuni Station. (Approx. 50 min)
  Keifuku Bus (Route 84 or 96: Tojinbo Line): Transfer at Mikuni Station and get off at "Oshima" bus stop. (Approx. 15 min)
  ・From JR Awara-Onsen Station:
• Number of participants：2–6 people
• Language support：Japanese, English
• Included ：
  ・Guide fees
• Excluded：
  ・Transportation to/from the meeting point
• Clothes：
  ・We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
• Participation requirements ：
  ・Age: 6 years old and above (Minors under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian)
  ・Fitness Level: Must be able to complete a 2-hour walking tour, including climbing 78 stone steps.
• Free Wi-Fi ：No
• Toilet：Available (Japanese and Western style)
• Other things to note：
  [Park Regulations & Etiquette]
  As this tour takes place within a Quasi-National Park, please follow your guide's instructions to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for everyone.
  ・Prohibited Acts: Under the Natural Parks Act, it is strictly forbidden to remove rocks or minerals, or to damage vegetation (such as breaking tree branches).
  ・Penalties: Please be aware that violations are subject to severe legal penalties. We ask for your full cooperation in preserving this natural heritage.
  [Tour Cancellation Policy]
  ・Cancellations by the Organizer (Weather-related)
  If the tour is cancelled due to safety concerns such as typhoons or strong winds, no cancellation fee will be charged. In such cases, we will process the cancellation and send you an email explaining the reason. Please ensure you check your email for updates.
  ・Cancellations by the Guest
  If you choose to cancel for personal reasons—including poor health or concerns about the weather (when the tour is still scheduled to run)—the standard cancellation fee will apply. We appreciate your understanding.

【CANCELLATION POLICY】

7 to 3 days before the tour: 30% of the tour fee
2 days before the tour: 50% of the tour fee
1 day before the tour: 80% of the tour fee
On the day of the tour or No-show: 100% of the tour fee