(Highlights)
You can experience a "time travel" to and enjoy the atmosphere of the Edo period (1603-1867) of Japan in this theme park, otherwise known as the "Hollywood of Japan". There are many houses and structures mostly made of wood that were in use in Japan`s feudal ages: ordinary houses, "Ninjya house", haunted house, sake merchant`s shop, old-fashioned restaurants, and so on. Samurai walk on the streets and there are "chambara" performances in which a couple of Samurai fight with a mock sword against each other. You can spend a good part of your day just strolling on the unpaved streets between buildings, while being amazed at how minutely Japan`s former period is reproduced. You have no worries about eating: there is a large restaurant just inside the entrance of the park and other smaller, old-fashioned ones nearby. It`s hard to describe what the park is all about in this column.To see is to believe. Just visit the place.
You can enjoy seeing buildings and structures that may appear in the Japanese Samurai movies and you can also take part in the "chambara" mock-sword fighing. You can immerse yourself in the Edo period atmosphere and meet Samurai. You can imagine how the Edo period was like. Above all, just visit the theme park and see whatever you can.
(How to enjoy)
No word is necessary. Just go and see the theme park. It may be fun to talk to "Samurai" who stand at the entrances of some of the buildings. Or, you may be able to remember the scenes of a "Samurai" drama that was once put on the air on Japanese TV networks.
(Others)
The train fare is 200 yen and the entrance fee is 2,200 yen.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Kyoto Station
Toei Uzumas Studio Park
Kodaiji temple near the theme park. You can see the image of ”Hankashiizo
Ending Point
JR Kyoto Station
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
guide fee, hotel pick-up in Kyoto area
transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, dinner, entrance fee, hotel pick-up in areas beyond Kyoto area
I would like at least 7 days notice before a booking.
It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.
Caroline W.
“Immersive, personalized & unique tour-the highlight of our trip!”
We had an incredible tour exploring Kyoto with Hiro, who provided a truly personalized journey through his beautiful city. Hiro was not only knowledgeable, but also passionate about sharing Kyoto’s rich history, culture, and hidden gems. Hiro planned our itinerary and took us to beautiful temples, charming streets, and peaceful gardens that we may never have discovered on our own. We had a full day itinerary, and Hiro expertly guided us to each stop. My favorite stop on our tour was the Sanjūsangen-dō, which we would have never known to visit without Hiro’s help. He balanced our tour with famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path spots, making sure we experienced Kyoto beyond the typical tourist attractions. He also shared stories and historical insights that made each route stop more meaningful. Beyond his expertise, Hiro was warm, engaging, and genuinely invested in making our time in Kyoto unforgettable. If you’re looking for a tour that feels immersive, thoughtful, and uniquely tailored to you, we highly recommend Hiro. Our time with him was truly one of the highlights of our trip, and we are so grateful for the experience!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Caroline-san & Alissa-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment. I really feel happy for it and got inspired to do a better work the next time on. By the way, I came to know the city of Kennebunkport in the state of Maine in January, 1991, when the 41st President of the United States, Mr. George H. W. Bush, was surrounded by reporters in the beach of that city. He was answering their questions. At that time, what is happening in Ukraine today was taking place in Kuwait, which was invaded by the troops of her northern neighbor, Iraq. The U.S.-led multinational forces drove out the Iraqi army from that small, oil-rich country. Sorry for veering away from the subject. I wish you two a happier and more fulfilling future. Hope to see you again sometime somewhere in the future. Best regard, Hiro
Stephanie G.
“Perfect New Years Day tour”
Hiro led our group of 4 adults and 4 children to multiple temples on January 1st. He was knowledgeable and flexible especially when our little ones got tired, or hungry, or overwhelmed by the large crowds. Thank you for a wonderful experience Hiro!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Stephanie-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment and appreciation for my work. I enjoyed being with you all the way and got a lot of energy from the kids. I was amazed at how advanced the technology is in your country: You said you can unlock your house remotely, even when you are in the east coast of the United States. Compared to that sophisticated technology, most of us here in Japan are still relying on the dinosaur-era method such as inserting the key into the door knob. Good luck for you all. Regards, Hiro
Anna P.
“Second excellent day with Hiro-San!”
Hiro speaks great English and is very knowledgeable and flexible. He made our trip to Kyoto better.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Anna-san, Thank you very much for your compliment. I am greatly inspired and encouraged by it. I am afraid, though, I was more of your guest than a service provider. I am sure you are now settled in your home in Parkland, Florida. I wish you a very Happy New Year. See you again somewhere sometime in the future. Regards, Hiro
$170/ per group