Day 1

• From Kagoshima Airport, take a helicopter ride to Makurazaki Heliport

• Kaneshichi Shoten, a bonito flakes shop in Makurazaki City

  At the renowned Kaneshichi Shoten, where chefs from around the world seek the finest bonito flakes.
  Guided by the fourth-generation Mr. Yusuke Sezaki, explore the factory, including the process leading to the creation of their exquisite bonito flakes.

• Transfer to Ibusuki by a chartered vehicle

  Enjoy a scenic drive in a private car with a view of Mt. Kaimon (Kaimon-dake), then take a break with a sand steaming bath at Ibusuki Natural Sand Bath Center ‘Saraku.’

• Transfer to Kagoshima Chuo Station by a scenic train

  Embark on the express train ‘Ibusuki no Tamatebako’ and traverse the stunning coastline, arriving at Kagoshima Chuo Station.

• Transfer to TENKU by a chartered vehicle

  Savor a LUXUREX special course dinner crafted with bonito flakes from Kaneshichi Shoten.

• Delight in a well-being stay like no other at TENKU

• Kaneshichi Shoten—Traditional bonito shop

  


Kaneshichi Shoten—Traditional bonito shop

In Makurazaki City, renowned for its bonito flakes, the journey of Kaneshichi Shoten began over 60 years ago. Led by the fourth generation, Yusuke Sezaki aims to revive the nostalgic atmosphere of a bygone era in Japan for the younger generation—a time filled with heartwarming scenes of families gathered around while shaving bonito flakes. While steadfastly adhering to traditional methods, he engaged in continuous trial and error to create a more delicious bonito flake, resulting in the birth of ‘Classic Bushi,’ synonymous with Kaneshichi Shoten. The unique concept of infusing classical music during the fermenting process not only added a distinctive touch but also garnered global recognition for the existence of high-quality dried bonito flakes and the culture they embody. Let’s visit this one-of-a-kind facility, where culinary professionals from around the world come to savor the unique artistry of Makurazaki’s bonito flakes.

*The content of the tour varies depending on the visit date.

• Natural Sand Bath Center ‘Saraku’

  


Natural Sand Bath Center ‘Saraku’

Have you ever heard of the unique bathing experience where you are enveloped in sand heated by the natural hot springs bubbling up from the coast? Even in the hot spring paradise of Japan, the only place where you can indulge in this special sand bathing ritual is Ibusuki. Lying in the warm sand for about 10 minutes, you’ll find yourself sweating from head to toe. As you listen to the soothing sounds of the waves, you’ll feel the gentle weight of the sand, completely immersed in the embrace of nature. Emerging from the experience, you’ll feel wonderfully warm from deep within, with a refreshing and invigorating mood! Embark on a journey to experience the detoxifying effects, said to be three to four times more potent than regular hot springs.

©K.P.V.B

• IBUSUKI NO TAMATEBAKO (JR KYUSHU D&S TRAINS)

  


IBUSUKI NO TAMATEBAKO (JR KYUSHU D&S TRAINS)

Japan stands out as a global destination where a diverse array of trains traverse its landscapes. For some, the allure of traveling to Japan includes a passion for railways. The ‘Ibusuki no Tamatebako,’ inspired by the well-known legendary ‘Dragon Palace’ among the Japanese, caters to this fascination. From its exterior design to intricate details within each carriage, the train artfully expresses the enchanting narrative. Reading the story beforehand enhances the experience, making the journey even more enjoyable.
As the train glides through the breathtaking scenery of Kagoshima’s symbol, Sakurajima, and the scenic splendors of Kinkō Bay, this train seamlessly blends coziness with opulence, inviting you on an unparalleled journey of ultimate relaxation.

©kouki morishita

Day 2

• A day of fully immersing yourself in nature and enjoying all that TENKU has to offer

  The way you spend your time at TENKU depends on the weather. Some days, you can relax with the windows open, listening to the sound of the rain. You might also enjoy a walk in the after-rain sunshine or take a bath in the morning sun as the fog rolls in. Embrace the unique sensations each day brings, and make the most of your time in TENKU.

• Dinner at TENKU

  Indulge in a dinner meticulously crafted to bring out the authentic flavors of locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to savor the true essence of the land.

• Stay at TENKU

• TENKU

  


TENKU

In the midst of approximately 150 acres of vast land, there are only five villas, each featuring its private hot spring. With no neighboring villas in sight, this secluded haven provides an undisturbed retreat, allowing one to escape the routines of daily life and revel in a completely private sanctuary amidst nature. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the wind and the melodies of wild birds, savor delectable local cuisine, luxuriate in open-air baths with panoramic views of the majestic Kirishima mountain range, and as night falls, marvel at the starry sky that spans the pitch-black darkness...Reclaim your authentic self in this ultimate private haven, where you can have nature all to yourself.

🄫Taiki Fukao (NIPPON DESIGN CENTER)

Day 3

• 12:00 PM Check-out at TENKU

  After checking out of ‘TENKU,’ you’ll then head to ‘sankara hotel&spa Yakushima’ by a helicopter.

• 3:00 PM Check-in at sankara hotel&spa Yakushima

• For dinner, you’ll dine at ‘okas’

  Savor cuisine naturelle in a serene atmosphere. Taking inspiration from Yakushima and its abundant nature, watch as the chef creates a delectable full-course French meal just for you.

• Stay at sankara hotel&spa Yakushima

  Enjoy a luxurious stay in the 104-square-meter ‘sankara villa suite,’ complete with a comfortable wood deck that offers stunning ocean views. Savor the luxury of doing nothing while immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Yakushima.

• sankara hotel&spa Yakushima

  


sankara hotel&spa Yakushima

The name Sankara evokes an air of mystery and means “blessings from heaven” in Sanskrit. They established the Sankara Fund as a way to support environmental conservation on Yakushima, which is home to a natural World Heritage site.
Sankara hotel&spa Yakushima is an auberge-style resort hotel, their founding philosophy is based on providing the ultimate in hospitality while protecting the majesty of Yakushima’s natural World Heritage site. “10 days at sea, 10 days in the village and 10 days in the mountains” is a time-honored saying on Yakushima. Since time immemorial, the island’s residents have plowed the fields around the villages and embraced the natural blessings from the sea and mountains. At Sankara, we have taken the abundant blessings of the island as inspiration to create Sankara cuisine, a delectable culinary experience that can only be enjoyed on these shores.

Come and immerse yourself fully in the abundant nature and cuisine of Yakushima. They eagerly await your visit, welcoming you with open arms.

Day 4

• Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, a natural sanctuary shrouded in deep green

  Explore the enchanting ‘Moss Forest,’ where hundreds of species of moss cover rocks, stumps, and tree trunks, becoming even more beautiful on rainy days. Walk through Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, known for its picturesque moss and valleys and said to be the inspiration for the setting of ‘Princess Mononoke.’ Further into the ‘Moss Forest,’ climb the steep slope from Tsuji Toge to reach the breathtaking Taiko Iwa. From there, enjoy a stunning panorama with over 45 mountains higher than 1,000 meters including Mt. Miyanoura at 1936 meters, known as the “Alps on the Ocean”, in front of you, and a view of the sea behind you.*We can offer suggestions for your ideal stay, including the Jomon Sugi Trek, said to be around 7,200 years old and requiring a round trip of approximately 12 hours, as well as island sightseeing tours featuring attractions such as the majestic Ōko Waterfall, boasting a height of 88 meters, and the artistic Senpiro Waterfall cascading down a massive monolith.

• Relieve the pleasant fatigue of trekking at ‘Sankara Sana (spa),’ getting ‘SANA-being’

  Feeling revitalized by the abundant nature of Yakushima, recharging the essence that lies at the center of your being, achieving a holistic rebalancing of wellness for the health of body and mind.

• For dinner, you’ll dine at ‘okas’

  Prepare a French full course meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients for you, featuring a menu different from yesterday’s.

• Stay consecutively at Sankara Suite in ‘sankara hotel & spa Yakushima’

• Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine | Yakushima Island

  


Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine | Yakushima Island

Selected as a ‘Meeting Place of People and Forests’ in 1979, the Shiratani-gawa River Basin Natural Recreation Forest sits at elevations ranging from 600m to 1,050m. At the foot of the broadleaf forest, covered with ferns and moss, and amidst the beauty reminiscent of a garden, including the clear streams of the Shiratani River flowing through the primeval forest, you can witness numerous Yakusugi trees, including the approximately 3,000-year-old Yayoi Sugi. Of particular note are the ‘Moss Forest,’ said to have inspired the deep primeval forest inhabited by Shishi-gami (Forest spirit) and Kodama (Tree spirits) in Hayao Miyazaki’s animated film ‘Princess Mononoke,’ and the massive rock formation known as ‘Taiko Iwa,’ depicted as the site of confrontation between Ashitaka and Moro (the 300-year-old goddess of the wolves) in the same film. While walking through the lush, humid ‘Moss Forest’ surrounded by the dense presence of life, and enjoying the refreshing panoramic view of Mt. Miyanoura, the highest peak in Kyushu, from ‘Taiko Iwa,’ you’re sure to be moved in a way you won’t experience elsewhere.
With trekking routes ranging from short courses suitable for beginners to long courses for advanced hikers, and with ‘Taiko Iwa’ accessible via a round trip of approximately 6 hours, we offer various options tailored to your fitness level and itinerary.

©K.P.V.B

• Jōmon Sugi | Yakushima Island

  


Jōmon Sugi | Yakushima Island

Yakushima Island, where approximately 20% of the island was designated as a World Natural Heritage site in 1993, is renowned for its rich forests nurturing unique ecosystems, earning recognition for its breathtaking natural beauty. Among the pristine natural wonders of Yakushima, a major attraction for many is the Jomon Sugi, known as Japan’s largest cedar tree.
The Jomon Sugi, estimated to be between 2,170 to 7,200 years old, stands at an elevation of 1,300 meters within the World Natural Heritage area. It boasts a height of 25.3 meters and a circumference of 16.4 meters at chest height. The journey to Jomon Sugi entails an 11-kilometer trek, consisting of an 8.5-kilometer hike along the tramway tracks (approximately 3 hours) and a 2.5-kilometer mountain trail hike (approximately 2 hours) one way, totaling 22 kilometers for a round trip. While it requires some physical stamina, reaching the Jomon Sugi through the ancient forest of towering trees that have stood for thousands of years is an unforgettable experience that embodies the depth of Yakushima’s timeless history.

©K.P.V.B

Day 5

• Until your departure, relax and enjoy your time at ‘sankara’ (Check-out at 11:00 PM).

• Depart from your hotel and get to Yakushima Airport.

  Transfer to Yakushima Airport by a chartered vehicle.

• Depart for your next destination...