Private tour in Kobe Eiichiro N

Dance with the Locals! Private Awa Odori Festival Experience from Kobe

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Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Eiichiro N.

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Hi! I am a licensed English-speaking tour guide with strong experience in private and group tours across Japan. Formerly a high school teacher - I taught mathematics and participated in international exchange programs. I have excellent communication and presentation skills, and I enjoy explaining Japanese culture, history, and daily life in a clear and engaging way. Currently, I operate private tours using my own comfortable minivan, offering flexible and personalized travel experiences for international guests. I conducted numerous customized tours for international visitors, including families, students, and cruise passengers. I specialize in cultural, historical, and scenic tours throughout major cities and rural regions. My guiding style is warm, informative, and filled with humor—ensuring every guest feels relaxed and inspired throughout their journey. Friendly, informative, and flexible. I believe every guest deserves not just a tour—but a joyful cultural experience filled with smiles, stories, and discoveries!

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Eiichiro N.

Overview of your Kobe tour

Experience the excitement, energy, and joy of Japan's largest traditional dance festival on this exclusive full-day private tour from Kobe. Rather than simply watching the festival, you'll have the opportunity to become part of it by joining the famous Niwaka Ren, a dance group specially created for beginners and international visitors. No experience is necessary—just bring your smile and enthusiasm! Important Information This tour is available only during the Awa Odori Festival (August 12–15 each year). Joining the Niwaka Ren is free and suitable for all ages. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on traffic and festival conditions. Travel comfortably in a spacious air-conditioned minivan as we journey across the spectacular Akashi Kaikyo Bridge to Tokushima, home of the world-famous Awa Odori Festival. This unforgettable experience combines Japanese culture, local cuisine, beautiful scenery, and the thrill of dancing alongside thousands of local people.

Your Kobe tour itinerary

9:00 AM Meet your guide at your hotel in Kobe, Kobe Port, Shin-Kobe Station, or Kobe Station. 11:30 AM Arrive in Tokushima. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring Tokushima specialties such as Tokushima Ramen, fresh seafood, or Awa beef. 1:00 PM Free time to explore the festival streets, souvenir shops, and local food stalls. (Optional) Ride the Bizan Ropeway for panoramic views over Tokushima City. 3:30 PM Your guide will introduce the history and traditions of Awa Odori and explain how anyone can participate. 5:30 PM If you wish, rent a traditional Happi coat and receive a short dance lesson. 6:00 PM Join the Niwaka Ren and dance together with local people through the streets of Tokushima. 7:30 PM Watch spectacular performances by professional dance groups. 8:45 PM Depart Tokushima. 11:00 PM Return to Kobe.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Minivan

Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned Toyota Noah rental minivan, one of Japan's most popular family vehicles. The Toyota Noah offers a smooth and quiet ride with spacious seating for up to 7 passengers (recommended for up to 6 guests with luggage). Large windows provide excellent views throughout the journey, making sightseeing even more enjoyable. The vehicle is equipped with modern safety features, air conditioning, and ample luggage space, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing travel experience throughout your tour. For larger groups, a bigger rental vehicle can be arranged upon request.

What's included
Private Guide
Other: Fuel costs, Parking fees
What's not included
Tickets: Paid Grandstand Tickets Paid grandstand tickets for the Awa Odori Festival are not included in the tour price. I recommend reserving grandstand seats in advance, as they offer the best views of the performances and often sell out early. Ticket prices vary depending on the seating category and date (approximately JPY 2,000–5,000 per person, subject to change). If you would like me to assist with the reservation, I would be happy to arrange the tickets on your behalf. The actual ticket cost will be added to your tour price without any markup.
Other: Yukata cotton kimono or Happi coat Join the famous "Niwaka Ren" and dance alongside local people! No experience is necessary—just wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and we'll teach you the basic steps before joining the parade.
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Japan, Hyogo, Kobe, Chuo Ward, Kanōchō, 1 Chome−3, 新神戸駅

Your hotel in Kobe, Kobe Port Cruise Terminal, Shin-Kobe Station I will be waiting for you at the meeting point holding a sign with your name on it, making it easy for you to find me.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Classes And Workshops
Art And Culture
Off The Beaten Path
Food And Drink
City Highlights
Tour reference number
1822505
Languages
Japanese
English
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Kobe best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for travellers who want to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and participate in the Awa Odori Festival. It's suitable for all ages, including families with kids, and offers a unique opportunity to dance alongside locals. Whether you're a beginner or an international visitor, you'll enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and cultural insights.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Kobe be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 14 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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