Historic Sawara near Tokyo: Canal Boat Ride & Hariko Painting

4 hoursEnglishBook 2 days aheadNarita, Japan

From

$188

Escape the crowds and discover a quieter side of Japan in Sawara, a beautifully preserved canal town filled with Edo-period charm.

Cruise slowly along the Ono River, wander past historic merchant houses, and experience the atmosphere of a town where traditional Japan still feels very much alive. You’ll also create your own Hariko papier-mâché keepsake, guided through a local craft that has been enjoyed for generations.

For a more relaxed experience, you may replace the Hariko activity with an optional seasonal lunch in a beautifully restored historic building, featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Advance request and confirmation are required.

With a private English-speaking guide, you can explore at an easy pace, ask questions freely, and enjoy Sawara away from the crowds of Japan’s major sightseeing spots. It is an easy cultural escape for travelers visiting from Tokyo or staying around Narita.

Included

English-speaking guide
Ono River boat ride
Hariko papier-mâché painting experience and materials
Round-trip taxi transportation between Narita and Sawara

Not included

Lunch and drinks
Optional lunch replaces Hariko. Mon, Thu & Fri only; advance request required.
Luggage storage fees at the airport or station
Personal expenses

What you'll do

Historic Old Town area in Sawara, Katori
Sawara, Katori, Japan
Explore Sawara’s preserved Edo-period merchant district with your guide. Enjoy a traditional boat ride along the Ono River, followed by a hands-on Hariko papier-mâché painting experience. The boat ride and painting experience fees are included.
2 hours

Meeting and pickup

1 location

Pickup detailsRead more

Your guide will meet you after you exit the ticket gates at JR Narita Station, on the East Exit (Sando-guchi) side, toward Keisei-Narita Station, holding an ORU Trip sign.

Your guide will meet you after you exit the ticket gates at Keisei-Narita Station, on the West Exit (Sando-guchi) side, toward JR Narita Station, holding an ORU Trip sign. Please do not go toward the East Exit.

Your guide will meet you in the arrivals lobby of your flight terminal after customs, holding our company sign. Please provide your flight number and arrival terminal in advance.