Excursion S.a.l.t. culinary workshop and lunch with japanese master at stunning zen retreat tour at Osaka

IMPORTANT NOTE: We recommend guests having light breakfast, as lunch will be served from 11.00am.

Embark on a culinary odyssey to Awaji Island, the mythical birthplace of Japan. Immerse yourself in the island's rich tapestry of nature, history, and gastronomy as you explore the art of fermentation with a renowned chef in a breathtaking Zen retreat designed by a Pritzker Prize-winning architect.

Awaji Island, Zenbo Seinei Zen Retreat

Awaji Island, the mythical birthplace of Japan, offers a culinary journey that melds ancient tradition with gastronomic innovation. A 90-minute drive from Osaka pier, this "miketsukuni" - land of royal provisions - has long supplied imperial tables with its exceptional produce and seafood. At the heart of this experience lies Zenbo Seinei, a modern Zen retreat designed by Pritzker Prize winner Shigeru Ban. Perched above lush forests, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Awaji's unspoiled landscape.

Fermentation Workshop with Chef Nobuaki Fushiki, Eight - Course Authentic Lunch, Farm Visit

For this morning experience, you will be welcomed with a drink and meet the gregarious "Fermentation Prince," Chef Nobuaki Fushiki, a master of traditional and modern Japanese culinary techniques, for an illuminating fermentation workshop at Haru Sansan, their beautiful farmhouse on the grounds. Then, it's on to the main retreat quarters of Zenbo Seinei where we will indulge in an early lunch, with eight fermentation-focused courses paired with sake. Through this, Chef Fushiki demonstrates the artistry of fermentation that has shaped Japanese cuisine for millennia. After the meal, see the roots of your meal at the farm where Zenbo Seinei harvests fresh vegetables, from where we will return to the pier by private coach.

After lunch, return to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Zenbo Seinei, a modern retreat on Awaji Island, Fermentation Workshop by Chef Nobuaki Fushiki, Multicourse lunch celebrating the art of fermentation

Note

Please note: This tour involves little amount of walking for approximately 0.5 miles (about 350 meters), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 30 steps at the venue. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese Yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Infrastructure in Osaka may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique, less-touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. Additional beverages are available at the restaurant at each guest’s own expense. The tour sequence may vary.