Top Chubu Arts & Design

Step into a fairy-tale world at the **Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum**, a charming European-style garden museum nestled near the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Surrounded by elegant architecture, colorful seasonal flowers, and breathtaking views of **Mount Fuji**, this unique attraction combines music, art, and nature in one unforgettable destination. Discover a remarkable collection of antique automatic musical instruments, including self-playing pianos, music boxes, and orchesions from around the world. Enjoy live musical performances featuring classical music and opera, and experience captivating demonstrations that bring these historic instruments to life. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, admire picturesque fountains and sculptures, browse charming museum shops, and relax in cafés with scenic views. Whether you're a music enthusiast, photography lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the museum offers an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages.

You can go cycling through the streets of this manufacturing town, and visit some local workshops which are usually closed to the public, and witness the craftsmanship up close. On this tour, you'll ride a high-performance e-Bike, slicing through the breeze as you're guided to historical workshops and local spots that are usually inaccessible, thanks to the unique insights of a local tour guide. Throughout the tour, you are able to experience the dedication and craftsmanship of artisans while gaining a deeper understanding of life in the Tsubame-Sanjo area. The activity is available for both solo travelers and groups.

Get ready to embark on a unique craft tour that uncovers the heart and soul of Kanazawa through its rich traditions. This exclusive experience offers an intimate glimpse into the world of local artisans, where centuries-old techniques harmoniously blend with modern creativity. As we stroll through the historic Higashi Chaya District, famed for its beautifully preserved tea houses and stunning gold leaf artistry, we’ll delve into the artistry of Matcha Tea served in exquisite Ohi-ware pottery, complemented by the delicate flavors of traditional Wagashi sweets. This journey through time and art promises a deep appreciation for the skills and dedication of Kanazawa's master craftsmen. Join us for a half-day of artistic discovery, where you'll not only immerse yourself in the rich craftsmanship of Kanazawa but also have the opportunity to shop for unique, handmade treasures that reflect the region's heritage.

The tour begins with a visit to Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of the most scenic spots in Japan, where visitors can see the seasonal expressions of the Kaga feudal lords who ruled the area. The next stop is the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, where visitors can experience contemporary art. The circular building has an open design with a natural connection between inside and outside, creating a sense of unity with the city. Inside, visitors can enjoy works by internationally acclaimed artists and hands-on exhibits. The building itself is also attracting attention as a work of art.Visitors can also take part in an optional experience using gold leaf, which is unique to Kanazawa, known as one of the leading gold leaf production centers in Japan.Why not spend a day in Kanazawa experiencing history, culture, and art? *21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is closed on Mondays. Visitors will be taken to a different location for tours on days when the museum is closed.

You can go cycling through the streets of this manufacturing town, and visit some local workshops which are usually closed to the public, and witness the craftsmanship up close. On this tour, you'll ride a high-performance e-Bike, slicing through the breeze as you're guided to historical workshops and local spots that are usually inaccessible, thanks to the unique insights of a local tour guide. Moreover, you will get a tiny-size machete as a gift from a craftsman. Throughout the tour, you are able to experience the dedication and craftsmanship of artisans while gaining a deeper understanding of life in the Tsubame-Sanjo area. The activity is available for both solo travelers and groups.

Discover Your Own Kanazawa, With a Local Nurse! Join my private, fully customized walking and bus tour, designed just for you. With over 24 years living in Kanazawa, I know the city’s hidden gems and fascinating stories you won’t find in guidebooks. ✨I’m a Japanese nurse. If you feel unwell during the tour, I can help you. After you book, we’ll chat to create your perfect 4-5 hour adventure. Whether you want to explore Kenrokuen Garden, Castle, Omicho Market, Higashi Chaya District, or HIDDEN GEMS! And talking with local lovely people. (The itinerary is just a sample!) We’ll travel mainly by foot and local buses, making it easy and comfortable to see the best of the city. I love meeting new people and sharing conversation, so every tour is a personal experience. Let’s make your Kanazawa visit truly unforgettable-just for you! ☺️ ※Guests are kindly advised that the tour host cannot accept responsibility for any illness to unforeseen accidents occurring during the tour.

Colors of Kanazawa – Afternoon Walking Tour with Hands-On Kaga Yuzen Experience Discover Kanazawa’s vibrant history, beautiful gardens, and traditional crafts in this fun and interactive afternoon tour! Stroll through Oyama Shrine and Kanazawa Castle, learning about the city’s samurai past before relaxing with a refreshing drink at a traditional café in Kenrokuen Gardens. The highlight of the day is a hands-on Kaga Yuzen workshop, where you’ll paint your own small traditional bag using vibrant dyes under the guidance of a local artisan – a special souvenir to take home. With a maximum group size of just 12 guests, this tour offers a personal and memorable experience, perfect for families, couples, and first-time visitors.

For travelers looking to explore a more traditional side of Japan, Takayama and Shirakawa-go offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a world that seems far away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. Takayama today has within it a faithfully preserved traditional town composed of three major avenues and a number of alleyways. With crystal clear water flowing on both sides of the streets, and historical wooden buildings, you will be witness to the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. Shirakawa-go, on the other hand, is and has always been a quaint village of thatched roof homes, where agriculture and cottage industries thrived for centuries. Nowadays, it has become well known as one of the few remaining villages in Japan that boasts a high number of preserved homes with thatched roofs. You are free to start your tour from either Takayama or Kanazawa, and also end the tour at either of those destinations.

This 3-hour cultural experience brings you deep into the shimmering world of gold leaf, an essential part of Kanazawa’s identity. Begin at Sakuda Gold Leaf, where you'll learn about Kanazawa’s long-standing role in gold production and artistry. Try your hand at making your own gold-leaf souvenir during a hands-on workshop. Then stroll through the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District, visiting specialty gold shops and ending with the famous gold-leaf soft-serve ice cream. The tour concludes at the peaceful Utatsuyama Shrine, offering a moment of reflection with stunning city views.

A Day of Art, Food, and Breathtaking Views in Snowy Echigo-Tsumari Discover a side of Echigo-Tsumari, in Tokamachi, that only winter reveals, on this one-day tour through a snow-covered landscape. Our first stop is Kiyotsukyo Gorge, one of Japan's three great gorges. Beyond the tunnel lies a "light art" installation, where in the snowy season the water and rock walls shimmer white, opening up a dreamlike world in the quiet. For lunch, enjoy a leisurely meal at Matsudai Satoyama Shokudo, savoring warm, local dishes made with regional ingredients. In the afternoon, visit the Echigo-Tsumari Contemporary Art Museum MonET, a museum where the building itself is a work of art. Art encountered amid the snow stays with you more deeply than usual. Come and enjoy a quiet, luxurious winter day in Echigo. I'll explain using a translation app. Cover photo: “Tunnel of Light” by Ma Jansson (MAD Architects), photo by Osamu Nakamura

This tour connects three of Kanazawa’s most refined cultural traditions in one clear story: traditional crafts, Kaga Yuzen dyeing, and Noh theater. Rather than simply visiting museums on your own, you will explore how the wealth of the Kaga domain and the cultural patronage of the Maeda family helped shape Kanazawa’s distinctive sense of beauty. With a guide, each stop becomes easier to understand. At the craft museum, you will see how daily life, samurai rituals, tea ceremony, festivals, and faith supported many kinds of traditional craftsmanship. At the Kaga Yuzen Kimono Center, you will learn how kimono became a wearable art form, then try a handkerchief dyeing experience yourself. At the Kanazawa Noh Museum, you will discover the quiet expression of Noh masks and costumes. This is not just a museum tour. It is a compact cultural experience that helps you understand Kanazawa’s refined arts through seeing, learning, and creating.

This tour introduces Kanazawa through contemporary art, not only through its famous gardens, samurai districts, and traditional crafts. With a private guide, you will explore selected KAMU KANAZAWA spaces spread across the city center and learn how to enjoy contemporary art through space, perspective, movement, and the relationship between artworks and the urban landscape. Rather than simply explaining the “correct” meaning of each work, your guide helps you slow down, observe, and discover your own way of seeing. If you choose the extended option, the tour continues to the 100-Year Forest Museum, where you can encounter works by local Ishikawa artists and see another side of Kanazawa’s living art scene.

Discover the story behind Kanazawa's iconic Tsuzumi Gate through a unique journey into Japan's taiko culture. Offered only once a month, this exclusive experience takes you to Asano Taiko, a world-renowned drum maker with more than 400 years of history. Enjoy special access to workshop areas normally closed to visitors, learn from skilled artisans, watch a live performance by a professional taiko artist, and experience the power of taiko drumming for yourself. The tour concludes at a beautifully restored sake brewery restaurant, where you will enjoy a 10-course French-style kaiseki dinner paired with locally brewed sake. Transportation, English-speaking guidance, workshop access, taiko performance, drumming experience, dinner, and sake tasting are all included. Return transportation to Kanazawa Station or selected hotels is provided.

Meet your guide at JR Fukui Station and begin your journey into the world of traditional crafts. Explore Fukui, a renowned craft-producing region, and view traditional crafts and art pieces. Fukui Station is located between Kyoto and Kanazawa. From Kanazawa: About 20–25 minutes by the Hokuriku Shinkansen． ・Learn why these crafts developed in Fukui, with clear and engaging explanations of each technique. Discover the story of Shakudani Stone ・Visit to a souvenir shop featuring local crafts ・Enjoy a hands-on short calligraphy experience using Echizen Washi paper and create your own artwork to take home. Visit a souvenir shop featuring local crafts and enjoy a complimentary drink. ・If you wish to explore further, receive guidance to artisan workshops. What's included ・Guided tour of Fukui's traditional crafts ・Hands-on mini calligraphy experience ・Complimentary drink ・Visit to a souvenir shop featuring local crafts What's not included? ・Transportation to and from JR Fukui Station

Explore the rich heritage of Mino ware on this immersive walking tour in Tajimi, Japan. Begin at Gallery Voice, a cultural hub showcasing contemporary ceramic art while learning about the evolution of Mino ware from its medieval roots to modern interpretations. Then, stroll down Oribe Street, visiting local pottery shops where you can feel the textures and weight of the ceramics firsthand, bridging the gap between art and functionality. Engage with artisans' insights as you select unique pieces that reflect both tradition and contemporary sensibilities. This tour offers a deep dive into a living craft, revealing the artistry that shapes daily life in Tajimi. - Discover the history and evolution of Mino ware ceramics - Visit Gallery Voice for contemporary ceramic exhibitions - Explore Oribe Street and engage with local pottery shops - Touch and appreciate the craftsmanship of functional art pieces

This is not just a museum tour—it’s a guided experience designed to help you discover your own connection to Kutani ware. Rather than simply viewing beautiful ceramics, you’ll learn how to recognize different styles, techniques, and artistic expressions, making each piece more meaningful as you explore. As you move through the museums, you’ll compare colors, textures, and forms, gradually developing your own preferences. By the time you reach Kutani Ceramic Village, you won’t just be browsing—you’ll be choosing with intention. Your guide will support you in finding a piece that reflects your taste, whether it’s a functional item or a work of art. This experience turns appreciation into personal selection, allowing you to take home not just a souvenir, but a piece of Kutani ware that truly resonates with you.

Tour Attractions: Echizen Washi boasts 1,500 years of history and unparalleled quality. This experience combines traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity, offering a comprehensive programme of activities that will allow you to delve into the history, techniques, and culture of Echizen Washi in just a few hours. You will have the opportunity to make washi paper by hand and craft your own washi uchiwa (Japanese paper fans). The finished paper and fans will be yours to take home as unique and memorable keepsakes. This three-hour experience encapsulates all the charm and tradition of Echizen Washi Paper. Outline of the Echizen Washi Experience Tour: This immersive three-hour tour lets you explore the rich history and exceptional craftsmanship of washi paper. Set in Echizen, a region with 1,500 years of washi-making heritage, you’ll experience the living traditions of this remarkable craft by creating handmade washi in one of Japan’s most renowned production areas.

This tour shows Hida Furukawa from a perspective many visitors miss: the craftsmanship behind its beautiful townscape. Instead of simply walking through scenic streets, you will learn how white-walled storehouses, canals, temples, wooden details, and old townhouses were shaped by daily life, preservation, and the skills of Hida’s master builders. The visit to the Hida Craftsman Culture Museum gives you the background to understand traditional woodwork, joinery, tools, and the “cloud” decorations still seen in the town. After that, your guide helps you find these details in the real streets and temple buildings of Hida Furukawa. This is a compact private tour for travelers who enjoy architecture, craft, quiet historic towns, and local culture beyond ordinary sightseeing.

Unlike standard sightseeing tours that simply introduce famous spots, this experience explores the hidden meanings, design philosophy, and changing scenery of Kenrokuen Garden with a local guide. Guests will discover how ponds, bridges, islands, stones, and open spaces were carefully arranged to express traditional Japanese aesthetics and ideas of beauty. The tour follows the garden’s classic viewing route while introducing iconic locations such as Kotoji Lantern, Kasumigaike Pond, Karasaki Pine, and Ganko Bridge. Along the way, your guide will explain how Kenrokuen was designed to reveal different scenery step by step, creating a garden meant to be experienced through movement rather than viewed from a single point. Guests are also encouraged to reflect on which location they personally found most beautiful, making the experience more interactive and thoughtful than a typical guided walk. The extended option additionally includes a relaxing tea break inside the garden.

Seto, a pivotal town in Japan’s ceramic history, invites you to discover its rich tradition of pottery. Begin your adventure at the Seto-gura complex, home to the Seto-gura Museum, where the evolution of Seto ware is unveiled from the Heian period to contemporary designs. Learn about the unique characteristics of Seto ceramics, including their practical applications and innovative glazing techniques. The tour also includes a visit to a local ceramics shop, offering insights into modern usage and design. Experience the blend of tradition and modernity in this vibrant craft town. - Discover the history and evolution of Seto ceramics at the Seto-gura Museum - Explore practical wares that shaped Japanese dining culture - Visit a local ceramics shop for insights on modern designs - Learn about versatile glazing techniques that define Seto ware

Unlike standard onsen or museum tours, this experience explores how festivals, hot springs, and local communities are connected in the Noto Peninsula. As you walk through Wakura Onsen with a local guide, you will learn how the region developed through maritime trade, fishing culture, and community traditions shaped by life along the Sea of Japan. At the Wakura Onsen Festival Hall, discover the meaning behind Noto’s famous festivals beyond their colorful floats and performances. Learn how festivals developed as religious and community traditions connected to safety at sea, successful harvests, and relationships between local communities. The tour also explores modern challenges such as depopulation and earthquake recovery, as well as local efforts to preserve festival culture through community participation and volunteer support. By combining local history, everyday life, & living festival traditions, this tour offers a deeper understanding of Noto culture beyond ordinary sightseeing.

Experience the profound spirituality and craftsmanship of Echizen Washi on a guided tour through its historic village. First, enjoy a hands-on paper-making experience under the guidance of skilled artisans. Next, visit a workshop specializing in large-format washi, highly sought after by artists. Finally, explore Otaki Shrine, renowned for its intricately crafted roof, considered one of the finest in Japan. Stroll along the riverside in this peaceful village and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Echizen Washi, which has been passed down for over 1,500 years.

Travel between Tokyo and Lake Kawaguchi by pre-booked bus, offering a simple and reliable way to reach the Mt. Fuji area. This transfer option removes the complexity of navigating multiple trains while allowing flexibility with one-way or round-trip tickets. Designed for independent travelers, it provides a straightforward connection so you can focus on exploring Lake Kawaguchi at your own pace.