Top Chubu Culture - page 12

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 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.

Kanazawa has long been known as the city of traditional crafts to the Japanese people. During the samurai era, the local art scene experienced tremendous growth, as many artists from all over the nation moved and settled here to continue to pursue their arts. This continues to this day, as you can see the city’s strong artistic roots in spots like its timeless historic districts, elegantly curated contemporary museums, and small, off-the-beaten-path spots around every corner. In this tour, our guide will show you the city via its art and famous crafts, while sharing fascinating stories and local insights that will help you not only see, but feel Kanazawa. It is perfect for art lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to explore the city more deeply and at their own pace. You will discover how the city’s creative spirit connects its part, present, and future.

This tour connects Nanao’s rare bridal curtain tradition with the food culture of Noto’s historic port town. Instead of only visiting a museum or eating at a market, you will discover how marriage customs, merchant families, local festivals, sea trade, and seafood culture shaped the identity of Nanao. With a local guide, the town becomes easier to understand: the beautiful Hanayome Noren curtains, the old merchant street, and the lively food market all become part of one story. The tour ends with a food credit, so you can enjoy seafood or regional dishes at Noto Shokusai Market.

Experience Shizuoka at its best by seeing the Kakegawa castle, making traditional Japanese sake, and riding the local train with its elegant countryside views. You can visit Kakegawa Castle, with its beautiful appearance, considered one of the best castles in the Tokai region and ride the Tenryu Hamanako Railroad to enjoy the Japanese countryside and nostalgic stations. Also, you can enjoy Japanese sake tasting and the experience of making your own original sake. Free gift of hand towel and tea (As the free gift is limited, it will end as soon as it is out of stock.)

Make the most of a full day in Kanazawa with this private guided tour, tailored to your interests and preferred travel style—by taxi, on foot, or by e-bike. Explore the city’s landmarks, historic neighborhoods, and hidden spots with the insight of a knowledgeable local guide. Your itinerary is fully flexible—stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, admire Kanazawa Castle, wander the Higashi Chaya District, and enjoy lunch at Omicho Market. In the afternoon, visit the Nagamachi Samurai District and choose optional museums or craft workshops with hands-on activities. Whether your interests are art, history, food, or culture, this full-day private tour gives you time to experience Kanazawa in depth, at your own pace.

Discover the cultural beauty of Japan on this immersive Kanazawa day tour with a private car and English-speaking guide. Begin your journey from Kanazawa in a private vehicle and head to the breathtaking Natadera Temple, a sacred site founded in the 700s and famous for its peaceful gardens, dramatic rock formations, and serene atmosphere.Continue to Yunokuni-no-Mori Craft Village, where you can experience traditional Japanese arts and crafts firsthand. Try the elegant Kaga Yuzen dyeing technique and choose from a variety of additional hands-on cultural activities throughout the village. This private cultural tour offers a perfect blend of history, art, entertainment, and local traditions, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Japan. Book now and discover the timeless charm of Kanazawa through unforgettable cultural experiences, beautiful scenery, and exclusive local traditions you won’t find anywhere else.

Discover the cultural beauty of Japan on this immersive Kanazawa day tour with a private car and English-speaking guide. Begin your journey from Kanazawa in a private vehicle and head to the breathtaking Natadera Temple, a sacred site founded in the 700s and famous for its peaceful gardens, dramatic rock formations, and serene atmosphere. Continue to Yunokuni-no-Mori Craft Village, where you can experience traditional Japanese arts and crafts firsthand. Try the elegant Kaga Yuzen dyeing technique and choose from a variety of additional hands-on cultural activities throughout the village. This private cultural tour offers a perfect blend of history, art, entertainment, and local traditions, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Japan. Book now and discover the timeless charm of Kanazawa through unforgettable cultural experiences, beautiful scenery, and exclusive local traditions you won’t find anywhere else.

This experience is designed for travelers who want clarity, flexibility, and genuine local expertise—not a rushed. You can choose between a half-day or full-day option, depending on your travel style and schedule. ️ Half-Day Tour: Shirakawa-go Only: The half-day tour focuses exclusively on Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village. You’ll travel by bus and explore the village with a local guide, learning how families lived in the iconic gassho-zukuri houses and why this unique culture developed in a remote mountain region. Full-Day Tour: Shirakawa-go + Kanazawa The full-day tour adds a cultural deep dive into Kanazawa after returning from Shirakawa-go. You’ll explore the city’s history, local life, and traditions, turning a single destination visit into a well-balanced regional journey. Why Book This Experience? Local guides with proven experience — our guides have guided over 1,000 guests, and they can offer clear, easy-to-follow explanations, not scripted lectures.

Enjoy the beautiful scenery in Hamamatsu Castle, Kanzan Temple Onsen area, and Lake Hamana. Experience moving experience by flower in Hamamatsu flower park. ・Visit Hamamatsu castle, Kanzan Temple Onsen area, Flower Park, Orgel Museum with one day bus ticket and admission to the park and museum at a discount! ・Enjoy a lot of flower and technology at flower park. ・Ride the ropeway and cross over the lake. ・Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the sounds of ancient musical instruments. ・The theme of the Lake Hamana Flower Festa 2026 is "Flowers and Hot Springs." ・Enjoy a meal and a bath in addition to cherry blossom viewing ・Free gift of hand towel and tea (As the free gift is limited, it will end as soon as it is out of stock.)

In Tokamachi, textiles have long been central to community life, especially during the harsh winters when they were woven into the very fabric of social customs. In the past, young men would look at the quality of a woman’s fabric before even looking at her face when searching for a wife. Today, Tokamachi’s textile craftsmanship reflects the region’s resilience and creativity, showcasing a rich tradition of adapting to its environment. This tour offers you a chance to experience this magical culture firsthand. You’ll learn about the history of Tokamachi and see the artists at work. Your day begins at 10:00 AM when you meet your guide at Tokamachi Station. From there, you will dive into the captivating history and cherished traditions of the area. Enjoy an unforgettable lunch experience, savoring local flavors, and take a tour of a kimono factory, where you’ll engage in a unique activity. The tour concludes at 5:00 PM back at Tokamachi Station.

During this tour, we’ll expertly guide you through the rich tapestry of local traditions, allowing you to experience these techniques firsthand. From hands-on demonstrations to immersive experiences, you’ll gain insight into the intricate crafts of the area. And, of course, no journey through Tokamachi would be complete without savoring some of the most delectable local cuisine, adding a flavorful dimension to your cultural exploration.

Explore the history and gardens of Erinji Temple, then enjoy wine tasting and stunning views at Budo no Oka in this Yamanashi tour.

Enjoy a seamless, fully customizable journey to Shirakawa-go, with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Kanazawa. Travel in comfort with a private vehicle and guide, exploring the village at your own pace. Visit the famous gassho-zukuri farmhouses, stroll through Ogimachi Village, and take in panoramic views from scenic viewpoints. Whether you want to visit a traditional farmhouse, enjoy local cuisine, or focus on photography, your itinerary is tailored to your interests. Experience the beauty of Shirakawa-go stress-free, in any season, with a tour designed just for you. *Weather & Road Conditions Policy: Tour may be cancelled due to heavy snow or highway closures for safety reasons.

A one-day tour starting from Kanazawa Station (or from your hotel if it is near the station or central area of the city), followed by the gold leaf experience, a visit to Omicho Market, a quick stop at Oyama Shrine and then a make-your-own-sushi roll for lunch. In the afternoon you will have a choice between three different routes: main sights, samurai/ninjas or the arts. When you meet up with the guide in the morning you can let them know what you want to do! See below for more details on each choice.

The Echizen region of Fukui Prefecture has been designated as one of the "Six Ancient Kilns of Japan," and is well known for Echizen lacquerware, pottery, and cutlery. Come and try to make your own sake cup with the guidance of a craftsperson. Afterwards, go onto taste the region's traditional dishes at a soba restaurant and modern bar, try sake at a local sake brewery, and visit a chest-making workshop.

Let's share knowledge such as the history of Japanese architecture, the construction of Japanese houses, and how to use carpentry tools with 58 years of carpentry experience. ・We will respond individually to a small number of people. ( Basically, we recruit 2 people, but if there are more than 3 people in the same group, consultation is required) ・You can learn the construction of wooden Japanese houses. ・You can learn how to use carpentry tools. ・If you participate in this activity, you will be the next precious successor of Japanese carpenters!

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.

Experience the best of Mount Fuji and Hakone on a customizable private tour tailored to your preferences. Choose from famous attractions such as Lake Ashi, the Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Shrine, and Gotemba Premium Outlets. With flexible scheduling, comfortable transportation, and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, this tour lets you explore Japan’s most scenic destinations at your own pace.

Kawada is a town of Echizen lacquerware with a history of 1500 years. It is said that Echizen lacquerware began when lacquer painting was encouraged after Keitai Tenno successfully repaired his broken crown with lacquer coating. On this tour, we will visit two lacquer workshops in the Kawada area. Kinkori Lacquerware Shop is a lacquer workshop with a history of over 100 years. Kinkori Lacquerware Store is a lacquerware workshop run by brothers in Kawada, the town of Echizen lacquerware. In this experience, you will receive direct instruction from your brother, Masataka Kinkori, a craftsman at Kinkori Lacquerware Store, and you will be able to try your hand at lacquering a bowl. Next, we will visit Iwano Heizaburo Paper Mill, a Japanese paper-making workshop in the Imadate area. Lastly, there was a calligraphy experience with calligrapher Kason Nishiyama at an old folk house next to the workshop.

Experience our Half Day Private Tour with Photoshoot by photographer in Kanazawa! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of Japan as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Kanazawa. Experience the beauty of Kanazawa through this unique guided tour and photoshoot package. Explore iconic landmarks such as Higashichaya Old Town, Kenrokuen Garden, and Kanazawa Castle while a professional photographer captures stunning images of your journey. We'll greet you directly at the city center or hotels and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day. Leave the details to us as we escort you on an extraordinary adventure, crafting memories that will stand the test of time!

Echizen washi paper, which boasts a history of over 1500 years, is a traditional craft that Fukui is proud of, and is used for labels of sake and whiskey due to its beauty and strength. After learning about sake brewing at one of Fukui's leading sake breweries, Symphony Yoshida Sake Brewery, where you can experience the Eiheiji terroir, the source of sake brewing that makes use of Fukui's climate, you can experience making a washi label for sake using sake lees and rice husks at Igarashi Seishi, a long-established Echizen washi paper workshop famous for its food paper, which has been in business for over 100 years. Create a one-of-a-kind sake bottle with your own original washi label and experience the charm of sake even more deeply. Why not enjoy a special experience that can only be had here, where you can experience Fukui's culture and artisanal skills?

Limited-time tour on September 1st and 2nd only Experience Owara Kaze no Bon, one of Japan’s most elegant traditional festivals. Held in the historic streets of Yatsuo, Toyama, this 300-year-old celebration features thousands of dancers in woven hats moving gracefully to the haunting sounds of kokyū, shamisen, and Etchū Owara folk songs. Enjoy a private tour with an English-speaking guide and private vehicle from Kanazawa. Discover the nostalgic charm of Yatsuo’s historic streets, where local neighborhoods showcase their unique dances and traditions. The tour also includes a visit to Nousaku, a renowned maker preserving Takaoka’s 400-year-old metal casting heritage. Enjoy a factory tour and a hands-on 30-minute chopstick rest-making workshop. Highlights: ・Experience the 300-year-old Owara Kaze no Bon Festival ・Private vehicle and English-speaking guide included ・Explore historic Yatsuo with traditional evening dances ・Visit Nousaku and join a metal craft workshop

Step away from the crowds and discover a quieter, more soulful side of Japan. This journey takes us into Kanazawa’s countryside, where nature, craftsmanship, and spirituality shape everyday life. We begin at the Hanibe Caves, a former stone-cutting site turned into a fascinating and eerie space filled with statues and carvings created as prayers for world peace. Next is Natadera Temple, dramatically set among cliffs and forest, where striking rock formations blend seamlessly with spiritual architecture—one of Japan’s most memorable temple experiences. At Hiyo Moss Garden, we slow down and let the soothing green landscape calm the mind, embracing the Japanese belief in nature’s healing power. We end in Yamanaka Onsen, a charming hot spring town with over 1,300 years of history, known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic beauty, soothing waters, and refined lacquerware that celebrates the natural grain of wood. A day of hidden places, quiet beauty, and lasting impressions.