Top Chubu Culture - page 13

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

1.Dance and shamisen The geisha will transport you to an extraordinary world with their graceful dance and the heart-melting sounds of the shamisen. 2.Kaiseki cuisine and local sake We offer beautiful kaiseki cuisine and local sake, made with an abundance of local seafood and mountain produce. 3.Metal carving experience. Enjoy a stylish and playful evening with the Geisha while enjoying the light-hearted exchanges.

Just a 40-minute ride on a charmingly local train from Shinkansen Kakegawa Station takes you to a hidden gem — a wonderland of Japanese culture that remains undiscovered by many. Moreover there will be no long line to wait. Explore traditional shrines, try your hand at kyudo (Japanese archery) or calligraphy, savor authentic Japanese cuisine and ramen, and admire stunning Japanese pottery. With an English-speaking guide, you can enjoy a relaxed tour filled with cultural experiences and unforgettable memories.

The remote Noto Peninsula stretches roughly 100 kilometers into the Sea of Japan. Its secluded location and timeless charm offer the perfect escape from Kanazawa and Japan’s bustling cities. Along its rugged coastlines, you’ll find fishing villages, agricultural landscapes, and living traditions in craftsmanship that have endured for centuries. Winding coastal roads will lead us past dramatic cliffs and quiet beaches with scenic stops along the way. In early 2024, a major earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula, leaving a lasting impact on its communities, landscapes, and cultural heritage. While recovery efforts are ongoing, visible signs of damage remain throughout the region and may evoke strong emotional responses. This meaningful road trip invites you to explore Noto’s breathtaking landscapes and enduring traditions while directly supporting the people and places working hard to rebuild.

Embark on an exclusive full-day journey by private air-conditioned car to discover two of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Begin with a visit to the picturesque village of Shirakawago, a World Heritage Site known for its iconic gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs, creating a timeless and fairy-tale atmosphere. Enjoy free time to wander through the village at your own pace and take in the beauty of the surroundings, with the option to enjoy a traditional local lunch.Continue your journey to Kanazawa, starting with the serene Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, where crystal-clear ponds, elegant stone bridges, and centuries-old trees create a perfect balance between nature and traditional Japanese aesthetics. The experience concludes in the historic Higashi Chaya District, where cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved teahouses evoke the refined world of geishas, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Book It Now

This tour takes you into Gokayama, a quieter World Heritage region where traditional gassho-style houses remain part of daily life. Walking through Ainokura Village and viewing Suganuma from a different perspective, you will experience a landscape shaped by nature and long-standing traditions. A visit to a historical exile hut adds a deeper cultural layer, offering insight into a lesser-known aspect of Japan’s past in this remote setting. The experience is completed with a local meal at a farm restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional dishes passed down through generations, prepared with ingredients from the surrounding area. Designed for cruise passengers arriving at Fushiki Port, this tour combines efficient travel with meaningful cultural experiences.

This private car tour from Tsuruga Port is designed especially for cruise travelers who want to experience the very best of Fukui in one seamless journey.The itinerary combines three of Fukui’s most celebrated highlights: the world-class Dinosaur Museum, where the mysteries of ancient life come alive; the serene Eiheiji Temple, a living center of Zen practice for nearly 800 years; and Echizen Washi Village, where traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive after more than a millennium. Each site reveals a different facet of Fukui—its scientific significance, its spiritual depth, and its artisanal creativity.This tour is perfect for travelers who value both comfort and authenticity, offering an in-depth look at the culture, history, and beauty of Fukui Prefecture. It is more than sightseeing—it is an immersive experience that connects you with Japan’s heritage in a truly memorable way.

Embark on an exclusive full-day journey by private air-conditioned car to discover two of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Begin with a visit to the picturesque village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its iconic gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs, creating a timeless and fairy-tale atmosphere. Enjoy free time to wander through the village at your own pace and take in the beauty of the surroundings, with the option to enjoy a traditional local lunch. Continue your journey to Kanazawa, starting with the serene Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, where crystal-clear ponds, elegant stone bridges, and centuries-old trees create a perfect balance between nature and traditional Japanese aesthetics. The experience concludes in the historic Higashi Chaya District, where cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved teahouses evoke the refined world of geishas, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Embark on an adventure into Japan’s historical core with a private tour of Takayama and Shirakawa-go. These destinations provide a tranquil retreat into the nation’s heritage settings, a world apart from the bustling city life. Explore the vibrant streets and intimate passageways of Takayama, lined by the pristine waters and historic timber-framed houses that reveal the enduring allure of Japanese craftsmanship. Then stroll through Shirakawa-go; a picturesque village famed for its gassho-zukuri (thatched-roof houses) and a living museum of Japan’s rural traditions. This one day tour lead by an English-speaking guide from Nagoya gives you a comprehensive glimpse into the cultural traditions and architectural wonders of Takayama and Shirakawa-go.

Unleash your inner explorer on Tsuruga with a personalized journey, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and serene hidden spots. Our custom tours provide a bespoke experience, tailored to your desires, ideal for adventure seekers, families with children, and culture enthusiasts alike. Discover local secrets, savor authentic moments, and create unforgettable memories on Tsuruga. Enjoy immersive cultural experiences, gain insider knowledge, and have memorable encounters with local traditions, ensuring a truly unique and enriching adventure.

Discover the essence of Washoku on an exclusive culinary journey in the historic port town of Tsuruga on the Sea of Japan. Visit Okui Kaiseido, a renowned kombu specialist with over 140 years of tradition. Guided by expert staff and an interpreter, explore the rarely opened Kuragakoi kombu aging warehouse through a special deep-dive route unavailable on standard tours. Learn how kombu transported from Hokkaido by historic Kitamae-bune ships matures in Tsuruga’s cool climate, developing deep umami through time and craftsmanship. Enjoy a live demonstration of “Oboro Kombu Suki” by a master craftsman, followed by a tasting that compares kombu of different aging vintages. The experience concludes with a luxurious sushi lunch made with the freshest local seafood. Travel in comfort with private executive transfers in a premium Grand Ace vehicle—an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and cuisine for discerning travelers.

This day tour from Toyama highlights the charm and diversity of Kamiichi Town, blending history, nature, cuisine, and culture into a seamless journey. You will explore the sacred grounds of Oiwa Niseki-ji, savor freshly made regional noodles, and stroll through the refreshing landscape of Sengan-kei Gorge. A relaxing café break offers unique local flavors, followed by a visit to the picturesque house that inspired the film Wolf Children. The tour concludes at Sasaraya, where you can enjoy a hands-on senbei-making experience and shop for local specialties. With comfortable private transportation, this itinerary provides an enriching and enjoyable way to discover the hidden gems of Toyama’s countryside.

Experience the Living History of Seto Step into a world of timeless craftsmanship at a kiln that has served the Owari Tokugawa family for centuries. Under the personal guidance of the 31st-generation head, you will discover the secrets of "Ofukai-ware" while engraving your own original patterns into the clay. This is more than a workshop; it is a rare opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that captures your unique travel story. Your finished work will be mailed to your home, serving as a lasting memory of your connection to the soul of Japanese heritage.

This 4hr private customized walking tour includes a 2hr Geisha (Geigi) performance and Tea time experience! Explore the beautiful town of Kanazawa with your English-speaking guide, who will efficiently show you the city, such as Kenrokuen Garden—one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens—Higashi Chaya District, a teahouse area from the Edo period. After the walk, enjoy a rare Geisha experience—typically not open to first-time visitors—in a private setting at a historic machiya. Watch elegant traditional dance and join in ozashiki games. Then have a relax moment tasting Matcha tea with a traditional beatiful sweet. Choose 2-3 spots from the list in the tour information to create your itinerary and inform your guide post booking. Note*1:Children age 6 and under are free. Dinner not included, but you may bring food. Note*2:Minimum charge is for two adults, so if your group has one adult and one child, please count the child as an adult.

This 4hr private customized walking tour includes a 2hr Geisha (Geigi) performance and dinner experience! Explore the beautiful town of Kanazawa with your English-speaking guide, who will efficiently show you the city, such as Kenrokuen Garden—one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens—Higashi Chaya District, a teahouse area from the Edo period. After the walk, enjoy a rare Geisha experience—typically not open to first-time visitors—in a private setting at a historic machiya. Watch elegant traditional dance and join in ozashiki games. Then savor a beautifully prepared Shokado bento dinner from a long-established ryotei (traditional Japanese fine dining restaurant). Choose 2-3 spots from the list in the tour information to create your itinerary and inform your guide post booking. Note*1:Children age 6 and under are free. Dinner not included, but you may bring food. Note*2:Minimum charge is for two adults, so if your group has one adult and one child, please count the child as an adult.

Embark on an exclusive full-day journey by private air-conditioned car to discover two of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Begin with a visit to the picturesque village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its iconic gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs, creating a timeless and fairy-tale atmosphere. Enjoy free time to wander through the village at your own pace and take in the beauty of the surroundings, with the option to enjoy a traditional local lunch.Continue your journey to Kanazawa, starting with the serene Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, where crystal-clear ponds, elegant stone bridges, and centuries-old trees create a perfect balance between nature and traditional Japanese aesthetics.The experience concludes in the historic Higashi Chaya District, where cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved teahouses evoke the refined world of geishas, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

This is a program which introduces a deep understanding of "Japan" through "rice" in Kashiwazaki, Niigata Prefecture. Participants will stay in an old minka (traditional Japanese house) with a kayabuki roof (shingled roof), watch cooking rice in a kamado (a traditional Japanese cooking pot), with a master of rice, and experience seasonal agricultural activities. Visitors can also enjoy some "experiences related with rice" such as Futomaki Sushi making experience with a local chef, and a visit to an award-winning sake brewery. This tour also includes visit in a beautiful historical residence of major landowner of this area, where the emperor Showa stayed during his visit to Niigata prefecture. On the second day, you will enjoy a full-course rice dinner that is specially created for this tour. The program offers real country life and warm interaction with locals that will make an unforgettable experience.

Experience the best of Izu with stunning panoramic views from AO Terrace and a relaxing stay in the historic Shuzenji Onsen. This immersive journey also takes you deep into local traditions with a visit to Izu Wasabi Visitor Center and a hands-on tofu making experience.

This tour takes you through the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Takayama, where you can experience Japan's traditional landscapes and cultural heritage. Ideal for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Japan’s countryside, the tour offers a glimpse into the country's past. You’ll explore the iconic thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through Takayama’s beautifully preserved Edo-period streets. This journey is perfect for those who appreciate historical architecture, stunning natural scenery, and a deeper connection to Japan's original way of life.

This tour is all about taking your time to explore and experience Japanese culture at a relaxed pace, away from crowded tourist hotspots. You’ll enjoy unique cultural experiences with an English-speaking local guide by your side, you can immerse yourself in the journey worry-free and truly enjoy every moment. You can enjoy a real castle and a town of gods that has passed down its traditions for over 1,000 years, where you can witness its rare festival. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to stay in a magnificent Japanese-style resort that feels like living in a grand castle. This is not just another sightseeing trip; it’s a unique experience. You'll walk through a town, where the festival comes to life as locals, who cherish their town and traditions, participate with great love and devotion. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in cultural activities like kyudo (Japanese archery) or calligraphy, making it a truly enriching and unforgettable two-day journey.

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.

Explore the enchanting snow-rich regions of Japan, where snow influences not just winter scenery, but also food, culture, and tradition year-round. This immersive journey reveals how melting snow creates pristine water sources essential for high-quality agriculture and fermentation practices. Discover the depth of local cuisine, from refined sake to traditional dishes, and experience unique crafts shaped by this snowy landscape. Witness how spiritual beliefs and everyday life harmonize with the natural environment, showcasing the profound connections between snow and Japanese culture throughout the seasons.

The “Etchu Yatsuo Owara Kaze no Bon” is a folk song event with over 300 years of history, held annually in Etchu Yatsuo from September 1st to 3rd. Its refined dances, songs, and musical performances attract many visitors each year. On this special tour, you can experience the locally rooted Owara dance from an unusually close distance in a private tatami room. Plus, let's actually dance with the locals!"

Explore the essence of Japanese culture through an immersive journey that intertwines history, food, fermentation, and nature. Wander through a breathtaking landscape shaped by mountains and forests, discovering how traditional practices in agriculture and craftsmanship developed over time. Engage in hands-on experiences at historical sites and craft workshops, while indulging in local culinary delights, including rice cultivation and sake brewing. This exploration reveals the deep connections between community, spirituality, and the environment, offering a rich understanding of Japan’s cultural evolution.