Top Japan Art & Culture - page 281

This tour is designed for travelers who arrive at Hososhima Port (Hyuga) by cruise ship and want to explore Takachiho, one of Japan's most sacred and scenic destinations. We pick you up at the port or a nearby hotel with a private vehicle and a government-licensed multilingual guide - a comfortable, efficient way to reach this beautiful inland region. Enjoy a 6-hour private tour of the spectacular Takachiho Gorge, a V-shaped ravine of towering basalt cliffs and emerald waters formed by ancient lava from Mt. Aso. Walk the gorge path, admire the 17-meter Manai Falls, and (seasonally) glide beneath the cliffs in a rowboat. Takachiho is also the cradle of Japanese mythology. Visit Takachiho Shrine among ancient cedars and Amano Iwato Shrine, linked to the sun goddess Amaterasu, plus Kunimigaoka, famous for its early-morning seas of clouds. Choose 3-4 sites from the itinerary and your guide will tailor the day to your interests.

Step back into Japan's golden age in Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage town in Iwate, on a relaxed private tour with your own government-licensed guide and private vehicle. Once the capital of the Oshu Fujiwara clan and a center of Pure Land Buddhism, Hiraizumi is crowned by Chuson-ji and its gold-leafed Konjikido, and by the serene garden of Motsu-ji. Beyond the famous temples, your guide leads you to the cliffside hall of Takkoku no Iwaya, the dramatic boat-ride gorge of Geibikei, the sculpted rapids of Genbikei, and the hilltop hall honoring the hero Yoshitsune. With a private vehicle you link these scattered sites with ease. Once your reservation is made, your guide will contact you to plan a personalized itinerary. Choose 3 to 4 spots from 'Tour Details' to visit. Not sure where to go? Ask your guide for recommendations. We look forward to showing you Hiraizumi! * Maximum 7 participants per tour. * If your group includes children, please let us know their number and ages.

Step into the heart of Niigata on this private, fully guided day tour led by a government-licensed guide, with your own private vehicle and driver. Niigata grew rich as one of Japan's first international ports and as the gateway to the country's finest rice and sake, and this tour brings that story to life. Begin at Hakusan Shrine, the city's spiritual heart, then explore the grand Northern Culture Museum, former estate of Niigata's wealthiest landowning family. Wander the lively Pia Bandai market and the historic geisha quarter of Furumachi, and step inside the Imayo Tsukasa sake brewery to taste crisp local brews born of pure water and premium rice. Take in sweeping views from the Befco Bakauke Observatory atop Toki Messe, admire the Meiji-era Former Niigata Customs Office on the Shinano River, and browse the Honcho market. With hotel pickup, a flexible customizable route and an expert guide, you'll discover the best of Niigata in comfort and at your own pace.

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover Matsuyama's highlights efficiently in a private vehicle with a government-licensed multilingual guide! Discover the warm charm of Matsuyama, the largest city on Shikoku island. Ride the ropeway up to Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan's twelve original surviving castles, with sweeping views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. Soak in the timeless atmosphere of Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, whose wooden bathhouse is said to have inspired Spirited Away. With a private vehicle, explore at your own pace. Visit historic Ishite-ji Temple on the Shikoku pilgrimage, see the beloved retro Botchan Train, stroll the lively Okaido arcade, and admire the vermilion Isaniwa Shrine and the European-style Bansuiso villa. With a fully customizable itinerary and a knowledgeable local guide, this private tour is a relaxed, enriching way to experience the best of Matsuyama at your own pace.

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover Nagoya's highlights efficiently in a private vehicle accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced multilingual guide! Nagoya, the heart of Japan's Chubu region, blends proud samurai heritage with cutting-edge industry and modern city life. Begin at the magnificent Nagoya Castle, then visit the sacred Atsuta Jingu shrine. Wander the lively Osu district, stroll the elegant Edo-period Tokugawa Garden, and admire the futuristic Oasis 21 and Mirai Tower in Sakae. Discover the birthplace of Toyota at the fascinating Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, and step back in time in the preserved streets of Arimatsu, home to centuries-old shibori tie-dyeing. With a private vehicle and your personal guide, you can tailor the day to your interests and travel in comfort. Whether you love history, culture, craftsmanship or modern architecture, this flexible private tour offers the very best of Nagoya at your own pace.

Discover Morioka, the gracious castle town of Iwate, on a relaxed private day tour with your own government-licensed English-speaking guide and a private vehicle. Travelling at your own pace, you skip crowded buses and timetables and focus on what you most want to see. Walk among the moss-covered stone walls of Morioka Castle Ruins, admire the elegant Meiji-era Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building, and meet the famous Ishiwarizakura, a cherry tree growing from a giant boulder. Visit the serene Hoonji Temple with its five hundred rakan statues, the grand Morioka Hachimangu Shrine, and the nostalgic Zaimokucho street linked to poet Kenji Miyazawa. Out of town, breathe in the wide pastures of historic Koiwai Farm beneath Mount Iwate. With a private guide and vehicle, the itinerary is flexible and customisable. Your guide shares the history, culture and local food of Iwate, from wanko soba to Morioka reimen, for an easy and memorable day in Morioka.

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover the highlights of Shimonoseki efficiently, in a private vehicle accompanied by a government-licensed, English-speaking guide! Shimonoseki sits at the western tip of Honshu, where the Kanmon Strait separates it from Kyushu. Sample the city's famous fugu (pufferfish) at the lively Karato Market, take in the soaring Kanmon Bridge, and visit Akama Shrine, steeped in the legends of the Heike clan. Wander the historic castle town of Chofu and Kozanji Temple, enjoy sweeping strait views from Hinoyama Observatory and the Kaikyo Yume Tower, and drive out to the brilliant turquoise waters beneath Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge. We welcome you to come and explore the unique history, scenery and flavors of Shimonoseki with us! Note*1: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government and requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover the highlights of Sapporo efficiently, in a private vehicle accompanied by a government-licensed, English-speaking guide! Sapporo, the vibrant capital of Hokkaido, blends elegant cityscapes with northern nature. Stroll the green expanse of Odori Park, see the historic Clock Tower and the handsome red-brick Former Hokkaido Government Office, and enjoy city views from the Sapporo TV Tower. Pay your respects at Hokkaido Jingu, ride up Mt. Moiwa for a sweeping panorama of city and mountains, and sample fresh seafood at the lively Nijo Market. We can also visit the romantic canal town of Otaru, famed for its gas-lit waterway and glassware. We welcome you to come and explore the unique scenery, history and flavors of Sapporo with us! Note*1: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government and requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Please note that this tour does not use a private vehicle and uses public transport. This tour involves several hours of walking in the outdoors Located in Kanagawa prefecture famed for places like Hakone, Kamakura and Enoshima, Yokohama is a city rich in history and urban flare. What was as a small fishing village for centuries, expanded and become a key city shaped by trade and innovation during the mid-19th Century. The city now has the perfect blend of modern and traditional elements with its open waterfronts, historical architecture and urbanised development offering visitors a fun and cosmopolitan atmosphere. During the tour you will visit Japan's largest Chinatown, various historical sites in Yokohama, and the Cup noodles Museum where you will create your own unique Cup noodles. You will also ride the Yokohoma Air Cabin.

Join us for an unforgettable day-trip from Nagoya combining nature, culture, and history—offering a unique glimpse into the heart of rural Japan. Explore hidden gem locations throughout the Kiso Valley starting with a hike through a stunning gorge filled with pristine nature and roaring waterfalls. Dive into Japan’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to a traditional Kabuki theater and discover the region’s deep love for this centuries-old performing art. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Magome, a charming post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail as your English-speaking guide explains the fascinating history of this ancient samurai route that once connected Kyoto and Edo. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this tour offers something special for everyone. *As lunch options are limited, please purchase a bento box or other food items before the tour starts, and bring them with you. Time will be allotted to eat while on the trail.

Fukuyama, known as the City of Roses, is a beautiful and historic city located in the eastern part of Hiroshima Prefecture. Originally established as a castle town in 1619, it is now the second largest city in the prefecture, and the fourth largest in Western Honshu. By the end of the Second World War, about eighty percent of Fukuyama was burned down due to an air raid. Following this attack, the city underwent arduous recovery efforts, planting one thousand roses during the rebuilding process to boost the spirits of the people. Through the hard work of its dedicated citizens, Fukuyama was able to develop into the scenic and major city that it is today. This One Day Tour of Fukuyama is designed for those who wish to deepen their understanding of Western Japan’s history through both a castle, museum and historic townscape visit. It is also ideal for guests who are searching for some of Japan’s hidden gems, as Sensui jima is most definitely one of them.

Available all year but perhaps best enjoyed in spring or summer, this hiking tour will take you out of the hustle and bustle of the city and up to some of the nicest views to be seen in Sapporo. Led by an English-speaking guide, you will be accompanied up and back down two mountains - Mt. Maruyama & Mt. Okurayama.

Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Osaka on this immersive walking tour, where ancient shrines meet vibrant neighborhoods. Begin your adventure at Sumiyoshi Taisha, exploring one of Japan's oldest shrines with its iconic Drum Bridge. Transition to the retro charm of Shinsekai, a nostalgic area filled with food stalls and local delicacies like kushikatsu. Experience the unique spiritual sites, including the haunting Isshinji Temple and the quirky Senkoji Temple. Conclude your journey in Tsuruhashi and Korea Town, immersing yourself in the culinary delights of Japan’s largest Korean community. - Full-day walking tour from JR Osaka Station, starting at 9:25 AM - Visit iconic sites like Sumiyoshi Taisha and Shinsekai, covering 15,000 steps - Guided exploration of Osaka’s spiritual and multicultural heritage - Suitable for all ages, with breaks for lunch and personal exploration

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.

We leave Beppu city to Usa shrine by a comfortable private car. Private transportation is included. Our first spot Usa shrine is an important Shinto shrine as a top shrine of Hachiman shrine. It is also visited by Japanese imperial family directly with imperial offerings. You can enjoy walking in calm and Devine atmosphere in the huge precinct. At nearby restaurant, you can enjoy local meals as your lunch. Ooita prefecture is famous for fried chicken. I recommend some local fried chicken restaurant. Then we come back to Beppu city and visit two hot spring hells or Jigoku. You may enjoy foot bath of natural hot springs that can heal your tired legs comfortably. You can enjoy natural hot spring area which can be seen as red bloody pond and blueish sea like pond. Please take nice pictures in front of them.

・Can be refreshed ・Feel nature at the foot of Mt. Fuji (held indoors) ・Mt. Fuji has been loved by people since ancient times, is Japan's largest and most powerful mountain, and is also said to be a symbol of Japan. ・The event will be held in a comfortable wooden facility that has been relocated and restored from a Meiji-era elementary school. ・Breathing becomes easier ・ Makes your body feel better ・Relax your body and mind ・Enjoy a fun atmosphere ・You can experience traditional Japanese Bon dance ・Learn about ancient Japanese meditation methods ・Learn about ancient Japanese words ・You can participate alone, as a couple, with friends, or as a family (children over 12 years old). ・Particularly recommended for those who like meditation, yoga, and dance

Embark on a captivating private tour from Kyoto Station, where the breathtaking hydrangeas are the undisputed highlight. Wander through the thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, then immerse yourselves in the vibrant colors of Mimuroto-ji Temple and Fujimori Shrine, home to thousands of stunning hydrangea plants. You'll also explore the historic town of Uji and marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Byodo-in Temple. This customizable tour is perfect for garden lovers and culture enthusiasts, with options for comfortable chartered car travel or an authentic public transportation experience.

Have the kids occupied while the adults enjoy the beautiful nature, attractions and temples of Mt. Takao and finish off with a famous Takao Soba lunch. We offer not only an all inclusive guided tour in English for the adults but also a “treasure map” style game for children to enjoy with prizes that include Japanese coloring books, snacks, toys and candy . We will even teach them Japanese! We will see the Takao Museum, ride the cable car, visit the monkey and flower park, learn about the temples and on a clear day see Mt. Fuji at the summit. We know how it can be sometimes stressful traveling with children in a foreign country so we will arrange everything! We will take away the worry and make sure you enjoy one of the most beautiful places in Japan! Our guide has been teaching English in a Japanese Kindergarten for 20 years. He loves Mt. Takao and children. He especially wants children from other countries to learn about Japanese language, customs and culture.

English speaking guide will guide customers to the “Yame Central Tea Plantation” which represents the tea place Yame. Yame Central Tea Plantation spreads out on a gently sloping hill area. The view from the view spot, where the tea fields spread out , is as beautiful as if a green carpet covers. You can take a picture, or just keep looking at it and forget about time.(Please note that during the tea-picking season from April to May, parts of the plantation may be covered.) After the Yame Central Tea Plantation, stop at a tea shop for tea tasting and shopping.

Witness the enchanting beauty of Ninna-ji Temple at night during this exclusive, small-group tour. Experience the stunning illumination of vibrant green maple leaves, offering a unique perspective distinct from daytime views. As you stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site, a bilingual guide will share insights into the temple's rich history, architectural wonders, and the cultural significance of the Kondo (Golden Hall). Ideal for individual travelers and small groups, this immersive experience allows for deeper engagement with Japan's spiritual heritage, all while avoiding the daytime crowds. - Explore Kyoto's Ninna-ji Temple during an exclusive night opening. - Admire illuminated green maple leaves in a serene setting. - Learn about Japanese Buddhism and history from a bilingual guide. - Visit the National Treasure Kondo (Golden Hall) with expert commentary.

Discover Handa, a hidden gem in Aichi—just 30 minutes from Chubu Centrair Airport by car and 40 minutes from Nagoya by train or car. Known for its rich fermentation culture, Handa offers an authentic alternative to Japan’s crowded tourist spots. Your tour begins along the historic Handa Canal, lined with traditional black-walled storehouses reflecting the city’s history. Next, step inside a preserved traditional residence. Here, you’ll taste five types of vinegar and learn what makes each one unique. After the tasting, browse local miso, soy sauce, and other aged Japanese seasonings known for their rich UMAMI—ideal as gifts. To finish, enjoy a stroll through Handa’s streets, with stops such as a sake museum and local wagashi shops. This mix of flavor, history, and scenery makes Handa a memorable destination for food lovers. *This tour is operated in collaboration with Handa Tourist Association. *Please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Join a personalized photo tour in Osaka's lively Namba district, led by a world-traveled photographer who has cycled across 40+ countries. Capture both candid and artistic moments with pro Sony gear, and receive professionally edited images—plus a framed A4 print as a keepsake. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families wanting more than just snapshots.

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover the highlights of Fukuoka efficiently in a private vehicle, accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced multilingual guide. Fukuoka, the vibrant gateway to Kyushu, blends ancient temples and shrines with a lively modern city and famous food culture. Begin at Dazaifu Tenmangu, one of Japan's most important shrines, dedicated to the deity of learning, then marvel at the colossal bronze reclining Buddha of Nanzoin Temple. Visit Tochoji Temple, home to the great seated Fukuoka Buddha, and Kushida Shrine, heart of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival. Stroll the tranquil pond of Ohori Park, explore the stone walls of the Fukuoka Castle ruins, enjoy Canal City Hakata, and take in sweeping bay views from Fukuoka Tower. With a private licensed guide and comfortable vehicle, the itinerary is flexible and tailored to your interests, so you can relax and experience the best of Fukuoka at your own pace.

Experience a day in the life of a samurai, as this tour explores Nagano’s unique samurai past in historic town of Matsushiro, including visits to some of Japan’s best-preserved samurai residences and hands-on experiences cooking local specialty “oyaki” and katana practice at an Edo Period military school. All led by a locally-based guide, this engaging tour is available throughout the year and offers real insight through firsthand experience of Nagano’s samurai heritage