Top Japan Art & Culture - page 6

There’s so much to see in Tokyo that it can sometimes be overwhelming as a visitor to try and shortlist the best things to do. With this private tour, you can speed up your sightseeing by traveling on a bike and benefit from having someone else plan the itinerary. Places to see include Zojo-ji Temple, the Imperial Palace, and the famous Shibuya Crossing.

Ensure your time in Tokyo is memorable with a night of traditional Japanese entertainment in the Asakusa area—one of the city's most popular destinations. Watch as entertainers perform a variety of lively pieces, including a lion dance and a samurai sword fight—usually only seen at Japanese festivals, and missed by many travelers. Chat to the performers before and after the show, and snap photos with them for a unique vacation keepsake.

See Hiroshima's most popular attractions in one comprehensive full-day tour—perfect for travelers short on time. Visit sites such as Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island (ferry ticket and admission included), an important Shinto religious site, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum—a somber but important part of Hiroshima's history. The tour includes an English-speaking guide and audio commentary available in multiple languages to enhance your experience.

You don’t just experience a tea ceremony in Tokyo on this small-group tour—you can also look the part with an optional free kimono rental, with staff assistance to ensure comfort and authenticity. The tea ceremony is hands-on, giving you the opportunity to practice these traditions as you learn about them. It isn’t just a culinary experience, as you also learn the meaning of “ichigo ichie,” a Japanese concept that emphasizes treasuring each moment.

Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most historic areas, but the crowds can be confusing for first-time visitors. On this guided walking tour, you’ll learn about Asakusa’s history and culture without worrying about getting lost. The small-group size makes it easy to hear the guide and ask questions. Visit key spots like Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine on foot. This short, easy-to-join tour is perfect for travelers with limited time and those visiting Tokyo for the first time. 【Tour Highlights】 ・Insightful stories and cultural context shared along the way ・Engaging commentary on history and tradition during the tour ・Learn fascinating cultural insights and historical details as you explore ・Expert narration highlighting Asakusa’s rich heritage ・A guided journey filled with history, legends, and cultural background

Join this small-group excursion to learn all about the Imperial Palace’s heritage and tour Edo Castle with a guide, who makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the stories or facts. This is a walking tour, so make sure to wear comfy shoes. Hear all about the gardens and ruins around Edo Castle and what they were used for in the past.

When in Nagoya, don’t miss the chance to explore Studio Ghibli. This hassle-free tour provides your entrance ticket to the park, a tasty bento box lunch, plus round-trip transfers from a meeting point in Nagoya. After visiting Ghibli Park, explore one of Aichi Prefecture's museums, which varies by day of the week. Enjoy Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, Valley of Witches, and Mononoke Village at your own pace.

Learn about Japan’s fascinating samurai and ninja history through a museum tour, where you’ll see real clothing and equipment used by these legendary figures. Don’t struggle to understand the explanation plaques, as you’ll get a guided tour in English. Get the chance to dress up in samurai costume (or typical women’s dress if you prefer), learn how to use a samurai sword, or experience non-martial traditional activities.

Learn about Chado, an ancient zen tea ceremony, with this guided experience in Tokyo. Immerse yourself in an authentic tearoom equipped with tatami mats and learn to prepare a bowl of matcha tea. Sample multiple types of tea and learn your preferences. Enjoy three kinds of local Japanese confectionary, too.

Keen foodies and anyone interested in Japanese culinary culture will love this private tour of Tokyo’s Toyosu and Tsukiji fish markets. After an early-morning hotel pickup on foot, head to the first market to witness the daily tuna auction. After the tour, you can stay longer to grab breakfast (own expense) if you like. Note that Tsukiji may be closed for tours in December and early January.

Tokyo is a huge, modern city, but you can find pockets of traditional culture if you know where to look. On a small-group half-day walking tour of the Yanaka neighborhood, check out wooden homes, temples, shrines, and shopping alleys, some of which survived the World War II bombings. See a quiet part of Tokyo that many travelers miss and sights you might not find if touring independently.

Discover the highlights of Hiroshima Prefecture on this day tour. Starting from the city, take a ferry to Miyajima island to visit Itsukushima Shrine and admire its floating *torii* gate, charming streets, and free-roaming deer. Then, return to the city to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, home of the Atomic Bomb Dome and other monuments honoring the 1945 nuclear bombing.

Visitors to Tokyo seeking a fun and quirky experience should look no further than this go-kart tour starting in Asakusa. See the sights of Akihabara, Ryogoku, Nihonbashi, and elsewhere while having fun. To make sure you stand out from the crowds even further, don a cartoon character costume for your ride. Driver’s license restrictions and requirements apply.

Get a first-hand experience of traditional Japanese culture with this small-group samurai experience in Asakusa. You'll have the opportunity to put on a traditional samurai outfit, including armor and helmet, pose for photos, and learn how to (safely) wield a katana just like a real samurai. The experience includes a tour of the Samurai and Ninja Museum.

Learn to draw manga from a professional manga artist in Tokyo’s Nakano neighborhood. During this class, use the manga tools provided, such as screen tone, manga pens and ink, and manga paper. Whether you're just starting out or a practicing manga artist wanting to hone your skills, the instructor will tailor their teaching to your skills. Take home your completed piece of art as a souvenir.

Explore Asakusa like never before! With a mission booklet and original bag that transforms historic streets into a thrilling adventure to uncover its hidden culture. Enjoy a unique self-guided experience that lets you discover the city at your own pace and lets you become a cultural expert! Go beyond the surface to discover lesser-known stories behind landmarks like Kaminarimon and Senso-ji. Solve riddles and collect stamps as you traverse from bustling famous sites to serene corners rarely noticed by visitors. Use 2 snack tickets to choose from a variety of local treats. Receive a stylish magazine created by locals featuring hidden spots not found in typical guidebooks or online. Complete your mission to unlock exclusive souvenirs and a final mystery at the end of your journey. Show your reservation ticket at the reception desk on the first floor of the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center to receive your kit.

Meet at JR Akihabara station for this half-day tour of the city's prime anime locations. Find the hidden gems in the city with a local tour guide. This customizable tour includes stops at Kanda Myoujin Shrine, also known as the "Anime Shrine", where you'll find many popular anime titles. Get a dose of nostalgia at Super Potato Akihabara, where you can play or buy classic anime games. Visit the arcade, a figurine shop and maid cafe en route.

Immerse yourself in the world of sumo wrestling in Osaka beyond simply watching a match. Learn the history and rituals behind the sport as you witness an authentic demonstration with retired sumo wrestlers. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are limited spots available to step into the ring and face a sumo wrestler yourself.

Exploring Tokyo’s Imperial Palace can be overwhelming without extensive research, but this guided tour simplifies everything. Enjoy a relaxed stroll through stunning gardens, discover the palace's rich history, and get insider tips on the best photo spots. With a guide leading the way, you can effortlessly immerse yourself in Japan’s cultural and historical treasures.

Save hours of researching and planning your Tokyo itinerary with this private tour. Your guide leads you through the Imperial Palace East Gardens, including Edo Castle Ruins, Ninomaru Garden, and Ote-mon Gate. Along the way, gain insight into Japan’s imperial history and enjoy memorable photo opportunities in a relaxed, personalized setting.

Get to know Tokyo’s nightlife areas better without the risk of getting lost or straying into unpleasant places by going with a guide. On this small-group walking tour you’ll stroll around Shinjuku, Kabukicho, Omoide Yokocho, and the LGBTQI+ district that’s often called Gay Town. Learn more about the area’s culture and subculture from your guide, and admire the sight of hundreds of neon signs after dark.

Escape the bustle of Tokyo and enjoy a tranquil experience in nature on this small-group guided tour of Meiji Shrine. Follow your guide past Meiji Jingu Nino Torii, walk along a peaceful forest path, stroll through the imperial garden, and pay your respects at the shrine. Along the way, learn about Shintoism and the Japanese Imperial system.

Kyoto is famous for its “geisha” culture, and this experience offers a rare chance to watch a real “maiko” (apprentice “geisha”) perform up close. Sightings like this are increasingly uncommon, making it an experience many travelers miss. During the show, watch two short traditional dances, followed by a question-and-answer session, and play a classic Japanese game too.

Osaka, known as “Japan’s Kitchen,” is famous for its street food and regional dishes. Sample many of these local specialties in one evening on this authentic food tour in the often overlooked area of Shinsekai. You’ll get to try 15 dishes at 5 different establishments, with two drinks included. Weave through arcades and side alleys filled with locals as you visit these different restaurants.