Top Japan Arts & Design

Explore Onomichi, an artistic coastal town known for its scenic hills and cultural charm. Begin at the Onomichi City Museum of Art, redesigned by Tadao Ando, featuring minimalist architecture and rotating exhibitions with stunning sea views. Ride the cable car to Senko-ji Temple, founded in 806, where the vivid red main hall offers panoramic views over the Seto Inland Sea. Stroll along the Literary Path and Temple Walk, visiting small temples, art galleries, and cozy cafés. Conclude at Onomichi U2, a converted waterfront warehouse with stylish shops, design boutiques, and spots for a light meal or glass of wine by the sea.

This is a tour crafted by bartenders, for people who have the same passion for cocktails as we do. It can be difficult to know where the best places to go are, especially in an unknown country, but be assured you will end your night with an unforgettable experience. Now lets go start that bender in the never sleeping city!

Discover a different side of Osaka on a private walking tour of Nakanoshima, the city’s cultural island between two rivers. Explore modern architecture, historic landmarks, riverside street art, and traditional Japanese craftsmanship beyond the usual tourist trail. Visit the Nishijin Textile Asagi Museum to admire the beauty of Nishijin-ori, Kyoto’s traditional woven textiles. Enjoy a relaxing café break before exploring more of Nakanoshima’s art and architecture. From striking buildings and unexpected street art to peaceful waterfront views, discover the contrasts that make Osaka unique. Walk scenic riverside paths, uncover local cultural treasures, and experience the city at a relaxed pace with your private guide. Perfect for travelers interested in art, architecture, local culture, and authentic urban discoveries, this Nakanoshima walking tour offers a fresh perspective on Osaka beyond standard sightseeing.

Step inside the quiet, almost otherworldly spaces created by Tadao Ando, one of Japan’s most celebrated architects, and discover why his buildings are experienced as much as they are seen. Across several of his Kyoto works, you’ll encounter bare concrete, shafts of light, still water, precisely framed views, and passages that seem to make the outside world temporarily disappear. But the real fascination lies beneath the surfaces. Why does a wall feel calming? Why can a small opening make a landscape suddenly feel immense? And how can something as severe as concrete create a sense of peace? Your guide for this tour will be an architect and design writer, an expatriate who has lived in Japan for nearly a decade. [ Notice ] This tour is completely private, meaning it will be only the travelers in your booking—no one else will join.

4 hour tour covers the eastern area of Tokyo. This quick yet immersive tour is perfect for visitors who want to experience a mix of modern Tokyo with deep historical roots, all while navigating the city like a local using public transportation. You'll leave with a greater appreciation of Tokyo's unique blend of old and new, all within just 4 hours! The itinerary may vary depending on the start time of the tour.

"This private plan is specially curated for 2-3 guests, offering a more intimate and personalized experience of Asakusa's traditions." Immerse yourself in the heart of Japanese hospitality with an exclusive private lunch and Geisha performance. This exclusive 3-hour journey begins with a seamless entry into a historic Ryotei restaurant. Your host, Soukan Enomoto (Expert Cultural Guide & Tea Ceremony specialist), provides rare access to the world of Asakusa's elite traditions. Enjoy an authentic Kaiseki lunch, a private Geisha performance, and the traditional Tosenkyo game. This is a compact yet deep experience of Japanese hospitality (Omotenashi) at its finest. Note on Sunday & Holiday Pricing: > On Sundays and National Holidays, a more premium and authentic full-course Kaiseki is served instead of the standard weekday menu. The price reflects this high-end culinary upgrade, ensuring a truly unforgettable and luxurious experience.

As an architect and design writer, I have long been fascinated by Japanese gardens—the way restraint creates profound presence, how every stone, lantern, and ripple of water is deliberate, and how simplicity carries layers of meaning. This private tour is an invitation to “hack” the secrets of Japanese gardens. Far from fleeting Instagram snapshots, this experience is crafted for depth and contemplation. [ Consideration ] If you’re not particularly interested in design, philosophy, or psychology, this tour may not be the right fit for you. [ Notice ] This tour is completely private, meaning it will be only the travelers in your booking—no one else will join, and the guide will accompany your group exclusively.

This tour is a complete Harajuku experience that includes a walk around the Harajuku area, a visit to a Harajuku art gallery and okonomiyaki at an okonomiyaki class attached to the gallery. The artworks change every day, so this tour is recommended for those who are interested in new things, those who like Harajuku and those who like contemporary art.

In this private guided tour, you’ll visit some of Arita’s craft studios, where skilled artisans create porcelain masterpieces. After learning about Arita ware, try your luck at a treasure hunt, and get the chance to take home some prized ceramics! [Highlights] ・Watch artisans at work in Arita’s Kuromuta-Obo district. ・See an actual climbing kiln, as well as other different types of kilns. ・Learn about Arita’s different porcelain-making techniques. ・Try your luck at a fun treasure hunt – take home Arita porcelain wares that catch your eye. ・Get insights and fascinating information about Arita from a local expert.

Highlights - Explore the Suzuki Violin Workshop, Japan’s pioneering violin manufacturer with over a century of history - Learn directly from master violin makers, discovering the craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation behind Suzuki violins - Play and compare different violins, experiencing their unique sound and resonance in a professional setting - Exclusive customization options for buyers, including personalized name engraving and an original label inside the violin Overview Step into the world of Japanese violin craftsmanship with an exclusive visit to the Suzuki Violin Workshop, founded in 1887 by Masakichi Suzuki, a pioneer of Japan’s violin-making industry. Meet master artisans, learn about the making process, and compare the tones of different instruments. Guests who wish to purchase a violin may do so directly from the workshop after the tour. Credit card payment is accepted. *Please inform us at the time of booking if you are considering a purchase.

Step into the heart of Kumamoto on this immersive 5-hour cultural tour. Explore samurai history at Wakuwakuza Museum, walk the storied grounds of Kumamoto Castle, and reflect at Kato Shrine before discovering the tranquil beauty of Suizenji Jojuen Garden. Complete your journey with a traditional matcha tea experience in a historic teahouse. Rich in history, scenery, and soul—this unforgettable tour is your perfect introduction to one of Japan’s most beloved castle towns. Book now and experience Kumamoto like never before.

Highlights - Step inside the private home studio of internationally acclaimed ceramic artist Chikako Yoshikawa. - Meet master teapot artisan Yoshiki Murata, with over 60 years of craftsmanship. - Discover one-of-a-kind Tokoname teapots shaped by tradition, imagination, and playful creativity. - Walk Tokoname’s historic Pottery Footpath among kilns, brick chimneys, studios, and galleries. - Experience how tradition and contemporary creativity come together in Tokoname pottery. Overview Discover Tokoname pottery, where 1,000 years of tradition inspire new forms. Walk the historic Pottery Footpath, where old kilns, chimneys, and workshops reveal Tokoname’s ceramic heritage. Visit ceramic artist Chikako Yoshikawa’s private studio and hear about her vision and creative process Then meet Yoshiki Murata, a master artisan with 60 years of experience making Tokoname teapots. See his creations up close and discover how traditional techniques meet playful forms and colors.

Deep in the green mountains of Oita lies the Onta Pottery Village, a UNESCO-recognized artisan community where traditional pottery has been crafted for over 300 years. This intimate small-group tour takes you behind the scenes to witness the timeless art of Onta ware, guided by a local expert. Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in a historic thatched-roof house before exploring private kilns and workshops. Savor handmade soba noodles served on the pottery created by local artisans, enriching your appreciation for this cultural heritage. This tour is perfect for those seeking an authentic experience of Japan's rich folk art tradition. - Small group size for personalized attention, maximum of 6 participants - Engage with expert guides and local artisans in hidden heritage sites - Enjoy a local soba lunch served on authentic Onta pottery - Convenient transport provided from JR Hita Station, with hotel pick-up available

A regular visitor walks through the heart of Namba and sees busy streets, colorful signs, shopping arcades, and impressive buildings. An architect sees something more: the story of a city shaped by commerce, canals, infrastructure, culture, and the everyday lives of its people. We invite you to explore Osaka with an architect as your guide, looking beyond the obvious and discovering the ideas behind the city's urban landscape. Rather than simply visiting individual buildings, we'll explore how architecture connects with the streets, public spaces, businesses, and people around it. You'll discover how Osaka evolved from a city of merchants, canals, and bridges into the dynamic metropolis we see today. No architectural background is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to look at familiar places differently.

You will enjoy the beautiful scenery from Senkoji Ropeway and take the photogenic pictures scenery of white huge sculptures garden at Kosanji!

Step into the captivating world of "Evangelion" and discover Hakone through the eyes of the iconic anime. Visit key locations from the series, including the station where the main character and Misato met, and immerse yourself in the dramatic backdrop of the Third New Tokyo City. With a professional guide, explore famous settings, enjoy Evangelion-themed shopping, and experience the unique fusion of animation and reality in Hakone. This tour offers a one-of-a-kind journey for fans and newcomers alike!

Discover the timeless beauty of Yosegi Zaiku, a traditional woodcraft that has flourished in Hakone for over 300 years. Create your own masterpiece and immerse yourself in this delicate and intricate art form that reflects the natural wonders of the region.

Led by expert guide Soukan, this 5-hour private tour offers deep access to Japanese tradition. Deep History: Explore Senso-ji with hidden stories regular tours miss. Ryotei Experience: Dine at a historic, "members-only" Ryotei. Enjoy authentic Kaiseki in a private room. Exclusive Geisha: Witness graceful dance and enjoy personal conversation, Q&A, and traditional "Tosenkyo" games during your meal. Perfect for those seeking intimate "Omotenashi." Note: Sundays/Holidays feature a more premium, high-end Kaiseki menu. Price reflects this luxury culinary upgrade.

This 5 hr walking tour will also hold a 1 hr Pottery making experience at Shirokane Ceramic Art School for 6hrs of fun! You can make your pottery by either “Wheel Throwing” or “Hand Building”. Before your Pottery making experience, you will go on a walking tour with our licensed guide! Start time: The estimated time for the pottery will be about 5 hours from the start of the tour. Note*1: Kiln firing fee and shipping fee are not included. Please pay directly to the school on the day. (Work burning fee depends on volume: Cups 1000yen, small bowls 2,000yen, Large bowls, plates 3,000yen~） Note*2: Pieces are ready ～3 weeks after the class. If you wish have your pieces faster, an express plan is available for additional costs. Note*3: Pottery Making Experience is a group session with a maximum of 8 persons. Note*4: Only for age 4 yrs or above can join the Pottery Making Experience. Note*5: Experience time may take more than an hour. Please book this tour with enough time to spare.

Discover Tokyo's enchanting night scene with a unique blend of art and dining. Begin your evening with a visit to teamLab Borderless, where digital art immerses you in otherworldly experiences, followed by a serene 90-minute dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay aboard a traditional Yakatabune boat. Enjoy a meal featuring beef sukiyaki, unlimited soft drinks, and live shamisen music, all while taking in spectacular views from the open-air deck. - Includes timed admission to teamLab Borderless at Azabudai Hills - Savor a delicious dinner on the Tokyo Bay Yakatabune cruise - Choice of two coordinated time slots for teamLab Borderless and cruise Please strictly follow the selected time slot, and arrive at the attraction entrance 15 minutes in advance to verify your ticket.

Atsuta Jingu Shrine: Sanctuary of the Sacred Sword Atsuta Jingu Shrine is one of Japan’s most venerable sanctuaries, enshrining the "Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi"—a legendary sword and one of the Three Sacred Treasures of Japan. Guided by a specialist, you will journey through the essence of Japanese spirituality while breathing in the crisp, sacred air of this ancient forest. The vast grounds, marked by a majestic 1,000-year-old camphor tree, serve as a vital link to the Imperial lineage and the samurai era. Most famously, it is where the great warlord Oda Nobunaga prayed for a miraculous victory before his most historic battle. This tour offers a profound immersion into Shinto tradition, including a visit to the Kusanagi-kan sword museum and an exclusive prayer ceremony at Takakura-musubi-miko Shrine, a site renowned for bringing good fortune and luck in child-rearing.

Explore the Hometown of Japanese Porcelain & Local Traditions Embark on a private journey that blends the sensory charm of Yobuko Morning Market, with its 100-year history and fresh squid stalls, and the timeless artistry of Imari and Arita, birthplaces of Japanese porcelain. Stroll through the “village of secret kilns” in Okawachiyama, visit the porcelain-made Arita Tozan Shrine, and soak in the historic atmosphere of Takeo Onsen. Enjoy a regional specialty: Onsen Tofu, crafted from locally grown Saga soybeans. This one-day tour offers deep cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and authentic flavors of Kyushu’s pottery heartland.

Discover the elegance of Nihonga, traditional Japanese painting, on this immersive cultural tour in Fukuoka. Begin with a serene stroll through Ohori Park and explore the Fukuoka Art Museum’s impressive collection, guided by a professional Nihonga artist. Then, step into an authentic atelier for a hands-on painting experience using natural mineral pigments and traditional brushes—perfect for beginners and art enthusiasts alike. Enjoy local tea and sweets as you learn the history and techniques behind this centuries-old art form. Conclude your journey at Heisukefude Fukkodou, one of Japan’s oldest brush shops with over 500 years of history. Create your own masterpiece and take home a unique piece of Japanese culture. Available for solo travelers or small groups.

Highlights -Explore Japan’s fermentation culture through traditional ceramic crocks and natural indigo dyeing. -Walk Tokoname’s historic Pottery Path, shaped by over 1,000 years of ceramics. -Visit Tokoname’s only traditional fermentation crock workshop and meet third-generation artisan Yuji Koie. -See how ceramic crocks for miso, pickles, and other fermented foods are made. -Dye your own tenugui using a natural indigo vat created through fermentation. Overview Discover Japan’s fermentation culture through two traditional crafts in Tokoname, a pottery town with over 1,000 years of history. Walk the historic Pottery Path, then visit Yamagen Toen, a workshop making traditional fermentation crocks for over 60 years. Meet third-generation artisan Yuji Koie and see how local clay becomes vessels for fermented foods such as miso. Finally, visit Konya no Namiho, an indigo studio where fermentation creates natural indigo dye. Dye your own tenugui and experience Japan’s iconic deep blue.