Top Japan Arts & Design - page 24

This exclusive, after-hours tour offers a rare private encounter with the storied heritage of the Owari Tokugawa family. Led by an expert curator from the Tokugawa Art Museum, you will explore a magnificent collection that defines the pinnacle of feudal lord culture—from the world-renowned National Treasure "The Tale of Genji Illustrated Scrolls" to exquisite arms, armor, and bridal dowries. With the galleries reserved solely for your presence, the usual bustle is replaced by a profound, elegant silence. To gaze upon legendary swords, masterwork paintings, and delicate crafts in such tranquility is to embark on a timeless journey. This is the ultimate private viewing experience, offering a depth of intimacy with history found nowhere else in the world. (Note: Specific National Treasures may be replaced with other masterpieces depending on the exhibition period.)

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.

Discover Japan’s refined onsen culture on this 3-day private journey from Tokyo to Hakone and Atami. Stay two nights at traditional ryokans with kaiseki dinners and natural hot spring baths. Travel comfortably with a private chauffeur, and explore scenic coastal views, historic landmarks, and tranquil mountain landscapes at your own pace. • Private chauffeur-driven transportation throughout • Two nights at selected ryokans with dinner and breakfast included • Optional private geisha performance (advance request required) • Designed for couples or small groups (2–8 guests) seeking an intimate cultural experience

The Genemon Kiln Special Experience offers a rare opportunity to visit the kiln's normally closed workshop and experience the beauty and tradition of its over 150-year-old techniques. You will be able to observe the production process at close range, performed by skilled craftsmen, and enjoy the charm of the distinctive "Sotodami" technique. In addition, you can enjoy a tour of the non-public Imari Pottery Museum, guided by the pottery's staff, and enjoy the many historical works on display. After the experience, you can enjoy the hospitality of the pottery using beautiful vessels. Please enjoy this special time when you can feel the history and technology of Gen-emon Pottery with all five of your senses.

This is a special experience that allows you to get in touch with the tradition and technology that the famous Arita Yaki Porcelain Manufacturer Koransha, founded in 1879, is proud of. You will visit the insulator factory, which is not normally open to the public, and see the history of the innovative technology that created Japan's first porcelain insulator. You can also learn about the background of the art that was highly praised at the World Expo and the history of Koransha while enjoying a tea ceremony in the VIP room, which is not normally open to the public. This is a luxurious and intellectual experience that allows you to experience the fusion of the beauty of traditional Arita-yaki pottery and the technology that supports the power and communications infrastructure.

"Experience the new appeal of Arita-yaki, where tradition and innovation come together". At Riso Pottery, fourth-generation family head Shinji Terauchi works to create vessels that combine early Imari techniques with modern design, while continuing the history of Ri Sanpei, the founder of Arita-yaki. Combining traditional aesthetic beauty with cutting-edge technology, the vessels have attracted top chefs from around the world. In this experience, you will visit the historic sites of traditional Arita ware and the Tengudani kiln site, and experience the craftsmanship of the artisans up close. We will provide you with a special opportunity to experience the new possibilities of Arita ware, which pursues both function and beauty, with all five of your senses.

Uncover the true essence of Tokyo on this guided walking tour. From the historical landmarks of Asakusa and Ueno to secret spots only locals know, your guide will show you a side of Tokyo you’ve never seen before. A professional photographer will join you to capture your best moments, so you can take home not only memories but stunning photos. Designed for small groups, this tour offers a unique and personal experience that’s both fun and educational!

Two Global Icons in One Day: Experience the birthplace of instant noodles and the golden age of Japanese anime/manga created by the "God of Manga," Osamu Tezuka (creator of Astro Boy). Hands-on Creative Workshop: Design and customize your very own original Cup Noodle package, soup flavor, and toppings at the interactive factory. Immersive Pop Culture & History: Gain deep insights into post-war Japanese creativity, food innovation, and the birth of modern manga storytelling with a knowledgeable local guide. Escape the Crowds in Hidden Gems: Explore Ikeda and Takarazuka, two delightful hidden gems located just outside Osaka. Enjoy an authentic, peaceful local atmosphere far away from the packed tourist hotspots. Effortless Train & Walking Navigation: Enjoy a seamless, stress-free itinerary between Ikeda and Takarazuka with personalized guiding and transit assistance.

This is a test tour operated by our company. We would greatly appreciate it if you could share your feedback after the tour. "Yanaka & Nezu Walking Tour — Where Old Tokyo Still Breathes This walking tour invites you to explore the quiet heart of Tokyo, in Yanaka and Nezu — neighborhoods where time slows down. Wander past wooden houses, local temples, and family-run shops, and see how tradition and everyday life still blend naturally here. Rather than famous sights, you’ll discover how Tokyoites find beauty in narrow lanes, seasonal rituals, and small daily gestures — a living expression of Japan’s spirit that endures in Yanaka and Nezu."

Let's enjoy the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter elegantly from a different perspective by riding a rickshaw. The rickshaw puller, who knows the area well, will guide you through the streets and highlight the attractions of the Bikan Historical Quarter. Along the way, you will stop by the UKIYO-E Kuniyoshi Museum, a rare museum that exclusively collects ukiyo-e. Please take your time to enjoy the museum, which has been renovated from an old Japanese house.

Would you like to enjoy a colorful experience in Japan? Musashi-kosugi, is very close to Tokyo and offers plenty of city fun without the tourist crowds. We will start with a super kawaii DECO parts shop. The kawaii vibe begins the moment you arrive! You'll get to choose some DECO parts needed for crafting and create a one-of-a-kind key charm or a set of accessories together with a guide who loves DECO. Why not create original souvenirs together as a memory of Japan? Each key charm reflects its own personality, so comparing them is also a lot of fun! We also explore Musashi-Kosugi which transformed from a rural area into a modern hub with high-rise towers. Despite its rapid development, elements of its historic streetscape remains, harmonizing the old and new beautifully. The last destination is an all-weather shopping mall The guide will assist you in experiencing Japanese pop culture with an essence of local history while avoiding crowds!

The Holy Land of Anime & Manga Culture! Dive Deep into Nakano Broadway! A must-visit for all Japanese entertainment lovers! Why not explore the deep, hidden gems of Nakano that you won’t find in guidebooks? As a former manager of voice actors and anisong singers at a major entertainment agency, I understand your passion! Let’s visit the hotspots where Japan’s "otaku" culture thrives, and finish off with a fun karaoke session together! ✨

Welcome to Shimokitazawa — Tokyo’s chillest neighborhood and my home. Let me show you what makes this place so special, from hidden alleys to the best vintage shops. It’s a side of the city most tourists never get to see. On this walking tour, I’ll take you to my favorite spots — not the ones in guidebooks, but the ones locals actually go to. Whether you're into thrifting, street photography, Japanese subculture, or just want to relax with good coffee and good conversation, this is the place. We’ll wander through narrow backstreets, browse unique secondhand shops, spot murals and local art, and take in the laid-back vibe that makes Shimokitazawa so loved. I’ll share local tips along the way — where to eat, what to shop for, and how to enjoy Tokyo like someone who lives here.

Private 1-Hour Photoshoot in Shibuya Capture your Tokyo adventure with a private photographer in Shibuya! Explore the famous Shibuya Crossing, neon streets, and trendy corners while professional photos are taken of you. Perfect for solo travelers, friends, or couples and you’ll receive 20 high-quality edited digital photos to remember your experience forever. Your photographer knows the area’s most photogenic spots, from trendy streets lined with colorful shops to hidden corners perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. With guidance on poses, angles, and lighting.

Discover the serene countryside of northern Nagano on this private full-day tour, blending wildlife encounters, art, and culinary experiences. Start with a visit to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to see the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Next, wander through the historic town of Obuse, known for its Edo-period charm and the Hokusai Museum. Conclude your day at a local miso brewery, where you'll delve into Nagano's fermented food culture with a guided tasting experience. This tailored tour promises an authentic taste of Japanese culture, ideal for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. - Private pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Nagano - Visit Jigokudani to see snow monkeys in their natural habitat - Explore the charming streets of Obuse and visit art galleries - Enjoy a tasting session at a local miso brewery, sampling various miso types

1. "Edo Soul" and "Alpine Freedom" Experience the ultimate contrast: the historic, dark-wood streets of Narai-juku and the breathtaking 360° views of the 2,000m Utsukushigahara plateau. Explore Japan’s authentic history and wild nature in one seamless day. 2. Authentic Local Immersion and Private Access Go beyond the guidebook. Meet local artisans and taste regional flavors while we handle the logistics. Your private vehicle connects these remote "hidden gems" that are nearly impossible to reach by public transport. 3. Hands-Free Travel and Memory Gift Enjoy the journey completely unburdened. Leave your luggage in the car and put your phone away—your guide will snap photos of your group throughout the day, providing the data as a free gift so you can stay fully present.

Dear all, this is Posh, Historian from best university in Japan, business man from Cornell MBA and photographer. 18 years experience working for US/UK companies taking expats/VIPs from HQ to the tourists spot. As a guide, get a 5 star review 90% at Trip Advisor, one of the best because 1. Deep history talk about Imperial Family, Shogun, Shinto and Buddhism, Torii gates color difference etc. 2. Family photo with good composition 3. Answer all topics about Japan for society, culture, religion, business 4. Tourists spots less known and quiet but splendid 5. Yummy lunch and coffee shops everyone becomes happy. No Starbucks. You can understand Jasanese history and culture deeply by this tour, satisfied with group photos, lunch and coffee shops. I can take you less crowded tourist spots and your favourite places based on your hobbies like arts, manga, architecture, shoppings from Japanese street fashion, anime goods to pottery, knives. I look forward to meeting you soon!

Discover the unique blend of history and modernity in Tokyo on a guided walking tour that starts at the historic Zojoji Temple. With over 600 years of significance, this temple served as a resting place for Japan's mighty Shoguns, showcasing traditional architecture that contrasts beautifully with the sleek Tokyo Tower in the background. Capture stunning photos with personal support from your guide, who ensures you find the best angles. The tour concludes with a guided visit to the Main Deck of Tokyo Tower, offering breathtaking views of the city—your ticket is included for a hassle-free experience. - Visit the historic Zojoji Temple, a sacred site with over 600 years of history - Enjoy the stunning visual contrast between the temple and Tokyo Tower - Benefit from personal photo support to capture memorable moments - Conclude with a guided ascent to the Main Deck of Tokyo Tower for panoramic views

Explore the iconic Tokyo Skytree on this guided tour that dives into its fascinating history and architectural design. From the 1st-floor Group Ticket Counter, meet your guide and begin your journey through the SKYTREE GALLERY, unveiling the connection between this towering structure and Tokyo's culture. With tickets to both the Tembo Deck (350m) and the Tembo Galleria (450m), enjoy panoramic views as you walk along the glass-walled corridor. Capture memorable photos on the Glass Floor and get insider tips on local souvenirs. This 1.5-hour experience is perfect for those eager to learn more about Tokyo Skytree while soaking in stunning skyline vistas. - Guided tour of Tokyo Skytree with full access to observation decks - Explore the fascinating history and craftsmanship behind the Skytree - Enjoy breathtaking views from the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria - Dedicated photo support, including on the thrilling Glass Floor

Explore Kumamoto, the heart of One Piece, on a unique private full-day taxi tour showcasing all 10 life-sized bronze statues of the Straw Hat Crew. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour not only provides a convenient way to visit each statue but also shares the rich history behind them, placed as symbols of hope following the 2016 earthquake. Ideal for fans of the beloved anime and manga, this pilgrimage offers a deep dive into the culture and creativity of Eiichiro Oda's world. - Visit all 10 official One Piece statues in a single day - Guided by a local expert with insider knowledge - Private taxi service ensures comfort and convenience throughout the day

This small-group walking tour explores everyday life in Shibamata, a neighborhood where Japan’s retro atmosphere continues as part of daily living rather than nostalgia. Instead of treating “retro” as a preserved past, the tour presents it as a lifestyle still practiced today. Walking through temple grounds, local shopping streets, and quiet residential paths, you’ll see how faith, small family-run businesses, and community routines remain closely connected. These places reveal a slower rhythm of life that has largely disappeared from central Tokyo. The route is carefully designed and enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Along the temple approach, there is time for optional light food sampling, such as traditional sweets. The experience concludes at one of Japan’s top-class Japanese gardens, where stillness, balance, and thoughtful use of space express Showa-era aesthetics. This tour focuses on understanding how daily life, belief, and aesthetics continue to shape a living temple town.

Summary Discover Kyoto’s traditions in this premium half-day tour. Create your own chopsticks and Kyo-Yuzen case, enjoy a Kyoto-style lunch, and visit Sasaki Sake Brewery for a tasting of award-winning sake. Experience Kyoto’s Timeless Traditions in an Exclusive Small-Group Tour Step into the heart of Kyoto’s cultural heritage with this premium half-day experience. Craft your own Kitayama cedar chopsticks and hand-dye a Kyo-Yuzen patterned case in a historic workshop dating back over 350 years. Savor a healthy Kyoto-style lunch in a hidden machiya townhouse before visiting Sasaki Sake Brewery—Kyoto’s only central brewery since 1893—for an intimate tour and tasting of their gold award-winning sake “Jurakudai.” With a small-group size and personal guidance, every detail is designed to give you an authentic, memorable, and truly premium Kyoto experience. Priced at USD 141 to reflect the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and exclusivity of this experience.

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.

As an architect and design writer, I have always been captivated by Japanese design—the way imperfection is refined into perfection, how simplicity and subtlety carry profound meaning, and how every detail is intentional. Far from the fleeting spectacle of social media, this tour is designed for depth and reflection. I will guide you beyond surface-level facts, revealing the essence of Japanese aesthetics and design thinking that often goes unnoticed. Through well-known sights, we will explore the soul of the country, layer by layer, engaging in discussion and interpretation along the way. [ Warning ] If design does not intrigue you, this tour is not for you. [ Notice ] This tour is completely private, meaning it will be only the travelers in your booking—no one else will join.