Top Japan Culture

Seeking out the well-concealed back-alley bars of Tokyo's Shinjuku district is notoriously tricky for outsiders. Take the guesswork out of your trip on this guided tour that takes you barhopping to Izakaya bars in two different alleyways in Shinjuku with a small group. Experience the backstreets of Tokyo and authentic street food and drinks (included) while your guide shares insights into local culture in this atmospheric part of the city.

Combine traditional sumo wrestling—a must when visiting Tokyo—with a delicious Japanese meal, thanks to this unique restaurant experience. Sink into comfortable sofa seating, tuck into a tasty chankonabe (hot pot)—a meal that the wrestlers themselves eat—and watch a sumo display in action. Gain insider insight into the sport and leave with a better understanding of its cultural significance and history.

Nara is one of Japan's most-visited destinations, which means it gets crowded during the day. Dodge the biggest crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the ancient Japanese capital on this early-morning, small-group tour. Admire landmarks including Kofuku-ji Temple and Nara Park, home to free-roaming deer, while learning about the long history of this sacred place.

Experience the samurai experience in a museum-like place with lots of armor on display! You will choose your favorite kimono and hakama, change into a samurai costume, and learn how to use a sword from a samurai. You will learn how to draw a sword, hold a sword, swing a sword, and retract a sword. After learning basic sword usage, they practice a simple chambara (sword fight). Then we will try to exterminate bad guys to the music! You can take videos with your smart phone, take pictures with the samurai, and have a great samurai time. The teachers are authentic teachers who have appeared in major Japanese dramas and movies. Since you have come all the way to Japan on a trip, you will have a wonderful experience of Samurai culture! The dojo has many weapons on display, including swords and spears. You will also find armor on display. Samurais are waiting for you in a space that does not seem modern. ・One person can also join the tour. ・Same-day reservations are also possible.

Hiroshima is a city with a tragic history and inspiring vision for the future. This small-group walking tour promises a richer experience that you'd get exploring the city's landmarks alone. Embark on a profound journey that leaves you with a deeper understanding of Hiroshima's experience during WWII; the bomb's lasting impact; and Hiroshima's commitment to peace and reconciliation.

Live some sumo culture in Tokyo with this show and dinner experience in the Asakusa neighborhood. Watch wrestlers perform classic moves and training techniques in the "dohyo" ring, while savoring a chicken "chanko-nabe" hot pot. For wannabe sumo stars, there’s even the chance to try a sumo challenge yourself.

Gain deeper insight into Japanese spirituality and the history of the district on this small-group tour of Meiji Jingu Shrine. With a guide to accompany you, you can learn the symbolism behind Shinto rituals and the traditions that people follow. Visiting with a guide adds context you’d miss alone and the intimate group size encourages questions and meaningful discussion throughout the experience.

Swap large group bus tours for a more intimate alternative—a private walking tour of Tokyo’s highlights. The private format means the itinerary is flexible and customizable, so you can get the perfect tour to suit your interests. Potential neighborhoods include Harajuku, Shibuya, and Shinjuku, with the possibility of seeing key temples and shrines such as Meiji Jingu Shrine. Guides speak English, French, or Spanish to enhance your experience.

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.

Dive into Fukuoka with a private, tailor-made walking tour that adapts to your interests and energy. From the rich history of the Fukuoka Castle Ruins to the bustling charm of Nakasu’s yatai food stalls, your guide will craft the perfect itinerary based on your preferences. With insider knowledge, a pre-tour survey, and an open line of communication, this adventure ensures an authentic and unforgettable experience through Fukuoka’s vibrant streets.

Turn something old into something new during this lesson in the Japanese art of "Kintsugi," the practice of repairing broken pottery, and there's a chance to see Master Taku on the day of your visit. Stemming from a Japanese belief that breakage and repair are part of the history of an object, rather than a reason to throw it away, your class involves repairing damaged items (plates are provided; personal items are not allowed) with lacquer mixed with gold. Don a "samue" as you refinish one traditional pottery item, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for Japanese aesthetics and a unique souvenir.

When visiting Tokyo, don't just eat sushi: learn how to make it. This culinary experience takes place just steps from Senso-ji Temple, in the heart of the traditional Asakusa neighborhood, and immerses you in Japanese culinary culture. Learn how to prepare authentic sushi and rolls, then sit down to enjoy the fruits of your effort with your classmates. Instruction is available in English and Japanese.

Discover the city of Takayama your own way by booking this private and personalized tour. Enjoy the flexibility of creating your own customized itinerary to ensure that you only spend time visiting places that you are interested in, such as Sanmachi Suji and Hida-Takayama Miyagawa Morning Market. As you explore the city, your private guide will fill you in on all the city's fascinating history and culture.

Experience the life of a samurai in an actual feudal castle in Matsumoto, Japan! Matsumoto Castle is a designated “National Treasure” thanks to its well preserved historic structure. We’ll get a chance to step inside to learn about the life of the samurai lords who lived here, the castle’s defensive strategies and the history of the city. Afterwards, get a hands-on sword fighting lesson with your own hand-picked sword and samurai outfit.

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.

Discover one of Tokyo's busiest and most exciting districts, Shibuya, on this exciting small-group food tour. Your guide takes you away from the tourist crowds to discover hidden gems where locals eat. Feast on 13 traditional Japanese dishes at three different eateries around the district. Sample dishes such as sushi, yakiniku, udon, karaage, and more. Learn more about Japanese culture while making new friends.

This walking tour offers a relaxed way to explore Tokyo’s royal history alongside its peaceful green spaces. Walk through the Imperial Palace East Gardens while learning about the Imperial family and the former grounds of Edo Castle. With a guide leading the way, you can ask questions, gain deeper context, and notice details you might miss if exploring on your own.

Explore the highlights of Hiroshima and Miyajima the easy way on a private full-day tour with a guide. You’ll learn all about Hiroshima’s dark history and prosperous present at sites like the Peace Park and A-Bomb Dome. Travel around Hiroshima on foot and by public transport to nearby Miyajima Island, a naturally and culturally beautiful spot. The tour can be customized to suit your needs.

Discover both modern and traditional sides of history-rich Kyoto during this full-day private tour. Travel like a local by public transportation as you tick off the city’s most celebrated sights, from UNESCO-listed Nijo Castle to the well-preserved neighborhood of Higashiyama and streets of Gion, otherwise known as Kyoto’s Geisha district.

This day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima is the easy way to see many sights in a single day, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Travel by comfortable air-conditioned coach to important World War II-era places in Hiroshima, and the iconic red gates of Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine, which appear to float on water. Learn all about the history and culture of these attractions from your English-speaking guide and through an audio-guide on board your bus.

Foodies and seafood lovers won’t want to miss this tour to one of the most famous markets in the world: Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market. See where tons of fish and seafood are traded every day, and get the chance to try some seriously fresh seafood at the stalls around the market. This tour also includes an added cultural element: as well as a trading area, Tsukiji is home to some important Japanese shrines. Learn more about various aspects of Japanese culture on this multifaceted trip.

Get ready for the ultimate Okinawa adventure. Enjoy the unusual and fun experience of being able to dress up in costume as you tour a city. Choose from a variety of anime, comic, or games character outfits, and explore the highlights of Okinawa in street go-karts. Take the stress out of navigating, as your guide will lead the way, and you’ll see multiple highlights in a day, such as Senagajima Island, and Kokusai Main Street.

Don’t get lost or confused navigating your way from Narita Airport to enormous Tokyo city. With this private transfer service you’ll be picked up at the arrivals area of the airport and taken directly to your hotel, anywhere in the city. Your driver will even wait for up to 90 minutes in case of flight delays.