Top Japan Classes & Workshops

Experience the traditional Japanese art of Kintsugi in a quiet workshop near Gion and Kawaramachi in Kyoto. In this hands-on experience, you will repair cracked or chipped ceramic pieces using lacquer and gold powder, transforming broken pottery into something beautiful and unique. With guidance from an experienced instructor, you will carefully work on bowls or plates while learning the basic techniques of Kintsugi. Rather than hiding imperfections, this traditional method celebrates them as part of an object’s history and character. During the workshop, you will also learn about the history of Kintsugi and the Japanese philosophy that values imperfection and mindfulness. Your finished piece will become a one-of-a-kind souvenir and a meaningful reminder of your time in Kyoto, offering a calm and authentic introduction to Japanese culture.

What makes this workshop special is the material itself: you'll work with real vintage Japanese coins, each one decades old and full of history. Unlike typical souvenir shopping, you'll create something with your own hands using traditional metalworking techniques — and the ring you take home is truly one of a kind. Classes are kept small, so whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned craft lover, you'll get personal guidance every step of the way. Located in the heart of Kyoto, it's an easy add to any itinerary and one of the few experiences where your souvenir tells the story of both Japan and your trip.

Rather than drinking matcha in a restaurant, this traditional tea ceremony lets you watch a tea master prepare it from scratch. Held in a beautiful teahouse overlooking a famous garden, the setting offers peaceful views as you take part. The session includes two cups of matcha and traditional Japanese sweets, all served through a series of graceful rituals. Note that children 6 and under are not permitted to join this experience.

Kyudo is a Japanese martial art based on shooting an arrow from a Japanese bow to a target to reach a complete focus of mind and body. The main difference of kyudo and western archery is that, in kyudo, every movement follows a traditional routine that pays respect to the equipment and to the opponent. You will come to the archery range and dress in an authentic kyudo uniform, which will include dogi—the upper wear—and hakama—the lower wear. I'll give a brief explanation about the art of kyudo as well as instructions and demonstrations. With the knowledge you'll gain, you will learn to shoot arrows at the target. You'll also understand the fun and challenging aspect of the sport, particularly while wearing the traditional hakama and armor. Usually in kyudo, you are not allowed to pull the arrow unless you master the basics. But during our lesson, you will be able to enjoy the real kyudo experience even as a complete beginner. It will be a great time if you are looking for a nice photo or movie to show to your friends.

This activity is unique because it blends hands on artistry with deep cultural meaning. You won’t just repair pottery you’ll learn the Kintsugi philosophy of finding beauty in imperfections, using real urushi lacquer and gold powder to highlight the cracks rather than hide them. Guided by a skilled Tokyo artisan in a peaceful Asakusa studio, you’ll create a one of a kind piece that reflects mindfulness, renewal, and Japanese aesthetics an experience you won’t find in ordinary craft classes.

The tea ceremony is a cornerstone of traditional Japanese culture, but participating can feel intimidating to visitors. This small-group experience in Kyoto's Gion district lets you approach 'the way of tea' in a relaxed way, without the typical formality. Learn about the history of tea in Japan and how Zen philosophy shaped the ceremony while watching a master prepare tea. Afterward, make your own bowl of matcha and enjoy traditional sweets.

Immerse yourself in samurai history and culture with this small-group samurai experience at a traditional samurai house in Kyoto. Under the guidance of an expert sword instructor, learn the philosophies of Bushido, the "Way of the Warrior;" handle a real martial arts sword; and take part in a Zen meditation session.

Instead of buying souvenir chopsticks from a shop, this hands-on experience lets you make your own from scratch. Learn specialist techniques, including how to use a traditional Japanese "kanna" hand plane, how to smooth the surface, and how to finish the wood with natural oil. Crafted from beautiful Japanese wood, the chopsticks make a meaningful souvenir to keep for years to come.

Guests can punch, shape, file, and polish their own rings from scratch in a hands-on workshop experience, creating a truly personal piece of jewelry. Whether crafting matching rings for couples, meaningful keepsakes with friends or family, or a unique design for themselves, each participant takes home a one-of-a-kind handcrafted treasure as a lasting memory of Tokyo.

Dive into the fascinating world of sumo wrestling with this interactive experience led by retired sumo wrestlers. Learn about sumo history, techniques, and daily life, watch live sparring matches, and even step into the ring yourself for a friendly skirmish. Complete your experience with a delicious meal of Tonkatsu and Chanko Nabe, prepared by the wrestlers, with vegetarian and dietary accommodations available upon request.

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.

Japanese kitchen knives are among some of the world’s finest, and this hands-on workshop in Asakusa shows you how they’re made. Pick your blade type and size, then sharpen it under the watchful eye of a master craftsman, before engraving your name in Japanese on the magnolia handle.

Enjoy a world of quiet elegance at Nishiki Orizuruya. All plans include kimono rental (with free hair styling for women) and are guided in English. 1. Authentic Tea Ceremony: After a captivating demonstration, learn to whisk your own matcha using a traditional bamboo whisk. Your prepared tea is paired with exquisite, seasonal Wagashi (traditional sweets) sourced from a celebrated 100-year-old Kyoto confectionery shop. 2. Tea Ceremony & Calligraphy: Combine the meditative art of tea with the flow of brush and ink. After savoring your matcha and sweets, learn to write your favorite kanji using a brush and ink. A great chance to create a personal keepsake. 3. Tea Ceremony & Guided Nishiki Market Tour: Enjoy the complete tea ceremony experience, then set out on a culinary adventure. Explore the bustling stalls of "Kyoto’s Kitchen" (Nishiki Market), hidden local shrines, and ancient specialty shops to discover the deep roots of Kyoto's food culture.

Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Japanese culture at a tea ceremony in Tokyo while wearing a kimono. Learn how to make matcha green tea the traditional way in a formal room during this hands-on experience that includes kimono dressing assistance and offers an authentic and respectful way to dress up in a group or as a solo traveler. Tickets must be exchanged for direct entry at the starting point.

Create your own pair of high quality wooden chopsticks in the heart of Asakusa, just steps from the iconic Senso ji Temple. This interactive workshop offers a unique glimpse into Japanese craftsmanship, as friendly instructors guide you through every step from shaping and sanding to finishing your chopsticks. Personalization options allow you to add colors and engravings, making your creation a one of a kind souvenir. Ideal for families and couples, this cultural activity provides a memorable experience that connects you with Japan's rich traditions.

Head deep inside one of the world’s most under-the-radar natural wonders on this small-group guided expedition through a Japanese ice cave. This site is hard to reach for most independent travelers, but special entry permits are included in the tour. Follow the light of a headlamp into the mysterious, ice-cold cavern, carved by lava eruptions from Mt. Fuji over a millennium ago—a thrilling, out-of-the-box adventure.

Taste the best of Sapporo regional specialties by going on this combination of a market tour, a cooking class, and lunch. As you explore Nijo Ichiba market with a guide, you’ll discover more about local produce. A private tour means you can learn to cook at your own pace, and you’ll have direct access to your guide for questions. It’ll be the ultimate hassle-free day as all ingredients, lunch, and alcoholic beverages are included.

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.

[Highlights] ①You can choose from four convenient locations: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, or Ginza. ②Experience Traditional Japanese Craftsmanship ③Choose Your Favorite from More Than 10 Types of Wood ④Create a Unique Souvenir to Take Home the Same Day ⑤Personalize Your Creation with Unique, Custom Kanji Name Engravings

What makes this experience truly unique is the opportunity to create a functional Japanese knife through a hands-on process guided by a local craftsman in historic Asakusa. Rather than simply observing, guests actively take part in shaping and refining their own blade using whetstones, gaining firsthand insight into the precision, patience, and craftsmanship that define Japanese knife-making. The small-group setting allows for personal instruction in a calm, welcoming workshop, making the experience accessible to beginners while remaining deeply authentic. Guests leave not only with a handcrafted knife, but with a genuine connection to one of Japan’s most respected artisan traditions.

If you haven’t been lucky enough to catch a sumo tournament in Tokyo, don’t worry—this behind-the-scenes experience lets you get closer to the wrestlers than you could watching a match. Not only do you watch a live demonstration, you also tuck into a hearty dinner with the sportsmen while you ask about their profession.

Try your hand at traditional Japanese cooking and learn how to make ramen from scratch, as well as two types of gyoza. This small-group cooking class in Nishinomiya gives you hands on experience and the chance to learn cooking techniques that can easily be replicated back home. After preparing your meal, you will enjoy the fruits of your labor together, with a seasonal dessert.

Experience a warm cultural welcome to Japan with an authentic tea ceremony in traditional kimonos in Kyoto. Dress in a classic kimono, sip authentic matcha green tea, sample Japanese sweets and learn the customs and history behind this cherished ritual. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.