Japan is an enchanting blend of old and new. Its ultra-modern cities are at the forefront of trends and technology, while also honouring ancient traditions that date back thousands of years.
Experiencing some of these traditions first-hand when travelling to Japan, as well as getting to know the friendly locals, stunning landscapes and impressive architecture, will make your trip one to remember.
Learn more about some of the immersive Japanese arts and cultural experiences we can add to your custom Japan tour.
Learn how to play Taiko drums in Tokyo
Get in touch with the rhythm of Japan during a Taiko drums workshop in Tokyo. In the taiko dojo (practice hall), your instructor will explain how the drums are made and why they are so important to Japanese music.
Then it’s time for you to pick up the sticks and start drumming! The instructor will teach you some simple, yet impressive drum beats, before giving you the chance to create your own rhythms, complete with the energetic poses and loud calls synonymous with Japanese drumming.
Don’t forget your camera so you can impress your friends back home with your new skills!
Enjoy an insightful Ikebana workshop in Kyoto
Learn about the concepts of Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangements) in the home of an Ikebana master. This meditative art form has a special spiritual and historical significance in Japan, and varies greatly from Western styles of flower arranging.
During this immersive session, you will learn about the various techniques before making your own unique flower arrangement with natural materials. Round off your experience with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and spend some time getting to know about the traditions and way of life of your Ikebana master.
After getting to know the fascinating intricacies of Ikebana, head for Kyoto’s vibrant Nishiki Market to savour some of the delectable street food.
Visit a wasabi farm in Matsumoto
You can’t go long without encountering wasabi when travelling in Japan. This spicy green condiment is served alongside sushi to enhance the flavour of raw fish and ward off bacteria.
Visit a wasabi farm in Matsumoto, the fertile heart of Japan’s wasabi production in the Nagano Prefecture, to learn all about this iconic plant. While here, you will also get to sample some interesting wasabi-infused treats and spend a leisurely afternoon wandering through picturesque apple orchards.
Matsumoto’s towering, snow-capped backdrop also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and relaxing in the therapeutic onsens that dot the periphery of this charming city.
Visit the Shitaya Jinja shrine in Tokyo
Tucked within Tokyo’s bustling city centre, the Shitaya Jinja shrine is a peaceful, spiritual temple complex dedicated to Inari, the goddess of fertility and fortune.
A local guide will accompany you through a traditional ritual, that begins with purifying your hands with water from a small reservoir at the entrance. Continue inside, where you will be guided to ring a bell followed by alternating bows and claps, to attract the deity’s attention. Wrap up the ritual by reciting a prayer and presenting your offerings, before enjoying some quiet, contemplative time in the shrine’s peaceful setting.
You will also get to interact with a Shinto priest, where you can ask any questions you might have about the Shinto faith. The priest will then bless your journey across Japan and wish you safe travels back home!
Gold leaf art and gorgeous gardens in Kanazawa
Visit one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, Kenrokuen in Kanazawa, with its beautifully manicured fountains, waterfalls, bridges, meandering paths, forests of cherry trees and Karasaki pine and teahouses.
The area is also famous for its gold leaf artefacts and craftsmen. Spend some time in a gold leaf workshop and learn about this delicate art as you try your hand at decorating a plate or a pair of chopsticks with this wafer-thin precious material. The final product is the perfect souvenir to take home!
Savour a ramen tour with an expert in Fukuoka
Foodies will love exploring Fukuoka’s lively night markets and sampling the best ramen the city has to offer. Aroma–filled rows of yatai (Japanese street stalls) pop up along the Naka river promenade every night, and your tour guide will point out the very best.
Spend some time exploring the historical harbour city and its beautiful ancient temples with magnificent Zen gardens, towering skyscrapers and thriving live music scene based on Mentai rock music, which flourished in Fukuoka during the 1980s.
Inspired to visit the Land of the Rising Sun? Explore our customisable holiday ideas or contact our Japan experts for your personalised trip plan.
Japan inspiration
For more exciting destination ideas, browse these Japan pages and start planning your next adventure.
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