Cultural Experiences, Japan tours & activities, fun things to do in Japan

Choose area

When in Japan, don't miss the chance to experience the traditions of this fascinating country. Choose from a variety of classes in tea ceremony, calligraphy or zen meditation. Dress like a geisha, or stroll through town wearing a colorful kimono. Fans of Japan's martial arts can learn about the skills of the legendary ninja and samurai from masters. Book the best activities and read other travelers reviews on Veltra.

Traditional Dance

Learn the elegant moves of 'nihon buyo', traditional Japanese dance. Wear a kimono and get a feel for this ancient art form. You can also dive into local culture, and discover regional performance styles.
Geisha/ Maiko

While the maiko and geisha of Kyoto are icons of the ancient city, you can also meet geisha in Tokyo, Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Hakone and other locations. Book dinners with elegant geisha entertainment, or watch them perform beautiful dances. For a really unique memory, dress up as a geisha and stroll through the streets of Kyoto feeling like a celebrity.
Temple Lodging (Shukubo)

Stay overnight at a Buddhist temple, and take part in the morning prayers with the monks. An only-in-Japan experience, combine accommodation with an in-depth experience of Japan's zen tradition. Check out temples in Kyoto, Koya and more!
Ninja Experience

Learn the skills of Japan's legendary ninjas, or check out the best acrobatic shows (and even restaurants!). Whether you want to throw ninja stars or watch masters show off their training, find the tour and activities you are looking for on Veltra.
Samurai/ Bushido Experience

Even in modern day Japan, the spirit of the samurai lives on! From watching master swordsmen show off their skills to learning how to fight with a katana sword, experience bushido firsthand. Attend the famous Ninja Academy in Tokyo, or enjoy a show or class in Kyoto.
Pilgrimages

While the 88 Temple Pilgrimage in Shikoku is famous, there are many different temple and shrine pilgrimage routes across Japan. Walk the Kumano Kodo route, or check out the Chichibu Pilgrimage walk in Saitama, a fun trip from Tokyo. Whether by foot, bus or taxi, book the right tour for your needs.
Traditional Music

Music lovers will find Japan full of fascinating instruments and performance styles. From popular taiko drumming to elegant koto and shamisen, experience a taste of the country's fascinating musical traditions. In Okinawa make sure to check out folk song and sanshin (three-string banjo) shows, and feel the energy of the Ryukyu islands!
Tea Ceremony (Sado)

Also known as the Way of Tea, is an elegant art and form of hospitality based on Zen ideals. Open to beginners, take a moment to relax and enjoy a cup of green matcha tea while sightseeing. You can learn the basics of this tradition, and try whisking your own perfect bowl of tea. From the old-fashioned streets of Kyoto to skyscrapers in Tokyo, book a ceremony at the tea room closest to you.
Calligraphy (Shodo)

An artistic form of writing with a base in Zen Buddhism, shodo calligraphy is done using brushes dipped in black ink. Friendly instructors will show you how to write the kanji characters of your choice, allowing you to discover more about the language. Available in Tokyo, Kyoto and other locations.
Flower Arrangement (Ikebana)

Ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arrangement) focuses on shapes, line and space in the floral composition. Often more spare than Western flower arrangements, this meditative practice has become popular around the world. Have fun trying a beginner-friendly class, or refine your skills while in Japan.
Kimono Rental

Get dressed in a beautiful kimono or summer yukata, for amazing pictures of your trip to Japan. Choose your favorite kimono and watch as the staff transforms you into an elegant beauty. Stroll around Asakusa, Kyoto, Sapporo or even Okinawa in traditional dress, and feel like a celebrity.
Photo Studio

Have a professional photographer capture memories of your trip to Japan. Get dressed in kimono in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka or Okinawa, and pose like a model against the backdrop of the city. Transform into a geisha, or celebrate a wedding or engagement with a special bridal photo shoot. Looking for something more sexy? Then check out our oiran courtesan make-over experiences.
Traditional Sports/Martial Art

Watch sumo wrestlers match strength in the ring, learn how to do a perfect karate kick, and learn the spirit of bushido. Japan's traditional sports and martial arts are fascinating to watch and try out. From famous sports like judo to the elegant performances of yabusame (horse-back archery), learn more about Japanese culture and get a work out at the same time!
Zen Experiences

Introduced to Japan in the 6th century, Buddhism is one of Japan's main religions, and many of the most famous sights throughout the country are Buddhist temples. There are different options for visiting these temples, including basic tours, overnight temple stays, zen meditation classes, and more!

256Activities

1/13 pages

Top Seller

Maiko Dinner Show at Shozan Garden and Night Sightseeing in Kyoto Kyoto
TOP PICKS Instant Confirmation

Watch a maiko perform traditional dance as you enjoy a sumptuous kaiseki Kyoto dinner. Set against the backdrop of Higashiyama, a photography session with the maiko will make for amazing memories.

English Available

Meal Provided

View details

From USD72.74

6%
OFF

(27 reviews)

Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

4 hour(s) (evening)
Top Seller

Maiko Experience with Traditional Kaiseki Dinner at Gion Hatanaka in Kyoto Kyoto

Meet the beautiful trainee geisha of Kyoto and witness the secret traditions of Japan. Enjoy an evening of culture, entertainment and delicious food with the iconic geisha and maiko.

English Available

Meal Provided

View details

USD175.15

(28 reviews)

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

2.5 hour(s) (evening)
Top Seller
Top Rated

Meet Maiko and Have Tea Time in Gion Kyoto
TOP PICKS

Join real Geisha and Maiko in Kyoto as you sip green tea and watch an elegant performance. Taking place in a traditional Kyoto tea house, this is a special chance to meet and talk with the maiko.

English Available

View details

From USD36.04

(36 reviews)

Group Discount

Daily

(afternoon)
Maiko, Geisha or Samurai Makeover and Photo Session in Kyoto Kyoto
TOP PICKS

Become one of Kyoto's lovely maiko for a day. Professional staff will do the white make up and help you dress in a bright kimono before a photo shoot! You can also stroll Kyoto for even more pictures.

English Available

View details

From USD84.63

(20 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
Wear Kimono in Asakusa with a Rental Dress Up Experience in Tokyo Tokyo
TOP PICKS

Dress in a beautiful kimono and walk through lovely Asakusa! Choose your favorite kimono from a huge selection of designs. Everything from the traditional to modern and cute is available.

English Available

View details

From USD46.09

(40 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon)
Maiko Evening Performance with Unlimited Drinks in Kyoto Kyoto

Take a big step into the magical world of geisha and maiko with an amazing evening. Enjoy drinking while the maiko performs, then take the chance to chat in English and even take pictures!

English Available

View details

From USD107.04

(8 reviews)

Group Discount

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

(evening)
Special Geisha Performance and Games in the Heart of Tokyo Tokyo

Now is your chance to meet true geisha in Tokyo. See an elegant dance, play classic parlor games and take pictures with these icons of Japanese hospitality with helpful English support.

View details

USD50.70

(4 reviews)

Sat

1 hour(s) (evening)
Authentic Sumo Wrestler Morning Practice Viewing in Tokyo Tokyo

Watch professional sumo wrestlers during their morning practice in the famous sumo stables of Ryogoku. Experience the power of a sumo match up close.

English Available

View details

From USD72.83

Group Discount

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

(morning)
Top Rated

Gion Geisha District Evening Walking Tour in Kyoto with English-Speaking Guide Kyoto
Instant Confirmation

Learn about the life of geisha and maiko on this evening tour, led by a knowledgeable guide. Feel the history of Gion as you walk, and see Kyoto's famous maiko!

English Available

View details

USD9.22

(15 reviews)

Mon, Wed, Fri

2.5 hour(s) (evening)
Tea Ceremony Experience in an Authentic Tearoom in Ginza Tokyo

Encounter the world of tea in a quaint tearoom located near the famous Kabukiza in Ginza. With a friendly English-speaking tea master, learn more about the ceremony with delicious tea and sweets.

English Available

View details

From USD32.27

(3 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
Samurai Armor Photo Shoot in Central Shibuya Tokyo
TOP PICKS

Don the dramatic armor of a samurai warlord. Pick from a selection of perfect replicas, take awesome photos in a studio then head out to the streets of Shibuya to show off your awesome armor!

English Available

View details

From USDFree

100%
OFF

(1 review)

Review Rebate

Group Discount

Daily

2 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, evening)
Ninja Kyoto Restaurant and Show Reservations in Kyoto Kyoto
TOP PICKS Instant Confirmation

Step into the world of the Ninja with an evening of delicious food, drinks and spectacular entertainment. Enjoy acrobatic dances, thrilling combat and more!

Meal Provided

View details

From USD32.27

(15 reviews)

Weekend

(afternoon, evening)
Meet a Maiko in Kyoto with Dance Show, Dinner and Easy Transportation Kyoto
TOP PICKS Instant Confirmation

Experience the real Kyoto by meeting a maiko. See her perform traditional dances, and get the chance to play Japanese party games! After that, treat yourself with an included Kyoto style dinner.

English Available

Pick-up Provided

Meal Provided

View details

USD129.06

(3 reviews)

Mon, Wed, Fri

2 hour(s) (evening)
Summer River Terrace Dining with Maiko Dance Performance in Kyoto Kyoto
TOP PICKS Instant Confirmation

Relax the Kyoto way with a summertime gourmet meal while listening to the sounds of the river and watching maiko put on an elegant performance.

English Available

Pick-up Provided

Meal Provided

View details

USD177.92

(1 review)

Mon, Tue, Thu

3.5 - 5 hour(s) (evening)
Overnight Stay at Ninnaji Temple and Morning Prayer Service in Kyoto Kyoto

Spend a night in the tranquil beauty of Kyoto's Ninnaji Temple, a World Heritage Site. In the morning join a reflective prayer led by temple monks, an enlightening way to start your day.

View details

USD57.16

(8 reviews)

Daily

17 hour(s) (afternoon)
Ninja Training at Jidai Academy Dojo in Tokyo with English Interpreter Tokyo
TOP PICKS

Learn from the ninja masters of the Musashi Clan and train in real ninjutsu. Try throwing ninja stars, practicing meditation, and see real ninja weapons in the heart of Tokyo!

English Available

View details

From USD110.62

(6 reviews)

Daily

1.5 - 2 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Tea Ceremony and Take- Home Yukata Experience in Tokyo Tokyo
TOP PICKS Instant Confirmation

Learn how to wear a yukata (light cotton kimono) and obi sash, which you will then get to take home! Then take part in a traditional tea ceremony.

English Available

View details

USD103.54

(3 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri

1.5 hour(s) (morning)
Private Dinner with a Kyoto Maiko at Nishijin Tondaya with English Support Kyoto

Meet one of Kyoto's lovely maiko, who will dance and provide traditional Japanese style hospitality during a private dinner at the Nishijin Tondaya machiya townhouse.

English Available

Meal Provided

View details

From USD209.08

(2 reviews)

Group Discount

Daily

2.5 hour(s) (evening)
Kimono Rental and Kimono Dressing in Nihonbashi Tokyo

Wear a beautiful kimono of your choice, take pictures and explore the city dressed to impress. We will store your clothes and belongings for you!

View details

USD50.70

(7 reviews)

Sat

(morning, afternoon)
Kimono or Hakama Dressing and Rental in Yokohama Yokohama/ Minatomirai

Yokohama is an ideal day trip from Tokyo, and a fun place to explore while dressed in a gorgeous kimono. Experience wearing Japan's traditional outfit, and have fun taking pictures around the city!

View details

From USD32.27

Daily

(morning, afternoon)

Cultural Experiences, Japan tours & activities, fun things to do in Japan | VELTRA

Choose area

Filtered SearchClear

Japan Categories