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

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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!

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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

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USD179.57

(35 reviews)

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

2.5 hour(s) (evening)
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Meet Maiko and Have Tea Time in Gion Kyoto
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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

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From USD36.95

(40 reviews)

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Daily

(afternoon)
Maiko Dinner Show at Shozan Garden and Night Sightseeing in Kyoto Kyoto
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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

Special

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From USD74.57

6%
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(28 reviews)

Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

4 hour(s) (evening)
Ninja Training at Jidai Academy Dojo in Tokyo with English Interpreter Tokyo
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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

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From USD113.42

(6 reviews)

Daily

1.5 - 2 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Private Maiko Dance Performance in a Traditional Restaurant near Gion Kyoto

Relax with your group and enjoy a private performance by a maiko in a classic high-end Japanese restaurant. Savor a delicious kaiseki dinner, lunch or a few drinks in the heart of Kyoto.

Meal Provided

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From USD122.87

(3 reviews)

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Daily

1.5 - 2 hour(s) (afternoon, evening)
Wear Kimono in Asakusa with a Rental Dress Up Experience in Tokyo Tokyo
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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

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From USD47.26

(43 reviews)

Daily

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

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

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From USD50.02

62%
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(21 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
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

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USD193.94

(8 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

(evening)
Fantasy Kimono Photo Shoot and Makeover Experience in Tokyo Tokyo

Transform yourself with a traditional formal furisode kimono, an elaborate oiran outfit or a Japanese lolita-style kimono for a gorgeous, dress-up and photo session you can only do in Japan.

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USD283.54

(1 review)

Daily

(afternoon, evening)
Traditional Tea Ceremony in English near Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto Kyoto

Take a taste of true Japanese hospitality with an English-language tea ceremony conducted by a friendly tea master. Located just minutes from Kiyomizu Temple, a perfect addition to any trip.

English Available

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USD18.90

(8 reviews)

Daily

1 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, 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.

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USD58.60

(9 reviews)

Daily

17 hour(s) (afternoon)
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.

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USD51.98

(4 reviews)

Sat

1 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

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From USD33.08

(3 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
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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

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USD9.45

(17 reviews)

Mon, Wed, Fri

2.5 hour(s) (evening)
Day Time Aerial Helicopter Sightseeing Sky Cruise of Tokyo Tokyo

Lift off over Tokyo and check out the best tourist spots. Take a cruise around the popular spots such as SKYTREE and Tokyo Tower from above for an exclusive view.

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USD396.95

Daily

1 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Ryukyu Dance and Okinawan Dinner Show at Urashima in Naha Okinawa Main Island

Treat yourself with your choice of fabulous dinner sets and the amazing Okinawan dance show. Perfect for a night out in Naha, dive right into a fabulous evening.

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From USD32.86

8%
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(4 reviews)

Daily

(evening)
Samurai Experience at the Jidai Academy Dojo in Tokyo Tokyo

Learn the basics of fighting with a katana sword, and get in touch with your inner samurai. Open to everyone from beginners to martial artists, come learn the art of the sword in central Tokyo.

English Available

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From USD113.42

(1 review)

Daily

1.5 - 2 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
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

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From USD74.67

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Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

(morning)
Tea Ceremony and Take- Home Yukata Experience in Tokyo Tokyo
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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

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USD106.16

(3 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri

1.5 hour(s) (morning)
Private Yukata Lesson in Tokyo with Casual Kimono To Take Home! Tokyo

Learn how to properly tie a yukata (light cotton kimono) and obi sash, perfect for summer festivals! After taking pictures, you will take your yukata home!

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From USD93.91

Group Discount

Daily

1.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)

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