All Reviews for Cultural Experiences

C était tres rapide. Et une photo pas plus, je n ai même pas pu prendre de photo avec mon fils.

Very good seat in the 3rd row through Veltra for the Gion Odori.
A fascinating look at a performance by geikas and maikos.

Not with the green tea ceremony but the show was amazing!

Visiting Hōryū-ji and Chūgū-ji individually often took a lot of time to move to Nishi no Kyō afterward. It was impossible to reach Tōshōdai-ji in one day. There were times when I arrived at Nishi no Kyō Station and it was already 5 PM! It was disappointing.

However, the regular sightseeing bus tours allowed for a leisurely visit, and in addition, enjoying tea while viewing the garden at Jikō-in added one more delight to my experience in Nara. This time, I visited in autumn before the leaves changed color; next time, I would like to experience Nara in winter with its snowy scenery, and in spring with fresh greenery, all through this tour.

法隆寺・中宮寺を個人で拝観し、その後西の京への移動は時間が掛ることが多かった。唐招提寺まで一日では無理。ある時は西の京駅に着いたら、もう5時!
残念というときもありました。
　さすがに、定期観光バスのツアーそれぞれがゆっくり拝観できたことに加え、慈光院でお庭を見ながらのお茶、奈良の楽しみが一つ増えました。今回は紅葉前の秋、次は、雪景色の冬、新緑の春など季節に彩られた奈良をこのツアーで味わってみたいものです。

We went on the Yakatabune Dinner Cruise in late October 2018. The directions to the port were clear and easy to follow. Very easy to get to via the subway (Oedo Line - Kachidoki station). I made sure I printed the Veltra voucher emailed to me. When I got to the pier, I showed the attendant the voucher and he directed us to the boat.

Once everyone boarded, they explained everything in Japanese and English (although the English was not great, it was understandable). The food served was delicious. I tried some new things I would never have ordered if I were to pick from a menu. The food kept coming, they served six types of tempura, and it was filling. All you can drink beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) was good too. We had several rounds of sake.

At several locations the boat stopped for picture taking upstairs above the main eating area. It was nice that this was an option. Several people went upstairs to take in the sights during the dinner. The party I was with enjoyed ourselves and the meal, it looked like the other parties enjoyed themselves as well.

If I had the chance, I would go again and would specifically seek the Harumiya Yakatabune cruise because of the wonderful experience

I wanted to create a memorable item for my wedding anniversary with my husband, so I participated in this experience. It started with choosing a glass, and there were so many options that I could select my favorite. The experience included proper practice and clear explanations, which made me feel very at ease. I had no worries about cutting my fingers while handling the blades, so I could work comfortably. The adjustments were challenging, but if anything came up, the instructor was there to help, resulting in a very satisfying finished product. Choosing a difficult design took a bit longer, but they were very attentive without rushing me, and at the end, I was able to take photos at a beautifully lit spot that looked great for Instagram. When I posted the photos on Instagram, I received many inquiries from friends asking where I did this. Given the level of satisfaction, the price is very reasonable!

主人との結婚記念日に何か思い出の品を作りたいと思い、参加させていただきました。グラス選びから始まりましたが、種類もたくさんあり、好きなものを選ぶことができました。体験は練習もきちんとあって説明もわかりやすく、とても安心できました。刃を触っても指が切れたりする心配が全くないので安心して作業を行うことができます。加減は難しいですが、何かあったら先生が手直しもしてくださるので、とても満足できる物が仕上がりました。難しい柄を選んだことで少し時間がかかってしまいましたが、急かすこともなく丁寧に対応していただけましたし、最後にインスタ映えしそうなライトアップした撮影スポットでの撮影もさせていただけました。写真をインスタに載せると、友達からどこでやったのかとたくさん聞かれました。この満足度でこの値段はとてもお安いです！

The maiko was "Toshinami" from "Komaya" in Miyagawacho! She made her debut last November and is a first-year maiko... so innocent and adorable~♪ ^ ^ She came to our table to teach us about the tea ceremony when I was a bit lost, and she gracefully performed two songs: the classic "Gion Kouta" and "Momiji no Hashi" using a fan (though I was a bit unsure about that one). She also answered all our questions thoroughly, and during photo sessions, she was happy to respond to pose requests, making it a great value for the experience. So, for those of you who might think it's a bit intimidating (especially women), I highly recommend it!

舞妓さんは宮川町”駒屋”の『とし菜実』さんでした～！
昨年11月にお見世出し（舞妓デビュー）した舞妓初年生で・・・おぼこい、おぼこいぃ～♪ ^ ^
お茶のお点前もまごついてるとちゃんと席まで来て教えて貰えましたし、舞も定番の「祇園小唄」と扇子を使った「もみじの橋」←（やや自信なし）の2曲をしっとりと魅させて貰いました～。
Q&Aにもしっかりと答えて貰えますし、写真撮影時にはポーズのリクエストにも応えて貰えたりと非常にコストパフォーマンスが良いので・・・ちょっと敷居が高いんじゃ？な～んて思ってるそこの貴方（女）にもお薦めです～。

I attended a performance for the first time in June. The pre-show explanation provided an overview of the flow and the comedic moments, making it easy to get into the experience. After the show, the actors added further explanations, which deepened my understanding. There was also a photo opportunity, and during the part where the story was expressed through a traditional play, when I requested a ghost, they creatively acted it out, making for a very enjoyable time. I was a bit disappointed that there wasn't that time this time. I will invite different friends to go see it again. Ten people might be difficult, though! (*^.^*)

６月 口真似をはじめて観劇しました。
前説で 全体の流れ、笑いどこを教えて頂いたので、入りやすかったです。
舞台終了後 役者の方が更に説明を加えて下さり
理解を深める事が出来ました。また写真撮影タイムがあったり、物語を狂言で表現してくださるところでは ゴーストをお願いしたら 工夫しながらも 演じて下さりとても楽しい時間が過ごせました。今回 その時間がなく少し残念でした
また 違う友人誘って 観に行きます。
10人は 難しいですが(*^.^*)

I had a great time!
I was able to have an experience that is hard to come by.
I also learned a lot about maiko!
If I have the chance to go to Kyoto again, I would like to participate!

とても楽しかったです❗
なかなか経験出来ない体験をさせてもらいました。
舞妓さんについてもくわしく知ることが出来ました‼️
また京都にいく機会があれば参加したいとおもいます❗

I reserved a 30-minute Kyoto dance course. It was finally possible to make a reservation during the tourist season, and everyone from abroad was very happy to experience Japanese culture up close. The interpreter also communicated well, so even though it was a short time, we were able to have a very meaningful cultural exchange. Thank you very much.

京舞踊３０分コースを予約しました。観光シーズンで漸く予約できましたが、外国からの皆さんは、日本の文化をまじかに感じることができ、大変喜んでおりました。通訳の方もしっかりコミュニケーション頂きましたので、短い時間でしたが非常に有意義な文化交流ができました。ありがとうございました。

The workshop was a really nice experience. Our teacher was a really friendly guy. I can definitely recommend it if you have time to do it!
The location is easy to find and just one stop from Ikebukuro. Our fake Ramen is a nice memory, that will us remind of our time in Japan.

This was one of the best things we did on our trip. Our instructor spoke great English and was so nice! We learned how to make lettuce and shrimp tempura and now I want to make so much more! Can't recommend it more!

I really enjoyed the activity. The teacher is really nice, very patient when explaining something. However I expect to learn from the very basic step, knowing that we tend to just stick one thing and another made me a little bit disappointed. Regardless, it was indeed a good learning experience for me. Thank you!

We missed the shuttle bus so taking a taxi was our only option. The Hotel Monterey Kyoto front desk was so kind and willing; she called the cab and informed the taxi driver where to drop us off which saved us a lot of time. The shuttle from the restaurant came out and met us about a mile away as the roads get narrow and difficult to find for drivers unfamiliar with that area. The cab fare came out to be about $35-40 from the Hotel (which was less than what I expected). I highly recommend catching the shuttle service on time (be there early as they will leave exactly on time!)-- not only it's more comfortable having someone drive you to the restaurant, but it will save you time and money.

The restaurant is located in a very secluded and quiet area, completely surrounded by nature. They will greet and walk you to your designated table. The guiding lights in the complete dark woods make the ambience more beautiful. All meals will come out in your eating pace... which is important because I eat pretty slow and sometimes course meals rush you to hurry up and eat. I wasn't sure how to eat fish properly (whether I was supposed to eat the whole entire fish or leave the head or tail), so the older lady came over and removed all the bones for me. Service was fantastic.

There were two Maikos that night-- both Maikos came around, very willing to take pictures and answer questions/ conversate with you. When they start their dancing, I couldn't help but to stare in awe. They look like walking dolls. They also had goodies before the show (i.e a fan, canvas bag, etc). It was a pleasant experience. I highly recommend this tour. I want to do this again if I travel back to Kyoto in near future.

The guide's explanations were easy to understand and great. I was drawn in by their engaging way of speaking that kept everyone interested. I would like to go on a different course next time. Thank you very much.

ガイドさんの
お話がわかりやすくて良かったです。
人を飽きさせない話し方に引き込まらました
また、違うコースで行きたいと思います
よろしくお願いいたします

From the drive out of Kyoto Center up the cool hills past traditional tiled roofed houses, to our evening end with our gracious hosts smiling behind us as we walked back over the rope footbridge with the twinkling Japanese lanterns lighting the lush green river - A Magical Evening indeed.
Arriving at sunset, you see the beauty of the hot spring resort with our tables overlooking the river and mountain forest. We ordered the snow course (full- larger Kayseki) dinner. Traditional hosts (who speak only a little English) took us to our low tables set with course 1, gift Japanese fans and menu's in English. Sake and beer is additional. We had 2 Maiko's that evening, each separately visited all the tables to take pictures. (they speak Japanese, but can answer a little of English questions) Food was fresh, delicious and so artistically presented course by course. The beautiful dance & musical entertainment was lovely in the intimate setting. Each group had their own tables and the room is not too large. Splurge and treat yourself to this special experience.

I went to this dinner with my mother and we both had an amazing time. There were several other people from overseas there and they introduced all of us and where we were from, which was sweet. I speak Japanese, but it was almost not necessary as everyone spoke English well. The MC translated pretty much everything into English so everyone could understand. Also, the Japanese locals were kind and joking around with us, so we felt completely comfortable.

The food was very good. And there was a LOT. I see some reviews saying there wasn't enough food, but if you eat all of it and have a reasonable amount of drinks, you will not leave hungry. Obviously it is a traditional Japanese meal, so be prepared to eat Japanese food!! - raw fish, fish cakes, sweet red beans, etc. If you don't like the food, of course you might leave hungry, but you're in Japan so you should try it...

The atmosphere of the evening started out calm, but then it turned into a party. There was singing, a dragon running around pretending to bite people's heads, and taking pictures with giant beer bottles. This might not make sense now, but it will. Harumiya does a great job at entertaining. I was laughing the whole time. So, if you're thinking about going to this dinner, you definitely should.

I was able to enjoy a delicious meal while watching the adorable maiko. They answered many of my questions, and above all, experiencing the coveted ozashiki play at this price is a lifelong memory! I lost at "shurashushu" (?), but having the maiko pour me a drink is something I probably won't experience again (laughs). The senjafuda was beautiful, and I was really happy to take pictures together.

可愛い舞妓さんを見ながら、美味しいお食事が出来ました。
質問にもたくさん答えていただけましたし、何より憧れのお座敷遊びがこのお値段で体験できたことは一生の思い出です！
しゅらしゅしゅしゅ（？）で負けてしまったのですが、舞妓さんにお酌していただいて飲める機会なんて、もうないんじゃないでしょうか（笑）
千社札も綺麗で、お写真も一緒に撮っていただけて、本当に幸せな体験でした。

At Jinmatsu-an, you have to pay 500 yen for seats close to the maiko, which felt unfair. I wish all the seats were chairs so that everyone could see the maiko up close. There was dissatisfaction with being seated far from the maiko and not being able to see them closely. It felt a bit profit-driven to have to pay 500 yen for that. I would also like more time for questions. Additionally, I would prefer if a microphone were used for explanations, as it was hard to hear. In short, I hope the company makes more efforts to ensure customer satisfaction.

甚松庵では舞妓に近い席は500円払わないといけないので、
不公平感があった。全ての席を椅子にして、全員が近くで舞妓を見れるようにして欲しい。席が舞妓より遠く、近くで見れない不満が残った。500円払わないといけないところなど、少し儲け主義なような気がした。質問の時間をもっと取ってほしい。また、説明はマイクを使って欲しい。声が聞こえにくかった。つまり、お客さんがもっと満足するよう企業努力してほしい。

Staff were friendly and professional when dressing us. We did not feel the language barrier was a problem. Good selection of Yukata and accessories to choose from. Refreshments were given upon arrival and plenty of time to return outfits. The service was excellent, the staff made sure we were all comfortable when dressing us in the undergarments and outer garments. A very enjoyable cultural experience and wore Yakata to Nagoya Castle for photographs.

It's not something a complete beginner can create intricate patterns right away. However, I was able to make a fairly nice glass. I would like to try making it again if I get the chance.

いきなり初心者が難しい柄を作れるものでは無いです。
でも、それなりにステキなグラスが作れました。
機会があったらまた作りたいです。

This time, I participated with my grandchild and daughter-in-law. I was worried about the typhoon, but perhaps it was due to our good behavior. We were able to see a beautiful sunset and forgot about our daily lives. My grandchild and I were both moved. I will include this in my plans for next time as well.

今回孫と嫁の3人で参加しました。台風が心配でしたが、日頃の行いでしょうか。綺麗な、夕陽も見れて日頃の生活も忘れました。孫共々感動しました。次回も予定に入れます。

It was wonderful! We used it for a company trip. It received high praise across three generations. The staff who served us were also very pleasant.

最高でした〜。慰安旅行で使わせて頂きました。3世代にわたって高評価でした。接客してくださる方も気持ちの良い方でした。

This tour is "twice as enjoyable" not only because of the riverside setting but also because you can meet maiko. Three maiko came to visit us. They went around to each table, allowing us to enjoy friendly conversations. It was amazing to see the dance up close. Last time, we had sukiyaki for our meal, so this time I opted for kaiseki. The summer dishes like hamo sashimi and grilled sweetfish were delightful. Additionally, there was a lottery event (on the 3rd and 5th of the month), which added to the excitement! (Although I didn't win anything... (^^;))

川床だけでなく、舞妓さんにも会えるという「２度おいしい」ツアーです。舞妓さんは３人来てくれました。各テーブルに回ってきてくれるので、気さくにおしゃべりを楽しむことができました。舞もすぐ近くで見ることができて最高でした。前回は食事がすき焼きだったので、今回は懐石にしてみました。鱧おとしや鮎の塩焼きなど、夏らしい料理で良かったです。また、今回はちょうど抽選会(３と５のつく日)があって、ワクワク感を楽しめました！（何も当たりませんでしたが…(^^;)）

The weather was bad, so I couldn't see the sunset, but the Okinawan songs and the course meal were delicious, so it was good.

I'm glad I went.

天気が悪かったせいか、サンセットは見れなかったですが、沖縄の歌とコース料理も美味しかったので、よかったです。

行けてよかったです。

The bad weather due to the typhoon was unavoidable, but the food was disappointing. I had hoped for at least a decent dessert, but this was it. I would have preferred vanilla ice cream instead.

I might have had overly high expectations, but I wouldn't recommend this place to others.

台風の影響でお天気が悪かったのは仕方ないですが、料理が残念でした。
せめてものデザート..と期待しましたが、これ。これなら、バニラアイスの方がましでした。

過度な期待をしてしまっていたのかもしれませんが、周りにおすすめはしません。

Well worth the time and just north of Akihabara, this was an amazing Shodo class that taught my family more than just one character. She let us make the ink we would use later to write everything with the calligraphy brush. The instructor explained the different characters used in Japanese and how one was derived from another, showing and letting us write those too. Then we got to chose a word to practice writing for the final draft on heavy duty paper. This would also include our names in Japanese, which she translated and included on the example that we followed. After many practice papers, we did the final draft, which was signed with the instructor's red stamp.

This was something the girls (daughters & girlfriend) really wanted to do. I was not as enthusiastic about it.
When we arrived the staff was extremely friendly and immediately tended to all of our needs/requirements. We chose our Kimonos and they dressed us all up. They made up the females' hair really nice and beautiful and gave us more than enough time to walk around Asakusa after. There is a great temple about a block away to take super pictures at.
Additionally, one of the staff members makes origami earrings and they are for sale at a very great price. They also have fans, umbrellas and other accessories for rent/sale.
The overall experience was actually better than I thought it would be. We had such a great time. The downside to it was getting some dirty looks from some of the locals; however, for the most part, many enjoyed it and took pictures of/with us. There were more people who liked it than not. There was a family (Japanese) who was in there prior to us dressing up and walking around as well. We saw them later at the temple along with a few others from other kimono places all dressed up. So we did not feel out of place once we saw others.
I highly recommend this company if you want a great Kimono experience. They also have Samurai wear and other traditional dresses. Look them up (Sakura Photography in Asakusa).

Lot of fun! Great service and company. View was wonderful

First, the instruction is thorough. The staff is refined and polite. You are also allowed to practice properly. For those with presbyopia, reading glasses may be essential.

The finished work can be photographed with the Asahi Beer sculpture visible through the window. There is also a dedicated shooting area with good lighting, which was great.

The completed work is packaged like a purchased product and placed in an original paper bag.

まず指導が丁寧。品のいいスタッフ。練習もちゃんとさせてもらえます。老眼の人は老眼のメガネが必須かも。
出来上がった作品は、窓越しに見えるアサヒビールのオブジェを入れて撮影可能。またライティングがしっかりしている専用撮影場所もあって良かったです。
出来上りの作品は買った商品のように箱詰めされ、オリジナルのペーパーバックに入れてもらえます。