All Reviews for Cultural Experiences

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。

We experienced this with three fourth-grade girls. They were slow to catch on and not very skilled, but I am grateful to the staff who kindly assisted each one of them. We participated because I wanted them to bring handmade items as souvenirs for their homestay family abroad, and I am very excited to see how they will explain it to their family.

小学四年女子三人で体験しました。飲み込みも遅いし手際も悪い、なのに一人一人に丁寧に対応してくださったスタッフさんに感謝です。
海外ホームステイ先へのお土産にと手作りの品を持たせたく参加しましたが、彼女たちがファミリーに何と説明するのか、とても楽しみです。

Since there is a member who doesn't drink alcohol, the one and a half hour duration was just right. I would like to use it again.

メンバーにお酒を飲まない人がいるため、1時間半という時間がちょうど良かったです。また利用したいと思います。

The atmosphere by the river, the delicious food, chatting with the maiko, and watching the fireflies were all wonderful! I want to take my grandmother next time. ^^

川床の雰囲気、おいしいご飯、舞妓さんとのお話、ホタル鑑賞全てが良かったです！
今度はおばあちゃんを連れて行ってあげたくなりました^^

It was a cozy place with a great view. I hadn't thought about the design, so it was a bit spontaneous, but I had fun. I got a bit discouraged by my lack of skill along the way, but I managed to finish. The teacher comforted me by saying, "You're doing great!" I promised my friend a rematch. I don't know when it will be, but I will definitely come back.

見晴らしのいい場所で、こじんまりとした場所でした。
デザインを考えてなかったので行き当たりバッタリでしたが、楽しかったです。
途中で自分の下手さにへこみましたがなんとか仕上げました。先生が上手に出来てますよ！と慰めてくれます。友達とリベンジを約束しました。いつになるかわかりませんが、また伺います。

Fun and unique chance to experience a traditional Japanese craft and walk away with a personal souvenir. Would happily do it again.

My parents took this tour and had a wonderful time. The setting was beautiful and the evening couldn’t have been more perfect with nice warm weather. They really enjoyed the meal of Shabu Shabu and felt the meat was tender and delicious. They really enjoyed meeting the Maiko and admiring her beautiful clothing and make up as well as her dancing. They staff were all very friendly and the included transport back to their hotel was very convenient.

The introduction by the members of the Enban Rider was very accessible, as they replaced the traditional elements of Kyogen with relatable topics before diving into the performance. After the show, the Kyogen performers provided explanations and shared behind-the-scenes stories, which was quite enlightening. This time, since there was extra time, we were treated to an improvised Kyogen based on a prompt, which allowed us to see a ghost—definitely a bonus!

円盤ライダーの方々の前説で狂言入門的な事や演目を身近なことに置き換えて、演じていただいた後に演目に入るので、とても分かりやすいです。
終わってからも、狂言師さんたちの解説もあり、裏話的な事も聞けたし、今回は時間が余ったということで、お題目からの即興狂言でゴーストが見れてお得でした。

Every year, I participate in my child's birthday celebration. This is the third time, and this time I was disappointed for the first time.

The seat I had was completely blocked by a pillar, so I couldn't see anything. Even when they were singing the birthday song, I couldn't see, which made my child disappointed too.

I wondered why we were given this seat when there were so many other seats available. The photo with the cake also had the "Happy Birthday" text crooked and cut off halfway.

For the staff on the boat, it might just be another day out of 365, but for me, who participates once a year for my child's birthday, it's an important day. In the past two years, my child was happy and wanted to celebrate their birthday on the boat, so we traveled to Okinawa, but now I'm reconsidering for the next birthday.

毎年、子供の誕生日に参加してます。今回で3回目
今回は、初めてガッカリしたしました

ステージが柱のせいで全く見えない席でした。
子供の誕生日の歌を歌っているときも見えないので、子供もガッカリ

他にも席がたくさん余ってるなかで、なぜここの席❓っと思ってしまいました
ケーキと一緒の写真も誕生日おめでとうの字が曲がって途中で切れてるし

船の方々からすれば365/1日かもしれませんが、年に1回の誕生日に合わせて参加してる私からすれば大事な1日です。
前々回、前回と、子供が喜んで、舟で誕生日がしたいと沖縄旅行してましたが次の誕生日は、考えてしまいます

I loved everything about this experience. The shop/factory is situated in a lovely little area of Tokyo (near Kita-Ikebukuro station) - easy to get to, and very welcoming on arrival. Our teacher did not speak much English, but was so helpful and demonstrated everything we needed to do. He also borrowed a translator from his colleague to ask us about our holiday plans and to recommend activities.

Myself and my friend came away with our beautiful miniature sundaes, and also some other purchases from the shop for friends and family. Absolutely delightful! Do make this a part of your trip to Japan.

We were so glad that we decided to purchase this dinner. The restaurant have an amazing view of the river and eating at the kawandoko (terrace on top of the river) is an experience not to be missed. We got the shabu shabu meal and it was perfect since when we went, it was raining and cold, so it was the perfect warming up meal for us.
The maiko came at around 7 and talk to each of the table, take photos and answer a few simple questions. She can't speak well in English, but she can understand if you speak basic English and very slowly. Then she performed 2 dances, they both very elegant and beautiful.
At around 8 pm, the restaurant switch off the lights, so that we can watch fireflies around the riverside. Apparently this is only happens in June. It was truely an amazing and unforgettable experience for both of us.
The pick up and return transfer is pretty efficient too, very happy overall. Definitely would recommend!

Yamato Sample was one of the highlights of our trip. The staff was very accommodating, and could speak English better than I can speak Japanese. They explained the processes behind creating each type of sample. It really gives you an appreciation for their craft since they take so much care in doing it. The staff guides you in making the sample of your choosing. Highly recommended!

This tour is especially recommended for adult women! It's guaranteed to boost your femininity. The fresh greenery of Kibune is a place where nobles once sought coolness, crossing mountains to reach this coveted summer retreat. Below the suspension bridge flows a clear stream, accompanied by the sounds of waterfalls and rivers, as well as the calls of the stream frogs. Enjoy delicious mountain and ocean delicacies. Additionally, you'll have the chance to interact with maiko and watch their dances. The experience concludes with firefly viewing, making it a truly precious experience that you can't normally enjoy. The staff were very pleasant, and I felt great throughout. I had a wonderful time. Thank you very much!

特に、大人の女性におススメ！女子力アップ間違いなしのツアーです。新緑の貴船。そこは、かつて貴族が涼を求め、山を越えて行った憧れの避暑地。吊り橋の下は清流。滝と川のせせらぎ、カジカの鳴き声。美味しい山の幸、海の幸。そして、舞妓さんとの触れ合いと踊りの鑑賞。最後の締めは、蛍鑑賞など、全てのものが普段では味わえないとても貴重な体験。お店の皆様もとても感じが良く、気持ち良かったです。とても楽しめました。本当にありがとうございました。

This trip was very pleasant experience. I was there with my mom and we both enjoyed very much. Food was great. Two people share a hot pot, with one big plate of Japanese beef and one plate of vegetable! The highlight was to watch Maikos dance in a very close distance! I can see her holding her pose and dancing slow but gracefully. It is breathtaking! I would say this is the best trip you can do to get the completely Kyoto experience! Love it!!

Great work shop on food sampling and the intructor speaks English an added plus. Most of the other workshops you need to have a interpret with you but not with this one...Try and make it and it just plain fun....

My brother, who lives abroad, came to Japan with guests he has been taking care of locally. Since he has visited Japan several times before, he is familiar with places like Asakusa and Ginza. We decided to go on a yakatabune (houseboat) tour as the final part of this trip. I joined him along with my elementary school son. We received a confirmation call the day before.

On the day of the tour, as we exited the station and crossed Umayabashi, we spotted the boat we were about to board, which got my son very excited! We checked in at the store and waited in front of the store with others who were also boarding the same boat until it was time to depart. A staff member holding a flag guided us to the boarding area, which was just across the crosswalk in front of the store. The weather was nice that day, so there were no issues, but I wondered what they do in case of rain. Only about five people can wait inside the store.

I tend to get seasick easily, and while the boat was stationary, I felt a bit uneasy due to the swaying. However, once we started moving, there were no problems at all. The staff on board were very friendly and accommodating, and the freshly fried tempura was delicious, allowing us to have a great time. We made a brief stop at Odaiba, and the night view from the boat was stunning! There was also a vendor selling clam tsukudani who came by, and I was able to taste it before purchasing, which was great. We enjoyed it at home the next morning and wished we had bought more.

My son has loved water buses since he was little and has taken the route from Takeshiba to Asakusa many times, but those rides only last about 30 minutes. This time, we got to enjoy it for two and a half hours. I was a bit worried about having a child on a full boat and whether we would disturb others, but the staff and everyone else were very kind, and we all had a wonderful time together. I was concerned that some people might get overly drunk at the all-you-can-drink section, but everyone was very well-mannered, which I think was due to the excellent service from the staff.

We took off our shoes to enter the boat, and the interior, including the restroom, was very clean. We were able to enjoy ourselves comfortably until we disembarked, and on the way back, we all talked about wanting to do it again. I wrote a lot, but I wanted to share how much fun we had.

Oh, and the last dessert, the brown sugar pudding bun, was incredibly delicious. I wonder where I can buy it...

海外に住む弟が、現地でいろいろとお世話になっているゲストを連れての来日。過去数回日本観光はしているので、浅草も銀座も慣れているし・・・と思いついたのが屋形船。今回の日本観光の最後に屋形船ツアーを計画し、それに私も便乗して、小学生の息子と参加しました。前日に確認の電話を頂戴しました。
当日は駅から地上に出て厩橋を渡っている時に、これから乗ると思われる船が見えて息子は大興奮！店舗で受付をし、出発時間まで店舗前で同じ船に乗る方々と待機し、時間になると旗を持ったお店の方が乗船場まで連れて行って下さいます。店舗前の横断歩道を渡ってすぐ。当日は天気が良かったので問題ありませんが、雨天の場合にはどうしているんだろう・・・と思いました。店舗内には5名程度しか待っていることができません。
私は船に簡単に酔ってしまう体質で、停船している間は揺れてる・・・と不安になりましたが、動き出したら全く問題なし。船内のスタッフの方々も皆さんとても対応が良くフレンドリーで、揚げたて天ぷらもとてもおいしく、楽しい時間を過ごすことができました。途中、お台場でしばし停船。船上から見る夜景はとてもキレイ！小さな船でアサリの佃煮を売りに来る業者さんもいて、味見もさせてもらえたので、しっかり食べてから購入しました。翌朝自宅でいただきましたが、これがまたとても美味しく、もっと買ってくれば良かったね、と話していました。
息子は小さい頃から水上バスが好きで、竹芝から浅草までの路線には何度も乗ったことがあったのですが、乗船できるのは30分程度。今回は2時間半も楽しむことができました。満席の船内に子供が1人、周りの方々にもご迷惑をおかけすることがないか不安ではあったのですが、スタッフの方をはじめ、皆様に良くして頂き、皆で楽しい時間を過ごすことができました。飲み放題の席では、泥酔したりする人も出ちゃうのかな・・・なんて不安もありましたが、皆様とてもマナーが良く、これもスタッフの方々の給仕が良いからなのかな、と感じました。靴を脱いで船内に入りますが、トイレも含め、船内はとてもきれいです。下船するまで気持ち良く利用することができ、また乗りたいね～と帰り路は皆で話していました。長々と綴ってしまいましたが、とても楽しい時間を過ごすことができたので、それをお伝えしたくて。
そうそう、食事の最後のデザートの黒糖プリンまんじゅうがとても美味しかったです。どこで購入できるのかなぁ・・・。

We took our two kids, ages 5 and 7, to make large parfaits and ramen. The kids loved doing it, and they now have great souvenirs that were thoughtfully packaged for traveling. Also, there were two small parks near the location on the way to the train station for the kids to release their energy.