All Reviews for Cultural Experiences

This was my second experience. Last time, I chose a cherry-colored tumbler from a wide variety of glass shapes and colors, but this time, the colored glasses were limited to light blue, dark blue, and dark red, with only one shape available for each color. Since there were 11 participants from a company alumni gathering, I had hoped to create something with my preferred glass, but in the end, I had no choice but to select a clear glass. Many participants expressed disappointment afterward, saying, "It's a shame there were no colored glasses."

Additionally, last time, the staff made adjustments after the pieces were completed, but that didn't happen this time, which was disappointing. At first, I was nervous about carving, but as I got used to it, it became enjoyable, and I felt like I wanted to challenge myself to create a more elaborate piece with colored glass next time. Overall, it was a very fun experience, and I would like to try it again.

今回2回目の体験です。前回はグラスの形状、カラーが豊富で桜色のタンブラーを選びましたが、今回はカラーのグラスが薄い水色、濃いブルー、濃い赤のみでそれも各色1種類の形状のみでした。今回は会社のOBの集まりで11名参加と言うこともあり、出来るだけお好みのグラスで作成して頂きたかったのですが、結局、透明のグラスを選ぶしか無くて、参加後の感想も「色のグラスがなかったのが残念」と言う声が多数ありました。
また、前回は出来上がってからお店の方が修正を入れてくださったのですが、今回はそれがなかったのが残念でした。
始めは恐々削っていましたが、慣れてくると楽しくなって、カラーグラスでもう少し凝った作品にチャレンジしたいと思いました。
体験としてはとても楽しかったのでまた体験したいと思います。

I chose to celebrate my birthday on a yakatabune (houseboat). The staff was very kind, and the other guests were friendly, making it a birthday to remember for a lifetime.

誕生日のお祝いを屋形船でしたく選びました。とても親切でお客さんたちも優しく一生の思い出になる誕生日を過ごせたと喜んでいました。

Among the many plans available for groups, this place also offers plans for smaller numbers, so I applied. I was informed that the event would be held once the planned number of participants was reached, but I received a message confirming that it was all set. It was my first time on a yakatabune, and the food (especially the freshly fried tempura) was delicious. The view was also great. The all-you-can-drink option was nice too. Since this time it was during the day, I thought I would like to see the night view next time if I have the opportunity.

団体様向けのプランが多い中、ここは少人数でのプランもあり申込しました。開催は申込予定人数達成によるとの事でしたが、連絡があり大丈夫との事でした。屋形船は初めてで料理（特に揚げたての天ぷらは美味しいかった）.景色も良かった。飲み放題も良いですね。今回は日中だったので、機会があったら今度は夜の夜景を見たいと思いました。

Recently, despite the sudden heavy rain, we were blessed with good weather and enjoyed a private experience without the scorching heat. The boatman explained everything well and was friendly, allowing us to relax for an hour. With a roof overhead, we could enjoy the shade while fanning ourselves in a pleasant atmosphere. After dealing with a lot of unpleasant things lately, I was able to spend time peacefully. Additionally, there were other boats around, and it seemed like everyone was unsure of their direction and might collide, but the boatman helped us escape slowly. Thank you very much.

最近ゲリラ豪雨もある中天気に恵まれカンカン照りでもなく優雅に貸切で堪能しました。
船頭さんも良く説明のタイミングがよく
話したら気さくに話をかえしてくれてのんびり1時間過ごせました。
屋根ありなので日陰のなか扇子をあおぎ良い空間を過ごせます。
最近嫌なことが多かった為、心穏やかに過ごせました。また、周りにテゴキボートがいて、みんな行きたい方向がわからずぶつかられそうでしたが船頭さんはゆっくりと脱出してくれました。
ありがとうございました。

- During the hot summer, I was able to conserve my energy while sightseeing slowly by taking the bus.
- On the bus and at the sightseeing spots, the bus guide shared various stories without pause, making it very enjoyable and never boring.
- The stories at the temple and participating in the tour greatly enhanced my understanding and satisfaction.

・暑い夏、バス移動で体力温存しながら、ゆっくり観光できた。
・バスの中や観光地で、バスガイドさんから色々なお話を絶え間なくお話し頂き、飽きなくとても楽しかった。
・お寺でのお話し、ツアーに入ることで、何倍も理解が進み満足。

About 1500 years ago, the guide provided a detailed explanation of Japan's history that can only be felt in Nara, through the temples and Buddha statues we visited. I was able to deeply engrave the knowledge and perspective I gained from seeing national treasures at a local museum in the actual places where they are housed. It was a journey that made me want to visit Nara again and also see Asuka-dera, which the guide told us is the oldest in Japan.

約1500年前という奈良でしか感じることのできない日本の歴史を、訪れたお寺や仏像を通してガイドさんが詳しく説明してくださいました。地方の美術館で観た国宝も実際に収められている場所でにわかに得た知識と視点であらためて深く心に刻むことができました。再度、奈良を訪れて日本最古とガイドさんに教えていただいた飛鳥寺も訪れてみたくなる旅でした。

The trip exceeded my expectations. The ship anchored between the two platforms set to shoot off the fireworks. Food and drink was plentiful. I didn't expect English service, which was ok since I speak a little bit of Japanese, but one of the waiters spoke perfect English so everything was easy. Given how hot and humid it was, riding in the Yakatabune is an excellent choice for viewing the fireworks. Unlimited beverage service, a clean restroom, and air conditioned cabin made the entire trip enjoyable.

Last time I experienced it, there were Okinawan songs, and I really enjoyed the Okinawan atmosphere, so I recommended it to a friend who hadn't experienced it before and participated this time.

However, this time, there was an elderly man playing the flute, and there were no songs related to Okinawa at all, just unrelated tunes. While the bad weather was unavoidable, was it really necessary to have the elderly man's performance in two parts? It was truly disappointing to hear only songs unrelated to Okinawa, especially with so many tourists participating.

I won't participate again, nor will I recommend it to others.

前回体験した際は沖縄ソングに歌もありとても沖縄感が味わえ楽しかったので、今回は体験した事のない友達に良かったからとお勧めし、参加しました。
今回はフルートをもったおじいさんの演奏、歌もなく沖縄とは全く関係のない曲ばかりでした。
天候が悪かったのは仕方ないですが、おじいさんの演奏は2部制にする必要はありますか？観光客が多く参加される中沖縄とは関係ない曲ばかり演奏されて本当にとても残念でした。
二度と参加しないですし、人にお勧めもしません。

At first, I thought, "Isn't one hour a bit long?" and "The price is a bit high (15,000 yen for a private boat for two for one hour)," but now I think, "I'm glad I made the reservation!" Since it was a private boat for two and the first time slot (9 AM), there were hardly any other tourists on board, allowing us to leisurely enjoy the scenery of Arashiyama! The boatman was very kind, often asking, "Shall I take your picture?" and sharing local stories. I really appreciated his kindness! Next time, I want to enjoy Arashiyama in the different seasons of spring, autumn, and winter!

最初は「一時間長くね？」「値段ちょっと高いなぁ（二人貸切一時間合計15000円）」と思いながら予約しましたが、今は「予約しててよかった」と思っています！
二人の貸切しかも一番目の時間帯（九時）のため、他に乗船する観光客もほぼいませんし、ゆっくりと嵐山の風景を堪能することができました！船頭さんも何回も「写真撮ってあげましょうか」って話しかけてくれたり、地元の話を紹介してくれたりして、すごく優しい人です！
今度はまた春、秋、冬の違う季節の嵐山を楽しみたいと思います！

It was a shared boat, but they prepared tables for each group, so we could enjoy ourselves without any hesitation. The staff was friendly, and they promptly took our drink orders. The restrooms were clean, which is reassuring for women.

乗合船ですがグループごとにテーブルを用意してくれたので、気兼ねなく楽しめました。
スタッフさんも愛想がよくて、飲み物のオーダーもテキパキと対応してくれました。
トイレもキレイなので、女性は安心できますよ。

I brought a friend from overseas to join me. I was wondering where to take them in the hot summer of Tokyo, and I decided on this yakatabune (houseboat). We experienced a lot of Japanese culture with the boat and the food, and they were very happy to see the wonderful night view of Tokyo. The staff were also very friendly. I had a great time too. Thank you very much.

海外からのお友達を連れて参加しました。暑すぎる東京の夏に、どこに連れて行こうかと悩み、こちらの屋形船にしました。
船、お食事でたくさんの日本らしさを体験し、また東京の素敵な夜景を見て、とても喜んでいました。スタッフのみなさんもとてもフレンドリーでした。私も楽しかったです。ありがとうございました。

It became an unforgettable experience for us. The lunch was very well prepared. The pilot was a very kind and pleasant gentleman. We want to recommend this experience and this company to everyone.

私たちにとって忘れられない経験になった。昼食はとてもよく準備されていた。パイロットはとても親切で感じの良い紳士でした。
私たちはこの体験とこの会社をみんなに勧めたい。

The existence of a yakatabune (houseboat) was not something I had considered much, but for some reason, it crossed my mind, and I decided to board one. I took my elderly parents along. It was a very good experience, and my parents were happy as well. The staff explained the bridges and took photos, creating a warm atmosphere. The tempura was also delicious.

The reason I gave it four stars is that, unfortunately, it rained, and the view wasn't perfect. It's something that can't be helped, but it's disappointing that the experience can be affected by the weather. However, I believe that even in rainy weather, unless the conditions are really bad, the cruise won't be canceled, so I think you can still enjoy it.

私の中で屋形船の存在は影が薄いものでしたが、なぜかふと頭をよぎり、乗船。高齢の親を連れて行きました。
とても良い経験でした。親も喜んでいました。スタッフの方が橋の説明をしてくれたり、写真を撮ってくれたり、温かい雰囲気でした。天ぷらも美味しくいただきました。
星が４つなのは、残念ながら雨で、景色がパーフェクトに見えなかったことです。仕方のないことですが、天候に左右されてしまうのが残念なところ。でも、雨天であっても、よほどの悪天候でなければ欠航にはならないと思うので、楽しめると思います。

First, we started with a quiz about sushi and learned a bit about its history. Then we began mixing the rice with sushi vinegar, and it was time to shape the sushi. For a first-timer, my palms ended up covered in rice grains, making me painfully aware of my clumsiness (-_-;). I gradually got the hang of it, but I was still quite awkward. That said, thanks to the kind guidance of the chef and the encouragement from the cheerful proprietress, I managed to shape it into something that looked decent from a distance (laughs). This time, I participated with two colleagues from work, but if you join with a larger group (up to 7 people), it will definitely be an even more enjoyable experience party!♪

まずは寿司に関するクイズから始まり、簡単な寿司の歴史を学習。続いてシャリを寿司酢とかき混ぜる作業から始め、いざ握りへ。初めての人間がやると手のひらが米粒だらけになり、自らの超不器用さを自覚(-_-;)。次第に慣れてはきたが、ぎこちないこと半端なし。とは言え職人さんの優しい指導と明るい女将の励ましのお陰で、何とか遠目にはカタチに(笑)。今回は同じ職場の2名で参加しましたが大人数(最大7名)で参加されれば、更に楽しい体験パーティになること、間違いなし♪

I visited with four friends. The sashimi was fresh, and they brought out one type of tempura at a time, so everything was hot and enjoyable. Since it was an all-you-can-drink option, we were also quite full. Fortunately, the weather was nice, and we were able to enjoy the night view. The staff was very kind, and the restrooms were very clean, making for a thoroughly satisfying experience. Thank you very much.

友人4人と利用させて頂きました。お刺身も新鮮、揚げたての天ぷらを1種類づつ運んで下さったので、全てアツアツで楽しめました。飲み放題でしたので、お腹も一杯になりました。幸い天気にも恵まれ、夜景も楽しむことが出来ました。店員の皆さんも、とても、親切で、トイレもとてもきれいで大満足のひとときとなりました。ありがとうございました。

A very good experience : nice boat, nice people, nice food, nice beverages, what else ? Yes, nice views 👌🏻. Everything perfect. Thank you 🙏

Food was good and Maiko dance was good. Overall we had a good time.

This was my second time on the Nara Kotsu sightseeing bus tour. My purpose for this tour was to visit Jiko-in, Yakushiji, and Toshodai-ji. The temperature in Nara that day was 34℃! I borrowed a parasol provided by the guide and ended up sweating a lot during the tour. At Jiko-in, I enjoyed matcha and traditional sweets while listening to a talk from the head priest. During that time, there was a pretty intense thunderstorm! The rain didn’t stop for a while, but thanks to that, I was able to listen to the priest's talk for a bit longer. The borrowed parasol transformed into an umbrella! 😅 At Toshodai-ji, the rain finally lightened up, and the greenery of the trees was very vibrant and beautiful. The guide helped me find great angles for Instagram-worthy photos, and I couldn't help but smile when I looked at the pictures I took. 😊 The driver even got off the bus to check for safety at the crosswalk. Nara Kotsu always provides a pleasant experience. This time, it was a very enjoyable and memorable bus tour! 😊

今回は2度目の奈良交通さんの定期観光バスツアーになります。このツアーの私の目的は慈光院さん、薬師寺さん、唐招提寺さんでした。この日の奈良の気温は34℃！ガイドさんが用意して下さった日傘を借りて汗びっしょりでのツアーになりました。慈光院さんでは、ご住職さんの法話を聞きながらお抹茶とお干菓子をいただきました。その最中にかなり激しい雷雨がバリバリバリ！雷雨がなかなか止まず、しかしそのお陰でご住職さんのお話をしばしお聞かせいただくことができました。そして借りていた日傘が雨傘に変身！😅唐招提寺さんでやっと雨が小降りになり、樹々の緑がとても鮮やかで綺麗でした。いろんなところでガイドさんにインスタ映え写真のアングルを教えていただいて自分で撮った写真を見てニンマリ。😊運転手さんはわざわざバスから降りて横断歩道まで出て安全確認をして下さってました。奈良交通さんは毎回気持ちがよいですね。今回もとても楽しく思い出深いバスツアーになりました😊

For the past two years, I've mostly been on Chinese tours. It was nice to have a detailed explanation in Japanese after such a long time! The weather held up just enough. The guide also made sure we received our goshuin (temple stamps) without any issues. It was a great day. Thank you!

ここ２年ほど、中国語ツアーばかりでした。久しぶりに日本語だけの緻密な説明！いいです。お天気もギリもちました。御朱印ももれなくガイドさんに配慮頂きました。良い１日でした。ありがとうございます。

A lively female captain? She explained the bridge and various episodes visible from the boat in a fun way, making the two and a half hours fly by. Thank you for the delicious tempura as well.

女性の元気な船長さん？
船から見える橋や色々なエピソードを
楽しく説明してくれて
あっという間の２時間半でした。
天ぷらも美味しくありがとうございました。

She was very friendly and went through every step to show us how to do it.
My daughter thinks that she can fix some of chipped bowls at her home.
She is going to buy all tools need while we’re in Japan.

After boarding, it was just the right time for sunset, and I was able to enjoy both the evening view and the night scenery! Since I had a seat, my legs were comfortable, and the meals were served one by one as freshly fried tempura. At the view spots, the boat stopped, and I was allowed to go out on the deck to take photos. I often get seasick, so I was a little worried, but I didn't feel it at all and had a great time! I was very satisfied!

乗船してしばらくすると丁度サンセットの時間となり、夜の夜景と両方とも楽しむ事が出来ました！
椅子席だったので脚も楽だし、食事も揚げたての天ぷらを一品づつ提供してもらえるし、
ビュースポットでは船を停めてくれ、デッキに出て写真を撮ることもok👌
船酔いしがちな私。少し心配していましたが全く感じる事無く満喫しました！
大満足でした！

I rode in early June, and the temperature was just right, allowing us to enjoy the evening scenery. The boat stopped for a while near Odaiba and the Tokyo Skytree, giving us the chance to go out on the upper deck, take photos, and enjoy the view while feeling the breeze. The food was also delicious, with freshly fried tempura and sashimi.

6月上旬に乗りましたが、ちょうど良い気温で夕暮れの景色も楽しめました。お台場やスカイツリーのところでは船をしばらく止めてくれて、上のデッキに出ることができるので、写真を撮ったり風に吹かれながら景色を見たりすることができて良かったです。料理も揚げたての天ぷらやお刺身が美味しかったです。

This was our second time booking this delightful experience—our first was last year, and we were excited to return! The location is very convenient, just a few minutes’ walk from the nearest train station, and easy to find.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality. Although the owner doesn’t speak much English, he went out of his way to communicate and make us feel welcome. He was incredibly friendly, kind, and guided us patiently through each step of the sundae-making process.

We could each choose up to five silicone food samples to decorate our sundae. First, we picked the color of the sundae base and then created it under the owner's guidance. After that, we learned how to twirl the sundae, which was really fun, before moving on to the decorating part.

The finished sundaes looked adorable—so realistic and yummy-looking! It was a really fun and hands-on activity, perfect for all ages. We had a great time and made some sweet memories. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and creative experience in Japan

It was more fun than I imagined.
The night view of Tokyo from the boat was very refreshing. Even though it's a landscape I'm used to, seeing it from a low angle close to the river changes the impression.
The guide was very clear while responding to drink orders on board, and I learned new things along the way.
The freshly fried tempura was crispy and incredibly delicious.

想像以上に楽しかったです。
船上から観る東京の夜景はとても新鮮でした。見慣れてるはずの風景なのに、川面に近い低いアングルから観ると印象も変わります。
船内で飲み物のオーダーなら応えながらの要所要所でのガイドも、とてもわかりやすく、新たな学びもありました。
ご飯も揚げたての天ぷらはサクサクですごく美味しかったです。

The storytelling if the first part was great, traditional juggling if the second part was amazing and the lady magician was fabulous. The call spectators to the stage ti participate. If you are really interested in Japanese culture and tradition -this is one of the best ways to go

We often go around collecting goshuin (temple stamps) on our own, but it feels like we're just going to get the stamps. On a bus tour, we can learn a lot of things, which is really appreciated. The tea service at Jiko-in was something we wouldn't have experienced if we went individually, so it was really great.

御朱印集めで自分たちで回る事が多いですがただ御朱印貰うだけに行ってるって感じ
バスツアーだと色んな事を教えてもらえて貰えるので有り難いなーって思います
慈光院でのお茶の振る舞いも個人で行く時にはない事なので凄く良かったです

Recently, I found an interesting experience plan at a belt shop that I've been using frequently, so I signed up and participated on short notice.

We started with a tea ceremony demonstration, followed by a Q&A session, and then a two-shot photo opportunity. After that, those on the short course exited, and we moved on to dancing and traditional parlor games. Since there happened to be a small number of participants, we were able to enjoy the parlor games at a leisurely pace.

最近、ちょくちょく利用しているベルトらで面白い体験プランを見つけたので急でしたが申し込んで参加しました。

お点前、質疑応答、2ショット撮影と続き、ショートコースの方は退場し、その後、踊り、お座敷遊びになりました。
たまたま参加人数が少なくゆったりとお座敷遊びを堪能しました。

The two-shot with the maiko was taken carefully as requested by each person. I had expected several maiko to come out and perform dances, but only one was available the whole time. If I could wish for something more, I would have liked to see two or three maiko. However, from a layman's perspective, I was very impressed with their dancing skills. The food was also satisfying, with a presentation and taste that truly reflected Kyoto's culinary excellence.

　舞妓さんとのツーショットも、希望通り、各人丁寧に撮影いただきました。私は、舞妓さんが数人出てきて踊りやらを披露するのかと思ってましたが、ずっと一人が対応されてたので、欲を言えば、2，3人の舞妓さんを見たかったです、ただ、踊りは
素人目ではありますが、非常にお上手だなという印象でした。お料理も、さすが京都らしい見た目と味で満足のいくものでした。

Our family booked 2 sessions of workshop here, the first to make a parfait, ramen and curry rice, and the second to make 2 tempura sets. We went immediately when we touched down and as there were some delays at the airport and it was raining when we were traveling to the workshop, we were late and the owner of the workshop, Ito san, was standing outside looking worried and waiting for us. When he saw us, he warmly welcomed us and was patient with us whilst we settled down. Ito san was extremely patient and kind when teaching us how to make the various display food, especially with my daughter was so still young and so needed more time/strength to compete the display food. He patiently explained to us the different materials used and also made sure our end products were of high quality, adding on more materials as and when needed. In the end we exceeded our allocated time of 2hours but not once were we rushed at all. Ito san’s sincerity and skills shined throughout our workshops. I also heard the other facilitators teaching and they were patient as well. I would highly recommend the workshops here and thank you so much Ito san for such a memorable experience!