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

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Get to know the rich and fascinating culture of Japan through traditional forms of art that have charmed visitors for centuries. From tea houses hidden in the backstreets of Tokyo, to cloth dyeing, kimono classes, music lessons and flower arrangement -- the cultural activities you can enjoy are almost endless.

Yukata & Kimono Rental

Admired by many, the Japanese kimono serves as both the traditional garment of Japan and a symbol of elegance and grace. Get dressed in a beautiful kimono or a summer yukata and take amazing photos of your trip to Japan. Choose your favorite style and color and watch as the staff transforms you into a classic beauty. For a more in-depth experience, you can also learn how to wear a kimono from experts. Stroll the streets of Tokyo with grace and charm in your lovely kimono!
Sumo Practice Viewing & Lesson

Learn the basics of sumo wrestling and unleash the sumo wrestler in you.
Rickshaw Ride

Elegant black and red rickshaws are a great way to see a different side of Japan. Head down side streets inaccessible to tour buses, while your friendly shafu guides you. Besides being athletic, the shafu (drivers) of these unique vehicles are also well-versed in the history and traditions of Japan. They can spirit you away to places only known by locals, and tend to be a gregarious, jokey bunch.
Ninja & Samurai Experience

Let your historical fantasies come to life with ninja and samurai training schools in Tokyo. Learn basic martial arts and self-defense, internalize the philosophy of ninjutsu as well as the Way of the Sword. Find out more below!
Calligraphy (Shodo)

A form of artistic writing based on Zen thought, shodo or Japanese calligraphy makes use of a brush dipped in black ink to paint kanji (Chinese characters) on white paper. Take your pick from the Japanese calligraphy classes below and get hands-on instruction from seasoned experts. Friendly instructors will show you how to write the characters of your choice, allowing you to discover more about the language.
Tea Ceremony

Experience traditional Japanese ceremony right in Tokyo. Learn the basics of sado (Way of Tea) and sip a cup whisked especially for you. You can even choose to wear a yukata or kimono for a full traditional experience.
Taiko Workshop

Book taiko lessons in Tokyo. Learn how to play under a friendly English-speaking instructor and get one step closer to mastering the art of the traditional Japanese drums.
Kabuki/Noh

With a history spanning over 400 years, the traditional theatrical art forms of kabuki and noh continue to capture the hearts of many with their elaborate costumes, distinct stage designs and powerful performances. Take a peek into life in ancient Japan as you watch centuries-old stories unfold and get a taste of both Japanese history and culture.
Geisha Shows

With their extensive training in the art of traditional song and dance, geisha are both professional entertainers and living embodiments of Japanese tradition. Book a tea house in Tokyo and experience entertainment unique to Japan. Take photos and enjoy conversation with the help of an English assistant. Pick what suits your fancy from the activities below.
Japanese Buddhism Experience

Introduced to Japan in the 6th century, Buddhism is one of Japan's main religions. Among its schools of thought is zen, which draws its core values from meditation and intuition. Make your stay in Japan memorable with an assortment of zen activities. Go on a calming retreat and join the monks as they practice zazen (seated meditation). Clear your mind with shakyo, the traditional practice of transcribing sutras. You can also make your own juzu (Buddhist rosary) and use it as you meditate.
Other Cultural Experiences

From traditional arts like ikebana flower arrangement and furoshiki cloth wrapping to curious aspects of modern Japanese culture like experiencing rush hours on the train, find exciting cultural experiences to dive into while you're in Tokyo. Check out our curated list below.

63Activities

1/4 pages

Availability varies by date for all activities.

No.1

Authentic Sumo Wrestler Morning Practice Viewing in 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 USD76.59

(1 review)

Group Discount

Daily

1.5 - 3 hour(s) (morning)
No.2

Ninja Training at the Musashi Clan Honjin Dojo with an English Interpreter

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 USD113.47

(15 reviews)

Daily

1 - 1.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, evening)
No.3

Private Tea Ceremony and Kimono Dressing Experience in Tokyo

Experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony held in a traditional tatami matted room. Wear a beautiful kimono as you take part in a ceremony held by a professional tea master who will explain the art of tea in English.

English Available

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From USD153.17

(7 reviews)

Group Discount

Daily

2 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Tea Ceremony Experience in an Authentic Tearoom in Ginza

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 USD33.10

(7 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
English Sumo Lesson and Practice Match in Tokyo

Learn the basics of sumo wrestling from former rikishi or wrestlers. Wear mawashi (loincloth), get inside the ring and try to beat your opponent in a practice match. Available for both men and women.

Special

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From USD33.10

(1 review)

Sun, Wed, Fri

2.5 hour(s) (afternoon)
Wear Kimono in Asakusa with a Rental Dress Up Experience in Tokyo

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 USD47.28

(87 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon)
Sumo Wrestlers Morning Practice and Special Access Viewing in Tokyo with Pick-up
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See powerful sumo wrestlers train up close and gain an in-depth understanding of their traditional world. After you delve into the world of this beloved Japanese national sport, you may even be able to take pictures with the wrestlers after practice!

English Available

Pick-up Provided

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From USD114.89

(4 reviews)

Group Discount

Daily

(morning)
Dynamic Traditional Taiko Japanese Drumming Lesson in Tokyo

Feel the beat in an energetic taiko lesson with an English speaking guide. The sound of the wadaiko drum will echo through the room as you strike and play in a casual, fun and exciting class.

English Available

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USD20.43

(12 reviews)

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

1.5 - 2 hour(s) (afternoon, evening)
Drum Tao MANGEKYO Japanese Taiko Show Ticket Reservation in Tokyo
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Experience the new taiko drum entertainment show MANGEKYO, performed by world-famous drum unit, DRUM TAO. The throbbing beats and powerful performances with teamLab's digital projections and Junko Koshino's costume designs are sure to delight.

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From USD66.19

13%
OFF

Review Rebate

Daily

2 hour(s) (afternoon, evening)
Beginner-Friendly Japanese Koto Harp Music Lesson in Tokyo

Step into the world of authentic Japanese music by learning how to play a traditional koto harp. Beginners and children can get familiar with the beautiful instrument and learn how to play a simple piece.

English Available

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From USD68.40

(1 review)

Group Discount

Daily

1 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Samurai Experience at the Musashi Clan Honjin Dojo in 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 USD141.84

(2 reviews)

Daily

1 - 1.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, evening)
Tour of Asakusa's Best Spots by Rickshaw

Get a feel for the Tokyo of yore on this fun rickshaw tour of Asakusa! See temples and buildings that retain the feel of ancient Edo as you ride in style!

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From USD18.91

(10 reviews)

Group Discount

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
Modern Tea Ceremony in Ginza with Tea Bowl and Whisk Set to Take Home

Experience a modern counter-top tea ceremony held by a professional tea master in the Kabukiza Tower in Ginza. After your lesson, the matcha green tea and tea ceremony set are yours to keep!

English Available

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USD58.25

(3 reviews)

Daily

(afternoon)
Elegant Kimono Photo Shoot Experience in Tokyo

Feel like a real princess in luxurious silk kimono and dramatic hair accessories! Enjoy the photo session solo, or with friends and family in a comfortable indoor studio. Men, women and children are welcome!

English Available

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From USD70.73

(11 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

1 - 2.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Elegant Tea Ceremony at Warakuan Teahouse in Tokyo

Experience the heart of sado, the Way of Tea, in this hidden teahouse near central Shibuya. Take in the serene atmosphere, and savor a quiet bowl of matcha prepared by a tea master.

Pick-up Provided

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USD52.01

(22 reviews)

Daily

(afternoon, evening)
Japanese Cultural Experience and Geisha Performance at EDOCCO Chaya in Tokyo
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Try four cultural activities at once! Immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese calligraphy, kimono dress-up, origami, tea ceremony and watch an elegant dance by a lovely geisha with a complimentary cup of matcha green tea and sweets.

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USD28.37

(1 review)

Daily

(morning, afternoon)
Beginner-Friendly Fun Virtual Reality and Ninja Experience in Tokyo

Ignite your fighting spirit and train hard to become a virtual ninja! Venture out for a VR quest at the temple grounds. Unsheath your katana and unleash star blades with your iconic moves to defeat the tattered zombie warriors and monsters!

English Available

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From USD70.73

15%
OFF

(1 review)

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
Fun Sumie Ink Painting Lesson in Tokyo with English Speaking Instructor

Put brush to paper and watch magnificent drawings take shape. Learn the basics of Japanese Sumie painting in a fun lesson with a friendly English speaking teacher, in the heart of Tokyo.

English Available

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USD18.91

(17 reviews)

Sun, Wed, Thu, Sat

(afternoon, evening)
Matcha Green Tea Making Experience at a Japanese-Style Cafe in Asakusa

Learn how to make your own perfect cup of Japanese tea using high-end matcha　green tea with an English-speaking instructor. Enjoy the tea with some Japanese sweets in a cute cafe in Asakusa.

English Available

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USD36.41

(5 reviews)

Daily

(afternoon)
Rickshaw Tour of Asakusa's Best Sightseeing Spots in English

Explore Asakusa and feel the atmosphere of historic Tokyo as you ride in a rickshaw. Your driver will take you to the hidden gems of Edo era Tokyo. English-speaking drivers are available.

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From USD28.37

(9 reviews)

Daily

0.5 - 1.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, evening)