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.
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.

60Activities

1/3 pages

Availability varies by date for all activities.

No.1

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 USD110.37

(16 reviews)

Daily

1 - 1.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, evening)
No.2

Authentic Sumo Wrestler Morning Practice Viewing in Tokyo
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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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USD74.50

(2 reviews)

Daily

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

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 USD68.80

(11 reviews)

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat

1 - 2.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
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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USD20.23

(17 reviews)

Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat

1.5 - 2 hour(s) (afternoon, evening)
Drum Tao MANGEKYO Japanese Taiko Show Ticket Reservation in Tokyo
TOP PICKS Quick Confirmation

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 USD64.38

13%
OFF

(1 review)

Review Rebate

Daily

2 hour(s) (afternoon, evening)
Tokyo Ninja Themed Restaurant Dinner Reservation in Asakusa
Quick Confirmation

Make your way to the Ninja Castle where resident shinobis will serve and entertain you for an unforgettable time in Tokyo. Reserve a table for an entertaining dinner performance filled with exciting ninja magic and delicious thematic Japanese dishes.

English Available

Meal Provided

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From USD45.80

Daily

3 hour(s) (evening)
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 USD137.96

(2 reviews)

Daily

1 - 1.5 hour(s) (morning, afternoon, evening)
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 USD109.27

(5 reviews)

Group Discount

Daily

3 hour(s) (morning)
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 USD32.19

(7 reviews)

Daily

(morning, 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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USD35.41

(5 reviews)

Daily

(afternoon)
Authentic Japanese Sencha and Matcha Green Tea Tasting Experience in Tokyo

Sample 10 cups of premium and locally-harvested Japanese sencha and matcha green tea in downtown Tokyo. Watch a tea master whisk and prepare each cup and let the delicate sweetness of red bean paste mochi rice cake balance the rich bitterness of tea.

English Available

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USD27.59

(1 review)

Daily

2 hour(s) (afternoon)
Convenient Kimono Rental and Dress-up Studio in Asakusa

Dress yourself up in a fashionable kimono in the heart of Asakusa. Select from nearly 3,000 gorgeous designs to find a perfect one for an unforgettable time in Tokyo.

Special

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From USD30.15

(27 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon, evening)
English Sumo Lesson and Practice Match in Tokyo
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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 USD32.19

(1 review)

Sun, Wed, Fri

2.5 hour(s) (afternoon)
Zazen Meditation and Buddhist Chant Experience at Gionji Temple in Tokyo

Immerse yourself in the world of Buddhism as you take part in an authentic Zazen meditation experience in a historical temple. Listen to the calming chants as you find peace while the Buddhist monk reads the sacred scriptures aloud.

English Available

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USD77.90

Daily

1.5 hour(s) (afternoon)
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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USD18.40

(17 reviews)

Sun, Wed, Thu, Sat

(afternoon, evening)
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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USD50.59

(23 reviews)

Daily

(afternoon, evening)
Kimono Rental and Kimono Dressing in Nihonbashi

Wear a beautiful kimono of your choice, take pictures and explore the city dressed to impress. We will store your clothes and belongings for you!

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USD51.60

(9 reviews)

Thu

(afternoon)
Private Tea Ceremony and Kimono Dressing Experience in Tokyo
TOP PICKS

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 USD148.98

(8 reviews)

Group Discount

Daily

2 hour(s) (morning, afternoon)
Kimono Rental and Dressing Experience in Asakusa with English Assistance

Get dressed in a pretty Japanese kimono, and explore the traditional streets of Asakusa in style. Lots of different patterns to choose from, and the owner will be happy to give you sightseeing tips!

English Available

Special

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From USD32.19

(6 reviews)

Daily

(morning, afternoon)
Beginner-Friendly Fun Virtual Reality and Ninja Experience in Tokyo
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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 USD68.80

15%
OFF

(1 review)

Daily

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