Hands-On Japan: From Culinary Arts to Cultural Traditions and Timeless Encounters

Currently offering a unique opportunity in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, experience Japanese food culture firsthand with a hands-on cooking class. Choose from popular courses such as ramen, gyoza, sushi, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), Japanese sweets & matcha, or even okonomiyaki made on a hot plate.

In these classes, you will make everything from scratch, giving you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. The classes are taught by experienced Japanese chefs who will guide you with patience and care, so even beginners can feel confident. An English interpreter will be there to assist between you and the chef, so you can feel at ease.

With small group lessons in a friendly, homey atmosphere, you are encouraged to ask questions on the spot. Once your dishes are ready, you can enjoy them right away, and the recipes are provided, so you can recreate the dishes at home. This is a memorable experience where you can learn about Japanese food culture and hospitality in a fun and interactive way!

Address: Toshima, Tokyo (Details provided upon reservation)
Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Closed: Irregular holidays

Website：https://umami-one.jimdosite.com/

Somenova is a dyeing experience space operated by a dye shop founded in 1890 in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Offering a variety of traditional Japanese dyeing techniques, this space is one of the largest dyeing experience centers in Tokyo, welcoming over 700 guests annually.

For international visitors, the space provides unique Japanese programs such as “Tsumami Zaiku and Dyeing,” “Furoshiki Shibori Dyeing,” and “Washi Folding Dyeing,” which are distinctive to Japan’s craft culture.

The shop's own “Miyako-zome” dye is a rare example of self-produced dye still being made in Japan, continuing a tradition of dyeing for over a century. In Japan, it is used not only for clothing dyeing and re-dyeing but also for a wide range of hobbies. Due to its high quality, the dye has become increasingly popular with international customers.

In addition to the dyeing experiences, visitors can also explore the history of Miyako-zome through exhibits of 100-year-old dye bottles and swatches of dyed fabrics.

Beyond the basic programs, the space offers a range of other dyeing experiences, such as “Itajime Shibori,” “Roketsu Dyeing,” “Katazome,” “Yuzen Dyeing,” and “Tie-Dye,” as well as “Japanese Embroidery and Dyeing”. Various expert instructors, including professional dyers, lead these diverse and engaging workshops.

For detailed information on each program and to make reservations, please visit our website.

Website：https://www.katsuraya-fg.com/somenova/

Just 40 minutes from Shinjuku, Hachioji offers a serene setting for an unforgettable cultural evening. Enjoy an exquisite kaiseki dinner — a refined multi-course meal celebrating seasonal ingredients and Japanese aesthetics — in a private dining room.

The highlight of the evening is a live geisha performance. These skilled artists will captivate you with elegant dance, music, and engaging conversation. You’ll also enjoy sake, beer, or a non-alcoholic drink of your choice.

An English- or Chinese-speaking guide ensures smooth communication and cultural insights throughout. You’ll also have the opportunity to take photos freely with the geisha as a memorable part of your evening.

This rare experience is perfect for travelers seeking authentic Japanese tradition in a calm and intimate atmosphere.

Website：https://hachioji.tokyoculturalguide.tokyo/

Located in Shibuya, Mon Cadeau is a studio where you can experience traditional Japanese arts such as Kintsugi (the art of repairing pottery with gold) and the Tea Ceremony. The studio offers small group classes with personalized instruction, ensuring a high-quality experience for each participant.

For residents of Japan, we offer membership-based Kintsugi classes in Japanese. For international visitors or those wishing to take classes in English, we provide Modern Kintsugi and Tea Ceremony experiences, both of which are highly popular.

In a peaceful, harmonious atmosphere, guests can enjoy matcha tea and seasonal Japanese sweets while immersing themselves in authentic Japanese culture.

For groups of five or more people, we offer private classes. Additionally, our “Meditation and Modern Kintsugi” class, held at a temple in Aobadai, has received high praise from group participants.

Website：https://www.moncadeau.jp/

The "Samurai Experience" offers an immersive opportunity to engage in the iconic "Tate" (swordplay) often seen in period dramas. This popular activity allows participants to experience the "samurai" world firsthand, from kimono dressing, etiquette training, to learning how to handle a sword and practicing the traditional Tate movements.

This experience has gained significant attention both domestically and internationally, frequently featured in TV programs and magazines. It provides a unique chance to live out the samurai dream — a symbol of Japanese culture — and is especially popular among foreign tourists. Many travel agencies and tour plans incorporate it, highlighting its appeal.

Participants don the traditional Japanese attire, learn the proper movements and sword techniques, and then engage in Tate practice, just like on stage. The experience culminates in a commemorative photoshoot, allowing participants to preserve the memory of their time in the world of the samurai. It is also a rare and valuable opportunity for Japanese participants to rediscover their own culture.

As the word "samurai" is universally recognized, this experience captivates people across borders. Enjoy an immersive journey into the tradition and excitement of Japanese culture.

Website：https://samurai-experience.com/

Want a detailed tour of the famous Meiji-Jingu Shrine? Love Japanese sake?
Join us as we combine both, with an English-guided tour of the shrine, and sake tasting in the nearby park!

At Meiji Jingu, learn more about the shrine’s history and show off your knowledge with our trivia questions! After the tour, we will bring you to Yoyogi-park, where you can enjoy various types of delicious Japanese sake! Typically, there are about three different types of sake that are served, allowing you to expand your experience with Japanese drinks.

This sake tasting will take place in the park, so you will be able to relax and enjoy your drinks while taking in Japan’s seasonal beautiful nature. For those with children, they will still be able to accompany you on this tasting. They will be offered fruit juice, and get enjoy the seasonal beauty alongside you!

Our guides speak both English and Japanese, so feel free to enjoy talking or practicing either with us!

Website：https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g1066456-d27926141-Enjoy_Tokyo_Tour_Harajuku_Meiji_jingu_Delicious_Sake_Tasting-Shibuya_Tokyo_Tokyo_.html

Visit a long-established flower shop in Kyoto with a history of 140 years.

While learning about the meanings and history of Japanese flowers, you can explore and select blooms that resonate with you, creating a flower combination that is uniquely your own.

Afterward, join a workshop to learn the basics of Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement. With guidance from our expert and certified Ikebana teacher, bring your vision to life by designing an original arrangement using the flowers you have chosen.

This experience is part of a collection of carefully crafted tours offered by Honey J Corporation, developed in collaboration with their guide Ayumi.

Website：https://www.honeyj-tours.com/ikebana-experience-tour-in-kyoto/

Snacks are a unique part of Japan's social culture, where you can enjoy casual conversation with the female owner, known as "Mama," and regular customers in a retro Showa-era atmosphere. This tour takes you to these snack bars, where you can experience Japanese culture by enjoying homemade dishes, Japanese sake, karaoke, quizzes, and fun missions.

Even if there is a language barrier, the true charm of snacks lies in the smiles and the genuine connections made. It's like visiting "your Japanese grandma's house" for the evening, where you'll experience a nostalgic, heartwarming night filled with human connection.

This is an opportunity to enjoy an authentic local night that you can't experience in tourist spots. It’s a popular way for international visitors and younger generations to engage with local culture and make unforgettable memories.

Website：https://www.snackyokocho.com/tourpage

Shinjuku, in the heart of Tokyo, blends dazzling nightlife with rich culture. As a professional guide who has led over 1,600 visitors—150+ tours in Shinjuku alone—I can show you its most exciting spots.

Stroll through Kabukicho’s neon-lit streets, see Godzilla roar on Godzilla Road, and explore the new Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower’s attractions and city views. Step into Golden Gai’s tiny retro bars for a taste of vintage Tokyo, then end with the breathtaking projection mapping at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, my private tours let you experience Shinjuku’s energy safely, comfortably, and with insider tips only a local can offer.

＜Store Information＞
Professional Tour Guide in Tokyo
Business Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM- 11:00PM
Reservation: kentake9119@yahoo.co.jp

Website：https://kentake-japan-tour-guide.com/

Japan invites you to go beyond the expected—from making your own sushi rolls to trying ancient dyeing methods or feeling the tension of a sumo match in person.

With new tours and cultural experiences constantly emerging across the country, there’s always more to explore. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning fan of Japan, each hands-on experience brings you one step closer to the heart of the culture.