Tours & Activities

Private Shamisen Workshop with a Professional Musician in Nagoya

We cordially invite you to experience the shamisen, one of Japan’s esteemed traditional musical instruments, under the guidance of a professional shamisen player.During this workshop, you will be introduced to Jiuta shamisen, a classical form of shamisen music that flourished during the Edo period.All necessary instruments and materials will be fully prepared for your use; therefore, you may attend without bringing anything.It would be our greatest pleasure to share the experience of performing the shamisen—an enduring symbol of Japan’s musical heritage—together with you.

Sacred Serenity in Nagoya | Atsuta Shrine & Shirotori Garden Tour

HighlightsImmerse yourself in the spirit of Japan by exploring two sacred and serene locations in Nagoya.Learn about Japan’s spiritual traditions, from Shinto rituals to traditional garden aesthetics.Experience the essence of Shintoism at Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan’s most historically significant shrines.Discover the deep connection between Japanese culture and nature through the harmony of Shirotori Garden.Enjoy a meaningful and tranquil half-day tour, offering insights into Japanese philosophy and the appreciation of nature.Tour OverviewDiscover the spiritual and cultural essence of Japan on this half-day tour to two of Nagoya’s most serene and historically significant locations—Atsuta Shrine and Shirotori Garden.Begin your journey at Atsuta Shrine, a sacred Shinto site with over 1,900 years of history, enshrining one of Japan’s legendary imperial treasures, the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi. As you explore the tranquil shrine grounds, learn about Shinto beliefs, purification rituals, and how they continue to shape Japanese traditions and daily life.Then, take a peaceful walk to Shirotori Garden, a beautifully designed Japanese garden that reflects the country’s deep reverence for nature. Here, you will experience the harmony of traditional garden aesthetics, where landscapes symbolically represent mountains, rivers, and seasonal transitions. For those interested, you may also choose to enjoy matcha green tea at the garden’s café, a refreshing way to appreciate the peaceful surroundings.Guided by a knowledgeable local expert, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese spirituality, cultural traditions, and appreciation of nature.

Nagoya Fish Market Early Morning Private Tour | Market Walk & Breakfast

A Taste of Local Life | Exploring Nagoya’s Endoji Historical District

Flavors of Nagoya | Cook Misokatsu, Onigiri & Miso Soup with Local Ingredients

Nagoya Food & Nightlife Adventure | Local Cuisine & Hidden Bars

HighlightsIndulge in Nagoya’s renowned cuisine at a lively izakaya, featuring local specialties like miso kushikatsu and tebasaki.Discover Japan’s exclusive snack bar culture, normally difficult for first-time visitors to access.Sing your heart out with over 10,000 karaoke songs, including English, Chinese, and Japanese hits.Meet the charismatic "Mama-san", who creates a welcoming, lively atmosphere at the snack bar.Enjoy an evening of great food, drinks, and local nightlife in Nagoya’s largest entertainment district.Tour OverviewNagoya is famous for its bold, umami-rich cuisine, particularly its use of Hatcho miso, a deep, savory miso paste that enhances many of the region’s signature dishes. On this tour, you’ll enjoy a classic Nagoya-style meal, featuring tebasaki (seasoned chicken wings), miso oden (vegetables and some other ingredients stewed in a rich miso broth), and seared Hida beef sushi, at a popular local izakaya known for its wide selection of Nagoya specialties and casual, welcoming atmosphere.After dinner, step into an authentic Japanese snack bar, an intimate and lively drinking spot often frequented by locals. Unlike typical bars, snack bars offer a uniquely social experience, where guests enjoy drinks, conversation, and karaoke in a cozy setting. These hidden venues can be difficult for first-time visitors to enter, but this tour grants you exclusive access to experience Japan’s nightlife culture like a local.Enjoy an evening of great food, drinks, and lively karaoke, with a friendly Mama-san (host) ensuring a warm and fun atmosphere. Whether you're a food lover, cultural explorer, or just looking for a unique night out, this tour offers an unforgettable taste of Nagoya’s food scene and social traditions.

Nagoya Nights Like a Local | Izakaya Bar Hopping in the Historic Endoji District

HighlightsStroll through Nagoya’s historic Endoji shopping arcade with a local guideSavor regional specialties and classic “Nagoya-meshi” at a retro-style izakayaChoose between craft sake tasting or local Japanese wines at your second stopExperience the warmth of everyday Japanese nightlife off the beaten pathExplore temples, shrines, and hidden gems in a lively neighborhood settingTour OverviewSpend an atmospheric evening like a local, exploring Endoji, one of Nagoya’s oldest and most character-rich covered shopping streets. Just a short walk from Nagoya Station, this nostalgic district blends the charm of mid-20th century Japan with a vibrant local community. It’s home to independent shops, small eateries, temples, and neighborhood bars where locals gather after work.Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you'll stop at two local izakaya (Japanese-style gastropubs). Your first stop offers a variety of iconic “Nagoya-meshi” — the region’s signature comfort foods — paired with a drink of your choice. Afterward, continue to a second izakaya, where you’ll choose between two experiences: a sake tasting flight curated by local experts, or two glasses of locally produced Japanese wine.Perfect for food lovers and cultural explorers alike, this evening tour immerses you in the rhythms of Nagoya nightlife while introducing you to the soul of the city — its food, its people, and its hidden stories.

The Essence of Nature and Craft | An Exclusive Dining Journey at PHYEON Nagoya

HighlightsSavor a poetic, 13-course culinary journey crafted from naturally cultivated Japanese ingredientsEnjoy precise drink pairings—alcoholic or non-alcoholic—selected to elevate each courseExperience dining in a serene, architect-designed space inspired by the organic forms of natureActivity OverviewStep into the poetic world of PHYEON, an exclusive 10-seat restaurant hidden in Nagoya’s historic Shikemichi district. Here, gastronomy becomes a journey of essence and time. Using only the finest naturally grown ingredients from across Japan, and employing cutting-edge aging techniques, PHYEON offers a dining experience that is both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly innovative.Chef Yamauchi, known for his artistry cultivated through global experience, curates a 13-course fusion menu that changes with the seasons. Each dish is paired with carefully selected wines or non-alcoholic infusions, reflecting the natural terroir and the chef’s vision. The space itself—designed with gentle curves inspired by Gaudí and natural aesthetics—embraces you in quiet sophistication.Dining at PHYEON is not simply a meal; it’s an immersive expression of Japanese hospitality, sustainability, and culinary creativity. The exact location is shared only after booking, adding an element of intimacy and anticipation. For those seeking the pinnacle of fine dining in Japan, PHYEON is a rare and unforgettable experience.PricingFull course with full-size alcoholic pairings: ¥47,000Full course with half-volume alcoholic pairings: ¥45,000Full course with non-alcoholic pairings: ¥47,000All courses include approximately 13 dishes and 8 beverages.About the ChefKenichiro Yamauchi is the chef-owner of PHYEON. He began his culinary journey under Chef Yashima at Osteria Enoteca Dal Giungino in Kurakuen, Kobe, and went on to train at La Baie, the main dining restaurant of The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, under Chef David Sénia. He later served as sous-chef to Chef Ryuji Kitamura at the acclaimed La Grande Table de Kitamura in Nagoya. These formative years shaped his refined yet free-spirited approach to cuisine.In 2014, he opened his own restaurant, RESTAU K YAMAUCHI, which earned a series of accolades including:Featured Chef in Diners Club Restaurant Week 2018Awarded 2 Toques in Gault&Millau Japan 2019Recognized with a Michelin Plate in the 2019 Michelin Guide for the Tokai RegionHe closed RESTAU K YAMAUCHI in early 2024 to open PHYEON, where he continues to evolve his culinary philosophy—honoring tradition while embracing innovation.

Pound & Taste Japan’s Festive Spirit | Hands-On Rice Cake Making in Nagoya’s Historic Shopping Street

HighlightsExperience traditional Japanese rice cake making using a wooden mallet and mortarWork together in unison, feeling the festive rhythm of this time-honored celebrationEnjoy specially prepared mochi served in two distinct Japanese flavors at a historic caféSavor a warm, authentic moment of cultural connection in a nostalgic neighborhoodTour OverviewCelebrate the heart of Japanese tradition with a hands-on rice cake making (mochi pounding) experience in Nagoya’s charming Endoji Shopping Street. This cherished custom, often seen during the New Year season, brings people together in a lively display of teamwork and rhythm.Under the guidance of friendly hosts, you’ll pound steamed rice in a large wooden mortar, working in unison and calling out together—just as it’s been done for generations. The atmosphere is filled with laughter, energy, and the warm spirit of community.After the rice-pounding activity, you’ll head into NAGONOYA, a long-established café brimming with retro charm. There, you’ll taste mochi specially prepared for the experience in two distinct Japanese flavors, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s culinary traditions. Your experience is completed with a refreshing drink as you relax and take in the nostalgic surroundings.This short but memorable experience is more than just food—it’s a celebration of togetherness, tradition, and Japan’s welcoming hospitality.

Light of Nagoya | Hands-On Lantern Making in a Historic District

HighlightsLearn the history and artistry of Nagoya’s 400-year-old paper lantern traditionCreate your own lantern under the guidance of a skilled craftsmanChoose your favorite washi paper and assemble a one-of-a-kind keepsakeFoldable design makes it easy to take home as a unique souvenirExperience Japanese culture in a historic districtTour OverviewStep into the world of Nagoya Chōchin, a traditional craft that has illuminated Japan’s festivals and streets for over 400 years. Developed under the patronage of the Tokugawa shoguns, these lanterns are known for their lightweight yet sturdy bamboo frames and the soft, translucent glow of washi paper. In the early Meiji era, Nagoya was Japan’s leading producer of paper lanterns, exporting them abroad as a symbol of refined Japanese artistry. Today, they continue to be cherished not only in temples and festivals but also as décor and souvenirs that bring warmth into modern life.At Wazamon Chaya inside Japan Culture Village, you’ll be introduced to the history and charm of Nagoya lanterns before making your own. Guided by a skilled artisan, you will select your preferred washi paper, paste it carefully onto the frame, and assemble your own original lantern. The completed piece can be folded for easy transport, making it a memorable and practical souvenir of your trip.The experience is held in the atmospheric setting of Japan Culture Village, home to historic shrines, century-old shops, and stylish cafés. After your workshop, you are free to stroll the streets and soak in the unique mix of tradition and contemporary culture that defines this historic district.

Wield a Samurai's Sword on a Noh Stage | Iaido Experience in Nagoya

HighlightsFeel the weight of a real sword in your hands — and discover why every movement in Iaido begins with stillness.Learn directly from an 8th-dan grandmaster — the pinnacle of Iaido mastery, and one of very few in Japan.Slip into a practice kimono and feel the shift — something about the cloth and the silence changes how you carry yourself.Walk onto a centuries-old Noh stage and perform — the kind of moment you will struggle to explain until you show someone the photo.OverviewMost visitors to Japan never get closer to the samurai than a museum display case. This experience puts a sword in your hand.Iaido is the Japanese martial art of the sword draw — not combat, but something closer to moving meditation. Where kendo is about fighting an opponent, Iaido is about fighting yourself: training the mind to be utterly present, the body to move without hesitation, and the spirit to remain calm in the moment of action. A single draw, executed with complete focus, is considered a lifetime's study. That philosophy is what you will begin to feel in your 90 minutes here.Your instructor has dedicated her life to this art and holds the 8th dan — Japan's highest attainable rank in Iaido, held by only a handful of people in the entire country. She teaches with the patience of someone who has spent decades watching beginners discover, often to their surprise, that they are capable of more stillness and precision than they imagined.The setting matches the gravity of the art. The Sakae Nohgaku-do is a working Noh theater in the center of Nagoya — a spare, atmospheric space where the architecture itself teaches you something about restraint. You will practice on the dojo floor and, at the close of the session, step onto the Noh stage to perform the sequence you have learned. The silence of that stage is something most people never forget.No experience is needed. No particular fitness level is required. What you bring is curiosity — and you will leave with a rare, tangible sense of what it once meant to carry a sword not as a weapon, but as a way of life.

Nagoya Night Delight!: Drinks, Karaoke & Hidden Snack Bars

HighlightsExclusive entry into Nagoya’s hidden snack bars, social venues rarely accessible to foreign visitors.Meet the unique “Mama-san”, the charismatic hostesses who bring each snack bar to life.Sing your favorite songs with over 10,000 karaoke options, from J-pop to global hits.Enjoy drinks and light snacks, experiencing the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.Explore Nishiki 3-Chome, Nagoya’s largest nightlife district, with a local guide.Tour OverviewStep into the hidden world of Japan’s snack bars, an exclusive part of the country’s nightlife where drinks, music, and lively conversation create an unforgettable experience. Unlike standard bars, snack bars are intimate social spaces—often difficult for foreigners to enter without a local connection. This tour grants you exclusive access, allowing you to meet the charismatic “Mama-san” (hostess) and enjoy a fun-filled night of drinks and karaoke.Sing your heart out with a selection of over 10,000 songs, from Western hits to Japanese classics and the latest chart-toppers. With a friendly English-speaking guide, you’ll navigate Nagoya’s Nishiki 3-Chome nightlife district, enjoying an authentic and immersive cultural experience.Whether you're visiting with a friend or a small group, this tour offers an exclusive glimpse into Japan’s nightlife, providing an intimate and authentic snack bar experience in Nagoya.

Private Koto Lesson with a Professional Musician in Nagoya

Experience the beauty of the koto, one of Japan’s most iconic traditional instruments, in Nagoya. Enjoy a koto live concert and a private session with professional koto musicians, learning to play in an intimate and serene setting.This is a private lesson for up to five people, allowing for a relaxed and personalized experience tailored to your pace and interest.We provide everything you need for your koto lesson, including the instrument and accessories.Your lesson will take place in a traditional Japanese classroom, where you can enjoy the tranquility of wabi-sabi aesthetics and a meditative atmosphere, making it a truly immersive and peaceful experience.We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of koto, one of Japan’s most treasured musical traditions!

Craft Your Own Kiso Hinoki Chopsticks with a Master Artisan | Traditional Woodworking Experience in Nagoya

HighlightsExplore a family-run woodworking workshop crafting sacred furnishings for Japanese traditions.Learn how handcrafted wooden furnishings and ritual implements are created for Shinto and Buddhist traditions.Meet a seventh-generation artisan preserving generations of traditional craftsmanship.Create your own pair of Kiso cypress chopsticks using professional woodworking tools.Take home a handcrafted souvenir made from Japan’s finest cypress wood.Activity OverviewStep beyond the usual sightseeing route and experience the living craftsmanship of Nagoya through an exclusive visit to a traditional woodworking workshop near Atsuta Shrine.This special experience offers a glimpse into Owari Butsugu, Nagoya’s traditional craft of creating wooden furnishings and ceremonial implements used in Shinto and Buddhist traditions.At the workshop of Iwata Sanpo, you will discover how generations of artisans have preserved specialized woodworking techniques while creating sacred objects that continue to play an important role in Japanese cultural and spiritual life.Guided by Yasuyuki Iwata, a certified Traditional Craftsman and seventh-generation artisan, you will gain insight into the meticulous skills required to work with Kiso hinoki, Japan’s finest native cypress wood.You will observe authentic woodworking in action and learn about the materials, tools, and craftsmanship behind objects used in Shinto and Buddhist practices.After exploring the workshop, you will create your own pair of chopsticks under the direct guidance of the artisan.Using the same professional tools employed in daily workshop production, you will shape, refine, and finish a unique pair of chopsticks made from Kiso hinoki.The completed chopsticks become a meaningful keepsake of your journey and a practical reminder of Japan’s rich craftsmanship traditions.For guests seeking an even deeper experience, an optional traditional lacquer-finishing upgrade is available, transforming your chopsticks into a durable and elegant piece designed for years of use.This intimate experience offers a rare opportunity to connect directly with a master artisan while discovering a lesser-known side of Japanese culture and craftsmanship.

Icons of Japanese Innovation & Technology | Toyota Commemorative Museum & SCMAGLEV and Railway Park

Behind the Curtain of Tradition | Exclusive Geisha Rehearsal Viewing in Nagoya

HighlightsWitness an exclusive geisha rehearsal normally closed to the publicSee graceful dance practice up closeTry playing the traditional instruments used by geishaLearn about geisha makeup, kimono dressing, and traditional performance toolsEnjoy a rare opportunity for Q&A and a commemorative photo with a geishaTour OverviewStep into a world rarely seen by outsiders with this exclusive visit to the rehearsal hall of Nagoya’s Geisha Association (Meigiren). Home to both seasoned geisha and apprentice maiko, this prestigious group continues to preserve and pass down Japan’s elegant performance traditions.You’ll observe a live rehearsal, watching as geisha perfect their refined dances and music, including the distinctive sound of the shamisen, a three-stringed instrument central to their art.Along the way, your guide will explain the cultural significance of each movement, the symbolism of their kimono and accessories, and the unique “Golden Shachihoko” dance—an intricate and elegant performance inspired by the mythical tiger-headed carp that adorns Nagoya Castle’s roof. Mastering this dance is a signature skill required of all Meigiren geisha.The experience includes observing the dressing of a geisha in her kimono and the application of traditional makeup, watching a dance rehearsal, and learning about the tools of the trade. You’ll also have the chance to try instruments such as the hand drum and the shamisen, a traditional three-stringed lute, take part in a signature performance unique to Nagoya’s geisha, ask questions directly, and capture a memorable photo with a geisha.This is not a staged show, but an authentic glimpse into the dedication, discipline, and artistry that define Japan’s geisha culture.

Samurai Legacy & Authentic Tea Ceremony | Exclusive Teahouse Experience at Nagoya Castle

HighlightsExplore Nagoya Castle with expert insights into samurai history and cultural heritageStep inside the historic Sarumen Teahouse, a nationally designated cultural propertyExperience an authentic tea ceremony performed by a master in serene surroundingsSavor seasonal Japanese sweets once crafted for the Tokugawa shogunateAppreciate refined seasonal décor enhancing the timeless atmosphere of the teahouseTour OverviewDiscover Nagoya’s rich heritage through the twin lenses of samurai power and tea culture on this immersive afternoon tour. Begin with a guided exploration of Nagoya Castle, commissioned by Tokugawa Ieyasu and famed for its golden shachihoko roof ornaments. The castle’s original main keep was once celebrated as Japan’s first designated National Treasure, but it was destroyed during World War II; today, a reconstructed keep stands as its symbol. Several watchtowers and other structures, however, still survive from the original 17th-century construction, offering a tangible link to the castle’s past. The tour also highlights the masterfully rebuilt Honmaru Palace, reconstructed with the same traditional craftsmanship used over 400 years ago.Afterward, you’ll step into the Sarumen Teahouse, a nationally designated cultural property within the castle grounds that is usually closed to the public. Surrounded by refined seasonal décor, you’ll witness the elegance of an authentic tea ceremony performed by a master. Alongside the matcha, you will enjoy seasonal wagashi, reflecting Nagoya’s place as one of Japan’s wagashi capitals. This deep-rooted culture of sweets grew hand in hand with the popularity of tea in the region, fostered by generations of Owari Tokugawa lords who greatly enjoyed the practice of chanoyu.This rare experience blends the grandeur of samurai history with the quiet refinement of the tea ceremony, offering a cultural encounter that engages all five senses.

From Soybeans to Local Flavor | Make Your Own Tofu & Taste Nagoya’s Dark Miso Dengaku

HighlightsLearn the craft of tofu making from an artisan at a century-old tofu shopCreate fresh tofu from scratch and taste it warm on the spotEnjoy dengaku, a Nagoya specialty topped with rich dark miso once favored by the Tokugawa shogunsExperience both hands-on cooking and regional flavors in one cultural workshopTour OverviewStep into the culinary heritage of Nagoya with this immersive food experience. Guided by an artisan from a tofu shop with over a hundred years of history, you will learn the craft of tofu making directly from a skilled expert. Tofu, made from soybeans, is one of Japan’s most versatile and nutritious foods, central to both everyday meals and refined cuisine.Guided step by step, you will make your own tofu and taste it fresh and warm — simple, delicate, and unforgettable. To complement this, you will enjoy miso dengaku, skewered tofu topped with Nagoya’s signature dark miso. This robust and savory miso, beloved by the Tokugawa shoguns, has been a hallmark of Nagoya’s regional cuisine for centuries.The workshop is held inside Japan Culture Village, where tradition and modern life meet. Here you can find historic shrines, century-old shops, and stylish cafés, making it an ideal place to continue exploring after your food experience.

Accessible Nagoya Geisha Experience | Ozashiki Entertainment with Tea, Sweets & Cultural Insights

HighlightsEnjoy an intimate ozashiki performance with one geisha in an accessible, affordable formatLearn about geisha traditions through your guide’s explanations and an interactive Q&A sessionSavor matcha green tea and wagashi sweets instead of a formal multi-course mealTake commemorative photos with the geisha in a relaxed, welcoming settingLocated just one subway stop or a 15-minute walk from Nagoya StationTour OverviewDiscover the elegance of geisha culture in a way that is approachable, affordable, and welcoming. Unlike traditional ozashiki banquets held at high-end restaurants with multiple geisha, this experience features one geisha in an intimate setting, accompanied by tea and wagashi sweets. It is designed to give travelers a rare cultural encounter without the formality or high cost of a full banquet.Your guide begins with an introduction to the history and role of geisha, setting the stage for the performance. In the tatami room of Wazamon Chaya, you will enjoy graceful dance and music while tasting matcha green tea paired with seasonal sweets.After the performance, there will be time for questions and conversation with the geisha, offering insight into their artistry, training, and everyday life. Finally, you can take photos together, creating a memorable keepsake.The experience takes place inside Japan Culture Village, a unique district where past and present meet. Here, historic temples, shrines, and century-old shops stand alongside stylish cafés and contemporary eateries, making it an inspiring place to explore before or after your tea experience.Perfectly located just one subway stop—or a short 15-minute walk—from Nagoya Station, this is an ideal opportunity for travelers to encounter Japan’s living traditions in the heart of the city.

【Small Group】Best of Nagoya | Samurai, Castles & City Life Tour

HighlightsBlend of Samurai History & Modern Urban Culture in One TourExperience the Perfect Mix of Tradition, Innovation & Everyday City LifeGain a Deeper Understanding of Japanese Culture & Daily Life Through NagoyaExplore Nagoya’s Iconic Landmarks with a Knowledgeable Local GuideTour OverviewNagoya is where samurai heritage meets modern innovation, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and city life. This tour takes you through its top landmarks, from the majestic Nagoya Castle to the futuristic Sakae district and the lively Osu shopping arcade. Along the way, you’ll gain insight into Japanese culture and daily life, experiencing both historic traditions and contemporary urban energy.With a knowledgeable local guide, enjoy a deeper understanding of Japan beyond the typical tourist experience. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, this tour reveals the true essence of Nagoya.

Nagoya ⇆ Chubu Centrair Airport (NGO) Private Transfer

Travel comfortably with a private transfer between central Nagoya, Chubu Centrair International Airport, and Nagoya Airfield.This flexible door-to-door service includes airport transfers, hotel pickups, train station transfers, and transportation between popular areas within Nagoya city.> Private transfer service covering NGO and NKM airports> Door-to-door pickup from hotels, residences, and train stations including Nagoya Station> Real-time Japan flight tracking with up to 90 minutes waiting time for airport arrivals> Up to 20 minutes waiting time for city or hotel pickups> Comfortable transfer for families, business travelers, elderly guests, and travelers with luggage> Driver contact and customer support available via WhatsApp and emailAvoid crowded trains, transfers, and heavy luggage handling with a smooth and stress-free private Nagoya transfer experience.

Private Calligraphy Experience in Nagoya

Private Calligraphy Experience in NagoyaExperience Shodo, the traditional Japanese art of calligraphy, in Nagoya. Enjoy a unique and private session with a professional calligrapher in a serene setting.We provide everything you need for your calligraphy experience, including brushes, paper, and inkstones.The venue is a building constructed by Miyadaiku, traditional Japanese carpenters. It is also used as a classroom for teaching traditional Japanese culture, mainly focusing on the koto, a traditional Japanese musical instrument.Your experience will take place in a traditional Japanese classroom, where you can enjoy the tranquility of wabi-sabi aesthetics and a meditative atmosphere, making it a truly immersive and peaceful experience.We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of Shodo, one of Japan’s most cherished art forms.

Nagoya Black Kimono Dyeing | Hands-On Family Crest Printing Workshop

HighlightsLearn the art of Kuro Montsuki dyeing directly from a skilled Nagoya artisanDiscover the history of Japan’s formal black kimono and its cultural significanceChoose and imprint your favorite kamon (family crest) onto a hand-dyed tenugui (traditional cotton towel)Create a one-of-a-kind souvenir to use as fashion, décor, or a keepsakeCombine hands-on craft with cultural exploration in the historic Japan Culture VillageTour OverviewStep into the world of Nagoya’s traditional craftsmanship with a hands-on introduction to Kuro Montsuki dyeing, a technique refined over 400 years. Originally used to create the most formal black kimono, this method achieves a deep, lustrous black through repeated layers of dyeing. Artisans then apply advanced resist techniques to add the white family crest — a symbol of heritage and identity in Japan.Guided by a master craftsman, you will first learn about the history and process of Kuro Montsuki dyeing and its role in Japanese culture. You’ll then move on to the workshop, where you will imprint your chosen kamon (family crest) onto a jet-black tenugui scarf, selecting from several crest designs and colors. In Japan, kamon have been passed down for generations, serving as visual symbols of family lineage and pride.The tenugui you create is a personal, one-of-a-kind souvenir — versatile enough to use as a fashion accessory, wall hanging, or handkerchief. The workshop takes place inside Japan Culture Village, a unique setting where old and new blend seamlessly. Historic temples, shrines, and century-old shops stand alongside stylish cafés and modern eateries, offering plenty to explore after your session.This workshop offers not only a creative experience but also a meaningful connection to the enduring traditions of Japanese design and symbolism, all within a lively cultural district that celebrates both past and present.

Rie Asai’s Traditional Japanese Performing Arts

A Journey into the World of Traditional Japan — Curated by Koto Artist Rie AsaiStep into the elegant and soulful world of Japanese tradition with Rie Asai, a globally recognized koto artist, composer, producer, and cultural performer.Her immersive programs offer an unforgettable fusion of performance, hands-on experience, and heartfelt hospitality — all tailored to provide a truly unique encounter with Japanese culture.Choose from a variety of experiences, including:Traditional Japanese Performing Arts Appreciation　Live performances of classical music and dance, presented with cultural context.Japanese Instrument Workshop　Try your hand at traditional instruments such as the koto, shamisen, kagura bells, or taiko drums — choose your favorite!Edo-Era Pastimes Experience　Playful and educational activities from Japan's historical golden age.Every session is personally produced by Rie Asai to create a deeply memorable, one-of-a-kind experience just for you.Let us craft your own personal memory of Japan — with grace, music, and authentic hospitality.

Art of Fine Violin Craftsmanship | Exclusive Private Tour at Suzuki Violin Workshop

HighlightsExplore the Suzuki Violin Workshop, Japan’s pioneering violin manufacturer with over a century of history.Learn directly from master violin makers, discovering the craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation behind Suzuki violins.Play and compare different violins, experiencing their unique sound and resonance in a professional setting.Exclusive customization options for buyers, including personalized name engraving and an original label inside the violin.Tour OverviewStep into the world of Japanese violin craftsmanship with an exclusive visit to the Suzuki Violin Workshop, a historic workshop that played a pivotal role in producing Japan’s first domestically made violin. Founded in 1887 by Masakichi Suzuki, the company has shaped Japan’s violin-making industry for over a century.This tour offers a rare opportunity to engage with master artisans, learn about the intricate process of violin making, and experience firsthand the artistry behind each instrument. Guests will have the chance to try playing different violins, comparing their tones and craftsmanship under expert guidance.For those who choose to purchase a violin, personalization options are available, including name engraving and a custom label inside the violin, making this experience truly one-of-a-kind.*Please inform us at the time of booking if you consider purchasing one.