Discover top-rated guided tours, cultural experiences, and unforgettable adventures across Japan
Showing 20 tours
Travel deep into the Japanese Alps to witness one of nature's most endearing scenes — wild Japanese macaques bathing in natural hot springs surrounded by snow-covered mountains. The Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano is the only place in the world where wild monkeys soak in onsen waters. This full-day tour from Tokyo includes bullet train transport, a guided hike through the forest to the monkey park, and free time to explore the charming hot spring town of Yudanaka. Available year-round but most magical in winter (Dec-March) with snow.
Experience Tokyo's electric nightlife like a local on this after-dark adventure through the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Start at the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing as the neon lights blaze, then dive into the tiny alley bars of Golden Gai in Shinjuku — each seating just 6-8 people with unique themes. Visit a traditional yokocho (alley market) for yakitori and cold beer, and end the night in the futuristic glow of Akihabara or the upscale cocktail bars of Roppongi. Your night-owl guide knows every hidden speakeasy and secret rooftop.
Witness the raw power and ancient ritual of sumo wrestling at one of Tokyo's grand tournament venues. This VIP experience includes premium seating, an expert English-speaking guide who explains the intricate rules, rituals, and rankings, plus an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the warm-up area. Learn about the life of a rikishi (sumo wrestler), from their strict training regimen to the legendary chanko-nabe diet. Available during official tournament months (January, May, September in Tokyo).
Discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto on this immersive full-day walking tour covering the city's most revered temples and Shinto shrines. Begin at the dazzling Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), continue to the Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, and explore the thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Your expert guide brings each site to life with stories spanning over a thousand years of Japanese history. The tour also includes a peaceful stroll through the bamboo grove of Arashiyama and a visit to the serene Tenryu-ji Temple.
Dive deep into Tokyo's culinary soul on this expertly curated food tour that goes far beyond the tourist traps. Starting at the legendary Tsukiji Outer Market, you'll sample the freshest sushi, savory tamagoyaki, and seasonal specialties hand-picked by your local foodie guide. Venture into the backstreets of Ginza and discover standing bars, family-run izakayas, and hidden ramen joints that most visitors never find. This immersive 3-hour walking experience includes 8+ tastings — enough to replace a full meal.
Embark on an unforgettable full-day journey from Tokyo to Japan's iconic Mount Fuji. Visit the stunning 5th Station at 2,300 meters, explore the serene Fuji Five Lakes region, and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Hakone landscape. This expertly guided tour includes comfortable round-trip transport, a traditional Japanese lunch, and stops at scenic viewpoints perfect for photography. Ideal for travelers who want to experience the majesty of Fuji-san without the hassle of navigating rural Japan on their own.
Discover one of Japan's three most scenic views on this comprehensive tour of Miyajima Island near Hiroshima. Take the scenic ferry across Hiroshima Bay, walk among friendly wild deer on the island's shores, and marvel at the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine — especially stunning at high tide when it appears to float on the water. Ride the ropeway to the summit of Mount Misen for 360° panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea. The tour includes time to explore the island's charming shopping street and sample momiji manju (maple leaf cakes), the island's signature treat.
Pedal through the stunning Fuji Five Lakes region on this active outdoor tour combining cycling, photography, and natural beauty. Ride along the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Saiko on well-maintained cycling paths with Mount Fuji as your constant backdrop. Stop at hidden viewpoints, visit a traditional craft village, and enjoy a local lunch featuring Hoto noodles — a regional specialty. The gentle terrain makes this suitable for riders of all fitness levels. Electric-assist bikes available for those wanting an easier ride. Your guide captures professional photos throughout.
Capture the electric energy of Tokyo at night on this photography-focused walking tour led by a professional photographer. Master the art of neon light photography at Shibuya Crossing, learn long-exposure techniques in the narrow alleys of Shinjuku's Kabukicho, and find the perfect cyberpunk compositions in Akihabara's glowing electronics district. Whether you're shooting with a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone, your guide provides personalized tips to level up your night photography. Small groups ensure plenty of one-on-one instruction time.
Rise early and experience Tokyo's vibrant Tsukiji Outer Market at its freshest. This small-group morning tour takes you through the bustling stalls as vendors prepare the day's finest catches. Sample fresh uni (sea urchin), maguro (tuna), tamago (sweet egg), and seasonal sashimi prepared right before your eyes. Visit a traditional knife shop where artisan blades are handcrafted using samurai sword techniques. Your market-expert guide shares the history of Tokyo's 90+ year-old fish trading tradition and helps you navigate the maze of over 400 stalls like a pro.
Transform into elegance with a full kimono dressing experience in Kyoto's iconic Gion geisha district. Choose from hundreds of premium silk and cotton kimono patterns, get professionally styled with traditional hair accessories, and then stroll through the atmospheric streets of Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and the Ninenzaka steps with a photographer capturing your most stunning moments. The experience includes a 30-minute professional photoshoot with 20+ edited digital photos delivered within 48 hours. Available for couples, families, and solo travelers.
Escape to the mountain town of Nikko, where ornate Edo-period architecture meets lush natural beauty. Visit the lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine — the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate — featuring the famous Three Wise Monkeys carving and the Sleeping Cat. Explore the sacred Futarasan Shrine and the serene Rinnoji Temple, then take in the dramatic Kegon Falls, one of Japan's top three waterfalls at 97 meters tall. This full-day tour from Tokyo covers all UNESCO-listed sites with expert commentary.
Walk through one of the world's most photographed natural wonders — the towering bamboo groves of Arashiyama. This guided half-day tour takes you beyond the main path to quieter sections of the forest, then climbs to the Iwatayama Monkey Park where Japanese macaques roam freely with panoramic views of Kyoto below. Visit the elegant Tenryu-ji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage) and cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge spanning the Katsura River. Your guide shares photography tips and local legends of this magical district.
Discover the art of sake-making in Fushimi, Kyoto's historic brewing district known for its pristine underground spring water. Visit two of the area's most prestigious sake breweries, learn about the centuries-old brewing process from rice polishing to fermentation, and sample 6+ premium varieties including junmai daiginjo and sparkling sake. Your certified sake sommelier guide explains tasting notes, food pairings, and the cultural significance of nihonshu in Japanese celebrations. The perfect experience for wine and spirits enthusiasts discovering Japan's national drink.
Step back in time to Japan's first permanent capital on this enchanting half-day tour of Nara. Meet the city's famous sacred deer who roam freely in Nara Park — you can even feed them special deer crackers (shika senbei). Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the awe-inspiring 15-meter Great Buddha statue, and stroll through the atmospheric Kasuga-taisha Shrine with its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns. Your guide provides fascinating insights into Nara's pivotal role in shaping Japanese culture, religion, and governance.
Escape the urban buzz of Tokyo for a rejuvenating day in Hakone — Japan's premier hot spring resort town. Soak in a natural onsen with views of volcanic mountain scenery, explore the world-famous Hakone Open-Air Museum featuring sculptures by Picasso and Henry Moore set against the backdrop of the mountains, and cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ashi. On clear days, enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji reflected in the lake. This tour perfectly balances relaxation, art, and natural beauty.
Experience why Osaka is called 'Japan's Kitchen' on this epic street food walking tour through the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Start in neon-lit Dotonbori where you'll try takoyaki (octopus balls) fresh from the griddle, fluffy okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and crispy kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Then venture into the retro charm of Shinsekai for the best gyoza and draft beer in town. Your local guide shares the stories behind each dish and the centuries-old food culture that makes Osaka unique.
Journey from Osaka to two of Japan's most powerful destinations in a single day. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to reflect on the events of August 1945, then take a scenic ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Your knowledgeable guide provides historical context and personal stories that bring these UNESCO World Heritage Sites to life. Bullet train experience included — travel at speeds up to 300 km/h on the famous Shinkansen.
Channel your inner warrior with this hands-on samurai experience in the heart of Tokyo. Under the guidance of a trained swordsman, learn the fundamentals of kenjutsu (Japanese swordsmanship) including proper stance, drawing techniques, and cutting forms. Dress in traditional samurai attire — complete with hakama and haori — and practice with a real katana under expert supervision. The session concludes with a dramatic test-cutting demonstration on tatami mats. Perfect for history enthusiasts, martial arts fans, and anyone seeking a truly unique Tokyo experience.
Step into the meditative world of chado (the Way of Tea) with this intimate tea ceremony experience hosted in a traditional Kyoto machiya townhouse. A certified tea master guides you through each graceful movement — from the preparation of matcha using a bamboo whisk to the art of receiving and savoring your tea. Learn the philosophy of wabi-sabi and ichi-go ichi-e that underpins this 400-year-old practice. Seasonal wagashi (traditional sweets) are paired with your tea. Available in both traditional kimono-clad and casual formats.
