(All Reviews) Page 5) Cultural Experiences, Tokyo tours & activities, fun things to do in Tokyo | VELTRA

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All Reviews for Cultural Experiences in Tokyo

Overall Rating

4.77 4.77 / 5

Reviews

339 reviews

Wear Kimono in Asakusa with a Rental Dress Up Experience in Tokyo

Quick tour of Asakusa

Reviewed by: Eric Canoy

Second to the last day of our Japan trip, we had booked a rental at Sakura Photo Studio in Asakusa. Being.that we had a large group, of seven participants, we wanted to go in early to get ahead of the crowd.

We arrived via Ginza line, and in a few short blocks we were at the studio. It was located in 4 story building on the corner of two streets. Signs were posted on thier windows to show where they were located. The elevator is small, so you'll have to go in small groups of 3 or 4 at a time.

As we got there most of the employees of Sakura Photo Studio were just getting in, but we're ready to help us get into our kimonos. They were really quick and patient in helping us choose our kimonos. One of the employees spoke FOUR LANGUAGES: Japanese, Korean, Chinese ( Mandarin), and English! That was really helpful especially when other groups started to enter the studio,including that the studio is very small for changing into the kimonos.

The staff was able to get us into.our kimonos within the hour and let us know how long we had the rentals for the day. They also had some discounts on Rik Shaw rides through Asakusa. You'll look extra traditional with your kimonos.

Overall, the service was great, the quality of the kimonos were great and diverse, and the staff was very helpful. Will do again if I come back to Asakusa.

Reply from activity provider

Thank you so much for coming our studio, and having our service. We are so much honored and happy to have you over such a great group of people. We are so much looking forward to having you over our shop once again sometime!!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Kimono Plan and Free Walking
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2018/04/21
Activity Date: 2018/04/17

Dynamic Traditional Taiko Japanese Drumming Lesson in Tokyo

Loved it!!

Reviewed by: Lou

This isn't a touristy group of people doing taiko, it is a proper studio doing lessons for locals and alike. The main group was made up of OAP's who totally rocked when it came to the drumming. I was put in the hands of one of the instructors who did not have a word of English but in all fairness who needs words when actions will do! Luckily enough there was someone who had grear English and Japenese so he could tell me more about what was going on...he himself was just visiting whilst on holiday from Australia where he is learning taiko.

I really wish I had longer here as I'd be at the studio as much as possible. Thanks to this experience I'm going to go and find somewhere to drum in the uk.

If you want a local class with non tourists then this is the one for you plus it is so much cheaper than the other touristy groups.

Reply from activity provider

Thank you for your review.
If you come to Japan again please come to the lesson.
Thank you.

Hougaku Academy
INAGAKI

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Taiko Drumming Lesson - Kamata School
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2018/04/20
Activity Date: 2018/04/16

Elegant Kimono Photo Shoot Experience in Tokyo

Great photoshoot

Reviewed by: Alex & Daria

Amazing work from a very funny and talented team. Thank you guys!

Reply from activity provider

Dear Alex & Daria,
Thank you very much for coming, we had very much fun, too :) We hope the photos become a wonderful commemoration of Japan!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Couple Plan for Adults
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2018/04/09
Activity Date: 2018/04/04

Wear Kimono in Asakusa with a Rental Dress Up Experience in Tokyo

Maiko for a day

Reviewed by: SweetSakura

Such a great experience!! I really enjoyed walking around the city dressed up!! A must do when in Japan. Planning on doing it again as a family!!

Reply from activity provider

Thank you for such a great compliment and your message. We are so much looking forward to having you over our shop once again!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Kimono Plan and Free Walking
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2018/04/09
Activity Date: 2018/04/04

Special Geisha Performance and Games in the Heart of Tokyo

Good Experience!

Reviewed by: Trio

Great introduction into the world of geisha! I really enjoyed it. My mother wanted more performances from the ladies, but overall she was happy. Highly recommend!

Reply from activity provider

Dear Trio,
Thank you very much for your warm message. We are very glad that you enjoyed the show very much. The costume of geisha will be different in summer season, so please come again in near future. best regards,

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Plan
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2018/04/02
Activity Date: 2018/02/17

Karate Lesson and Calligraphy in Nihonbashi

The experience

Reviewed by: Nay

It’s was an awsome experience would definitely do it again

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Rating:
Packages: Karate and Calligraphy Course
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2018/02/24
Activity Date: 2018/02/02

Dynamic Traditional Taiko Japanese Drumming Lesson in Tokyo

What a time we had!

Reviewed by: Alka Mall

It was a class conducted by a fun loving master who gave ample encouragement and feedback to us. Our peers were happy to see us and showed curiosity towards us and wanted to know us better. We could catch the rhythm and towards the end of the session, we were blended with the main group.

I would love to go back for more classes.

We could not locate the building of the school. We were asked to wait at a spot and a pupil came to fetch us. That was most helpful.

Master helped us to click pictures and even allowed us to play the large drum which was a dream come true.

Exercise your arms a few days before. Else, it can feel strenuous and cause pain later.

Wear loose comfy clothing. You will remove your shoes outside.

Have fun.

Reply from activity provider

Thank you for your review.
I hope that the circle of taiko will spread in your review.

Please come back to drum.
Thank you!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Taiko Drumming Lesson - Kamata School
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2018/02/23
Activity Date: 2018/02/17

Convenient Kimono Rental and Dress-up Studio in Asakusa

Kimono dress up

Reviewed by: Hayley Buckley

We had a wonderful time. The ladies looked after us so well.
There were so many kimonos to choose from. We came away with some amazing memories and photos from our day.

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Rating:
Packages: Adult Couple Plan
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2018/02/07
Activity Date: 2018/02/05

Fun Sumie Ink Painting Lesson in Tokyo with English Speaking Instructor

Fun with Yuta!

Reviewed by: Granger

Sumi-e is much more than a painting activity, it's a glimpse into another world...another way of seeing... This 2 hour-ish experience only scratches the surface, so if you don't have 2-3 years to explore Sumi-e it is probably a great alternative! Yuta was a fun, encouragingly positive instructor with a good heart. The studio is an absolutely gorgeous workspace. You are surrounded by a master's work for inspiration.

  • Here there be dragons! (And cats...lots of cats!!)

  • Thanks, Yuta!!

  • The charming, light-filled studio is full of inspiring works.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Sumie Painting Lesson
Attended as: Friends
Posted on: 2018/01/29
Activity Date: 2018/01/27

狂言ラウンジ大藏基誠 ラウンジパーティと狂言公演を組み合わせた新感覚ライブ 満足度NO.1の人気イベントが復活!<選べるベルトラ限定プラン>

良かったです!

Reviewed by: うめこ

狂言の基礎知識やストーリーの説明があって、とても良かったと思います。
また別の演目も見てみたいです。

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Rating:
Packages: 12/14 (木)「文相撲」Fu-Zumou チケット+舞台裏ツアー
Attended as: Friends
Posted on: 2018/01/07
Activity Date: 2017/12/14

【芸者さん/日本橋催行】芸者とお座敷遊び+踊り鑑賞+写真撮影 日本のおもてなしを東京で体験 <英語対応可/毎週土曜開催/室町>

友達と三人で

Reviewed by: りりー

友達と三人で参加。海外から来た方がおおいような気がしましたが・・・
全体的にみんなまんべんなくゲームも出来て、楽しかったです。

Reply from activity provider

この度はご参加誠に有難うございました。お座敷遊びをお楽しみいただけましたようで、嬉しく存じます。ゲームの勝敗はいかがでございましたでしょうか。お座敷遊び体験 Time to Geishya は、普段は芸者衆になじみのない日本のお客さまはもちろん、海外からのご観光の皆様にも、気軽に参加できる文化体験としてご好評を頂いております。二度、三度お越しくださる方もいらっしゃいますので、ぜひまたご友人お誘いあわせの上、お越しくださいませ。心よりお待ち申し上げております。

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Rating:
Packages: 2018.4.7までのご予約
Attended as: Friends
Posted on: 2017/12/11
Activity Date: 2017/01/14

Special Geisha Performance and Games in the Heart of Tokyo

So much fun!

Reviewed by: Shelli

Had such a fun time! The geisha were so lovely to watch and so nice! The games were super fun. Great even if you are a solo traveler.

Reply from activity provider

Dear Shelli,
Thank you so much for your warm message. We are very glad to hear that you enjoyed our program. As you mentioned, playing games make people get along with, and Geishas are specialists in hospitality. Please come again in another time, and try fitting KIMONO for the next time. Best regards,

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Plan
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2017/12/11
Activity Date: 2017/11/18

Elegant Tea Ceremony at Warakuan Teahouse in Tokyo

Tea Ceremony

Reviewed by: swiss girl

it was a great Tea Ceremony at Warakuan Teahouse. The Teamaster give us a lot of interesting Information.
we were just 2 People and it was amazing.
we realy enjoy it.

Reply from activity provider

Thank you for enjoying the Tea ceremony and please visit again.

Sorei Maeda, Komaba Warakuan

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Rating:
Packages: Introductory Tea Ceremony
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2017/12/01
Activity Date: 2017/11/27

Special Geisha Performance and Games in the Heart of Tokyo

Special geisha performance and games in the heart of Tokyo

Reviewed by: robert

Special geisha performance and games in the heart of Tokyo. Very interesting.

Reply from activity provider

Thank you very much for your message. We are very glad that you enjoyed Time to Geisha.
As you mentioned, our Time to Geisha is not only viewing but also joining games as well, and it is held in a very convenient location for travellers.
We hope you to visit again in near future.
Best regards,

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Plan
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2017/11/27
Activity Date: 2017/11/04

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

Fascinating and fun!

Reviewed by: Seattle mom

I took my kids (age 7.5 and 10) to a 2 hour ninja training class. We all had a blast!! Everyone was super nice and they really tailored the class lessons to the kid's ages. We all found it interesting and learned a lot. Our son particularly loved getting to use the throwing stars and blowdart gun! Their minds were blown! It was a great way to spend a morning! One of the highlights of our trip!

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Rating:
Packages: Ninja Master Course: 5 Ninja Techniques
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2017/11/16
Activity Date: 2017/11/08

Special Geisha Performance and Games in the Heart of Tokyo

Great introduction course

Reviewed by: Tip

A great introduction to geisha experience. We got to see them dance, played games with them, taking photos with them for a really cheap price. Good deal!

Reply from activity provider

Thank you very much for your message. We are very glad that you enjoyed our program. Time to Geisha is a short time travel to old Tokyo called Edo. We hope to welcome you again soon. Best regards,

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Plan
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2017/11/13
Activity Date: 2017/11/04

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

Amazing experience!

Reviewed by: Margarita

It was incredible! Its a family owned business, where everyone is super caring and loyal to their craft! They are very serious during training, making sure we learn. We were provided the ninja costume and access to some weapons. We were greeted and well explained what to do by the owner.
It was interesting to learn the history, watch training process and see all weapons. By the way, all weapons handmade. thank you again for making this happen!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Ninja Master Course: 5 Ninja Techniques
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2017/11/07
Activity Date: 2017/11/05

【芸者さん/日本橋催行】芸者とお座敷遊び+踊り鑑賞+写真撮影 日本のおもてなしを東京で体験 <英語対応可/毎週土曜開催/室町>

外国からのお客様のおもてなしに最適

Reviewed by: buda

オーストラリアからのお客様をお連れしました。
椅子を用意いただいたので、彼らもゆっくり座って楽しめたようです。

ネイテイブの方からも英語で説明もあり、外国人にも楽しめる内容でした。
ゲーム性のあるお遊びも、とても分かりやすく楽しく、やや緊張気味だった雰囲気もすぐ和みました。
大変に清潔感あるお部屋で、日本の伝統文化に触れることができ、日本人の私たちも大いに楽しめました。

是非体験されることをおススメいたします。

Reply from activity provider

この度はご参加を頂き、また、温かいメッセージを誠に有難うございます。
オーストラリアからのお客様にもお楽しみいただけましたようで、とても嬉しく存じます。
地下鉄の駅から直結したショッピングモールの中とは思えない本格的な和の空間で、ひと時、江戸時代の空気をお感じ頂けましたら幸いでございます。
同じ橋楽亭にて開催しております、きものレンタル着付けも、気軽に楽しめる日本文化としてご好評を頂いておりますので、ぜひそちらもご利用くださいませ。
またのご参加を心よりお待ち申し上げております。

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Rating:
Packages: 2018.4.7までのご予約
Attended as: Friends
Posted on: 2017/10/26
Activity Date: 2017/10/07

Dynamic Traditional Taiko Japanese Drumming Lesson in Tokyo

Fun experience with a great workout!

Reviewed by: Solo Sam Takes Japan

Having signed up for the session two days before, I had no idea what to expect. I was running 20 minutes late for my appointment but the instructors were very flexible. With a full class of 7-10 local veterans, I was quickly brought to speed on the side with my own complimentary routine and my own personal instructor. He didn't speak much English and I didn't speak much Japanese, but we got a long perfectly and for the next hour and half I learned all the basics on how to strike a Taiko drum. This is definitely a class I'd recommend to anyone looking for a unique experience and a fun workout! Yes, I said workout, so make sure you bring the right clothes, don't wear jeans like I did whoops!

Reply from activity provider

Thank you for your review.
We strive to make many people know Taiko.
I am sorry that I can not speak English.
Also please come if you have the opportunity.
Thank you.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Taiko Drumming Lesson - Kamata School
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2017/10/20
Activity Date: 2017/09/15

Modern Tea Ceremony in Ginza with Tea Bowl and Whisk Set to Take Home

Tea ceremony

Reviewed by: Fiona

Thanks it was really good. I enjoyed learning about the ceremony and tradition. Now I'm home i can make it properly.

Reply from activity provider

Thank you very much for joining us. We are very glad that you have an interest in Tea Ceremony. Please have a relaxing and refreshing tea time with your own green tea set, and also try a more traditional tear ceremony in Japanese tea room at your next visit. Best regards, Shinnichiya

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Rating:
Packages: Test Package
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2017/10/19
Activity Date: 2017/10/12

Authentic Sumo Wrestler Morning Practice Viewing in Tokyo

Amazing experience

Reviewed by: Ellen

The tour was easily organised and provided a unique opportunity to witness the training stables. I was unable to attend a tournament, but feel this was better, due to being so close to the wrestlers and witnessing the intensity, which may not be obaerved from a distance.

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Rating:
Packages: Test Package
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2017/10/13
Activity Date: 2017/10/11

Fun Sumie Ink Painting Lesson in Tokyo with English Speaking Instructor

Sumie Ink Painting

Reviewed by: McKenzie family

Yuta was an engaging and insightful teacher, who speaks English very well. Very good with our kids and with a great motto that there are no mistakes in Sumie art, just personal expression. Thank you for this fun activity and lessons. We have already bought brushes, ink, a cloth and paper to continue learning more.

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Rating:
Packages: Sumie Painting Lesson
Attended as: Families with Young Children
Posted on: 2017/10/10
Activity Date: 2017/10/07

Dynamic Traditional Taiko Japanese Drumming Lesson in Tokyo

Taiko drum lessons for children

Reviewed by: Cate

Our 5 year old son really enjoyed this Taiko drum lesson!

Reply from activity provider

Thank you for your review.
I am glad that your son enjoyed the lesson.
I am waiting for the next visit.
Thank you.

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Rating:
Packages: Children's Taiko Lesson - Kamata School
Attended as: Families with Young Children
Posted on: 2017/10/04
Activity Date: 2017/09/30

Convenient Kimono Rental and Dress-up Studio in Asakusa

Tokyo 2017

Reviewed by: Ms. Little-Bradley

The place was easy to locate. The Kimono was Beautiful and treasonably priced. I enjoyed the experience and took lots of pictures.

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Rating:
Packages: Afternoon Value Plan (From 14:00)
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2017/09/26
Activity Date: 2017/09/24

【芸者さん/日本橋催行】芸者とお座敷遊び+踊り鑑賞+写真撮影 日本のおもてなしを東京で体験 <英語対応可/毎週土曜開催/室町>

Amazing experience

Reviewed by: Cana

It was really nice! We enjoyed to watch dancing. After they teach us some games and we did games. It was difficult but super fun!
If you have tim better to go, it is such an amazing experience!

Reply from activity provider

Dear Cana,
Thank you very much for your message. We are very glad that you enjoyed Time to Geisha.
As you mentioned, our Time to Geisha is not only viewing but also to do games, and you will feel the air of old Tokyo "EDO".
We hope you to visit again soon.
Best regards,

  • Geisha

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Rating:
Packages: 2018.4.7までのご予約
Attended as: Friends
Posted on: 2017/09/21
Activity Date: 2017/09/16

Fun Sumie Ink Painting Lesson in Tokyo with English Speaking Instructor

Amazing experience!

Reviewed by: William

I would highly recommend taking this class. I love sumi-e ink paintings from before, for their graphic powerful qualities. Back home I had painted a bit from before, making myself familiar with the medium and some techniques - but - this was exactly the sort of introduction I was hoping for.

The teacher was super friendly, helpful and fun. He thought me different techniques to use, stories about how sumi-e came to Japan, and the philosophy behind the art form. Our talks were super inspiring and I know I will take up painting once I'm back home again later this year. There, all my washi papers will await me, bought in Tokyo at a great art store I got directions to after the class.

Really, thank you!

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Rating:
Packages: Sumie Painting Lesson
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2017/09/17
Activity Date: 2017/08/31

【着物・浴衣レンタル】雷門徒歩2分!下町情緒溢れる浅草で着物散策<着付け・ヘアセット込/人力車割引券付き/浅草>by サクラフォトスタジオ

おすすめです。

Reviewed by: タイスキ

外国の友人にサプライズでプレゼントしましたがとてもよろこんでいました。
場所も分かりやすく着物の種類も豊富でおすすめです。

Reply from activity provider

ご来店誠にありがとうございます。お友達にも喜んでいただけて大変私たちも嬉しく思います。
ぜひまたのご来店お待ちいたしております。

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Rating:
Packages: ベーシックプラン(浴衣 or 着物)
Attended as: Friends
Posted on: 2017/09/12
Activity Date: 2017/09/09

Dynamic Traditional Taiko Japanese Drumming Lesson in Tokyo

Great Fun!

Reviewed by: Anka

I had such a great time in the company of lovely people and learnt so much in just one lesson. Doing Taiko Drumming is also great workout ! I strongly recommend it to whoever is interested in more hands-on experiences of Japanese culture!

Review update!
After the first lesson I attended 3 more workshops. I would have signed up for more but unfortunately my stay in Japan was coming to an end. A big big Thank you to everyone!

Reply from activity provider

Thank you for your review!
I am happy that you enjoyed it.

Taiko should spread to more people!

Hougaku Academy
Inagaki


Thank you for coming to the trial lesson.
If you come to Japan again, please come to the trial lesson.

Thank you.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Taiko Drumming Lesson - Kamata School
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2017/09/04
Activity Date: 2017/08/21

Fun Sumie Ink Painting Lesson in Tokyo with English Speaking Instructor

Great hands-on cultural experience!

Reviewed by: Anka

I strongly recommend this workshop to whoever is interested in more hands-on experiences of Japanese culture! It's definitely suitable for all ages and abilities. The instructor is such a friendly and communicative person. The workshop was, as we expected, very hands-on as we did a lot of painting using different traditional techniques. Moreover, we learnt so much about the sumie painting and its role in the Japanese culture. A big thank you for this enriching cultural experience!

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Rating:
Packages: Sumie Painting Lesson
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2017/09/01
Activity Date: 2017/08/26

Elegant Tea Ceremony at Warakuan Teahouse in Tokyo

Interesting and Informative in Comfortable Sized Japanese Formal Setting

Reviewed by: Coville's

My son and I enjoyed the Formal Instruction by a Certified Tea Ceremony Expert and his wife speaking in Japanese and their older daughter translating for us. We were greeted at their gate, led to their front business door and switched from our street shoes to their special sandals and directed into an informal Japanese meeting room with a tatami mat and small floor table where we put on their special one-toed white socks and then their sandals. We then went over several sheets of their English/Japanese explanations of each of the steps of the tea ceremony explaining words that are spoken and responses that are given. There is a lot of symbolism and purpose for each movement throughout the ceremony; specific movement and placement of the handheld fans, preparation with tea scoop and whipping utensils, and finally the making of the teas themselves. The ancient tea bowls used are passed down in the family through generations. The Tea Master picks a theme for each ceremony and chooses three items to depict that theme in a special section of the room (rooms can vary in size and roof height--commonly low ceilings required scooting into the room on your knees on the tatami mats and scooting around to the themed wall) and then you scoot to your tea position lifting yourself with the flat part of your fisted hand and then sitting with your lower legs under you bottom. The tea is brewed over a small pot of special wood in the corner of the room. When completed we exited and reviewed the ceremony back in the community room we started in and they answered our questions as best as they could with their daughter's translation. It was a very personal experience.

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Rating:
Packages: Introductory Tea Ceremony
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2017/08/27
Activity Date: 2017/08/02