Private Nishiki Market Food & Sake Tour by Young Local Guides

Private Tour-Experience the traditional culture of Fukuoka!

Hakata dolls, with a history of over 400 years, are known to every Japanese person. On this tour, you will experience painting one yourself. You will also learn about Yamakasa, a summer festival in Fukuoka with a history of around 300 years. There are two types of floats: the decorative kazari-yamakasa and the carried kaki-yamakasa that race through the streets. Both feature enormous Hakata dolls meticulously crafted by master artisans. The tour includes a visit to Kushida Shrine, the starting point of the kaki-yamakasa and the place where decorative floats are displayed. Surprisingly, Fukuoka’s history is even older than Kyoto’s. Eisai, a Zen monk who first brought tea seeds back from China, founded Japan’s very first Zen temple here in Fukuoka—Shofukuji Temple. The tour also takes you there, where you will enjoy Japanese tea and traditional sweets at a tea café. Immerse yourself fully in the rich culture and history of Fukuoka!"

[From Kyoto] Okayama & Kurashiki Full Day Tour

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to discover the hidden charms of Okayama and Kurashiki, guided by a National Government Licensed English-speaking expert. You'll explore Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens," and wander through the picturesque Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. This tour offers flexibility with your choice of a plan including a unique "Kakushi Sushi" making and tasting experience for lunch, or a plan without lunch for more freedom. We also offer additional plans including round-trips from Okayama, or Osaka, as well as one-way journeys from Osaka to Hiroshima. Please explore these options to perfectly match your travel itinerary.

[From Osaka] Okayama & Kurashiki Full Day Tour

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to discover the hidden charms of Okayama and Kurashiki, guided by a National Government Licensed English-speaking expert. You'll explore Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens," and wander through the picturesque Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. This tour offers flexibility with your choice of a plan including a unique "Kakushi Sushi" making and tasting experience for lunch, or a plan without lunch for more freedom. We also offer additional plans including round-trips from Okayama, or Kyoto, as well as one-way journeys from Kyoto to Hiroshima. Please explore these options to perfectly match your travel itinerary.

Kurashiki Half-day Walking & Old House Tour with Licensed Guide

This is a private walking tour. Discover the timeless charm of Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter on a half-day tour led by an experienced, nationally licensed English-speaking guide. Stroll along picturesque canal lined with white-walled storehouses that are used as shops and museums now, willow trees, and well-preserved homes from the Edo period 200-300 years ago. Along the way, we will visit Japanese traditional old house "Inoue House" or "Ohashi House" to see how successful merchants lived in Edo-Meiji Era, followed by Ivy Squar and Shinkeien house's garden. If you like, you can also visit Folk Craft Museum, Momotaro Museum, or Ohara Museum of Art (to be reopened on April 25, 2026) etc. (not included). This tour is ideal for travelers who want a deeper understanding of Kurashiki and seek an authentic cultural experience beyond sightseeing. Kurashiki is easily accessible from Okayama, Naoshima, Hiroshima, Osaka and Kyoto! *No cancellation for rain, only for severe weather

[From Okayama] Okayama & Kurashiki Full Day Tour

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to discover the hidden charms of Okayama and Kurashiki, guided by a National Government Licensed English-speaking expert. You'll explore Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens," and wander through the picturesque Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. This tour offers flexibility with your choice of a plan including a unique "Kakushi Sushi" making and tasting experience for lunch, or a plan without lunch for more freedom. We also offer additional plans including round-trips from Osaka, or Kyoto, as well as one-way journeys from Osaka or Kyoto to Hiroshima. Please explore these options to perfectly match your travel itinerary.

4.9 / 5 (18 reviews)

Zen Meditation for Life in Kyoto

Kyoto has been the principal home of Zen since its introduction to Japan from China at the beginning of the 13th century. Kyoto is therefore rightly famous for its Zen-influenced gardens, etc. However, the heart of Zen is the practice of meditation, for meditation is the very meaning of the word “Zen.” Given this, it is ironic there are few opportunities for short-term visitors to Kyoto to have more than a brief introduction to Zen meditation while visiting Zen temples. Thus, this workshop is unique in providing an extended, in-depth introduction to both the theory and practice of meditation (zazen) under the guidance of American-born, Sōtō Zen Buddhist priest and scholar Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Rev. Victoria will introduce you to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, employing traditional meditation cushions (or chairs if needed) in a private meditation hall. By workshop completion, participants will become confident in their ability to continue meditating on their own.

5.0 / 5 (11 reviews)