Introduction

Japan is far more than temples and neon lights—it is a country of living traditions, vibrant nature, and immersive cultural experiences. For travelers seeking a deeper connection, Japan offers opportunities to not only see but experience the heart of its heritage.

From learning about traditional Japanese cuisine to guided local tours and outdoor adventures through forests, rivers, and mountains, this article explores unforgettable ways to engage with Japan’s people, places, and spirit.

outdoornagatoro

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Japan’s nature with an exhilarating rafting adventure at Outdoor Center Nagatoro. This 7-kilometer course takes you down the Arakawa River, through stunning seasonal gorges, offering thrills like whitewater rapids, cliff jumping, and river play. Suitable for participants from elementary school age and up, the tour is guided by professional instructors, ensuring safety for beginners. English-speaking staff are also available, making it a popular choice among international visitors.

Photos taken during the tour are available for free download, and all necessary gear is available for rent—so you can join empty-handed. The center is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Kami-Nagatoro Station, with free parking available. Easily accessible from Tokyo in about two hours by train, this unforgettable activity is the perfect addition to any Japan itinerary.

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Kanamori Alloy

Founded in 1714, this metal casting company in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, traces its origins back to a foundry craftsman who served the Maeda clan, rulers of the Kaga domain. Combining traditional sand casting techniques with advanced metal refining processes used to supply materials for rocket components, the company manufactures everything from industrial machinery parts to design-driven lifestyle goods under its brand “KAMAHACHI.”

Committed to circular manufacturing through micro-recycling of metal waste, the company repurposes used aluminum cans collected from places like Hyatt Centric Kanazawa and Kenrokuen Garden (a nationally designated Special Place of Scenic Beauty), transforming them into elegant tableware.

As a supplier for the Future Society Showcase Project at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, the company is also creating and exhibiting sign stands made from disaster debris salvaged from the Noto Peninsula earthquake—preserving memory through material.

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From Snow Monkeys to Sacred Forests – Discover Authentic Nagano with o8Experience

If you’re looking to experience a side of Japan that goes beyond neon-lit cities and tourist-packed landmarks, head north to Nagano—and let o8Experience be your guide to something more personal, more local, and more meaningful.

Our most popular tour begins with a journey to the world-famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where wild macaques soak in steaming natural hot springs—an unforgettable sight, especially in winter.

But this tour is more than just monkeys.

You’ll explore the artistic legacy of Katsushika Hokusai, one of Japan’s most iconic artists, at a beautifully curated local museum. To round out the day, enjoy a guided sake tasting session that introduces you to small-batch regional brews with history, depth, and character. It’s the kind of travel that makes you feel connected—not just entertained.

Back in Nagano City, our Zenkoji Temple and Local Food Tour guides you through one of Japan’s oldest and most revered pilgrimage sites. Along the way, we stop to taste local treats like oyaki dumplings, fermented miso, and warm amazake—offering a window into everyday life and centuries of food tradition.

At night, step into the world of Japanese drinking culture with our Izakaya Food Tour. Visit real, local spots (not tourist bars), try regional dishes and drinks, and enjoy casual conversation with a local guide who knows the town and its people. It’s relaxed, social, and always memorable.

If you love nature and peaceful surroundings, o8Experience also offers day trips to two of Nagano’s most stunning landscapes:

Togakushi, a sacred cedar forest steeped in mythology, where we walk quiet trails leading to ancient shrines and enjoy handmade soba in a mountain village.

Kamikochi, a breathtaking alpine valley with clear rivers, wooden suspension bridges, and panoramic views of the Northern Alps.

Both are designed for those who seek quiet immersion in nature—without the crowds.

At o8Experience, we believe in real, unhurried travel. No big buses. No cookie-cutter itineraries. Just thoughtful, small-group or private tours that help you slow down and see Japan more deeply.

Whether you’re a couple, family, or solo traveler, we’d love to show you around.

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Gunkanjima Digital Museum

This facility offers an in-depth exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site Hashima Coal Mine—commonly known as Gunkanjima or “Battleship Island”—through cutting-edge digital content. One of its highlights is the immersive “3D Theater,” where visitors step into a five-sided projection space with 4K visuals displayed across the walls, floor, and ceiling, creating a powerful sensory experience.

Guests can also enjoy “Gunkanjima VR,” which provides exclusive access to restricted zones—such as the apartment complexes not visible on standard landing tours—allowing a rare glimpse into the island’s interior through virtual reality. Additionally, projection mapping content like “Shimanorhythm” vividly recreates the daily lives of former residents. In total, the facility features more than 30 different digital experiences, offering a comprehensive and immersive journey through the history and legacy of Gunkanjima.

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Versamor

Capture beautiful memories of your stay in Japan with a professional photographer.

NIKKO CYCLING Ciel

NIKKO CYCLING Ciel offers small-group guided cycling tours through the breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage of Nikko, Tochigi—a region famed for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and rich natural beauty. Riders explore scenic locations such as Lake Chuzenji, Senjogahara Marshland, and Mt. Hangetsu, many of which are difficult to access by public transportation. The tours use electric-assist E-bikes for a safe and comfortable ride, making it easy for beginners to enjoy.

Each tour is led by an English-speaking guide and often includes local experiences such as lunch made with regional ingredients and a matcha tea service. Helmets, insurance, and full riding support are provided, ensuring a worry-free adventure. With half-day to full-day options available, guests can immerse themselves in both nature and culture while enjoying a refreshing escape from the everyday.

Located about three hours from Tokyo by train and bus, Nikko’s seasonal beauty provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable cycling journey.

Reservations can be made through the following website．

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Hotel Tango Kingdom

Located in Kyotango City, Kyoto Prefecture, Hotel Tango Kingdom is a serene resort nestled in the heart of nature and the blessings of the local land and sea.

The hotel’s greatest charm lies in its seasonal cuisine, lovingly prepared by the head chef. Showcasing the bounty of Kyotango’s mountains and nearby seas, each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. From just-caught seafood to vegetables delivered straight from local farms, and premium Tango Koshihikari rice, the menu reflects a deep appreciation for regional quality and taste—delighting both the palate and the soul.

Guests can enjoy a truly immersive experience of the Tango region through all five senses, complemented by heartfelt hospitality that creates lasting memories.

On weekends, the hotel also offers a reservable day-trip lunch plan, perfect for a fulfilling time with family or friends.

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hakutaka-marine

Enjoy Exciting Water Activities at Lake Yamanakako – with Mt. Fuji in the Background!

Lake Yamanakako is the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and is just a 15-minute drive from Lake Kawaguchiko. It’s easily accessible from Tokyo by express bus in about 2 hours!
At Hakutaka Marine, you can experience thrilling water activities with a stunning view of Mt. Fuji. Choose from wakeboarding, banana boating, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), hurricane boating, and more!

Perfect for beginners, solo travelers, and families – everyone is welcome!
Lessons are held regularly, and parking is free, making it a convenient stop on your road trip.
If you’re looking to enjoy nature and outdoor fun in one unforgettable place, this is the perfect spot for you!

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Bansei-Tairo Snowhike

Fukushima’s Iizaka Town: A Premier Hot Spring Destination in the Heart of Nature

Nestled near the border of Fukushima and Yamagata prefectures, Iizaka Town in Fukushima City is one of the Tohoku region’s most renowned hot spring areas, surrounded by rich natural beauty. Easily accessible from Tokyo via bullet train and local rail lines, the town offers both convenience and tranquility.

With an abundance of hot spring water, Iizaka boasts eight day-use bathhouses and a wide range of accommodations—from long-established inns dating back to the Edo period to large-scale modern hotels. Whether you’re seeking tradition, luxury, or affordability, there’s something to suit every traveler’s preference.

A Hike into History: Abandoned Tunnel Meets Winter Magic

The route from Iizaka Town to Yamagata was once a vital infrastructure project of the Meiji era, forming part of the “Bansei Road,” named with hopes of long-lasting significance for the modernizing nation. Remnants of this historical road remain in the form of old tunnels carved into the mountains.

During winter, water seeping into one of these abandoned tunnels freezes, transforming its interior into a mystical ice-covered landscape. Guided snowshoe tours take visitors along this historic, now-forgotten pass through the Ou Mountains. Covered in snow and silence, the trail leads to a hauntingly beautiful scene where the traces of industrial history and untouched nature merge into a breathtaking spectacle.

This unique blend of Japan’s industrial heritage and natural wonder is like nothing you’ll see elsewhere. Don’t miss the opportunity to join this unforgettable winter tour.

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Enoshima-seacandle

The Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden is a scenic and historic park located at the summit of Enoshima Island. Originally created by British merchant Samuel Cocking, the garden remains a beloved space where seasonal flowers bloom throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy forest bathing while feeling the gentle sea breeze—an experience that blends nature and tranquility.

One of the garden’s main attractions is the Enoshima Sea Candle, a lighthouse observatory offering breathtaking 360-degree views that stretch from the Shonan coastline to the majestic Mount Fuji. The sunset view from the outdoor wood-decked Sunset Bar is truly spectacular, providing one of the best vantage points to admire the silhouette of Mount Fuji glowing in the evening light. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in the unforgettable scenery.

Inside the garden, you’ll also find cozy cafés and charming souvenir shops, making it easy to spend a leisurely and luxurious time here. With views so stunning you’ll want to see them again and again, the Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden is a destination not to be missed. Come and experience its beauty for yourself.

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BU-RA-RI

Submerge Your Own Bottle in the Sea: The Hirota Bay Underwater Aging Experience

In Rikuzentakata City, Iwate Prefecture, Hirota Bay offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience—aging your own bottle of sake or wine beneath the sea. The Hirota Bay Underwater Aging Experience Tour invites participants to board a local fisherman’s boat, tour the abundant fishing grounds, and personally submerge a chosen bottle into the ocean’s depths.

It is believed that the gentle sway of the waves and the ambient underwater sounds create a natural cellar that accelerates the aging process, enhancing the flavor and softening the character of the drink. After approximately ten months, the bottle is retrieved—now transformed with naturally attached barnacles and shells, each becoming a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Participants also waterproof their bottles and can attach a heartfelt message card, making the moment all the more memorable. The aged bottle is then delivered to you at a later date, offering a surprising and deeply satisfying transformation in taste and appearance.

This unique tour is more than just a novelty—it’s a chance to engage with the natural beauty of Hirota Bay, discover a new facet of your favorite drink, and support a meaningful local revitalization effort. Whether as a travel keepsake or a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special, why not nurture your own unforgettable bottle in the mysterious waters of Hirota Bay?

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Marrymariee Cross-Dressing Bridal Photo Studio – A Dream Bridal Experience in Fukui

Located in Fukui City, Fukui Prefecture, Marrymariee is a unique photo studio that brings your bridal dreams to life—regardless of gender, age, or nationality. Whether you’ve always wanted to wear a stunning wedding dress or experience the elegance of a traditional Japanese bridal kimono, this transformative studio offers you the chance to become a beautiful bride for a day.

Operated by a professional bridal boutique, Marrymariee boasts an extensive collection of over 250 wedding gowns and Japanese bridal kimonos. After selecting your ideal outfit, experienced staff will handle the full transformation, including hairstyling, makeup, and kimono dressing. Then, enjoy a professional photoshoot to capture your stunning look, and feel free to snap selfies with your own smartphone or camera during your private session.

This experience is designed to make you feel like royalty, providing a magical moment where you truly become the bride of your dreams.

Located near Eiheiji Temple—the birthplace of Zen Buddhism—you can enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of cities like Tokyo or Kyoto.

At Marrymariee, gender doesn’t define beauty. Everyone is welcome to step into the world of bridal elegance.

Feel free to contact the studio for more details and begin your journey into this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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Barikiya: Preserving the Tradition of Yabusame at the Foot of Mt. Fuji

Located in Fujiyoshida City at the Komuro Sengen Shrine, Barikiya is a cultural experience center dedicated to preserving the over 850-year-old tradition of yabusame, Japan’s sacred horseback archery ritual. As the local community faces the challenges of depopulation and aging, continuing this centuries-old festival has become increasingly difficult. Barikiya was established to help safeguard this heritage through youth training, horse care, and community outreach, working in close collaboration with the region.

The horses at Barikiya include retired racehorses and rare Kiso horses, who now enjoy peaceful second lives. They take part in yabusame ceremonies and visitor experiences, regaining a meaningful connection with people and living calm, fulfilling days in return.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of immersive activities: trying on traditional attire for a hands-on yabusame experience, touring the historic town in a vintage horse-drawn carriage, and bonding with the horses through feeding and riding sessions. These experiences offer a rare opportunity to engage with Japan’s deep-rooted culture, the beauty of nature, and the soulful presence of horses.

At Barikiya, tradition lives on through the strength of horses and people—that is the heart of their mission.

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E-Kart Without Driver’s License Can be driven on Public roads

Trip Adventure Inc. offers visitors to Japan a truly unique Japan exploration experience in Matsumoto City and Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture. Ride a 4-wheeled electric E-Kart—available to anyone 16 and older with no driver’s license required—you can journey through the heart of Japan’s countryside at your own pace. With a top speed of 20 km/h, feeling the breeze as you discover historical sites like Matsumoto Castle, Lake Suwa, and the old post town of Narai-juku.

This isn’t just transportation—it’s an adventure. Instead of heading straight to your destination by taxi, let the road guide you to the unexpected. Along the way, you’ll uncover authentic moments and hidden gems that make your trip unforgettable—memories far richer than any sightseeing checklist.

Booking is easy through TripAdvisor. No need to bring anything—just show up. Our staff will deliver and collect the e-cart from the nearest station to your sightseeing destination. A simple video guide ensures you understand Japanese traffic rules, so even first-time visitors can ride with confidence. Rentals are available by the day (1–3 days), starting from ¥9,800 per day (tax included). Advance booking is required.

Set out to discover Japan’s local charm—and create memories that are truly your own.

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Tokamachi Jomon Tours

Just two hours from Tokyo by train, Tokamachi City in Niigata Prefecture is a stunning rural destination surrounded by rich satoyama (countryside) landscapes, rejuvenating hot springs, and spectacular views throughout the changing seasons. Known for its heavy snowfall in winter—often exceeding three meters—this area offers both natural beauty and cultural depth.

Tokamachi is also a cultural treasure trove, home to national treasures like the flame-style Jomon pottery, traditional textile crafts, elaborate snow sculptures featured in the Tokamachi Snow Festival, and the internationally acclaimed Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale. At the heart of it all lies the legacy of the Jomon period (circa 14,000–350 BCE), which serves as the foundation for many of these cultural elements.

This tour invites visitors to explore the world of Jomon through a range of experiences: guided museum visits with expert curators, interactive activities themed around ancient life, and a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience at the Sasayama Archaeological Site, where the famed flame-style pottery was unearthed. There, a specially curated Jomon restaurant is temporarily set up, offering menus supervised by specialists and a chance to dine inside reconstructed pit dwellings while enjoying hearty stews served in pottery modeled after ancient artifacts.

The tour brings to life the richness of Jomon culture, which is gaining renewed attention today for its sustainable, harmonious lifestyle. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this unforgettable experience connects the ancient past to the present in a way that only Tokamachi can offer.

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suwayatsucycle

Led by cycling adventurer Ryohei Oguchi, who is currently breaking the Japanese record for global bicycle travel (covering 159,000 km across 162 countries over 8 years and 8 months), grav bicycle is a multifaceted organization dedicated to building a culture where living with bicycles is second nature.

Their initiatives span four core pillars:

1. Adventure Camps: A bold educational program where children aged 9 to 15 embark on multi-day bicycle camping tours, fostering independence, resilience, and a deep connection to the outdoors through long-distance cycling.
2. Cycling Guide School: A training program to develop professional cycling guides. Participants gain both hard and soft skills, along with foundational knowledge in town planning and cycling tourism consulting.
3. Branding & Consulting: grav bicycle collaborates with municipalities and companies to promote environmental sustainability, tourism, health, education, and manufacturing through bicycle-centered strategies.
4. Cycling Station Projects: These local hubs offer cycling tours, rentals, repair workshops, and maintenance training—serving as community-based platforms for promoting bike culture.

In addition to these main programs, grav bicycle also runs safety and skills workshops tailored to both children and seniors. The team is actively seeking clients both in Japan and abroad for custom-designed cycling tours, offering transformative journeys for all levels of riders.

With a mission to normalize the presence of bicycles in everyday life, grav bicycle is not just pedaling for fun—it’s driving systemic change.

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KRaft – Tsubame-Sanjo Craft Tours

ZAKUROSHOW

Make Your Dream of Flying Come True with Mt. FUJI PARAGLIDING

Have you ever dreamed of flying? At Mt. FUJI PARAGLIDING, that dream becomes reality. Soar through the skies with a panoramic view of Japan’s natural wonders—the majestic Mt. Fuji, the country’s deepest bay, Suruga Bay, and the sweeping landscapes of Asagiri Plateau, which change color and mood with the seasons.

If it’s your first time and you’re feeling nervous, opt for the tandem flight, where an expert pilot takes control so you can fully relax and enjoy the view. The calm, professional guidance will put you at ease as you float above the earth, completely immersed in a moment of bliss. From the sky, people look like ants, and whether you snap photos, scream with joy, or simply clear your mind, it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Even the journey to the launch point is magical—riding a small trolley through a tunnel of trees feels like the start of a mini adventure.

For those who want to fly solo, the short flight offers a gentle launch from a low hill. That first lift into the air feels like entering another dimension. Once you’ve piloted yourself and landed, you’ll have earned your wings as a true “student of the sky.”

From complete beginners to seasoned flyers, Mt. FUJI PARAGLIDING provides a safe and supportive environment for everyone. Come take the first step into the skies—and experience a journey unlike any other.

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Sumo Tournament Experience in Nagoya

Sumo wrestling is heating up in Japan right now. There are now two Yokozuna, the highest
ranking, and it will be interesting to see who wins.
The traditional Japanese culture of “Sumo” is held in Nagoya in July. It is a rare opportunity to
see the tournament six times a year for only two weeks. In Nagoya, it is held once a year. The
matches where giants weighing nearly 200kg and standing nearly 2m collide are extremely
impressive.
Japan Awaits’ sumo viewing tour is not just about watching the match, but also about enjoying
the grand sumo tournament with detailed explanations from an English-speaking guide who is
well versed in sumo and learning about the history of sumo.
If you are interested in traditional Japanese culture, we highly recommend that you go see a
sumo match at least once.
Nagoya is the central city of the Chubu region, and is home to Nagoya Castle, Ghibli Park,
famous for the anime, as well as convenient access to Norikura, Shirakawa-go, Takayama, and
other places.

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Comfortable & Flexible Private Car Tours in Japan – Explore with a Local Guide

Dive into Nature: Canyoning Adventures in Takayama

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Tripadvisor Award-Winning! A Night of Playful Entertainment Awaits!

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself on the weekend or unwind casually on a weekday, this one-of-a-kind nightlife experience has something for everyone. From Monday to Thursday, enjoy an affordable night out with casual plans starting at just ¥1,000, making it easy to dive into the fun without breaking the bank.

Step into a world of thrills and surprises—encounter zombies lurking in a spine-tingling attraction, catch live idol performances, singer showcases, pole dancing, and more. With a rotating cast of charismatic performers, each visit brings something new. Pair the entertainment with delicious food and authentic shisha, perfect for those nights when you just want a taste of adventure.

Come Friday and Saturday, the venue transforms into a high-energy spectacle with exclusive weekend-only showtimes. Expect futuristic visuals on massive LED screens, casino-style live entertainment, and modern takes on traditional Japanese performance arts—all delivered in dazzling weekly themes.

Whether it’s a weeknight escape or a full-blown weekend celebration, this dynamic night spot adapts to your style. Open until 5 AM, it offers a rich lineup of dining, shisha, and unforgettable entertainment—all under one roof. Don’t miss your chance to experience a nightlife scene unlike any other!

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Kyoto Pub Crawl

Discover Kyoto’s vibrant nightlife! Connect with fellow travelers and locals as you share drinks, sing karaoke, and dance the night away. Experience a different side of the city—Kyoto isn’t just about history, it’s also a fantastic place to party!

Kyoto Pub Crawl & Kyoto/Osaka Free Walking Tour

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Understanding Japanese People and Culture Through Food

Have you ever wondered why Japanese people tend to be slim despite a high-carb diet and the abundance of deep-fried food often found in restaurants?  What do Japanese children eat at school?  By the way, why are there so few trash cans, yet the streets are still clean?  Is it okay to eat while walking?

Haru Cooking Class is more than just a cooking class. You can learn so much about Japanese culture and people through their food.  Many things are unspoken yet deeply understood among Japanese people.  As foreigners, it can sometimes be a struggle to grasp these unwritten rules.

The owner of the class, Taro, will answer all your questions about Japanese food and their way of life. Taro has studied abroad, and his passion for being a good ambassador is on another level.

The class will take place at his home in Kyoto, where he lives with his family.  While this class may be a small step in your journey as a traveler, it’s one giant leap into the heart of Japanese culture.

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Native Fuji

Ken Domon Museum of Photography

Conclusion

Traveling in Japan isn’t just about visiting—it’s about becoming part of the story. Whether you’re experiencing Japanese food culture, exploring a historic district on a guided tour, or enjoying outdoor activities in the great wilderness, these cultural and nature-based experiences bring you closer to Japan’s true identity.

Let your next journey go beyond the surface. Discover the Japan that locals live, preserve, and proudly share—with every step, flavor, and smile.