JAPAN CULTURAL & ARTISAN EXPERIENCES TOUR

DISCOVER THE HEART OF JAPAN THROUGH ITS TIMELESS CRAFTS AND RICH TRADITIONS

🍜 Immerse Yourself in Japan’s Timeless Artisanal Traditions 🍣

Go beyond sightseeing—into the heart of Japan’s rich cultural and artisan heritage. This unique tour blends hands-on experiences with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, from knife making in Chiba to indigo dyeing and denim crafting in Tokyo and Okayama. Each day unfolds a new chapter in Japan’s artisanal story, offering a deeper connection to the culture, skills, and creativity that have been passed down for centuries.

Explore the tranquil landscapes of Japan, meet local artisans, and create your own Japanese masterpieces along the way. This tour is designed for those who seek to learn, experience, and immerse themselves in Japan’s vibrant cultural scene.

🎨 6 Cities, 1 Unforgettable Artisan Journey

🗓 10 Days, 9 Nights

📅 [Date]

 👯 Intimate Group of 8-15 Travellers

🤓 Guided by Local Experts with Seamless Transport

🌸 Hands-On Crafting & Cultural Workshops

10-day Japan Itinerary Day 1_ Tokyo (2)
7-day Japan Itinerary Niikurayama Sengen Park

🎨 Discover the Heart of Japan Through Art & Craft! 🧵

 

Get ready to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich artisan heritage! This cultural and crafting tour takes you on a journey through Japan’s traditional craftsmanship and artistry. From knife-making in Chiba to denim workshops in Kurashiki and bamboo crafting in Hiroshima, each destination offers you a hands-on experience like no other. You’ll also try your hand at indigo dyeing, ramen-making, and much more, learning from local masters along the way!

This tour isn’t just about the crafts—it’s about connecting with Japan’s culture on a deeper level. Each stop brings you closer to the heart of Japanese traditions, combining ancient techniques with the beautiful landscapes and rich history of the country.

🧶 Ready to create your own masterpieces? This artisanal adventure awaits you this [Month]!

Japan Group Trip Fall 2023

Highlights

🔪 Chiba Knife Crafting: Learn the fine art of traditional Japanese knife-making in Chiba, where precision and craftsmanship come together to create a timeless tool.

🏞️ Sawara’s Historic Charm: Stroll through the Edo-period streets of Sawara, a canal town rich with history and beautiful preserved architecture.

🎨 Indigo Dyeing in Tokyo: Dive into the ancient craft of indigo dyeing, where you’ll create your own textile masterpiece using traditional methods passed down through generations.

 

🍜 Ramen-Making Workshop: Roll up your sleeves in Tokyo and perfect the art of ramen-making, crafting your own noodles under the guidance of expert chefs.

🧶 Denim Crafting in Okayama: Experience Okayama‘s world-famous denim production firsthand. Get involved in the process, from dyeing the fabric to creating your own piece of high-quality Japanese denim.

🍬 Sweets-Making in Kurashiki: Indulge your sweet tooth in Kurashiki with a traditional Japanese sweets-making workshop, learning to craft beautiful and delicious confections.

 

🎍 Bamboo Crafting in Takehara: Immerse yourself in Takehara‘s centuries-old bamboo crafting techniques. Create your own intricate bamboo artwork guided by skilled local artisans.

🚣‍♂️ Kayaking Adventure in Hiroshima: Paddle through Hiroshima’s peaceful waterways and around the iconic floating torii gate of Miyajima Island, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

🧘 Takehara’s Tranquil Vibes: Wander the historic streets of Takehara, known for its preserved Edo-period architecture and calm, reflective atmosphere.

 

Where Will This Artistic Pursuit Take You?

🔪 Chiba – Master the Art of Japanese Knifemaking
Begin your journey with an immersive knife-making experience in Chiba, where you’ll learn the meticulous skills behind crafting a traditional Japanese blade. Guided by expert artisans, you’ll gain insight into the precision and artistry required to create these world-renowned tools.

🌸 Sawara – Stepping Back in Time
Explore the historic town of Sawara, often referred to as “Little Edo” for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture. Wander along canals, visit traditional merchants’ houses, and get a glimpse into Japan’s past.

🎨 Tokyo – Indigo Dyeing & Ramen Making
In the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, you’ll dive into traditional indigo dyeing, one of Japan’s most iconic crafts. Learn the art of creating intricate patterns with this deep blue dye. Afterward, get hands-on with a ramen-making class, where you’ll craft the perfect bowl of noodles under the guidance of a local chef.

🧶 Shiga – Exploring Japanese Textile Arts
In Shiga, delve into the world of Japanese textiles, including indigo dyeing and denim crafting. Create your own fabric masterpiece while learning the history and importance of these age-old techniques.

🍬 Okayama/Kurashiki – Denim & Sweets Making
Head to the artisanal heartland of Okayama and Kurashiki, known for its denim production. Experience the process of crafting premium Japanese denim and take part in a fun and interactive sweets-making workshop, where you’ll create traditional Japanese confections.

🎍 Takehara – Bamboo Crafting & Nature
Travel to Takehara, where you’ll explore the rich traditions of bamboo crafting. Learn how local artisans transform bamboo into intricate works of art and functional objects. Finish the day with a peaceful kayaking tour along Takehara’s scenic waterways.

🗾 Hiroshima – Kayaking & Culture
In Hiroshima, explore the city’s cultural and historic significance, then take to the water for a memorable kayaking adventure around the sacred island of Miyajima, home to the iconic floating torii gate.

Where will you rest and recharge in style?

We get it. Good sleep is the secret sauce to enjoying the day fully, especially when you’re soaking up the authenticity of Japanese hospitality.

So, we’ve cherry-picked an awesome mix of 3/4-star hotels and at least one dreamy Ryokan stay for you. Why? Because we’re all about marrying sleek comfort with genuine cultural vibes.

We offer two types of room options. Fancy your own space? Snag a single room. Prefer a pal next to you? Grab a twin. Or if saving dough sounds sweet, you can pay a lower fee by sharing a room with a fellow traveller. Whatever your style, we’ve got the perfect spot for you to kick back and relax after a day full of Japanese adventures!

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Narita – Knife Crafting Experience

Welcome to Japan! Your journey begins in Chiba, where you’ll dive right into Japanese craftsmanship with a traditional knife-making experience. Learn the precision and skill needed to craft a high-quality Japanese blade from local artisans. Spend the evening settling in and preparing for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Sawara – Historic Edo-Era Exploration

Travel to Sawara, a beautifully preserved Edo-period town. Walk along the charming canals and explore the town’s rich merchant history. Visit traditional landmarks and soak in the authentic, peaceful atmosphere that makes Sawara a hidden gem of Japanese culture.

Day 3: Tokyo – Indigo Dyeing & Ramen-Making Workshops

Today, explore the bustling city of Tokyo with two unique, hands-on cultural experiences. Start with an indigo dyeing workshop, where you’ll learn ancient techniques to create stunning patterns on fabric. In the afternoon, put on your apron and get ready to master the art of making ramen from scratch, guided by professional chefs. Experience the fusion of old and new in Japan’s vibrant capital.

Day 4: Shiga – Scenic Crafting & Tranquil Surroundings

Arrive in Shiga, a region known for its natural beauty and deep ties to Japanese craft traditions. Spend the day engaging with local artisans and experiencing their craftwork in a serene environment. Take in the calm landscapes as you explore both traditional techniques and modern applications in Shiga’s art scene.

Day 5: Shiga – Further Craft Immersion

Continue your exploration of Shiga’s artistry with more workshops and opportunities to interact with local artisans. Whether it’s textiles, ceramics, or other crafts, immerse yourself in Shiga’s dedication to maintaining and modernising its traditional crafts.

Day 6: Okayama/Kurashiki – Denim Crafting Experience

Today, travel to Okayama, the heart of Japan’s denim industry. Dive into the process of crafting Japan’s famous denim, from indigo dyeing to fabric weaving, and even create your own denim masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore Kurashiki, a town known for its historic charm and artistic heritage.

Day 7: Kurashiki – Traditional Sweets-Making Workshop

Spend the day in Kurashiki learning the art of sweets-making, where you’ll create traditional Japanese confections. Guided by local artisans, you’ll shape beautiful sweets with intricate designs, reflecting the elegance of Japanese dessert-making. After the workshop, stroll through Kurashiki’s picturesque streets, admiring the town’s white-walled buildings and artisan shops.

Day 8: Hiroshima – Bamboo Crafting & Takehara Exploration

Arrive in Hiroshima and journey to Takehara, a town steeped in bamboo crafting traditions. Participate in a bamboo crafting workshop, where you’ll learn to create beautiful, functional pieces from bamboo, guided by local experts. Spend the evening wandering through Takehara’s historic streets, known for their preserved Edo-period charm.

Day 9: Hiroshima – Kayaking & Miyajima Island

Spend your final full day in Hiroshima with a mix of adventure and cultural exploration. In the morning, go on a kayaking tour around the stunning Miyajima Island, paddling past the famous floating torii gate. In the afternoon, explore the island’s sacred shrines and temples, taking in the serene beauty of one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.

Day 10: Departure from Hiroshima

After a journey filled with crafting, culture, and unforgettable experiences, it’s time to say farewell. Depart from Hiroshima with a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich artisan heritage and a collection of memories (and handmade creations) to treasure.

Local Tokyo Food & Drinks- Walking & Bar Tour

Who is this tour for?

This tour is designed for travellers who are passionate about traditional crafts, hands-on experiences, and discovering Japan’s artisan heritage. Perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small groups who are eager to learn and create, this journey is for those who love cultural immersion and enjoy connecting with local artisans.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a maker, or someone curious about Japanese culture, this tour offers an exciting mix of workshops, history, and exploration in both urban and rural settings.

Who is this tour not for?

This tour may not be ideal for travellers who are looking for a more conventional sightseeing experience or prefer to focus solely on major tourist landmarks. If you’re not interested in hands-on crafting activities or artisan workshops, this may not be the best fit for you.

Additionally, this tour involves moderate physical activities like kayaking and walking, so it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility limitations.

What’s included?

🌸 Accommodation at clean, comfortable 3/4-star hotels

🌸 A welcome dinner to kick off the trip with the whole group

🌸 Daily lunch to keep you fuelled for your adventures

🌸 A special Geisha dinner for an unforgettable cultural experience

🌸 Transportation via Shinkansen, trains, subways, and private coaches on certain days

🌸 Airport pick-up to start your journey smoothly

🌸 Fully guided tours with professional, English-speaking local experts

🌸 Entrance fees for all listed activities, experiences, and sights in the itinerary

🌸 Various traditional Japanese cultural activities available

🌸 Flexibility to add and modify experiences based on group preferences, ensuring your ideal trip in Japan!

Please check the following link for Flip Japan Guide Group Trip Terms and Conditions. 

What’s not included?

✈️ Flights to and from Japan

🍽️ Other meals not mentioned in the itinerary

🛍️ Personal expenses and shopping

🛡️ Travel insurance (which is compulsory for this trip)

5% off Early-Bird Pricing Now!

Twin Room: 3,266 USD 3,102 USD
Single Room: 3,484 USD 3,310 USD

To get started, just pay 200 USD today to lock in your spot and the discounted price!

Some of our guests

Who is Flip Japan Guide?

 

– Featured on & Guided for 4xEmmy Award Winning TV show, Global Passport!
– Travel agency, events & marketing company founded in 2016
– Partnered with 300+ Local Businesses
– Welcomed 3500+ Guests from 25+ countries

In a city like Tokyo that gathers so many people from all walks of life, it’s incredibly fun meeting new people, and it’s even more fun to explore Tokyo together with them.

Working closely in the industry of tourism and events, my colleagues and I have explored so many awesome popular as well as local places all over the city and I thought, why keep these amazing places to ourselves?

Come and join us on an amazing time around the city and uncover a different side of Tokyo!

What do our guests say

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