Looking for adventures in Japan that are not only meaningful but also fun for the whole family? Fear not! We’ve got you covered! Japan has a wide range of cultural experiences that blend history, creativity, and hands-on excitement — perfect for kids and adults alike! From stepping into the shoes of a samurai to savouring sushi straight off a conveyor belt, this guide takes you through five unforgettable activities in different cities across the island nation. If you are ready to create absolutely fun memories on your next Japan holiday, let’s dive in!
Feel the beat of the Taiko Drums -Photo Credit: Taiko-Lab Studios
Learn to play Taiko Drums
Taiko drums have been around in Japan for over 2000 years, just like other Japanese art forms that they are probably the most associated with, Noh and Kabuki theatre. Although the drum performances began as a musical accompaniment to traditional Japanese theatre, today Taiko performances have become an art form all on its own and an integral part of Japanese culture. One place where you can dive into these traditional musical instruments is The Taiko-Lab, which allows visitors to learn Taiko drumming from trained professionals. They teach the history of the Taiko drums, the basics of their beats, common drumming rhythms, and even help participants perform a simple song. Finally, there is a Taiko drum performance by the professional and skilled instructors that just can’t be missed! The best part is that you don’t need any musical experience to perform, and children and seniors can enjoy the experience just as much!
Address: 101-0022, 18-1 Kanda Neriwa-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday – 10 AM – 10 PM
Saturday – 10 AM – 9 PM
Sunday – 10 AM – 6 PM
Phone Number: 0120779556
Website: https://www.taikolab.com/
Get your picture taken in full Samurai battle armor – Photo Credit: Samurai Armor Photo Studio
Dress up as a Samurai Lord
A really fun way to immerse yourself in Japan’s samurai history is to dress up in traditional Japanese armor. At Samurai Armour Photo Studio in Shibuya, visitors can try on various kacchu, a distinctive type of protective equipment worn by Japanese samurai for centuries. A professional kacchu dresser will help you put on the armour of your choice, which can take up to 15 – 20 minutes, and once you have put it on, you can feel the Samurai spirit rush through your veins. Immortalize your Samurai avatar in film at their specialty studio, as you pose with a katana (sword) or a yari (spear). But that’s not all! If you want to step outside the studio, you can even take a stroll through the streets of Shibuya in the armour, and their team will shoot photos anywhere you wish! This is one of the best ways to learn about Japanese history and culture in a fun and interactive manner. Not to mention, you’ll be left with amazing pictures you can show and brag to your friends!
Address: 5-6 Kingu Bld.7F, Maruyamacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Opening Hours: 7 days a week – 10 AM – 9 PM
Phone Number: +81343307200
Website: http://samurai.bz/en/
Dress up in kimonos and experience the Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto – Photo Credit: Maikoya
Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony with the whole family
Participating in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony with your family in Tokyo is a great way to connect with Japan’s rich culture. There are special experiences designed for kids and families that make this age-old ritual enjoyable for all ages. You will even be able to dress up in beautiful kimonos and traditional yukatas, to add an extra touch of authenticity to the event. Throughout the experience, a friendly tea master will guide you on how to mix the matcha tea and how to enjoy it with delicate wagashi or Japanese sweets. It’s not just about tea — it’s a chance to experience Japanese tradition in a hands-on, interactive way, sparking curiosity and understanding of a new culture. If you’re looking for a family-friendly tea experience in Japan, Mai-ko’s Tea Ceremony Tour can be a good option, as they can be customised to family groups, especially ones with children, providing a perfect blend of fun and tradition.
Address: 1-12-2, Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-0032, Japan
Opening Hours: 7 days a week – 9 AM – 6 PM
Phone Number: +81362847402
Website: https://mai-ko.com/
Practice your shuriken throwing skills – Photo Credit: Maikoya
Learn the secret tricks of the Ninja & Samurai
Also at Mai-ko, you can unleash your inner ninja with the Ninja & Samurai Experience, a family-friendly activity that allows you to dive into Japan’s warrior history and culture. Samurai were the honour-bound warriors who served the ruling class, experienced not only in military matters, but also in poetry and philosophy. Ninjas, on the other hand, were often employed by the samurai to carry out covert espionage missions and assassinations, relying heavily on their stealth and guerrilla tactics. This experience can help you understand the difference between the two groups, whilst having a little fun trying out their traditional techniques. Experienced instructors help visitors don authentic samurai and ninja costumes and learn basic ninja techniques, including stealth moves, using a blowgun (fukiya) and star-throwing (shuriken). There is also a Samurai sword play performance on special days. Whether you want to learn more about the samurai or the ninjas, this experience is sure to keep you thoroughly entertained.
Address: 2F, 292, Utanokoji-bldg, Higashidaimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8043, Japan
Opening Hours: 7 days a week – 9:30 AM – 7 PM
Phone Number: +81755855410
Website: https://mai-ko.com/samurai/
Watch as your food comes to you on a conveyor belt – Photo Credit: Dave Primov on Shutterstock
Enjoy sushi on a conveyor belt
A trip to Japan is incomplete without experiencing first-hand a kaitenzushi, or conveyor belt sushi. The Japanese have taken efficiency to new heights altogether with this delightful culinary adventure. You enter a sushi restaurant, and as you sit at your table, you can watch small sushi plates zip by on conveyor belts. If you like a particular bite-sized sushi, you just pick up the plate as it passes you by, and dig in! The cost of the meal is tallied up towards the end, based on the number and colour of the empty plates on your table at the end. Some places have made this experience even more futuristic, with touch-screen ordering and high-speed delivery tracks delivering your specific plates to your table. Not only is the food delicious, but it’s a highly entertaining experience in itself. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or a first-timer, kaitenzushi offers an experience your family will relish long after the last plate is cleared. One kaitenzushi chain you can try to visit is Hamazushi, which has over 400 restaurants all across Japan. Other chains to look out for are Sushiro and Kurasushi.
Japan has an amazing number of rich, cultural experiences that you can enjoy with your whole family, no matter their age. From mastering the beats of massive drums to the excitement of enjoying kaitenzushi, cultural immersion activities open doors to traditions that are not only enjoyable but also allow you to learn. These experiences are some of the best ways to make the most of your Japan experience, and not only create lasting memories but also a deeper connection with Japan’s heritage. So why not make your next family trip to Japan more than just a holiday? Dive into these unique cultural activities, and let Japan leave a mark on your hearts forever!
Featured Photo Credit: Arigato Travel
Looking for more family-friendly fun? Make sure to ask our team of experts to add more fun activities for you and the family to your personalized Japan itinerary!
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