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Discover Latest #Kyoto News, Articles and Videos with Contenting
- ABC News Find the latest Kyoto news from WIRED. See related science and technology articles, photos, slideshows and videos. Kyoto is a city located in Japan, and is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. The city is home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples in the world. It is also home to some of the most beautiful gardens and shrines, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Kyoto is also known for its traditional cuisine, with a variety of flavors from all over Japan. Visitors can enjoy the city's many festivals, including the famous Gion Festival and the Aoi Matsuri. Kyoto is also a great place to experience traditional Japanese art and culture, with a variety of museums and galleries located throughout the city.
5 Family-Friendly Cultural Experiences to Enjoy in Japan | Arigato Travel
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! 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/ 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/ 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/ 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/ 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!
Sipping in Style: Japan’s Top Bars Make Asia’s 50 Best | Arigato Travel
Japan’s bar scene is on fire—in the best way possible. This year, six incredible bars across the country made the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025 list, and several more landed spots on the extended 51–100 list. From Tokyo’s polished hotel lounges to hidden gems in Nara and Kumamoto, the Japanese cocktail scene is thriving—and ready to welcome curious sippers from around the world. What Is “Asia’s 50 Best Bars?” Launched in 2016, Asia’s 50 Best Bars celebrates the best of the best in the region’s bar scene. The list is curated by over 260 anonymous industry professionals—bartenders, bar owners, drinks writers—who vote for the bars that gave them the most exceptional experiences over the last 18 months. It’s not just about trendy spots; it’s about skill, hospitality, creativity, and the stories poured into every glass. When a Japanese bar makes this list, you know you’re in for something special. There's something magical happening in Japan’s nightlife this year. It’s a vibrant celebration of Japan’s cocktail scene—and one we’re absolutely thrilled to highlight! Tokyo’s Finest: A Cocktail Renaissance Bar Benfiddich in Shinjuku soared to No. 9, retaining its position among Asia’s elite Virtu at Four Seasons Otemachi came in strong at No. 18, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship Brand-new additions include: Punch Room Tokyo at No. 36, famed for its shareable punch cocktails in Ginza’s Edition Hotel Bar Libre in Ikebukuro, charming and inventive, landed at No. 49 Regional Stars Lighting Up the List Yakoboku, a minimalist Kumamoto bar specializing in seasonal cocktails, enters the countdown at No. 25 Lamp Bar in Nara re-enters at No. 46, a testament to its enduring excellence These rankings reflect Japan’s growing influence in global cocktail culture, where tradition, artistry, and hospitality all meet in the glass. Want to Experience Hand-Crafted Cocktails for Yourself? Join us on one of our Luxury Bar Experiences. With insider access, curated drinks, and expert local guides, you’ll go far beyond the average night out. Tokyo Luxury Whiskey and Cocktail Experience Step into the heart of Tokyo’s cocktail scene. From award-winning mixology to secret whisky spots, this tour is an unforgettable evening of elegance and flavor. Perfect for lovers of fine spirits and Japanese hospitality. Kyoto Luxury Whisky and Sake Experience Explore Kyoto’s quiet sophistication through its whisky bars and sake lounges. Guided by a local expert, you’ll sip your way through the rich stories and craft behind Japan’s most iconic drinks. Ready to raise a glass in Japan? Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or curious newcomer, Arigato Travel’s luxury tours are the perfect way to experience the country’s world-class bar culture—one unforgettable sip at a time. KANPAI! Featured Photo Credit: lunapiena Don't forget to book a spot on our Luxury Cocktail Tours in Tokyo & Kyoto for your next trip to try the best cocktails Japan has to offer.
Japan’s Weird and Wonderful Craft Beers: From Matcha to Wasabi | Arigato Travel
Everyone knows about Japan’s biggest breweries: Sapporo, Suntory, Kirin, and Asahi. These brands are extremely popular in Japan among locals and tourists alike. But have you heard of a miso lager or a wasabi beer? Many breweries across the country are infusing local ingredients into their creations with delightfully unexpected results. Here are a few standouts from Japan’s experimental craft beer scene that you’ll want to try if you’re thirsty for something different. Matcha beer Matcha isn’t just for tea or desserts anymore; the powdered green tea leaves have found their way into the world of craft beer. Some breweries like Kizakura Brewery have embraced this fusion in their Kyoto Bakushu Matcha IPA, offering both beer lovers and tea enthusiasts something unique. This craft beer has gained attention for its bright green color and its smooth and creamy mouthfeel. “Crisp citrus and lightly hoppy and earthy tea aroma. Herbal, earthy flavors give way to citrus, clean hop bitterness, and balancing malt body. Medium body with moderate carbonation; slight alcohol body and warmth. A starkly green and herbal twist on IPA.” wrote a reviewer on BeerAdvocate. Another described it as “boozy and leaned heavily toward matcha tea at the start then finished with some bitter citrus hop at the finish.” Given Kyoto’s deep-rooted tea culture, it's no surprise it found its way into craft beer here, bridging tradition into modern brewing culture. Yuzu ale Yuzu is a fragrant citrus fruit with a flavor that is deeply rooted in Japanese cuisine and culture. Often used for savory sauces and desserts, yuzu is known for its tart, floral taste. Naturally, it was only a matter of time before it made its way into a beer glass. Another popular choice from Kizakura Brewery is their Kyoto White Yuzu, a Belgian-style Witbier ale brewed with Japanese yuzu peels and a variety of spices. Reviewers on BeerAdvocate mention its balanced taste and its tasteful combination of spices and yuzu flavor. It’s a great example of how Japanese flavors can seamlessly blend with global beer styles without losing their identity. Wasabi beer Wasabi, the spicy green root often paired with sushi, has found its way into Japan’s craft beers, offering a unique twist for adventurous tasters. Niigata Beer Co., based in Niigata prefecture, offers their Wasabi Ale. While the flavor may seem unusual, the distinctive taste has made a good first impression on beer enthusiasts. According to a tasting from Umami Mart, the ale is described as “mild, with a scent of wasabi, slightly spicy, fruity wasabi.” It makes perfect sense that such an unconventional beer would come from Niigata, often considered the birthplace of craft beer in Japan, thanks to its early adoption of microbrewing and dedication to quality ingredients. Miso lager Kinshachi Nagoya Red Miso Lager, brewed by Morita Kinshachi in Aichi prefecture, incorporates aka miso, red soybean paste, a regional specialty, into the brewing process. Originally developed for the 2005 World Expo in Aichi, this lager has become a point of pride for the prefecture, winning multiple international awards. The lager’s unique brewing process really shows in its deep red-brown color. The beer holds a respectable 84 (Good) on BeerAdvocate, with reviewers complimenting its caramel malt layered with a light miso flavor. As both a local specialty and global award winner, it stands as a flavorful symbol of Aichi’s craft and culinary heritage. Sakura ale In Japan, the end of the cold winter months and the arrival of spring are signified by the blooming of cherry blossoms, or sakura. This season has inspired many different culinary creations, including sakura mochi and sakura parfaits, and Sakura, an ale brewed by Sankt Gallen Brewery in Kanagawa Prefecture. The blossoms used in the brew are hand-picked every year during Golden Week, salted for preservation, and then rehydrated when ready for brewing. This process produces coumarin, which gives the ale its signature sakura aroma. The result is a floral, mochi-like beer that captures the essence of spring. Tomato ale Far Yeast Brewing, based in Yamanashi Prefecture, isn’t afraid to get creative with its products, and Tomachela, a tomato ale, is proof of that. Brewed with tomatoes from local farms, this beer transforms an everyday ingredient into something refreshingly unexpected. The name shows international inspiration as it combines the Mexican cocktail “Michelada” and tomato. The ale is an evolution of their previous Omoiro Tomato Ale, with an emphasis on celery, basil, and citrus flavor. Soba ale Fukuoka Craft Brewing’s Soba Ale showcases the brewery’s local and innovative approach to craft beer. The ale is brewed in collaboration with the local soba izakaya Kochisoba in Fukuoka City, incorporating roasted malt with buckwheat tea. And to double up on the buckwheat, the brewery recommends the beer alongside a bowl of soba noodles. If you ever find yourself in Fukuoka, don’t miss the chance to sip this soba ale right where it was brewed. Japan’s craft beer scene is overflowing with creativity, blending tradition and local ingredients with bold new flavors in every glass. From matcha and miso to yuzu and tomato, these brews invite us to expand our palates. What makes them even more special is their deep connection to their localities. Many of these brews use local ingredients or are the pride of a prefecture. So, if you’re planning a trip to Japan, why not let your taste buds guide your itinerary? From Fukuoka to Yamanashi to Niigata, there’s a local taproom waiting for you. Featured Photo Credit: Go Nagano I know this has definitely made you want to try some craft Japanese beer, so make sure to join our Umeda Craft Beer & Bar Hopping tour in Osaka!
Things to Do in Kyoto in August 2025 | Arigato Travel
What’s a summer in Kyoto without fireworks and flea market bargaining? With some art exhibitions thrown into the mix, Kyoto’s event calendar this August is chock-full of activities that will keep you happily busy. Without any further ado, let’s get to exploring all the excitement that Kyoto has to offer this coming month. Gozan no Okuribi If you have time to attend just one event this month, the Gozan no Okuribi is easily the pick of the month. Also called the Daimonji Fire Festival, this event marks the sending off of the spirits of ancestors that were welcomed during the Obon period (early August). The bonfires in the shapes of kanji characters are set ablaze at five different locations and can be viewed from vantage points at the center of town—Nakagyo Ward—or closer to the locations themselves. The more adventurous can try cruise ships on the Kamo River, or rooftop restaurants for better views and photographs. Unmissable if you want to truly feel the festive and traditional spirit of Kyoto. Date: August 16, 2025 Timing: 20:00 - 21:30 Location: Various locations Fee: Free Nijo Castle NAKED Summer Festival This summer, the imperial Nijo Castle is hosting a multi-sensory experience—replete with lights, sounds, and scents—curated by Tokyo-based art collective NAKED that will floor you. For those looking for a peek into Kyoto’s summer “Noryo” culture, this event is a must-see. Projection mappings, illuminations, lantern displays, traditional candle-scooping and shooting games, and food stalls organized around the impressive castle grounds bring the festive spirit to one of Kyoto’s most wondrous UNESCO heritage sites. The summer edition hosts a lantern-making workshop if you are looking to take home a handcrafted souvenir, and Kyoto’s special “omikuji” paper flowers will also be available. Reserve early for discounted ticket prices and assured spots! Date: July 25, 2025 - August 24, 2025 Timing: 18:30 - 22:00 Location: Nijo Castle, Kyoto Website: https://event.naked.works/nijojo/summer/en/ Fee: 300 - 2,200 yen Tanabata Sky Lantern Festival As the legend goes, Hikoboshi the cowherd and Orihime the weaver had eyes only for each other. But, of course, Orihime’s father was not pleased and banished Hikoboshi to the end of the Milky Way. After much sulking on her part, Orihime’s father relented and allowed the duo to meet one day every year (7/7). In traditional Kyoto, the celebrations continue in August, the seventh month of the lunar calendar. One special event worth mentioning is the Tanabata Sky Lantern Festival. Orange, glowing sky lanterns are set afloat, and the night sky is a grand sight to behold. Enjoy the street food, play some traditional games, and make your wishes with some tanzaku at Kifune Shrine or Kodaiji Temple to complete your Tanabata celebrations. And don’t leave your cameras behind! Date: August 8 - 17, 2025 Location: Kizugawa Sports Park Fee: 2,500 yen upwards (free for toddlers aged 0-5) Website (For Tickets): https://www.kkday.com/en-au/product/184285?cid=15153 Kameoka Hozugawa Fireworks It’s not a Japanese summer if there are no fireworks, is it? Part of the city’s Peace Festival, this grand, colorful fireworks display is worth going to for its sheer grandeur, with over 13,000 fireworks expected to go off this year and illuminate the night sky of Kameoka city along the Hozugawa River. The rainbow-roofed yatai (mobile food carts) that glow in the night serve up some delicious Japanese snacks to keep the hunger bugs away! Tickets for stadium seating need to be purchased in advance, either online or at Lawson or Ministop konbinis (convenience stores). The organizers have also tied up with local hotels so visitors can enjoy the accommodation and Kyoto’s famed hospitality. Date: August 11, 2025 Timing: 19:30 - 20:15 Location: Oigawa Ryokuchi Higashi Park Website: https://www.kameoka-hanabi.com/ Fee: Free; 3,300 - 180,000 yen for special luxury seats Miyazu Toro Nagashi Fireworks Close on the heels of the Kameoka Fireworks Festival is another fun festival hosted in the picturesque Amanohashidate area of Miyazu City. According to Japanese folklore, the spirits of the ancestors visit during Obon. As part of the traditional Obon celebrations, handcrafted seireisen boats and lanterns are set afloat in the Miyazu Bay to bid farewell to the ancestral spirits as over 3,000 fireworks are simultaneously set off. The glow of the red and white lanterns and the sparkle of the fireworks add a sacred charm to the evening as the cool evening breeze sets in at this port city. To top it all off, a Bon Odori dance performance closes out the evening, so remember to bring your cameras along. If you want to immerse yourself in Japanese tradition on a Saturday evening, this event is right up there on the list this August. Date: August 16, 2025 Timing: 18:30 - 21:30 Location: Shimazaki Park Website: https://miyazu-cci.or.jp/hanabi Sento Kuyo Memorial Atop a hill in northwest Kyoto and close to the Arashiyama Grove sits the Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple. Home to over 8,000 abandoned Buddha statues, the Sento Kuyo Memorial, held every August, is a chance to offer a prayer to lost souls. Countless candles are lit as worshippers gather and pray for well-being through the rest of the year. The shadows of the flickering candles on the moss-covered statues, the priests chanting sutras, and the sheer faith of the assembled worshippers combine to make for an otherworldly scene. If you are in Arashiyama, try to stop by and put your hands together for your ancestors. Date: August 30 - 31, 2025 Timing: 17:30 - 21:00 Location: Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple Website: http://nenbutsuji.jp/ Kamishichiken Beer Garden If you are in Kyoto hoping to spot a geisha or a maiko, the Kamishichiken Beer Garden festival may be for you. The Kamishichiken district in Kyoto opens its Kaburenjo theater to the public in the summer. Beer and Japanese snack sets are available for those looking to spend the evening with a cold beer and chat with a maiko. Pick up a Kaishichiken fan or a senshafuda (good luck charm) if you are looking to keep a souvenir to remember the evening. What better way to while away a summer evening than with drinks, good food, and good company? Date: July 1, 2025 - September 6, 2025 Timing: 17:30 - 22:00 Location: Kamishichiken Kabukai Website: maiko3.com Fee: 2,500 yen upwards Gojo Wakamiya Pottery Festival If pottery is your hobby or obsession, look no further than the Gojo Wakamiya Pottery Festival this August. Started way back in the Taisho era, this event is one of Japan’s largest pottery fairs. Traditional shops with blue-and-white sets and up-and-coming pottery artists selling avant-garde mugs set up side-by-side, which means there’s no dearth of choice, whether your budget is 100 yen or 500,000. If you are looking to stock your china cabinet, or even if you just want to add some famed Kyo-yaki (literally Kyoto ceramicware) to your sprawling collection, this fair may be the place to get started. Date: August 7 - 10, 2025 Timing: 10:00 - 22:00 Location: Wakamiya Hachimangu Shrine Website: https://toukimatsuri.com/home/ Fee: Free Shimogamo Noryo Used Book Fair Book lovers rejoice, as the Kyoto Used Book Fair is in town!! An annual event held at the Tadasunomori Forest adjacent to the Shimogamo Shrine, this fair is akin to a feast for Japanese book collectors. On display are over 500,000 Japanese books, including some vintage Japanese texts, hard-to-find manga books, and children’s picture books. A veritable treasure trove for book lovers. The serene precincts of the shrine and the cries of the cicadas form a memorable backdrop to this used book fair and make for a relaxed browsing and shopping experience. If you cherish books and can read Japanese, join in for the love of reading. Date: August 11 - 16, 2025 Timing: 10:00 - 17:30 (till 16:00 on the last day) Location: Shimogamo Jinja Shrine Website: https://kyoto-koshoken.com/sokubaikai/ Fee: Free Kobosan Ichi Flea Market If you are an avid shopper, this flea market is a great place to shop for antiques, kimonos, yukata, tools, sculptures, ceramics, toys, plants, and other Japanese-origin bric-a-brac. There is no dearth of products to see, admire, bargain for, and buy. The Toji temple flea market is one of Kyoto’s largest flea markets and is held to commemorate the attainment of nirvana by Kokusai, lovingly referred to as “Kobo Daishi,” the presiding deity to whom the temple is dedicated. Typically bustling with both locals and expats, the market also lets you catch up with friends over Kyoto specialties like kakigori (shaved ice) and wagashi. Date: August 21, 2025 Timing: 7:00 - 16:00 Location: To-ji Temple, Kyoto Website: http://www.touji-ennichi.com/index.htm Fee: Free Tenjin-san Flea Market Didn’t we tell you that Kyoto was the place for shopping for Japanalia? Shortly after Kobosan Ichi Flea Market follows the Tenjin-san Flea Market. Another of Kyoto’s large flea markets, this one is held to pay tribute to Tenjin-san, the patron saint of academic pursuits in Japan. So, don’t be surprised to see school kids rubbing the two bulls at the entrance to the shrine in search of intelligence and better grades. The hustle and bustle of the market adds a whole different vibe to the tranquil grounds of the Tenmangu shrine. Don’t miss the chance to shop for souvenirs for your trip home or try a few Kyoto specialty dishes at the flea market! Date: August 25, 2025 Timing: 8:00 - 17:00 Location: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Website: kitanotenmangu.or.jp/ Fee: Free European Master Paintings Exhibition If you are a Western art buff, Kyoto has a special surprise for you this year! The Kyocera Museum of Art is holding a series of exhibitions this summer and fall to showcase the best of Japanese and Western art. Captivating artworks from the best collections of the San Diego Museum of Art and the National Museum of Western Art are on display. With works spanning six centuries, the exhibition is also impressive for showcasing a variety of themes ranging from everyday life landscapes to portraits of Spanish princes. Step in to be transported to old-world Europe right in the heart of Kyoto. Date: June 25, 2025 - October 13, 2025 (Closed on Mondays) Timing: 10:00 - 18:00 (last admission 17:30) Location: Kyocera Museum of Art, Kyoto Website: https://kyotocity-kyocera.museum/en/exhibition/20250625-20251013 Fee: 700 - 2,200 yen Japanese Art at World’s Fairs To celebrate the Kansai Expo, the Fukuda Art Museum and the Saga Arashiyama Museum of Art are co-hosting a retrospective of Japanese artists who displayed their artworks in previous Expos. With art being considered an indicator of cultural advancement, Japan has historically tried to showcase its art at these Expos (earlier called World Fairs). As early as the 1900 Expo in Paris, Japanese artists like Hokusai, Ohashi Suiseki, and Yokoyama Taikan took on the challenge and exhibited their art. An unmissable retrospective of daring Japanese artists—both contemporary and of yore! Date: July 19, 2025 - September 28, 2025 (closed August 5 and August 26) Timing: 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:30) Location: Fukuda Art Museum and Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture Website: https://fukuda-art-museum.jp/en/exhibition/202503081571 Fee: 400 - 2,300 yen Ceramics Exhibition at Kyoto National Museum If you dig pottery and ceramics, you’re in luck. Showcasing porcelainware from all of East Asia with a special focus on Japanese ceramics, this exhibition by the Kyoto National Museum is a must-see to get a perspective on the techniques, materials used, and evolution of East Asian ceramics. The display is mind-blowing for its colors, patterns, and excellence in craftsmanship on display. And if you get there, do try the “Kyo” blend offered exclusively at the Cafe Maeda located within the museum precincts. Date: July 15, 2025 - August 24, 2025 (Closed on Mondays) Timing: 9:30 - 17:00 (9:30 - 20:00 on Fridays) Location: Kyoto National Museum Website: https://www.kyohaku.go.jp/eng/exhibitions/collection/2025/07/?date=15#Theme6219-15 Fee: 300 - 700 yen An Unforgettable August in Kyoto As the summer draws to a close, Kyoto heaves a huge sigh of relief with a last gasp of festivals, fireworks, fairs and markets, and art exhibitions. August is also a good time to try out some summery yukatas or a cool kawadoko (riverside dining) experience. If you want to immerse yourself in the traditional spirit of Kyoto, there’s Gozan no Okuribi and the World Fair art exhibition. On the other hand, if you are feeling nostalgic about home, the flea markets and fairs are great places to hang out with other expats—after all, nothing beats retail therapy to drive the blues away. And when you are out and about, don’t forget to savor some Kyoto special sake and shaved ice at every chance that you get. Happy exploring! Featured Photo Credit: Aphriell Art Want to include some of these events in your Japan itinerary? Make sure to mention them to our team of travel experts, and they'll take care of including them in a personalized trip plan with so many more wonderful activities for your dream vacation!
Anime, Sweets, and Tokyo Streets: An Interview with Emily Bushman | Arigato Travel
Meet Emily Bushman, a self-taught baker who turned her passion for anime and food into a creative career! Living in Tokyo, Japan, Emily started her blog Penguin Snacks to channel her love for cooking and fascination with anime treats. Her hobby soon created a cookbook, Bake Anime, with 75 delicious sweets seen in our favorite anime movies and shows. Beyond her talented baking, she shares her love for Japan’s culture through self-guided walking tours at WaTo Tokyo. These hand-held walking tours and live-action games are an interactive adventure that show visitors Tokyo’s hidden gems. Join us as we hear more about Emily’s creativity from WaTo Tokyo and her desire to bring anime-inspired treats to life in her cozy Tokyo kitchen! Can you please introduce yourself? Hello! My name is Emily. I’m from California, and I moved to Tokyo in 2019. I currently wear a lot of hats, but one of my favorites is being an anime food and travel creative. I’m working on Walking Tours Tokyo right now, where we have been developing live-action walking tours and games for visitors to Tokyo who want to experience the city in a whole new way. WaTo Tokyo offers accessible, self-guided tours and live-action games that let visitors explore Tokyo in a fun and immersive way! Can you share the story behind how these tours were created? Absolutely! I was travelling with my creative partner, Joe, and a few friends, and we were in a restaurant in Kyoto. We had been having such a great day, due largely in part to Joe’s talent for curating the perfect vibes and navigating us around the city, and I mused aloud how great it would be to be able to give tourists the kind of day we were having: completely local, organic, and intuitive. We could stop when we wanted to stop, spend as much time as we wanted at sites, and always had a new, off-the-beaten-path sight to see. It was effortless, easy, and, most importantly, fun. Thus, our walking tours were born: an independent but immersive way to experience a neighborhood of Tokyo, where you can engage in games, photo spots, and local history all from our handy guide. Your tours feature photo spots, fun challenges, and a detailed city map. How did the WaTo Tokyo team go about discovering the best locations to highlight Tokyo’s anime/manga culture? A mix of research, experience, and taking to the streets. Joe and I leverage my experience with anime and otaku culture to give ourselves a focus for our tours and research. From there, Joe put his superior investigative and navigational skills to the test as he developed a walking loop for the tours. And then it was just a matter of running the route, poking around and finding the best stops along the way. We had a lot of fun going on the tours ourselves, and letting our silliness out as we developed mini-games and came up with photo challenges. There are many tours, each with a different theme, exploring cities in Tokyo! Which tour was your favorite to design, and what made the experience so special for you? That’s a really tough question. The Akihabara Otaku tour is our flagship product, and is an excellent starting point for people who want to be introduced to nerd culture in Japan in general. I’ve been on this tour the most times, so I really know it like the back of my hand, and it was surreal to go from a casual tourist back in 2016 in the area to writing a walking tour about the place in 2023! That was sort of a crazy moment of reflection I had when working on the tour. However, our other two tours are also so cool. The Ikebukuro Anime tour is near and dear to my heart. I love the area, for one thing, but I am also a huge fan of the history behind Otome Road, which is so special and speaks to the power of female fans and the role they play in anime, which is sometimes discounted, especially in the Western world. But then there’s the Ikebukuro Manga tour, which was special for me because I learned the most from this research, and it delves a lot more into the literary origins of manga. As a reader, learning that history gave me a whole new insight into both the neighborhood and the genre. You wrote a cookbook, Bake Anime, that focuses on anime sweets from all of our favorite anime movies and shows! What were some of the most fun - or downright tricky - challenges you faced in turning animated treats into real-life recipes? Ah, this was such a great project. I was working on this before the tours, and honestly, one of the biggest challenges was just working on this alone. I did all the recipe development, testing, food styling, and photography totally on my own, which can be tough when you’re trying to be creative. My poor roommate at the time got roped into eating a lot of desserts and gave me a lot of reassurance that everything was actually pretty, and also tasted good. Another challenge that might be a little surprising: the recipe count! There are 75 recipes, all based on animated food. As it turns out, there really aren’t THAT many desserts featured in anime. This inspired me to do the third section of the book as recipes themed around anime as opposed to being taken from anime. It ended up being my favorite section to work on, but I was sweating for a while trying to figure out how I was going to hit my recipe count! If you were to write another anime-inspired cookbook, what kind of dishes or themes would you want to explore? Incredible question. I have so many wish lists for cookbooks! For anime–inspired content, I’d love to create a cocktail recipe book or a bento-themed cookbook. I loved doing the designs in part three of my cookbook, and I think that would translate well to bentos. Cocktails are just fun to drink, and there are so many great cocktail bars in Tokyo to take inspiration from. Now, if I could move away from anime, it would be to focus on a convenience store cookbook, WITHOUT A DOUBT. I LOVE Japanese convenience stores, and I would love to do a recipe book of copycat recipes. We’re big foodies at Arigato Travel and just have to ask - what is the most delicious dish you’ve seen in an anime? Also a great question, with so many good answers. Without a doubt, though, I have to go with Transforming Furikake Gohan from Food Wars! The dish is both a magic act and a feast for the eyes, and it’s the dish that got me hooked on both the show and really got me into recreating food in anime. Anything else you would like to share with our readers? Yeah! Come to Japan, and go on one of our walking tours, play one of our live-action games, or support my cookbook by grabbing a copy for yourself. I worked on these things to share the beauty of the world we live in with everyone. Don’t be afraid to explore whether it’s through travel, cooking, or both. Thank you so much for taking the time to be interviewed! We truly appreciate you giving us the chance to share your passions and creations with our readers! Blog: https://www.penguinsnacks.com/ Bake Anime Cookbook: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Bake-Anime/Emily-J-Bushman/9781982186647 Anime Food Tarot Cards: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/emily-bushman/anime-food-tarot/9780762486885/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PenguinSnacks/videos Featured Photo Credit: Emily Bushman Want to discover more about the amazing world of pop culture in Tokyo? Book our Crazy, Cute, Kawaii Food Tour and get ready for a trendy adventure you'll never forget!
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We will introduce the appeal and usage of the multi-function locker "Multi E-Cube," which allows you to reserve a locker in advance and deliver your luggage. It is expanding to terminal stations such as Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, and Shinagawa Station in the metropolitan area, as well as the Kyoto and Osaka areas.
Experience a one-of-a-kind Yuzen dyeing experience in a townhouse in Nishijin, Kyoto - Japan Travel Guide MATCHA
Learn from a craftsman with over 50 years of experience and apply color to silk with your own hands in a Kyoto townhouse that is over 100 years old. This time, we will introduce Yuzen dyeing, one of the cultural experiences offered by CEC. Why not create your own unique memories in the quiet streets of Nishijin, Kyoto?
[2025] Recommended for traveling with children! 8 aquariums and zoos in Kansai - Japan Travel Guide MATCHA
We will introduce you to the aquariums and zoos in Kansai that both adults and children can enjoy. "Hotel Noum OSAKA" in Osaka, Osaka has good access to Kyoto and Hyogo, making it the perfect hotel to use as a base for your trip. It is also recommended for family stays.
11 Immersive Trips That Teach You Local History Firsthand - We3Travel
There’s something uniquely powerful about learning history where it happened—walking the same streets, touching the same stones, and hearing the stories from those who live them daily. These 11 immersive trips go beyond the guidebook, offering experiential journeys that make history tangible, emotional, and unforgettable. 1. Kyoto, Japan – Live the Legacy of the Samurai […]