Discover five unique experiences in Japan, from tea ceremonies to calligraphy.

The Land of the Rising Sun remains one of the world’s most coveted destinations for good reason. Here, enduring cultural heritage flourishes alongside the cutting-edge and avant-garde. Age-old rituals, meticulous craftsmanship and a reverence for nature merge seamlessly with the vibrant rhythm of modern life, offering the chance to encounter deep-rooted traditions at every turn. 

Dinner with a Maiko or Geisha 

Porcelain white skin, crimson lips and lacquer-smooth ebony hair: geisha are famous icons of Japan, yet their exclusive world is seldom glimpsed by outsiders. With a history spanning centuries, these graceful artisans undertake around five years of rigorous training to hone traditional skills, ranging from dance to the art of conversation. Learn about daily life during dinner with a geisha or maiko (an apprentice geisha), accompanied by the enchanting melodies of a shamisen, a traditional three-stringed instrument. 

Matcha Experience 

Steeped in history, matcha has become a trendsetting staple of cafe culture, with varieties spanning the full spectrum — from iced strawberry to honeycomb-infused blends. Central to Japanese tea ceremonies, the time-honoured brew was introduced to Japan over 800 years ago by a Zen Buddhist monk returning from China. During a special tea experience, grind green tea leaves into a fine matcha powder before savouring this revered beverage. 

Jigokudani Monkey Park 

Craggy mountains, sulphurous streams and bubbling pools. Set in the otherworldly geothermal landscape of Jigokudani — meaning Hell’s Valley, emblematic of its volcanic terrain — the monkey park is home to Japanese macaques who bathe in the natural hot springs. Observe the social snow monkeys up close as they gather in the steamy waters. 

Magome and Tsumago 

Like a portal to the past, Japan’s charming post towns reveal the rich history of the Edo period, when they were built to provide lodging along key travel routes. Explore beautifully restored Magome, then take a scenic walk along the legendary Nakasendo trail to Tsumago — one of Japan’s best-preserved post towns. 

Tokyo Calligraphy Lesson 

Far more than ink on paper, shodō is the art of Japanese calligraphy. Meaning ‘the way of writing’, this art form and meditative practice is rooted in Zen Buddhism, with nuances in brushstrokes said to reflect the artist’s state of mind. Try your hand at shodō under the guidance of an expert instructor during an insightful lesson. 

Words by Jemma Glucina-Henderson