Unique Family-Friendly Activities to Experience The Real Japan

If you’re planning a family trip to Japan and looking for unique experiences to do with your loved ones, you are in the right place. Whether for kids, teens, or adults, these family-friendly activities will immerse you in traditional Japan, offering an authentic experience while creating unforgettable memories that last long, even after the trip!

Sumo Watching: Let’s begin with a fun & thrilling match

With a history of over 1,500 years, Sumo, Japan’s national sport, has been a treasured tradition since the Shinto Era. The match takes place on a square platform with a straw circle called Dohyo (土俵). The rule is simple: if a wrestler steps outside the Dohyo, they are defeated. Each match is fast-paced, showcasing impressive techniques from professional wrestlers. Sumo tournaments are held six times a year in Tokyo (January, May, September), Osaka (March), Nagoya (July), and Fukuoka (November). Tickets can be purchased through the official English website, with prices ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 JPY. As seats fill up quickly, it’s recommended that you book in advance.

Tea Ceremony with Geisha: The scent of soft summer is in your cup of tea

‘The way of Tea’ or ‘Chadō (茶道)’ refers to a rich heritage ritual of the Japanese tea ceremony. Beyond sipping your matcha straight from the cup, you will learn the preparation, etiquette, and peaceful serving with Geisha or Maika (the train-to-be Geisha apprentice). A Geisha is a traditional Japanese female entertainer skilled in performing various Japanese arts, including music, dance, and games. Even though Geisha is rooted in Kyoto, several places in Tokyo and other prefectures also offer tea ceremonies with traditional performers to experience the cultural aesthetics of tea craftsmanship.

Samurai Cosplay: A little action scene in Japan

Dressed up in a Samurai suit could bring your childhood dream of watching Kill Bill or The Last Samurai to life. Make sure to contact us to book Takemura-san’s experience, a seventh-generation armor specialist who owns a Samurai Armor Photo Studio in Shibuya, about the history and origins of each Samurai attire. Their suits are available for individuals taller than 130 cm, and the guests can select their preferred armor, which most of them are used in films and historical dramas. Your next Instagram post is going to be you and the kids in full Samurai gear, striking a pose with a sword in your hands, immersing yourself in the legendary warrior experience.

Mochi Sweets Making: Sweet tooth or not, saying no to Mochi is impossible

The kids are going to love this one! A mochi-making class is one of the top activities that everyone can vibe with, as it combines the art of cooking with cultural elegance. Mochi, the famous traditional Japanese rice cake sweets, offers a delightful taste experience for foreigners. You will discover the world of Wagashi (和菓子), the traditional Japanese sweets made from ingredients like rice flour, sugar, fruits, and bean pastes. With step-by-step guidance from a local pastry chef, you can create a variety of desserts, such as Dango, Daifuku, or Warabi Mochi. Mastering the delicate balance of sweetness and texture will make this experience a highlight of your trip.

Taiko Drumming: It’s time for rhythm lovers

You may be familiar with the famous Japanese arcade game featuring large drums, but what if we told you that you could actually learn them in real life? Taiko drums have been Japan’s iconic musical instrument for over 2,000 years, commonly used in performance art such as Noh and Kabuki. At TAIKO-LAB studio, the instructors will guide you to an energetic and engaging workshop on basic drum lessons. The activity involves everyone in the performance, so no matter what age, the melody in your heart will resonate with you.

Food Replica Making: A lifelike version of your favorite Japanese dish

One thing about Japanese restaurants, you will usually see the glass display of food samples at the entrance as a preview of the dining experience. These food models are made to capture the tiny details of each dish, making them visually appealing. The roots of food replicas are made of wax, showcasing modern craftsmanship in creativity and techniques. The food replica artist will guide you through the traditional methods of shaping textures, blending colors, and adding shine to make your creation look like a freshly prepared dish. You can create your own sushi, tempura, ramen, or any of your favorite bites in Japan and take them home with you. This is fun to make for the whole family and also a great souvenir to bring back home!

Washi Papermaking: Making your own souvenirs

Recognized as a UNESCO cultural heritage, Washi is traditional Japanese paper made of plant fibers. It is known for its various uses in everyday items such as lamps, umbrellas, stationery, and many more. If you want to make heartfelt souvenirs, this one just fits the category! The process involves extracting and softening fibers from plants like Kozo (mulberry), Mitsumata, or Gampi. After that, you can get creative with the design of your washi and handcraft the paper through traditional methods by joining workshops in various areas of Japan.

Special bonus

If you and your family are foodies or just want to learn more about Japanese culture in a unique way, we have family-friendly tours you can join: Family-Friendly Food Tours. Our expert guides will make this time fun and interesting for everyone, children and adults!

With Japan’s warm summer, it’s the perfect time for exciting adventures and new cultural experiences. These activities will create bonding connections between you and your company while exploring the deeply appreciated culture of Japan together.

We can help you build your tailored Japan trip for you and your family, so make sure to reach out to concierge@arigatojapan.co.jp for any requests or questions! The joy of discovery is at your fingertips, we hope you take home cherished memories from your time in Japan.

Featured Photo Credit: Studio Romantic

Don’t forget to check out our Tailored Travel page to build a personalized itinerary for you and your family!