Pulling Back The Curtain on Japanese Art and Culture

I recently returned to the UK after 3 months in Japan.

During the trip, my wife and I included some extraordinary architecture experiences (we’re both big architecture fans) which I’ll be sharing with you over the coming weeks.

They were all booked through a private tour and expert-led experiences service called Wabunka.

I first discovered Wabunka just over a year ago. It’s a platform that “pulls back the curtain on the real Japan” (their words not mine!) by providing exclusive access to some of Japan’s finest artisans and cultural experiences.

Think of it as a gateway to the heart of Japan, offering you unparalleled immersion into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

They’re able to do this by carefully selecting the people and businesses they work with and negotiating genuinely unique access and experiences with them.

Unlike offerings from the big online platforms, Wabunka’s meticulously crafted experiences take you beyond the surface, revealing the artistry and time-honoured traditions that define the Japanese way of life.

Because of their exclusive access and connections, you’ll have the rare privilege of witnessing master artisans at work, gaining intimate insights into their revered crafts and lifestyles.

These private, behind-the-scenes encounters not only enrich your understanding, but also play a vital role in sustaining Japan’s treasured artistic legacy.

At Kyoto’s Natural Whetstone and Hone Museum in Kameoka City, engage in hands-on activities like crafting a natural whetstone, sharpening an engraved Japanese knife, and test-cutting.

Enjoy an exclusive tour led by director Aki Tanaka, exploring traditional Japanese swords, kitchen knives, and carpentry tools.

Conclude by taking home your personalised knife and whetstone as mementos of this immersive cultural experience.

At Tokyo’s Sushi Hazan, Chef Kenichiro Hirai offers a private Edomae sushi-making experience.

Participants receive hands-on instruction in crafting up to 10 pieces of nigiri sushi, with the option to compare their creations to the chef’s.

The session also includes lessons in grating fresh wasabi, highlighting its role in sushi preparation.

This immersive experience provides exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the restaurant and insights into traditional sushi techniques.

At Nakamura Tokichi Honten in Uji, Kyoto, established in 1854, immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

This takes place within the historic Zuishoan tea room, a Genroku-era tatami room relocated 150 years ago.

Engage in hands-on activities like grinding tencha leaves into matcha using a millstone and savouring koicha and usucha teas.

Conclude with a guided tour of the scenic garden, featuring the 200-year-old Horai Funamatsu pine tree, and explore the tea leaf selection area, deepening your appreciation of Japan’s rich tea culture.

Embark on an exclusive tour of Tokyo’s Toyosu Market‘s typically restricted wholesale area.

You’ll be guided by acclaimed chef Kazuhiko Tajima, former chef at the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco.

Witness the market’s vibrant atmosphere, interact with seafood dealers, and observe fresh catches like tuna and bonito up close.

Optionally, extend your experience with a visit to Tsukiji Market to delve into its rich history and savour local delicacies.

At Utsuwa Nihonbashi Mutoh Store in Tokyo, a century-old ceramics shop, participate in a modern kintsugi workshop.

Learn to repair broken ceramics using a lacquer substitute and brass, transforming flaws into unique beauty. Choose from renowned Japanese ceramics like Arita, Kyo-Kiyomizu, or Kutani ware to restore.

Optionally, experience traditional kintsugi with genuine lacquer fora deeper understanding of this art form.

Included is the ability to take home your repaired piece, embodying the philosophy of embracing imperfections.

At Kyoto’s Sasaki Sake Brewery, established in 1893, immerse yourself in the art of sake brewing.

Begin with a guided stroll through the historic Nishijin district, uncovering the area’s rich sake-making heritage.

Tour the brewery to observe traditional production methods and learn from skilled craftsmen.

Conclude with a tasting session featuring 3-4 sake varieties, including the premium Junmai Daiginjo, thoughtfully paired with complementary snacks.

This experience offers a deep appreciation of Kyoto’s sake culture and traditions.

If you want to experience the beauty, grace, and timeless allure of Japan’s most cherished traditions, then I recommend bookmarking Wabunka.

Hope this info helps with your Japan travel planning.

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