If you think of Klook experiences you probably associate it with tickets to Universal Studios Japan, those crazy city centre go-karts, and etickets to popular sightseeing attractions like the Tokyo Skytree.
While that’s where the bulk of tourists spend their money there’s a lot more to the experiences offered by Klook.
Here’s 9 great Klook experiences you may have missed that you might want to consider for your next trip. I’ve included direct links to book any you want to book in advance (often essential), and shared my personal experiences where relevant to help you choose between them.
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- The challenge of using Klook
- 1. Personalised Jeans Making Workshop in Ebisu, Tokyo
- 2. Amazing Set of Cultural Experiences in Miyajima: Kimono, Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy
- 3. Tokyo Baseball Yomiuri Giants Match with an English Speaking Expert
- 4. Private Photoshoot Experience in Tokyo – A Unique Souvenir
- 5. Japanese Initial D Sports Car 6-Hour Spin in Osaka
- 6. Sapporo Snowmobile Land Experience in Hokkaido with Shuttle Service
- 7. Senkyaku Banrai Toyosu Manyo Club Onsen Experience in Tokyo
- 8. Hands on Cultural Samurai Experience in Kumamoto
- 9. Mt. Fuji Flower & Ropeway and Fruit Picking in Oshino Hakkai
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- About the Author
9 Great Klook Experiences You Might Have Missed
by Rob Dyer
The challenge of using Klook
One challenge with a site as large and comprehensive as Klook is unearthing some of those more specialised or little-known Klook experiences offered on the site – more than 1,800 at the last count!
So I’ve curated this shortlist of what I think are 9 great Klook experiences to hopefully cut through the thousands on offer. Obviously, 9 is still a drop in the ocean of possibilities, but I’ve tried to focus on those that get you a little closer to the culture of Japan – in all its splendid variety.
Here’s the list then, in no particular order…
1. Personalised Jeans Making Workshop in Ebisu, Tokyo
At the Betty Smith Ebisu Kobo workshop in Tokyo’s trendy Ebisu district, you can learn the intricate art of creating a personalised pair of selvedge denim jeans. The experience is surprisingly intimate and hands-on. Professional craftspeople guide you through selecting high-quality “red ears” selvedge denim, a technique revered by denim connoisseurs for its exceptional durability and unique finish.
What makes this experience truly special is the level of personalisation. You get to choose your own buttons, rivets, and leather labels, transforming a simple pair of jeans into a unique piece of wearable art and the ultimate hand-made souvenir. The craftspeople are incredibly patient, explaining each step without overwhelming you with technical jargon.
The workshop space itself is compact but well-equipped, located on the fifth floor of a nondescript building in Shibuya. Despite the short duration – around 30 minutes – guest say the experience feels comprehensive and deeply satisfying. As a bonus, they provided an original tote bag to carry your newly crafted jeans in.
2. Amazing Set of Cultural Experiences in Miyajima: Kimono, Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy
If your itinerary includes Hiroshima or Miyajima (Itsukushima) Island, then this somewhat hidden gem perfectly captures the essence of traditional Japanese culture. At the OkekoJapan Center, just a five-minute stroll from the ferry terminal, you can participate in a cultural experience combining three quintessential Japanese arts: the tea ceremony, calligraphy, and the wearing of kimono.
The experience begins with being dressed in a kimono, which sets the perfect mood for what’s to come. Unlike some tourist-focused experiences that rush through the process, here they take the time to help you select and wear your kimono properly, even assisting with photos to capture the moment. A nice souvenir!
The tea ceremony portion can be particularly enlightening. Rather than simply serving tea, the session delves into the intricate details of water temperature, preparation techniques, and the significance of each utensil used. There’s something meditative about watching the careful preparation and learning the proper way to receive and drink the tea. If you’ve never experienced a tea ceremony before it’s likely to give you me a deep appreciation for the mindfulness embedded in this aspect of Japanese culture.
The calligraphy session that follows can both challenging and rewarding. Using traditional brushes and ink, you” learn the basic techniques for writing Japanese characters. What makes this especially memorable is the chance to practice your new skills on Miyajima’s famous rice scoops (shamoji) – a unique souvenir that you can display proudly back home.
As this Klook experience is located on Miyajima Island, it’s away from the busy streets of major cities. The centre welcomes participants aged six and up, making it suitable for families, though it’s worth noting that the venue isn’t wheelchair accessible. The three-hour immersion into these traditional arts, combined with the personal attention from the knowledgeable staff, makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to understand Japanese culture beyond the surface level.
3. Tokyo Baseball Yomiuri Giants Match with an English Speaking Expert
Baseball in Japan is a whole different ball game, and experiencing it through a Yomiuri Giants match at the Tokyo Dome will open your eyes to why this sport holds such a special place in Japanese culture. Unlike the laid-back atmosphere of many Western baseball games, Japanese baseball is an explosion of energy and organised chaos (!) that needs to be seen to be believed.
From the moment you enter the stadium, you’re swept up in the infectious enthusiasm. Each team has their own dedicated cheering section complete with brass bands, synchronised chanting, and elaborate fan routines that continue non-stop throughout the game. What makes this experience particularly accessible is the English-speaking guide who helps decode the unique traditions and rituals that make Japanese baseball so distinctive.
The Giants are Japan’s equivalent of the New York Yankees – a legendary team with a massive following.
Watching them play in their home stadium, you’ll witness precisely choreographed cheering, special songs for each player, and the famous seventh-inning stretch ritual that puts American versions to shame. The crowd participation is unlike anything I’ve experienced at sporting events elsewhere, with everyone from small children to elderly fans joining in the coordinated chants and movements.
The tour offers different seating options (S, A, or B class), but honestly, the atmosphere is electric regardless of where you sit. While you can certainly attend a game independently, having a guide really enriches the experience by explaining the cultural nuances and baseball traditions unique to Japan. It’s more than just a sporting event – it’s a window into just how much Japan as a country has made baseball all its own and a highlight of any Tokyo visit for any ball game fan.
4. Private Photoshoot Experience in Tokyo – A Unique Souvenir
Looking back on your Tokyo adventures, booking a private photoshoot might turn out to be one of your smartest travel decisions.
Unlike typical tourist snapshots, this experience provides you with a unique collection of professional photos that truly captured the essence of your time in the city. The process is remarkably straightforward – you’re matched with a photographer who speaks your language, and you can choose from various iconic locations across Tokyo, from the historic streets of Asakusa to the modern skyline views from Shibuya Sky.
Guests particularly appreciate how the photographers know exactly when and where to shoot to avoid the crowds. The photographers don’t just take pictures; they share local insights about the area, helping to create natural, candid moments rather than stiff, posed shots (something I still struggle with!). This approach is valuable in a city as vast and complex as Tokyo, where finding those perfect photo spots can be overwhelming on your own.
The service includes an hour of shooting time, resulting in over 100 original photos plus 10 retouched images of your choice, delivered within a week. What makes this experience stand out is its flexibility – you can choose your preferred time slot between 9am and 7pm, and locations can be customised to your interests. Whether you want to capture the special atmosphere of Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing, or the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms along the Meguro River, the photographers know exactly how to frame these moments.
While it might seem like a splurge, having professional photos that go way beyond the usual selfies and smartphone snaps will give you lasting memories of Tokyo that are both beautiful and authentic.
5. Japanese Initial D Sports Car 6-Hour Spin in Osaka
For you automotive enthusiasts, particularly fans of Japanese sports cars, the Mr. Hiro Car Studio in Osaka offers what might be the ultimate driving experience in Japan. During your visit, you have the chance to get behind the wheel of an authentic AE86 – the iconic car from the famed street racing manga Initial D – and take it for a six-hour spin through the streets of Osaka. The experience can be surreal, to say the least.
The rental process is thorough and professional (as you’d hope), with staff taking time to explain Japanese traffic rules and conduct a detailed vehicle inspection. They offer an impressive fleet of classic Japanese sports cars, including the RX7, Skyline GTR32, and Honda NSX, all maintained in excellent condition. While you’ll need to factor in additional costs for mandatory insurance (¥9,000) and be mindful of the 200-kilometer limit for six-hour rentals, the experience is worth every yen.
What makes this place special isn’t just the cars – it’s the complete package. The facility includes a (very cool) professional racing simulator where you can test your skills on over 50 international tracks, electric drift cars for both adults and kids, and even an Initial D-themed drink selection. There’s also a small museum of classic cars that’s worth exploring while you handle the paperwork.
One important tip: arrive early for your booking as there’s quite a bit of preparation involved, and make sure to reserve your specific vehicle well in advance through their website. You’ll need either an international driving permit or a translated license from specific countries, plus three years of driving experience. While the location isn’t central Osaka, it’s easily accessible by public transport and the staff’s enthusiasm for these legendary machines is infectious.
6. Sapporo Snowmobile Land Experience in Hokkaido with Shuttle Service
When it comes to winter adventures in Hokkaido, few experiences match the thrill of racing across pristine snow at Sapporo Snowmobile Land. During my second visit to Japan in 2001, my wife and I hired snowmobiles in Hokkaido and raced around a frozen lake of ice. We won’t forget that in a hurry! During your 60-minute session, you’ll discover why this has become one of the region’s most popular winter activities, with over 6,000 bookings and consistently high reviews.
The experience is remarkably well-organized, starting with convenient hotel pickup in Sapporo. Upon arrival, you’re fully equipped with warm gear – jacket, boots, and gloves – though I’d still recommend layering up underneath with some thermals or HeatTech. The instructors take safety seriously, providing thorough guidance before anyone touches a snowmobile, but they keep it fun and accessible even for complete beginners.
What sets this experience apart is the stunning winter landscape.
The course takes you through scenic snow-covered terrain with plenty of stops for photos, and the instructors know exactly where to pause for the best shots. You can choose to ride solo (if you’re over 20) or tandem with a child, making it an unforgettable family activity too. For those wanting more time on the snow, there’s a 90-minute option, and you can even combine it with a traditional BBQ lunch featuring Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) in a cosy mountain hut.
While the activity itself is thrilling, it’s the little details that make it special – the crisp mountain air, the sound of your snowmobile cutting through fresh powder, and those moments of peaceful stillness when you stop to take in the spectacular winter views. Just remember to book in advance during peak season, as this experience tends to fill up quickly.
7. Senkyaku Banrai Toyosu Manyo Club Onsen Experience in Tokyo
If you’re staying in Tokyo, this next Klook experience is an unexpected oasis in the city’s modern Toyosu district. The Manyo Club offers something truly special: authentic onsen waters from Hakone and Yugawara, brought fresh daily to the heart of Tokyo. What makes this place extraordinary is how it combines traditional Japanese bathing culture with spectacular urban views. It’s a dramatic contrast of the ancient and modern.
The facility goes beyond just bathing – it’s designed for a full day of relaxation. Dressed in your chosen yukata (traditional robe), you can move between different areas including hot stone baths, saunas, and relaxation rooms. There’s even a restaurant serving authentic Japanese cuisine and a buffet option if you’re planning to stay longer.
The highlight has to be the rooftop foot bath area, where you can soak your feet while taking in a 360-degree panorama of Tokyo’s skyline. Time your visit for sunset, and watch the city transform from daylight to a glittering nightscape. The indoor and outdoor bathing areas are equally impressive, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of the city while you soak in the therapeutic waters.
What impresses most is how the space seamlessly blends old and new Japan. While the baths and architecture follow traditional onsen designs, you’re constantly reminded of your urban location through those stunning city views – especially at night time with all those city lights stretching as far as the eye can see.
The 24-hour operation makes it perfect for fitting into any schedule, whether you’re looking to recover from jet lag or wind down after exploring the city. Just remember that, following Japanese custom, tattoos aren’t permitted, and you’ll need to pay a small additional onsen tax on arrival.
8. Hands on Cultural Samurai Experience in Kumamoto
Tucked away just a short walk from Kumamoto Castle, you’ll find a samurai cultural experience that goes a little further than the typical tourist attraction. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill dress-up photo opportunity – it’s a a chance to understand more about the world of samurai philosophy and martial arts.
Led by Matsunaga sensei, an 18th-generation master of the Niten Ichiryu style, the experience offers an intimate look into the legacy of Miyamoto Musashi, Japan’s most legendary samurai. What sets this experience apart is its depth – you’re not just learning sword techniques, but exploring the spiritual essence of the samurai way.
The session begins with changing into a traditional dogi, followed by a fascinating introduction to Iaido – the art of sword drawing and cutting. The one-on-one instruction is key, with senseis carefully adapting their teaching to individual learning styles. They create a supportive environment where you never feel out of your depth, despite the complexity of the techniques.
A highlight is the moment of reflection over matcha green tea and traditional sweets, where you’ll learn about Musashi’s philosophy. He believed artistic development was crucial to mastering swordsmanship. This holistic approach transforms the experience from a simple martial arts lesson to more of an opportunity for cultural immersion.
By the end of the session, you’ll receive a samurai training completion certificate and an original tenugui hand towel with your name written on it.
If you’re seeking an authentic, skill-based experience that stands out from the usual tourist activities, this jeans-making workshop is a must-try. It’s not just about creating a garment; it’s about understanding the meticulous Japanese approach to craftsmanship. And what a cool souvenir to take back and wear when you get home!
9. Mt. Fuji Flower & Ropeway and Fruit Picking in Oshino Hakkai
Day trips to Mt. Fuji are plentiful, but if you want to check that off your must-see list but do it with a different twist, this final Klook experience might fit the bill. Starting early from Shinjuku, your tour promises a comprehensive exploration of the Fuji area’s seasonal beauty.
The day begins with an all-you-can-eat fruit picking experience in Yamanashi. Though the specific fruits change with the season, your group will enjoy juicy, fresh produce straight from the local orchards. Etiquette tip: make sure to eat your picked fruits on-site, as taking them off the farm isn’t allowed.
The flower viewing is a highlight, with stunning locations changing throughout the year. These include visits to Lake Motosuko, Oishi Park, and Lake Kawaguchiko, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Mt. Fuji 5th Station is particularly memorable, providing an stunning panorama that in itself might make the entire trip worthwhile.
The lunch is a creative touch too – a special bento box designed to resemble Mt. Fuji, which adds a playful element to the culinary experience. The Kachi-Kachi Ropeway offers another perspective of the magnificent landscape, though be aware that maintenance can occasionally interrupt this part of the tour.
What makes the experience truly special is your tour guide, who manages to make the day both informative and enjoyable. Despite potential weather challenges that can obscure Mt. Fuji, your day should feel rewarding and, hopefully, you’ll be fortunate enough to capture some stunning views.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive day trip that combines nature, culture, and local experiences, this Mt. Fuji tour ticks all the boxes.
I hope this short selection I’ve collected for you from the many Klook experiences available shows you that there’s more to the popular platform than a scroll through Instagram might have you believe.
There are unique, special and rewarding experiences that closely match your personal interests if you dig a little deeper. But if you find all that a chore and would like me to curate a personal experiences list, tailor-made just for you, then check out my Concierge service.
If you have any unanswered questions about these or other experiences that are available via Klook please leave a comment below – I answer every one.
About the Author
A writer and publisher from England, Rob has been exploring Japan’s islands since 2000. He specialises in travelling off the beaten track, whether on remote atolls or in the hidden streets of major cities. He’s the founder of TheRealJapan.com.
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