ARTICLES
THINGS TO DO
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UNCOVERING CULTURE AND HISTORY IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Explore Mount Mitake, one the most sacred mountains in Japan, with some expert climbers. Only a short journey from central Tokyo, it is also renowned for its stunning panoramic views. Attendees can also stay at a beautiful historical lodging.
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SEEING TOKYO’S DIVERSE LAYERS THROUGH ARCHITECTURE
Uncover centuries of cultural and architectural gems of Tokyo through a unique walking tour which takes visitors to historical hubs including Akasaka, as well as the work of some of Japan’s most celebrated architects Kengo Kuma and Kenzo Tange, and renowned artist Isamu Noguchi.
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UNCOVER JAPAN THROUGH THE ARTS OF UKIYO-E
Explore and immerse yourself in the role that the art of ukiyo-e and kabuki had and continues to have in Japanese culture and arts. Learn about ukiyo-e from a Japanese expert in addition to experiencing the amazing makeup of kabuki, one of Japan's most endearing and fascinating performing arts.
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LEARN MANGA SKILLS FROM A PROFESSIONAL CARTOONIST
Celebrated manga artist Britney Hamada has made a name for herself through her acclaimed work. Learn the tricks of the drawing trade through an exclusive portrait class led by Hamada herself in Tokyo’s Asakusa area.
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DELICATE AROMAS OF JAPAN
Scent, emotion, and memory are inextricably intertwined - so what finer way to mark a sojourn in Tokyo than visiting the atelier of a globally-acclaimed perfumer. Aromas that capture the very essence of Japan await.
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CURATED STROLL INTO THE CITY OF DIVERSITY
Delve into diversity in Daikanyama, one of Tokyo's eclectic collections of artistic enclaves. With an expert guide, a walk around Shibuya's "brooklynesque" neighbor unveils the rich history and many charms of this enchanting area.
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BEAUTIFYING THE BROKEN
Kintsugi is the art of "golden repair," and a window to the soul of Japan that values the venerable and the perfectly imperfect. A timeless technique, it can be experienced on a visit to the contemporary artisans of Tokyo finding innovative applications for the art.
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BUZZING WITH TASTE: THE JOY OF HONEY MADE SUSTAINABLY
Decadence meets farm-to-table sensibilities in Tokyo's upscale Ginza district, courtesy of artisanal urban apiary Ginpachi. Indulge in a honey cocktail with a tale to tell at the flagship bar of a world-champion mixologist, or see for yourself the sanctuary of Ginza's rooftop beekeepers, who bring new life to the city and authentic, sophisticated flavors to local tables.
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THE HIDDEN POWER BEHIND TRADITIONAL JAPANESE CUISINE
Unlock one of the secrets to Japan's revered culinary heritage. At a historic sake brewery where traditional craftsmanship meets modern luxury, or an innovative and elegant restaurant, take an intriguing voyage to discover the many powers of koji through gastronomic delights and exclusive experiences.
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DELVING INTO TOKYO'S ART SCENE
In Japan's pulsing, cosmopolitan capital, the refined realm of art is more diverse and internationalized than ever. Read on to see Tokyo through the discerning eyes of a gallery owner, and for insider introductions to some noteworthy bastions of brushwork and bohemia.
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TOKYO AS A HUB OF CULTURE
The culture of craftsmanship reaches each corner of Tokyo, imbuing every art form and experience with an extra dimension. Experts on crafts from across the country concentrate here at the nation's hub, and Tokyo has an artisan for almost any craft you can imagine, be it elegantly simple or richly refined, waiting to welcome you into their world.
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RELAXING IN TOKYO'S UNIQUE SAUNAS
With onsen bathing being a favorite pastime throughout history, and bathtubs being a fixture in many homes, Tokyoites have always embraced the appeal of thermal therapy. It is no surprise, then, that Tokyoites would also take the sauna - recent years have seen an uptick in these heated facilities. Taking things a step further, some of Tokyo's hottest, newest saunas come with innovative features such as solo cubicles, sauna facilities with craft beer on tap, and so on.
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A BOAT JOURNEY TO UNCOVER TOKYO'S ORIGINS
Trace the history of Tokyo - from its roots as a humble fishing village, to its days as the prosperous capital called Edo, to the dynamic metropolis that it is today - on a boat ride through its waterways. A cruise from Nihonbashi will take you on a journey through time and give you a peek into Tokyo's food culture, architecture, and religious traditions.
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ZEN FOR YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE
With the flurry of activity in modern society, it has become more important than ever to intermittently calm one's mind and realign oneself. Visit Chokokuji Temple in Nishi-Azabu to practice zazen (seated meditation with the eyes naturally kept open) with Buddhist monks. You'll walk away with newfound realizations, having learned a meditative technique that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.
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GETTING ACTIVE ON THE WATER IN WESTERN TOKYO
For an adventure amidst verdant scenery, journey to the forested Okutama region in western Tokyo, where pristine waters form the base for a variety of exciting activities. Kayak or try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) down the river to explore the area. But water sports aren't the only things to do here - brimming with lush nature, Okutama is dotted with museums, temples, and shrines, where you can get acquainted with the local history and culture.
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URBAN ART ODYSSEY
Keen to dive beneath the surface of Tokyo's art world - from large-scale museums to edgy galleries (plus everything else in between)? Richard & Tezen is a leading art consultancy that excels at crafting bespoke insider experiences across the capital, for curators, collectors and art lovers.
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A HIDDEN TASTE OF TOKYO
Step back in time at a legendary traditional restaurant wrapped in gardens in the heart of Tokyo - and savor an atmospheric meal of seasonal, homemade dishes.
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TOKYO'S CULINARY THEATER
Tokyo's long celebrated restaurant scene is not just about superlative food: add a sprinkle of flexibility combined with some first-class hospitality - and the end result? Restaurants such as atelier morimoto XEX, where guests can enjoy a bespoke culinary experience which is unique, atmospheric and always memorable.