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SNEAK PEEK OF OUR TOURS
Kagurazaka Street Walk
Kagurazaka is located near Edo Castle, established by the Tokugawa shogunate, and boasts a history of over 400 years. Kagurazaka is a rare gem in Japan, encompassing various elements such as samurai residences, temple towns, entertainment districts, and shopping streets. The rich history of Kagurazaka and its surrounding area, nurtured by various people, has given birth to exquisite traditional crafts and cultural practices.
In 1952, the Tokyo French Institute (now Institut Français de Tokyo) was built, receiving French cultural influences and sometimes referred to as Japan's "Montmartre." Subsequently, many foreigners, including the French, moved to Kagurazaka, adding an international flair to its history. Thus, Kagurazaka uniquely blends the best of old traditions with new charms.
In 1952, the Tokyo French Institute (now Institut Français de Tokyo) was built, receiving French cultural influences and sometimes referred to as Japan's "Montmartre." Subsequently, many foreigners, including the French, moved to Kagurazaka, adding an international flair to its history. Thus, Kagurazaka uniquely blends the best of old traditions with new charms.
Ukiyo-e Studio
Ukiyo-e is a genre of prints and paintings that developed in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). It is particularly renowned for its woodblock prints, which involved unique techniques.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Ukiyo-e reflected the popular culture of the time, depicting everyday life, customs, landscapes, kabuki actors, and portraits of beautiful women during the Edo period. These works were widely beloved among the common people and contributed to the development of Edo culture. Furthermore, in the late 19th century, ukiyo-e had a significant impact on Western culture through the Japonism movement and its influence on Impressionist painters.
Ukiyo-e is highly regarded around the world, even today, for its technical excellence and its rich representation of Japanese culture and society.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Ukiyo-e reflected the popular culture of the time, depicting everyday life, customs, landscapes, kabuki actors, and portraits of beautiful women during the Edo period. These works were widely beloved among the common people and contributed to the development of Edo culture. Furthermore, in the late 19th century, ukiyo-e had a significant impact on Western culture through the Japonism movement and its influence on Impressionist painters.
Ukiyo-e is highly regarded around the world, even today, for its technical excellence and its rich representation of Japanese culture and society.
Zen Meditation
About Zen
Zen, in Buddhist terms, means a state where the mind is not disturbed. The Zen sect, developed in China, has major schools like Soto and Rinzai in Japan.
About Zazen
In the Soto school, zazen (sitting meditation) is simply about sitting (Shikantaza). It is not a means to an end but an end in itself, embodying the Buddha's form and enlightenment. Conversely, in the Rinzai school, zazen involves working on koans, or philosophical riddles, given by a master. This practice of Zen dialogue, where one presents their understanding of the koan, is also integral to Rinzai. The general image of 'Zazen' is closely aligned with the practice of Zazen in the Soto School.
Zen, in Buddhist terms, means a state where the mind is not disturbed. The Zen sect, developed in China, has major schools like Soto and Rinzai in Japan.
About Zazen
In the Soto school, zazen (sitting meditation) is simply about sitting (Shikantaza). It is not a means to an end but an end in itself, embodying the Buddha's form and enlightenment. Conversely, in the Rinzai school, zazen involves working on koans, or philosophical riddles, given by a master. This practice of Zen dialogue, where one presents their understanding of the koan, is also integral to Rinzai. The general image of 'Zazen' is closely aligned with the practice of Zazen in the Soto School.
Kumihimo Braiding
Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese craft, primarily consisting of intricately braided thin silk threads. It's a unique handcrafted item made by skilled artisans. Kumihimo is a type of textile technique, like knitting and weaving.
Kumihimo was introduced to Japan along with Buddhism from mainland China, initially used as decorative cords for Buddhist utensils, scriptures, and scrolls.
During the Edo period （1603 – 1868）, kumihimo was extensively used for decorations on samurai weaponry and swords, becoming a symbol of the samurai's aesthetic sense and stylishness. By the late Edo period, it also began to be used as obi fasteners for women's clothing.
Additionally, during the Edo period, samurai engaged in making Kumihimo as part of their spiritual training, implying that the creation of these braids requires a concentration that empties the mind, resonating with the spirituality of Zen philosophy.
Kumihimo was introduced to Japan along with Buddhism from mainland China, initially used as decorative cords for Buddhist utensils, scriptures, and scrolls.
During the Edo period （1603 – 1868）, kumihimo was extensively used for decorations on samurai weaponry and swords, becoming a symbol of the samurai's aesthetic sense and stylishness. By the late Edo period, it also began to be used as obi fasteners for women's clothing.
Additionally, during the Edo period, samurai engaged in making Kumihimo as part of their spiritual training, implying that the creation of these braids requires a concentration that empties the mind, resonating with the spirituality of Zen philosophy.
Samurai Sword Training
Mugairyu: A Historic Swordsmanship School Founded in 1693
Mugairyu is a historic swordsmanship school established in 1693. Its founder, Tsuji Gettan, opened a dojo in Ichigaya. It's noteworthy that Tsuji Gettan is said to be a descendant of the Koga ninja.
The Origins of Iaido (Starts with a character "i")
Iaido, originally known as Battodo (Iai jutsu), is believed to have been founded by the swordsman Hayashizaki Jinsukeing the Sengoku to early Edo period. It's a technique that encompasses drawing the sword from its scabbard and sheathing it back while seated.
Distinguishing Features of Iaido
Iaido is characterized by its forms, which are based on the concept of encountering an enemy while 'being seated' in everyday life. Emphasizing the technique of drawing and cutting with the sword from its scabbard, Iaido differs from Kendo, which begins with the opponents already acknowledging each other as adversaries.
Mugairyu is a historic swordsmanship school established in 1693. Its founder, Tsuji Gettan, opened a dojo in Ichigaya. It's noteworthy that Tsuji Gettan is said to be a descendant of the Koga ninja.
The Origins of Iaido (Starts with a character "i")
Iaido, originally known as Battodo (Iai jutsu), is believed to have been founded by the swordsman Hayashizaki Jinsukeing the Sengoku to early Edo period. It's a technique that encompasses drawing the sword from its scabbard and sheathing it back while seated.
Distinguishing Features of Iaido
Iaido is characterized by its forms, which are based on the concept of encountering an enemy while 'being seated' in everyday life. Emphasizing the technique of drawing and cutting with the sword from its scabbard, Iaido differs from Kendo, which begins with the opponents already acknowledging each other as adversaries.
Dyeing Studio
Two types of dyeing techniques (Edo Komon and Edo Sarasa)
Edo Komon
Edo Komon is a type of stencil dyeing that developed during the Edo period (1603 - 1868), tracing its roots back to the Muromachi period (1336 - 1573). Initially, motifs used on armor and family crests began to be applied to clothing, and later, they were used in formal samurai attire called “Kamishimo.”
Under the strict sumptuary laws imposed by the Edo Shogunate, the common people also secretly enjoyed fashion. Luxury silk was forbidden, so materials like Tsumugi (pongee), cotton, and linen were utilized, and flamboyant colors were avoided. However, colors like brown and mouse gray were permitted. In this environment, artisans honed their unique skills to satisfy the fashionable desires of the common folk with limited colors, offering Edo Komon that catered to their sense of style.
Particularly around the Kanda River area, where water was abundant, dyeing techniques flourished, and even today, many dyeing businesses can be found in the Ochiai district.
Edo Sarasa
Sarasa, originating from India over 3000 years ago, is characterized by its colorful patterns of flowers and figures dyed on cotton using five colors. It was introduced to Japan in the Muromachi period (1336 - 1573) and flourished as a unique culture during the Edo period (1603 - 1868).
Artisans, using Japanese stencil dyeing techniques, brought to life these exotic Sarasa designs in vivid colors, expressing unique scenes of nature and the four seasons. By the late Edo period, distinguished Sarasa artisans emerged, spreading the fame of Edo Sarasa.
Edo Sarasa is known for its exotic ambiance yet possesses a deep subtlety and the aesthetic qualities of 'wabi' and 'sabi,' reflecting the beauty consciousness of Edo's people. The unique taste of Edo Sarasa, particularly the distinctive astringency created by the chemical reactions with the hard water of the Kanda River, is one of its charms. Today, Tokyo's Edo Sarasa is the only producer of Sarasa in Japan.
Would you like to create your own Edo Sarasa piece in a studio with over 100 years of history? The Edo Sarasa created in this studio was traditionally made for ordinary people's kimonos, while the Edo Komon was for the samurai's crested hakama, truly embodying the attire of Edo itself. Being directly taught in English by an authentic dyeing artisan, you will create your own Edo Sarasa masterpiece, making an unforgettable memory in your lifetime.
Edo Komon
Edo Komon is a type of stencil dyeing that developed during the Edo period (1603 - 1868), tracing its roots back to the Muromachi period (1336 - 1573). Initially, motifs used on armor and family crests began to be applied to clothing, and later, they were used in formal samurai attire called “Kamishimo.”
Under the strict sumptuary laws imposed by the Edo Shogunate, the common people also secretly enjoyed fashion. Luxury silk was forbidden, so materials like Tsumugi (pongee), cotton, and linen were utilized, and flamboyant colors were avoided. However, colors like brown and mouse gray were permitted. In this environment, artisans honed their unique skills to satisfy the fashionable desires of the common folk with limited colors, offering Edo Komon that catered to their sense of style.
Particularly around the Kanda River area, where water was abundant, dyeing techniques flourished, and even today, many dyeing businesses can be found in the Ochiai district.
Edo Sarasa
Sarasa, originating from India over 3000 years ago, is characterized by its colorful patterns of flowers and figures dyed on cotton using five colors. It was introduced to Japan in the Muromachi period (1336 - 1573) and flourished as a unique culture during the Edo period (1603 - 1868).
Artisans, using Japanese stencil dyeing techniques, brought to life these exotic Sarasa designs in vivid colors, expressing unique scenes of nature and the four seasons. By the late Edo period, distinguished Sarasa artisans emerged, spreading the fame of Edo Sarasa.
Edo Sarasa is known for its exotic ambiance yet possesses a deep subtlety and the aesthetic qualities of 'wabi' and 'sabi,' reflecting the beauty consciousness of Edo's people. The unique taste of Edo Sarasa, particularly the distinctive astringency created by the chemical reactions with the hard water of the Kanda River, is one of its charms. Today, Tokyo's Edo Sarasa is the only producer of Sarasa in Japan.
Would you like to create your own Edo Sarasa piece in a studio with over 100 years of history? The Edo Sarasa created in this studio was traditionally made for ordinary people's kimonos, while the Edo Komon was for the samurai's crested hakama, truly embodying the attire of Edo itself. Being directly taught in English by an authentic dyeing artisan, you will create your own Edo Sarasa masterpiece, making an unforgettable memory in your lifetime.
Kagurazaka Geisha
The Kagurazaka geisha district was established in the late Edo period. Its origin dates back to 1788, when an entertainment venue was created within a section of the Gyoganji temple grounds. By around 1857, a geisha district had formed, where geishas specializing in shamisen, singing, and dancing livened up the sake gatherings. At its peak around 1937, Kagurazaka became one of Tokyo's most prominent geisha districts, boasting about 600 geishas, approximately 150 Ryotei (Japanese restaurants), and Machiai-Chaya (waiting tea houses).
Today, about 20 geishas are active in Kagurazaka, playing a crucial role in conveying Japanese traditional culture to the modern era. They also participate in local festivals and events such as the "Kagurazaka Odori (Dance festival)" and "Setsubun bean throwing" at Bishamonten, deepening their interaction with the local community.
Tokyo's six geisha districts are Shimbashi, Akasaka, Yoshicho, Kagurazaka, Asakusa, and Mukojima, known as "Tokyo Rokkagai (Tokyo 6 geisha districts)." Kagurazaka's geisha district has a history dating back to the Edo period and is known as the only geisha district that was spared from the Great Kanto Earthquake (1923). Along with Akasaka, it is frequented by politicians and business magnates, often visited incognito even today.
Today, about 20 geishas are active in Kagurazaka, playing a crucial role in conveying Japanese traditional culture to the modern era. They also participate in local festivals and events such as the "Kagurazaka Odori (Dance festival)" and "Setsubun bean throwing" at Bishamonten, deepening their interaction with the local community.
Tokyo's six geisha districts are Shimbashi, Akasaka, Yoshicho, Kagurazaka, Asakusa, and Mukojima, known as "Tokyo Rokkagai (Tokyo 6 geisha districts)." Kagurazaka's geisha district has a history dating back to the Edo period and is known as the only geisha district that was spared from the Great Kanto Earthquake (1923). Along with Akasaka, it is frequented by politicians and business magnates, often visited incognito even today.
Izakaya (Pub) Tour
Kagurazaka is one of Japan's premier entertainment districts, boasting around 500 dining establishments. Among these are restaurants of such high quality that they are featured in the Michelin Guide, accounting for more than half of such establishments in Shinjuku Ward and about 8% in all of Tokyo.
Known historically as a geisha district, Kagurazaka is famous for its high-end ryotei (Japanese restaurants) that have entertained political and financial dignitaries.
Additionally, influenced by the presence of the Tokyo French Institute, many Western restaurants have gathered here, earning it the nickname 'Japan's Montmartre.' This area, rich in history, attracts food connoisseurs from both Japan and abroad with its cultural allure.
Known historically as a geisha district, Kagurazaka is famous for its high-end ryotei (Japanese restaurants) that have entertained political and financial dignitaries.
Additionally, influenced by the presence of the Tokyo French Institute, many Western restaurants have gathered here, earning it the nickname 'Japan's Montmartre.' This area, rich in history, attracts food connoisseurs from both Japan and abroad with its cultural allure.
Kigumi Museum
Wood joinery, a traditional Japanese method, is said to have been used since the Asuka period (592–710). The Horyuji Temple, a representative structure from the Asuka period, was founded in 607, and after a fire in 670, its Kondo (Main Hall) and Five-Story Pagoda were rebuilt, making them the world's oldest wooden structures. Along with Himeji Castle, it was registered as Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993.
Wood joinery is a highly precise technique that assembles buildings almost entirely without metal hardware like nails, intricately carving and fitting the ends of wood pieces together to secure them firmly. As these joints are not fastened with nails or bolts, they allow for some 'play' (gaps), which effectively absorb seismic movements, allowing the structure to withstand earthquakes.
(Note) UNESCO registered ‘Traditional skills, techniques and knowledge for the conservation and transmission of wooden architecture in Japan’ as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Wood joinery is a highly precise technique that assembles buildings almost entirely without metal hardware like nails, intricately carving and fitting the ends of wood pieces together to secure them firmly. As these joints are not fastened with nails or bolts, they allow for some 'play' (gaps), which effectively absorb seismic movements, allowing the structure to withstand earthquakes.
(Note) UNESCO registered ‘Traditional skills, techniques and knowledge for the conservation and transmission of wooden architecture in Japan’ as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Wagashi Workshop
Wagashi Workshop by Artisans
Why not expand your creativity through the art of wagashi-making and let it blossom into something new?
Kagurazaka's esteemed Baika-tei
A Wagashi (Traditional Japanese Sweets) Class with Matcha, Led by Artisans from Baika-tei, a Long-Established Confectionery Founded in 1935
Kagurazaka's esteemed Baika-tei, known for its commitment to natural, additive-free ingredients, crafts seasonal wagashi with heartfelt care. Particularly notable is Baika-tei's signature Anko, meticulously prepared in 23 different varieties, each tailored to complement the specific outer layer of the wagashi. These exquisite sweets are made with the highest quality ingredients and the skilled craftsmanship of master artisans.
Fufumi-an
The wagashi class is held at Fufumi-an, nestled in the hidden backstreets of Yokotera-machi in Kagurazaka, an area once loved by literary figures of the Meiji era. The name "Fufumi" is an ancient Japanese word that describes the budding of flowers.
The Fufumi-an building was completed in August 2024. The building is a wooden structure that aligns with Japan's climate and natural environment, featuring domestic cypress wood crafted by master Sukiya-Zukuri (Sukiya architects), Jūraku walls, and an entrance paved with Tanba stones.
Why not expand your creativity through the art of wagashi-making and let it blossom into something new?
Kagurazaka's esteemed Baika-tei
A Wagashi (Traditional Japanese Sweets) Class with Matcha, Led by Artisans from Baika-tei, a Long-Established Confectionery Founded in 1935
Kagurazaka's esteemed Baika-tei, known for its commitment to natural, additive-free ingredients, crafts seasonal wagashi with heartfelt care. Particularly notable is Baika-tei's signature Anko, meticulously prepared in 23 different varieties, each tailored to complement the specific outer layer of the wagashi. These exquisite sweets are made with the highest quality ingredients and the skilled craftsmanship of master artisans.
Fufumi-an
The wagashi class is held at Fufumi-an, nestled in the hidden backstreets of Yokotera-machi in Kagurazaka, an area once loved by literary figures of the Meiji era. The name "Fufumi" is an ancient Japanese word that describes the budding of flowers.
The Fufumi-an building was completed in August 2024. The building is a wooden structure that aligns with Japan's climate and natural environment, featuring domestic cypress wood crafted by master Sukiya-Zukuri (Sukiya architects), Jūraku walls, and an entrance paved with Tanba stones.
Tofu Workshop
Join our exclusive tofu workshop, which is taught by the tofu meister from Katsuno Tofu, a long-established tofu shop that supplies high-end restaurants.
Not only will you learn the art of traditional tofu-making, but you'll also get to taste the incredibly delicious tofu you create. You'll be amazed at the taste and quality, and we guarantee it will be the best tofu you've ever had. Don't miss this unique opportunity to create and enjoy authentic Japanese tofu!
"Katsuno Tofu" is a long-established tofu shop founded in 1942. It is currently the only remaining tofu shop in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku ward. It is said that the tofu was loved by Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka (1918-1993).
The shop supplies tofu and fried tofu to nearby high-end Japanese restaurants and eateries. Due to its taste, which is recognized by these top restaurants, many people who try Katsuno Tofu for the first time are surprised by its rich flavor and deliciousness.
Katsuno Tofu also sells directly to customers and is popular not only among Japanese people but also among foreigners strolling through Kagurazaka.
While offering traditional tofu, the shop is also focused on developing new products like "TOFU sweets" to meet modern needs. Many tourists buy and enjoy walking around with donuts and muffins made from tofu, soy milk, and okara (soy pulp).
Not only will you learn the art of traditional tofu-making, but you'll also get to taste the incredibly delicious tofu you create. You'll be amazed at the taste and quality, and we guarantee it will be the best tofu you've ever had. Don't miss this unique opportunity to create and enjoy authentic Japanese tofu!
"Katsuno Tofu" is a long-established tofu shop founded in 1942. It is currently the only remaining tofu shop in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku ward. It is said that the tofu was loved by Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka (1918-1993).
The shop supplies tofu and fried tofu to nearby high-end Japanese restaurants and eateries. Due to its taste, which is recognized by these top restaurants, many people who try Katsuno Tofu for the first time are surprised by its rich flavor and deliciousness.
Katsuno Tofu also sells directly to customers and is popular not only among Japanese people but also among foreigners strolling through Kagurazaka.
While offering traditional tofu, the shop is also focused on developing new products like "TOFU sweets" to meet modern needs. Many tourists buy and enjoy walking around with donuts and muffins made from tofu, soy milk, and okara (soy pulp).
Tea Ceremony
Tea Ceremony by Urasenke associate professor
Why not take a break from the everyday hustle and listen to your inner voice? Experience the tea ceremony at Chawa Masudaya, a tea shop founded in 1930.
The Historical Roots of the Tea Ceremony’s Spirituality
The deep spirituality of the tea ceremony is connected to its history. It was introduced to Japan along with Buddhism, and the educated elite encountered tea during this time. The ceremony embodies both “spirituality” and “cultural significance.”
Influences on Spirituality
Japan’s ancient nature worship
Emphasis on relationships over individualism
Buddhism (including Zen), Confucianism, and traditional Japanese values (Shingi Reichi Shin)
The spirit of Tea Ceremony, Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku (harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility)
Harmony (Wa): The spirit of thinking kindly of others and fostering harmony
Respect (Kei): Mutual respect for one another
Purity (Sei): Maintaining a clean and pure heart
Tranquility (Jaku): A heart that remains unshaken with experience
Why not take a break from the everyday hustle and listen to your inner voice? Experience the tea ceremony at Chawa Masudaya, a tea shop founded in 1930.
The Historical Roots of the Tea Ceremony’s Spirituality
The deep spirituality of the tea ceremony is connected to its history. It was introduced to Japan along with Buddhism, and the educated elite encountered tea during this time. The ceremony embodies both “spirituality” and “cultural significance.”
Influences on Spirituality
Japan’s ancient nature worship
Emphasis on relationships over individualism
Buddhism (including Zen), Confucianism, and traditional Japanese values (Shingi Reichi Shin)
The spirit of Tea Ceremony, Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku (harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility)
Harmony (Wa): The spirit of thinking kindly of others and fostering harmony
Respect (Kei): Mutual respect for one another
Purity (Sei): Maintaining a clean and pure heart
Tranquility (Jaku): A heart that remains unshaken with experience
Parfait and Tea Tasting
Live Parfait Making by Patissier and Tea Tasting with Selected Matcha and Teas by Tea Sommelier at "Couches de bonheur" in Kagurazaka
The Unique Features of Our Parfait
Our parfait is not just sweet; it also incorporates salty, sour, and savory elements, along with various textures, creating an exquisite experience similar to enjoying a full-course meal.
We carefully select fruits from specific regions, crafting layers that offer surprising changes and deep flavors, meticulously calculating the perfect harmony of sweetness in every bite.
From the first taste to the last, you will savor the entire parfait, embodying the true meaning of "perfect," which is the origin of the word parfait.
The Unique Features of Our Parfait
Our parfait is not just sweet; it also incorporates salty, sour, and savory elements, along with various textures, creating an exquisite experience similar to enjoying a full-course meal.
We carefully select fruits from specific regions, crafting layers that offer surprising changes and deep flavors, meticulously calculating the perfect harmony of sweetness in every bite.
From the first taste to the last, you will savor the entire parfait, embodying the true meaning of "perfect," which is the origin of the word parfait.
Why Us
Authentic Experience Tours
Our tours are authentic experience tours where you receive direct guidance from real artisans and monks. Of course, the geisha is also authentic.
Affordable Prices
Most of our tours are private. Moreover, considering that real artisans will instruct you, you should find the prices surprisingly reasonable.
Easy to Book
Once you input your desired tour date and time, we will inquire about the workshops, temples, and geisha and respond to you within three days regarding availability. Please note that it may take more than three days to reply due to holidays at the workshops and other locations.
A local guide at the registered travel company
A local guide, the Kagurazaka resident for 25 years, will show you hidden gems in English. Furthermore, as our company is a 'Certified Hokkaido-University startup,' you can confidently participate in our tours.
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