What is a Ryokan? Ryokans are the best way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the true comforts of Japanese hospitality and service.
Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 "onsen" ,or hot springs, in Japan. Many can be found at the ryokans available on Japanese Guest Houses.
Staying at a ryokan is the best way to experience Japan’s culture but there are also other ways. Below is a list of friends that offer services that we are sure you will enjoy.
Interested in experiencing country living in Japan? Fukiko (who is fluent in English and German) will provide you with a wonderful and insightful introduction to the local culture and people of Kameoka, a country town located outside of Kyoto. She can also guide you around Kyoto, the center of Japanese culture. Fukiko was born in Gion, the heart of old Kyoto, and raised in both Kyoto and Kameoka. Fukiko has been hosting overseas guests for several years. As a professionally licensed travel adviser (both domestic and international travel), she will work with you and help you plan your own customized cultural experience in and around Kyoto, Kameoka, and other areas. Attention: Several of the rooms in Fukiko’s residence are traditional Japanese-style rooms with valuable furniture, and as a result, this cultural experience is designed for non-smoking, adult guests only. Reserve your stay at Fukiko’s house here.
Is connecting with the Japanese people and culture on your to-do list? Would you like to have dinner at a Japanese home and chat with a Japanese family? If so then Nagomi Visit might be for you.
Nagomi Visit allows you to easily visit a local’s home for lunch or dinner. All you need to do is book online and arrange to meet one of our hosts in the greater Tokyo and Osaka areas. All are ready to share great conversation and of course delicious food. For more information please visit their website at http://www.nagomivisit.com/
Robert Yellin is one of the foremost experts on Japanese pottery in the world. A visit to his gallery in Kyoto is an experience that no pottery lover should miss. He offers a wide selection of ceramics from the potters of Japan, both antique pieces and those by contemporary artists. His online selections are updated several times each week. Please do visit often to view the new selections. You can also purchase pieces online at http://www.japanesepottery.com/gallery.php
Learn about and take a class in Japanese drums known as Taiko. If you love music, then taking one of these workshops is a great way to experience Japanese culture. Taiko Center is headquartered in Kyoto but also has branches in Tokyo. Their instructors are professional Taiko performers so you know you are learning from the best. Learn more at http://www.taiko-center.co.jp/english/workshop.html
Kamui is a world-wide “Samurai Sword Artist” troupe. Kamui was established and is led by Tetsuro Shimaguchi, and its performance is based on the original method, Kengido, which is a mixed style of Japanese swordplay (Kenjutsu) and expressive arts. http://www.k-kamui.jp/homepage.php
Aikido Shoubu Dojo in Tucson, AZ
Aikido is a Japanese martial art based on harmony.
Great Lakes Taiko Center in Novi, MI
Learn Japanese Taiko Drumming in Michigan
