Noh theater is Japan’s most ancient dramatic art, performed since the 14th century with origins in even older shrine rituals and mythology. With iconic masks, subtle gestures, and haunting music, Noh was beloved by the samurai class for its evocation of a legendary Japanese past of heroes, demons, ghosts, and gods. Available exclusively to Wabunka customers, this theater experience includes a private Noh performance by Noh actor Keizo Nagayama at Setagaya Nagayama Noh Stage, followed by the chance to don a mask and costume yourself to learn Noh techniques from the master.

Why Visit: An intimate look into Noh theater, one of the oldest active theater traditions in the world.

local_taxi 11 min by car (11 km)

With a collection of over 7,400 works of pre-modern art from Japan and across East Asia, the Nezu Museum in Aoyama is one of Tokyo’s finest art museums. Exhibits range from painting and calligraphy to sculpture, ceramics, lacquerware, and other traditional arts. After perusing the galleries, take a leisurely walk through the museum’s Japanese garden. Designed by architect Kengo Kuma, the garden follows the aesthetic of shinzan-yukoku (deep mountains, dark valleys). With tranquil ponds surrounded by bamboo groves and seasonal flowers, this garden is the perfect place to contemplate the inspiration behind the art.

Why Visit: A large collection of fine Japanese and East Asian art, coupled with a serene Japanese garden.

local_taxi 14 min by car (11 km)

First constructed in the early 1700s, Nezu Shrine is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Tokyo. Despite being home to a large number of red torii gates arranged in long tunnels similar to that of the famous Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto, Nezu Shrine is still somewhat off the beaten track for international tourists in Tokyo. Abundant greenery alongside quiet paths throughout the grounds make it an oasis of calm amidst the bustle of the modern city. The shrine is also home to the annual Azalea festival, held each spring to celebrate the appearance of these particularly vivid flowers.

Why Visit: A historic Shinto shrine with a stunning collection of red torii gates, right in the heart of busy downtown Tokyo.

local_taxi 3 min by car (1.1 km)

In the ever-evolving modern cityscape of Tokyo, it can be challenging to get a sense of what ordinary life was like in times past. A stroll through Yanaka Ginza, one of Tokyo’s few remaining traditional neighborhoods, offers visitors a rare chance to travel back in time for a glimpse of the city’s local history. Yanaka Ginza’s retro shopping street is the perfect spot to browse for handmade treasures in local shops or stop off at cosy eateries to sample local snacks.

Why Visit: Local shops and restaurants provide a glimpse into the history of Tokyo’s traditional residential neighborhoods.