15 Best Tours & Experiences In Kawasaki

Kawasaki offers more than just its industrial skyline; it’s a city that blends traditional Japanese culture with modern attractions in surprising ways. Whether you’re fascinated by the sport of sumo, eager to learn the tea ceremony, or want to explore local neighborhoods with authentic flavor, Kawasaki has something to offer. We’re particularly fond of the Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo because it combines behind-the-scenes access with hands-on fun — a rare chance to step into the world of real rikishi. This city’s diverse tours let you explore Japan’s customs, from shinto shrines to lively izakaya bars, making it a fantastic destination for curious travelers.

Quick Overview

Kawasaki features a wide variety of tours, including sumo wrestling experiences, traditional tea ceremonies, nighttime factory tours, local craft workshops, and cultural shrine visits. Options range from active pursuits such as cycling at the Nihon Minkaen (Japanese Folk House Museum) to immersive cultural workshops like the Sencha-do tea ceremony. For a more relaxed evening, the Izakaya Hopping Night Tour offers a taste of local nightlife, while the Kawasaki Shrine Experience dives into spiritual traditions. Whatever your interests, Kawasaki’s tours provide authentic insights into Japanese life, often with the option to participate directly.

1. Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo: Enter the Sanctuary

At number 1 on our list, this fun sumo wrestling experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the sport. Rather than just watching a match, you’ll tour a sumo stable, learn about training routines, and even practice moves with a retired rikishi. The experience includes a delicious lunch and professional commentary from guides who share insights about sumo’s customs and traditions. Guests rave about the chance to interact directly with wrestlers and participate in training sessions, which makes this tour stand out for its engaging and personal approach. It’s perfect for sports fans and curious travelers alike. Expect to spend around 4 hours enjoying this lively culture with a friendly group.
Bottom Line: An interactive, insightful tour that makes you feel like part of the sumo world, with great food and memorable photos.

2. Tokyo: Authentic Sumo Wrestling Experience with Lunch

Touring a professional sumo stable is a highlight for anyone interested in Japanese traditions. This experience, rated 4.9/5, involves observing morning practice, trying your hand at sumo moves, and sharing a meal with the wrestlers. You’ll also learn about the history and rituals of sumo wrestling from knowledgeable guides who explain its significance in Japan. The tour’s focus on interaction and education makes it particularly appealing for travelers who want a deeper understanding of sumo beyond just watching. Located about 10 minutes from Yokohama Station, this tour balances cultural insight with active participation.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded experience combining authentic training, cultural stories, and a hearty lunch—great for sports fans and culture seekers.

3. Sencha-do the Japanese Tea Ceremony Workshop

For those wanting a peaceful, hands-on cultural activity, this tea ceremony workshop is a winner. Led by a master from the Higashi Abe school, you’ll learn to brew sencha, touching and handling the utensils yourself. It’s a rare chance to get close to the process, unlike many traditional classes where you observe from a distance. Participants enjoy taking lots of photos and making their own tea, with the instructor offering gentle guidance. The workshop lasts about 1.5 hours and offers a genuine glimpse into Japanese tea culture, suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.
Bottom Line: An authentic, intimate experience perfect for tea lovers and those curious about Japan’s meticulous customs.

4. Kawasaki Night Factory Lights: Private Car Tour with Expert Guide

This nighttime factory tour is perfect if industrial scenery fascinates you. Riding in a private vehicle, you’ll explore Kawasaki’s Waterfront Industrial Zone, where glowing pipes and towering plants create a sci-fi backdrop. Highlights include visiting Kawasaki Marien for panoramic views of glowing factories and cranes, and enjoying the dazzling factory flares from the highway. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and offers a unique perspective on Kawasaki’s industrial heart. It’s suited for anyone interested in modern manufacturing or just spectacular night scenery.
Bottom Line: An eye-opening glimpse into Kawasaki’s industrial beauty, best enjoyed after sunset with plenty of photo opportunities.

5. Samurai Karate and Iaido Experience for Beginners in Kawasaki

Combining martial arts and samurai culture, this hands-on session introduces beginners to karate and iaido (the art of sword drawing). It includes practicing self-defense, wielding a mock sword, and trying on traditional obi belts, do-gi, and hakama. You’ll also learn etiquette and basic techniques from instructors guiding you through this immersive experience. While it currently has no reviews, its focus on authentic martial arts makes it ideal for active travelers or those interested in Japan’s samurai heritage.
Bottom Line: Engaging, physical, and culturally rich—perfect if you want to try your hand at traditional Japanese combat arts.

6. Izakaya Hopping Night Tour in Nostalgic Area

This food-focused tour takes you through local Izakaya bars with transparent accounting, guided by a local with over 20 years’ familiarity. You’ll visit three authentic venues, sample regional dishes, and enjoy the lively, non-touristy atmosphere. The tour is about 2.5 hours long and includes translations between you and staff, ensuring a relaxed, fun night out that feels more like a night with friends than a tourist trap. It’s ideal for foodies wanting an authentic taste of Kawasaki nightlife.
Bottom Line: A tasty, sociable way to experience local drinking culture in a nostalgic setting.

7. Local Kawaii Craft Tour

For those who love colorful crafts and Japanese kawaii culture, this tour is a delightful escape. Starting at DECOPANIC, a shop filled with cute DECO parts, you’ll select your favorite pieces to create a key charm or accessories on the shop’s terrace. The tour also explores Musashi-Kosugi, a lively neighborhood with historic and modern sights, and visits the Ito-Yokado Grand Tree shopping mall. It’s a short, fun craft session that’s perfect for families, teens, or anyone wanting a memorable souvenir.
Bottom Line: A playful way to bring home a personalized, kawaii keepsake while exploring local shopping streets.

8. Supreme Sencha: Tea Ceremony & Making Experience in Kanagawa

This tea ceremony emphasizes sencha, green tea brewed with infusing leaves. The experience begins with observing a traditional ceremony, followed by brewing your own tea using authentic utensils. The instructor’s careful guidance ensures you’ll learn the proper techniques and enjoy the flavors of freshly made tea. Also included are Japanese sweets to complement the ceremony. It lasts about 1.5 hours and is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, educational introduction to Japanese tea customs.
Bottom Line: A calming, instructive experience that deepens your appreciation for Japan’s tea traditions.

9. Yomiuriland One Day Pass Ticket in Tokyo

Ideal for families or thrill-seekers, this one-day amusement park ticket grants access to rides like the Bandit Roller Coaster and Ferris Wheel. Seasonal events such as Jewellumination or cherry blossom viewing make each visit different. The park offers live shows, parades, and interactive zones like Goodjoba!!, making it a full-day adventure. With amenities like baby care rooms and stroller rentals, it’s family-friendly. The ticket offers great value considering the variety of rides and entertainment options packed into one location.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a fun-filled day with family, with plenty of seasonal spectacles to enjoy.

10. Unique Shinto Experience at Sexual Well-Being Shrine in Kawasaki

This unconventional tour visits Kanayama Shrine, famous for the Kanamara Festival celebrating fertility and protection. You’ll participate in a formal worship session at the sacred inner hall, normally off-limits, guided by a Shinto priest. Dress in traditional priest or shrine maiden attire, take photos, and learn about the shrine’s unique symbolism and festivals. The experience is both lively and respectful, perfect for travelers interested in Japan’s spiritual side. It’s about 3 hours, with a ¥5,000 initial offering optional.
Bottom Line: A distinctive cultural experience blending tradition, festivity, and humor, ideal for curious, open-minded travelers.

11. Experience Japan Relaxing Sento

A sentō is a traditional public bath, and this tour makes it accessible for newcomers. You’ll meet a certified Onsen Sommelier who explains bathing manners, then enjoy a soothing soak in a local sentō. Afterwards, relax at the café and learn about Japanese hot spring culture. This tour is about 2 hours and offers a genuine way to connect with everyday Japanese life—perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and cultural insight.
Bottom Line: An authentic, calming experience that reveals an essential part of Japanese daily routine.

12. Kawasaki Shrine Experience: Miko & Shinto Priest Traditions

This tour invites you to explore Inage Shrine, where you’ll learn about Shinto rituals, participate as a miko (shrine maiden), and ask questions directly to a Shinto priest. Activities include purification rites and traditional festival explanations, all designed to deepen your understanding of Japan’s spiritual practices. It lasts about 2.5 hours and is ideal for those interested in religious traditions or cultural learning.
Bottom Line: A hands-on look into Shinto rituals that’s as educational as it is memorable.

13. Walking Tour in Kawasaki City Hall Area

This relaxed walking tour covers Kawasaki’s modern and historic sides. Starting at Kawasaki Station, you’ll visit Kawasaki City Hall for panoramic city views, then explore the Tokaido Kawasaki Shuku Koryukan exhibit to learn about the old post town. The tour ends with a casual stroll through local neighborhoods, offering insights into today’s Kawasaki life. It’s a 3.5-hour activity suited for travelers who want a gentle overview of the city’s history and local scene.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting a broad but manageable introduction to Kawasaki’s history and current life.

14. Local Walk Everyday Japan in a Retro Area

This leisurely walk takes you into a retro neighborhood just outside Tokyo, starting from Mizonokuchi Station. Guided by a local, you’ll explore neighborhood shops, supermarkets, traditional sweets stores, and a nostalgic game center — all spots most travelers overlook. It’s an authentic look at daily Japanese life, emphasizing casual observation and conversation. The tour is about 2.5 hours, perfect for travelers who want to see daily life and local culture without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, authentic journey into everyday Japanese life beyond the tourist crowds.

15. Kawasaki Nihon Minkaen Adventure Tour

For a peaceful escape, this cycling tour along the Tama River takes you to the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, where traditional rural farmhouses are preserved. The 3-hour ride is flat and easy, with a rental bike included. The highlight is wandering among historic buildings and enjoying soba noodles at the Shirakawa-go Soba Restaurant. It’s a perfect mix of outdoor activity and culture for those who enjoy gentle exploration and rural Japan’s charm.
Bottom Line: A calm, scenic ride with a focus on rural heritage, ideal for active travelers wanting a taste of traditional Japan.

How to Choose the Perfect Kawasaki Tour

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a deep dive into sumo wrestling, visit the Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo, which balances interaction and culture. If your goal is to relax and unwind, the Experience Japan Relaxing Sento offers a calming, authentic bathhouse experience. Those interested in local nightlife and food should consider the Izakaya Hopping Night Tour, which guarantees lively evenings in a traditional setting.

Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited availability or special seasonal events. Whether you’re after cultural insights, adventure, or culinary discovery, Kawasaki’s diverse options ensure a memorable and enriching visit.

Kawasaki’s mix of traditional and modern experiences makes it a city that can satisfy many different types of travelers. If you’re a history buff, the Kawasaki Shrine or Nihon Minkaen will captivate you. For those who love culinary adventures, izakaya hopping or tea ceremonies are perfect. And if you’re after something truly unique, the night factory tour or sumo experience are unforgettable. No matter your interests, booking these tours early guarantees a smooth, enriching visit to this lively Japanese city.