Tucked away in the heart of Tokyo, the Authentic Japanese Dance Class offers a captivating glimpse into the elegance of traditional dance. Guided by an English-speaking instructor, participants enjoy the graceful movements of the iconic "Sakura" dance, donning meticulously fitted kimonos. But the experience extends beyond the studio, as the class also includes a visit to Sumida City, where attendees can explore the rich artistry and craftsmanship of the Edo period. With its focus on both artistic expression and culture, this class promises a delightful and insightful journey into the depths of Japan’s vibrant heritage. What secrets might this class unveil?
Key Points
- The Japanese dance class in Tokyo offers an immersive cultural experience, teaching the "Sakura" dance and providing a hands-on kimono fitting.
- The four-hour activity includes a live English-speaking tour guide, exploring local crafts in Sumida City, and an optional visit to the Tokyo Sky Tree.
- The class is suitable for participants comfortable with navigation and physical dexterity, as the venue has steep staircases that may pose challenges.
- Pricing ranges from €100.31 to €111.46 per person, with a 10% discount available, providing an affordable opportunity to learn traditional Japanese dance.
- The experience focuses on enhancing Japanese vocabulary and immersing participants in centuries-old dance practices, offering an authentic introduction to Japanese culture.
Experience Overview
A four-hour traditional Japanese dance lesson and kimono fitting experience awaits participants at Keisei Hikifune Station.
Led by an English-speaking live tour guide, the activity allows travelers to learn dance movements, lyrics, and poses, including the iconic "Sakura" (Cherry Blossoms) dance.
After a kimono fitting, where attendees can choose fabrics and wear the traditional garment over casual clothing, the group will visit Sumida City to explore local crafts dating back to the Edo period, such as folding screens and handmade chopsticks.
An optional visit to the nearby Tokyo Sky Tree is also available after the tour.
The experience is priced from €100.31 to €111.46 per person, with a 10% discount available.
Cultural Activities
The core of the Japanese dance class experience involves participants learning to express themselves through dance movements, lyrics, and poses. Guests learn the ‘Sakura’ (Cherry Blossoms) dance, gaining new skills and vocabulary in Japanese.
The dance class also includes:
- A casual kimono fitting, allowing participants to choose the fabric and wear it over their casual clothing
- Bringing socks for the kimono fitting, as it’s customary to remove shoes
Throughout the experience, the instructor guides participants, ensuring they fully enjoy the traditional Japanese art form.
The cultural activities provide a well-rounded and authentic introduction to this centuries-old practice.
Itinerary Details
The itinerary begins at 12:45 PM with the meeting time at Keisei Hikifune Station.
After the 20-minute kimono fitting, guests enjoy a 15-minute greeting session to learn Japanese etiquette.
The highlight is the 40-minute traditional Japanese dance experience, where participants express themselves through dance movements, lyrics, and poses, learning the "Sakura" (Cherry Blossoms) dance.
The tour then visits Sumida City for 30 minutes to explore local craft merchants and purchase traditional hand-made items like folding screens and soy sauce containers dating back to the Edo period.
An optional visit to the Tokyo Sky Tree is available after the tour.
Local Crafts and Souvenirs
After the traditional Japanese dance experience, the tour visits Sumida City for 30 minutes to explore local craft merchants and purchase traditional hand-made items.
Souvenirs available include:
- Folding screens, a classic Japanese art form
- Edo Katabami, elegant handmade handbags
- Soy sauce containers, a staple in Japanese cuisine
- Handmade chopsticks, a necessary utensil for any meal
These items date back to the Edo period, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can browse the local shops and enjoy the artistry of these time-honored crafts.
Transportation and Access
How do participants get to the meeting point for the Japanese dance class?
The venue is conveniently located just one stop from Asakusa and Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Oshiage station. Estimated transportation costs are between 350-500 JPY per person.
Participants should exit the station and follow the yellow signs for east and west exits, where the tour guide will be waiting.
It’s important to note that the venue has steep staircases, so participants should be prepared for that.
Meeting Point
At the Keisei Hikifune Station, you will find the tour guide waiting near the east and west exits, as indicated by the yellow signs. The meeting point is straightforward, making it easy to locate the guide and begin the experience.
Some key points about the meeting location:
- The station is just one stop from Asakusa and the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Oshiage station.
- Participants should be aware of the steep staircases at the venue.
- The guide will be present to greet the group and ensure a smooth start to the traditional Japanese dance lesson and kimono fitting.
- With clear signage and proximity to major transit hubs, the meeting point is convenient and accessible.
Suitability
The traditional Japanese dance lesson and kimono fitting experience may not be suitable for everyone. People with diabetes or hearing impairments are advised not to participate, as the venue has steep staircases that could pose a challenge.
Plus, the kimono fitting may require some physical dexterity, so individuals with limited mobility may find it difficult.
However, for those who can comfortably navigate the venue and engage in the activities, the experience offers a unique opportunity to take in Japanese culture, learn new dance moves, and enjoy the vibrant artistry of traditional costume fittings.
The activity is best suited for those seeking a hands-on cultural encounter in a safe and guided environment.
Venue Considerations
The Keisei Hikifune Station serves as the convenient meeting point for this traditional Japanese dance experience.
From there, the group is guided to the nearby venue, which has a few noteworthy features:
- The venue features steep staircases, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
- The location is only one stop from Asakusa and the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Oshiage station, making it easily accessible.
- Participants should expect to spend an estimated 350-500 JPY on transportation to and from the venue.
- The intimate setting allows for a more immersive and personalized cultural experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Participants Take Photos During the Dance Lesson?
Participants can take photos during the dance lesson. The experience overview states that a live tour guide in English is provided, allowing participants to capture their cultural learning experience through photography.
Are the Dance Instructors Professional Performers?
The dance instructors are professional performers who expertly teach the traditional Japanese dance moves. They provide detailed guidance and demonstrate the graceful expressions to help participants fully experience this cultural activity.
Is There an Opportunity to Purchase the Dance Costumes?
The experience includes a casual kimono fitting, but does not provide an opportunity to purchase the dance costumes. Participants can explore local craft merchants to find traditional souvenirs and handmade items instead.
Can the Dance Lesson Be Extended Beyond the Scheduled Time?
The dance lesson can’t be extended beyond the scheduled 40 minutes. The tour has a fixed itinerary, and extending the dance segment would impact the other scheduled activities. However, participants can inquire about additional private lessons or classes after the tour.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Private Option?
The private group option doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. Participants can book the experience for their desired group size, whether it’s a small gathering or a larger party.
Recap
The Tokyo Authentic Japanese Dance Class offers a captivating cultural experience. Participants learn the graceful "Sakura" dance, don a kimono, and explore Edo period crafts, seeing Japan’s rich heritage. With a focus on artistry and tradition, this class provides a delightful way to connect with the country’s vibrant culture through hands-on learning. The well-organized itinerary and convenient location make it an accessible and enjoyable activity for visitors to the city.
