Encounter Tokyo’s Past and Age-Old Japanese Traditions in Tokyo

Explore a world where Japanese traditions still abound, and encounter centuries-old Edo vibes that continue to shape Tokyo’s cultural identity today.

Nishitokyo’s Tanashi area once flourished as a stop on the way to Edo Castle, and it preserves traditions rooted in everyday life. Learn about its history by exploring in and around Tanashi Jinja Shrine and try making crafts like fabric flowers for a taste of Nishitokyo’s artisanal spirit. Then, feel the heartbeat of Japanese culture for yourself with a Japanese drumming workshop that carries on a performative legacy spanning countless generations.

Elements of Tokyo’s past and Japanese aesthetics can be found thriving in Minato City and are accessible through the beauty of Japanese gardens and calligraphy. Experience garden traditions in harmony with nature at a centuries-old garden with over 400 years of history and discover the time-honored art of brush calligraphy.

DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Get hands-on and explore Tokyo’s past for yourself.

Feel the charm of Nishitokyo’s traditions
(Nishitokyo City)

Traditional Japanese Experiences in the Heart of Minato City
（Minato City）

Nishitokyo CityFeel the charm of Nishitokyo’s traditions

Come experience the charm of Nishitokyo’s age-old traditions. First, step into Atelier Hatsuhannah, a cozy studio dedicated to Tsumami-Zaiku, a traditional Japanese craft that dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868). By folding and pinching small pieces of fabric, you’ll create delicate floral ornaments mainly used to adorn women’s hair. For countless generations, they were worn to mark life’s special milestones such as coming-of-age ceremonies.

Next, stop by Tanashi Jinja Shrine , where dragon motifs can be found throughout the grounds. Be sure to pick up a cute dragon-shaped fortune, too.

Finally, meet up with the Amakakeru Japanese drum (Wadaiko) team, which blends the ancient rhythm of taiko drums with modern sound. Through a hands-on drumming workshop, you can feel the heartbeat of Japanese culture for yourself. Learn the proper drumming form from an instructor and have fun discovering the spirit behind this time-honored tradition.

Together, these experiences offer a journey through the living traditions of Nishitokyo, where history, craftsmanship, and creativity continue to resonate today.

General information

Atelier Hatsuhannah

Atelier Hatsuhannah Official WEB Site(Open in a new window)
＊Click here for details on the plans and your reservation.
Atelier Hatsuhannah Official SNS(Open in a new window)

Tanashi Jinja Shrine

Business Hours : 9:00-17:00
Regular Holidays : None
Address : 3-7-4 Tanashicho, Nishitokyo City, Tokyo MAP(Open in a new window)
Tanashi Jinja Shrine Official WEB Site(Open in a new window)
（Japanese only）

See details at “GO TOKYO”

Amakakeru

Amakakeru Official WEB Site(Open in a new window)＊Click here for details on the plans and your reservation.

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE!

Nishitokyo - parks for picnics and shrines for the spiritual

The GO TOKYO website provides travel information in a range of categories. Check it out to find other activities and outings similar to those we explore in these articles.