35 Time-honoured traditions

TIME-HONOURED Traditions

Sensō-ji temple Photo by Adobe Stock

For a city in such a perpetual state of flux, you’ll barely need to scratch Tokyo’s shiny, neon-lit surface to find yourself immersed in its rich traditions.

Meiji Jingu shrine Photo by Adobe Stock

With one foot inching towards the future, you’ll find Tokyo still has the other firmly planted in the past. A great starting place to explore its timeless traditions is among the city’s 1000-year-old temple complexes and centuries-old Shinto shrines. Start with a visit to Asakusa where you can walk in the footsteps of monks and geisha in streets dating back to Edo times, towards the stunning 7th century Sensō-ji temple, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temples. Harajuku’s Meiji Jingu, a shrine dedicated to revered Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and surrounded by a serene forest, is another must visit that provides a more peaceful pocket of tradition. Less well known, but no less of a treasure is Gōtokuji, a hidden gem in the Tokyo suburbs that is said to be the ancient birthplace of the Japanese maneki-neko (waving cat). Follow the tree-shaded path of this serene slice of Tokyo, passing the Butsuden Buddha Hall, until you stumble upon a clowder of thousands of bright beckoning waving cats stacked high around a statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Or make the pilgrimage to Mount Mitake. Two hours from the city, this is the Tokyo less travelled: a one of a kind world of ancient worship, traditional cuisine and breathtaking natural beauty, as far removed from the neon forests of Sinjuku and Shibuya as one could imagine.

Gotokuji Temple Photo by Melvina Mak

Traditional Tea Ceremony Photo by Getty Images Traditional Japanese drummer Photo by Adobe Stock

One of the most elegant ways to explore Japanese culture is through a tea ceremony in a traditional tearoom with tatami flooring. The enigmatic ritual, governed by an ancient code, is a ceremonial way of preparing and serving powdered matcha green tea. The host will prepare the tea in front of guests, using specific equipment and graceful hand gestures. The drinking of the tea is also ritualistic, and guests will be guided through the mindful process as they enjoy their tea with a spoonful of inner peace. There’s more untouched Japanese culture to be experienced at performances of arts which have been enjoyed for centuries such as traditional Kabuki and Noh theatre, and Bunraku puppet shows. Experience the thrill of Taiko drumming, a lively combination of music, movement and high energy, or take part in a taiko workshop for a handson experience of this unique cultural experience.

Traditional Samurai swords Photo by Getty Images Spa LaQua, Tokyo Dome City Photo by Spa LaQua

You might even like to immerse yourself into the ancient traditions of the Samurai. Get kitted up in traditional hakama and kimono for an immersive Batto (Japanese swordsmanship) course where, using a real katana (sword), you will learn the discipline, etiquette, respect and the art of Samurai swordsmanship, under the tutelage of a Batto master. After visiting shrines and temples, sipping gracefully on tea, or learning the art of the Samurai, why not dip your toes into one of the city’s calming, steamy Onsen (a hot spring). A centuries-old tradition, there are plenty of bathhouses in Tokyo city. Two of the best for visitors are Spa LaQua, a sprawling bathhouse inside Tokyo Dome City, and the tranquil Saya no Yudokoro in Itabashi, surrounded by traditional-style buildings and a Zen Garden. But always remember to carefully follow Onsen etiquette.