Experience Japan (and the world) like a local: The ultimate guide to booking unforgettable adventures with Rakuten Travel


Are you planning a trip to Japan or some other dream destination and want to go beyond typical tourist tours? Then you need to know about Rakuten Travel Experiences, the platform that connects you with authentic, local-led activities so that every step of your trip becomes an unforgettable story.

In this guide, I’ll tell you why Rakuten is your best choice, how to make the most of it, and which experiences are trending in 2025.


What is Rakuten Travel Experiences and why book with them?

Rakuten Travel Experiences is part of Japan’s giant Rakuten group, famous for its reliability and excellent service. Here, you don’t just book hotels or flights—you get access to thousands of unique activities, carefully selected to show you the best of each destination.

Benefits that set it apart

  • Authentic local activities: from food tours to traditional rituals.
  • Easy, fast booking with instant confirmation.
  • Multilingual support, so you can enjoy without language stress.
  • Rakuten Points program: earn rewards for your next adventure or online shopping.

With Rakuten, you don’t just visit a place—you truly experience it.


Top experiences to live Japan like never before

Japan is full of hidden secrets that most tourists never discover. With Rakuten Travel Experiences, you can uncover them all. Here are some irresistible ideas:

1. Japanese cooking classes

Learn to make sushi, ramen, or wagashi sweets with local chefs. More than a class, it’s a slice of culture you’ll keep forever.

2. Geisha and maiko encounters

Join a traditional dinner with exclusive geisha entertainment in Kyoto. A once-in-a-lifetime tradition… and you can be part of it.

3. Secret temple and garden tours

Explore quiet corners, far from the crowds, while a local guide shares legends you won’t find on Google.

4. Become a samurai or ninja for a day

Dress in authentic armor, learn basic moves, and live out your own movie scene.

5. Night street food crawls

Discover hidden izakayas and bustling markets. Taste yakitori, okonomiyaki, and local sake alongside street stories.


What else can you book with Rakuten?

While Japan is their specialty, Rakuten Travel Experiences is expanding rapidly, offering adventures worldwide:

  • Diving in Thailand
  • Wine tours in France
  • Photo safaris in South Africa
  • Tango lessons in Buenos Aires

The list grows every month!


Tips to get the most from Rakuten Travel

  • Book in advance, as some exclusive experiences sell out weeks ahead.
  • Join Rakuten’s points program for free to earn rewards.
    Read real traveler reviews to pick what suits you best.
  • Save direct links to your favorite activities so you don’t lose them.


Bottom line: Don’t just travel to see—travel to feel

Traveling isn’t just about checking places off a map—it’s about filling your life with unrepeatable moments. With Rakuten Travel Experiences, you can truly do that: laugh, learn, taste, and connect with the real heart of your destination.

Ready for your next great adventure?
Explore the best activities around the world with Rakuten Travel Experiences and start living the journey you’ve always dreamed of.

🔗 Book your experience here


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