Top 8 Airbnb Experiences to Enjoy in Tokyo

Tokyo is a city that invites exploration, layered with experiences waiting to be uncovered. You might visit a dozen times and still stumble upon new food stalls, concealed shrines, late-night bars, and vibrant subcultures, each neighborhood feeling like a world unto itself. As someone who’s made ten trips here, I can attest to that allure.

One of my preferred methods of delving into Tokyo’s diverse tapestry is through Airbnb Experiences. These excursions, run by locals and long-term residents, provide an intimate glimpse into the city’s culinary delights, bustling nightlife, rich history, and artistic traditions, offering insights that are often elusive when wandering solo. Having participated in numerous Airbnb Experiences in Tokyo, I can confidently say they frequently surpass traditional tours you might find on platforms like Get Your Guide—though I must add that Arigato Travel is exceptional, making it a must-visit for traditional tours.

To aid in your selection from the vast array of Experiences available, I’ve compiled my top recommendations that blend cultural immersion, hands-on learning, and just the right touch of fun:

Learn to Make Authentic Sushi with a Trained Chef

Sushi-making classes are readily available in Tokyo, but this Airbnb Experience truly distinguishes itself. Held within an omakase restaurant, this engaging session is led by a sushi master (or their apprentice). You’ll delve beyond the basics of shaping rice or slicing fish, discovering the significance of various cuts, how chefs season rice based on style, and the art of pairing ingredients to enhance texture and flavor. This hands-on class feels surprisingly welcoming and is a small morning gathering, allowing you to kick off your day with a satisfying and delightful breakfast experience. I personally found it utterly enjoyable.

Shibuya Nightlife with Unlimited Drinks

This is hands down my favorite nightlife tour in Tokyo. The host, Suemi, along with her friends, ensures an unforgettable evening. The Shibuya nightlife tour takes you to 3-4 izakaya spots that feel wonderfully authentic and are frequented by locals. With unlimited food and drinks, it’s an extraordinary experience. My guide, Shugo, was enthusiastic, communicated well in English, handled the dynamics of a large group seamlessly, and was truly entertaining. His insights into izakaya culture were illuminating, and he even extended the evening beyond the scheduled end time. He made the night great!

Moreover, Suemi and her team also run an exceptional unlimited sake tasting class, which ranks among the best I’ve experienced in Tokyo. They provide in-depth insights into the sake-making process using visuals to enhance understanding. With a cozy group of just six, this intimate experience makes it personal and engaging. If you opt for a sake experience, this is the one to try. They also offer a whiskey tasting session that I haven’t participated in yet, but I suspect it’s equally impressive.

Shinjuku Izakaya Tour

This experience mirrors the spirit of the Shibuya nightlife tour, but it’s set in yet another vibrant nightlife district. Shinjuku, bursting with tiny izakayas often tucked away in narrow alleyways, invites discovery. Guided by Yuma, a knowledgeable sake sommelier, this tour takes you to several charming local spots, unveiling the essence of izakaya culture.

As you meander through Shinjuku, you’ll sample various styles of sake and gain practical skills in reading menus, knowing what to order, and understanding how locals drink and dine in these informal settings. Yuma’s approachable demeanor and clear explanations make the experience both social and relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the Shinjuku nightlife without feeling lost in translation.

Historic Tokyo Walking Tour

This is one of the most enlightening experiences I’ve encountered in Tokyo. Rather than sticking to the usual tourist hotspots, this tour guides you through quieter neighborhoods that maintain a deep connection to the city’s past. The host, an expert lecturer in Japanese history and traditional culture, enriches the tour with notable insights.

You’ll explore significant sites like Nezu Shrine, walk through its iconic tunnel of red torii gates, and navigate the historic streets of Yanaka. This tour delves into pivotal eras such as the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration, shedding light on how the samurai’s role evolved as Japan modernized. Spanning 2.5 hours, the walk feels unhurried and offers a profound understanding of Tokyo’s evolution. I walked away with a wealth of knowledge.

Tokyo Coffee Culture Tour

With a thriving coffee scene, this tour beautifully showcases Tokyo’s evolving coffee culture. You’ll venture into Jimbocho and Kanda, two often-overlooked neighborhoods, where you’ll learn about both traditional kissaten and modern specialty cafés. It’s an exploration of brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and the meticulous standards Japan has developed in its coffee pursuits.

This tour includes stops at historic cafés, leading third-wave coffee shops, and even wagashi venues where you’ll discover how traditional Japanese sweets complement coffee. It’s a thoughtfully curated afternoon experience that’s sure to delight.

Organic Matcha Tea Ceremony

This hour-long experience serves as a delightful introduction to matcha and Japanese tea culture. You’ll explore the history of matcha, its societal significance, and how to discern high-quality varieties. The host meticulously guides you through the traditional preparation process, allowing you to whisk and savor authentic matcha in a serene setting that feels miles away from the city’s bustle. Although brief, this experience leaves a lasting impression, deepening your appreciation for something you’ll encounter throughout Japan.

Tokyo Ramen Tour

Ramen is emblematic of Japanese cuisine, and this tour reveals why it garners such fervent devotion. Over about three hours, you’ll explore various ramen shops, each showcasing a unique style or approach. Along the way, you’ll learn about ramen’s historical roots, contemporary trends, and regional distinctions while tasting everything from classic bowls to innovative fusion creations. The guide expertly breaks down broth types, noodle textures, and toppings in an easily digestible manner, so come with an empty stomach—this tour is sure to fill you up!

Shibuya and Harajuku Street Art Tour

This unique tour guides you through Shibuya and Harajuku, uncovering murals and installations often tucked away in alleyways and unconventional spaces. The realm of street art in Tokyo is an underground, relatively quiet scene, as the Japanese aren’t typically inclined toward murals on their buildings. Discovering where this art form is permitted and how it flourishes in such a restrictive environment is fascinating. The tour also showcases before-and-after visuals of murals, adding valuable context. Truly, it’s one of the most unique Airbnb Experiences you’ll find, offering a glimpse into a side of Japan that many overlook.

Tokyo brims with Airbnb Experiences, and while I know I’ve barely scratched the surface, these eight options offer a solid starting point. Make it a point to partake in at least one during your visit, as conventional tours often feel cookie-cutter. These Airbnb excursions bring a refreshing, fun twist to your exploration!