(Private car)Fake It Then Taste It:Japan’s Quirky Cuisine Journey

Tokyo , Japan

(Private car)Fake It Then Taste It:Japan’s Quirky Cuisine Journey

Active

(7 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Start your journey at Sagamihara’s quirky “Used Tire Market,” a hidden gem loved by vending machine fans. Rows of retro machines from the Showa era still operate, serving hot udon, toast, capsule toys, and bottled drinks. Nostalgic, surreal, and irresistibly charming—your guide will help you capture photos. Stay about 30–60 minutes.

Next, get hands-on at “Atelier Stella,” a food sample workshop where you’ll craft realistic fake food seen in Japanese restaurants. Choose from sushi, takoyaki, rice crackers, or the popular toast-shaped clock. With guidance from a skilled artisan and English support, beginners and kids (age 6+) can enjoy making their own unique souvenir. Sessions are 1 or 2 hours.

Finish with a local dinner in Machida. Whether it’s izakaya, traditional washoku, or sizzling monjayaki, your guide will help you choose and order the perfect meal to end the day.

Available options

(Private car)Fake It Then Taste It:Japan’s Quirky Cuisine Journey

Pickup included

What's included

This is a private tour, so you(and your friend, family, and so on) will be the only ones in the vehicle.

National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter

Food sample making experience fee

1,000 yen food and drink charge: If you want to buy more, you can buy it yourself

Detailed itinerary

Experience a unique retro adventure at the Sagamihara Used Tire Market. Discover a quirky and unexpected location with a hidden vending machine hideout in a tire market.

Step back in time with a visit to the vending machine section, where nostalgic vending machines are still in operation. Purchase hot meals such as ramen, burgers, and toasted sandwiches, giving you a glimpse into Japan's Showa (1926-1989) culture.

Not only the food, but the venue itself offers a quirky and unexpected location - a hidden vending machine hideout in a tire market. This unexpected combination has brought a sense of surprise and humor to many foreign tourists. It's not just a meal, it's an adventure full of discoveries, laughs, and unique photo opportunities.

The nostalgic yet fresh contrast creates an unforgettable impression. The retro design and functionality make it the perfect place for Instagramable photos and sharing on social media.

Let's actually make "ultra-realistic fake food" that you often see in Japanese restaurants!
You can choose to make sushi, takoyaki, rice crackers, or the super popular "bread clock".

With the guidance of a craftsman and the support of an English guide, even beginners can feel at ease. Children (elementary school age and above) are also welcome.
You can take home the creation you made as a souvenir. The duration is either 1 or 2 hours.

With a guide, you can enjoy your preferred style of dinner, such as Japanese food, izakaya, or monjayaki (a maximum of 5,000 yen per person is included in the tour fee). The English guide will also help you order, so you can rest assured.

What's not included

Parking Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN JA EN

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge technology. Known for its vibrant districts, world-class dining, and rich cultural heritage, Tokyo offers an unparalleled urban experience.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo's oldest temple, known for its impressive Kaminarimon Gate and bustling Nakamise shopping street.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Shibuya Crossing

The world's busiest pedestrian crossing, surrounded by neon lights, shops, and restaurants.

Cultural/Entertainment 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Meiji Shrine

A serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1 hour Free

Tokyo Skytree

The tallest tower in Japan, offering stunning views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture/Entertainment 2-3 hours ¥2,100-¥3,100

Ueno Park

A large public park with museums, temples, and beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring.

Nature/Cultural 2-3 hours Free (fees for attractions within the park)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served over vinegared rice, a must-try in Tokyo.

Dinner Contains fish and seafood, may contain allergens.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian/vegan-friendly with modifications.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood, may contain allergens.

Sukiyaki

Hot pot dish with thinly sliced beef and vegetables cooked in a sweet soy-based broth.

Dinner Contains beef, can be made vegetarian with tofu.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Biking along the Sumida River Zorbing at Odaiba Seaside Park Onsen (hot spring) bathing in Hakone Tea ceremonies in traditional tea houses Meditation at temples and shrines Traditional tea ceremonies Calligraphy and ikebana (flower arranging) workshops

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is one of the safest major cities in the world, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and official guides
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 57.5 km from city center
Haneda Airport • 14.3 km from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station

By bus

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It is the best way to get around Tokyo.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km from Tokyo • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning shrines, temples, and natural beauty.

Kamakura

50 km from Tokyo • Full day

A coastal town known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha.

Hakone

90 km from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

A hot spring resort town known for its scenic views of Mount Fuji and traditional ryokan (inns).

Festivals

Sanno Matsuri • June (dates vary) Sanja Matsuri • May (third weekend) Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival • July (last Saturday)

Pro tips

Get a Suica or Pasmo IC card for easy payments on public transportation and in convenience stores
Learn basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner for navigation and real-time train schedules
Carry cash for small shops, markets, and rural areas, as some places may not accept credit cards
Respect local customs and etiquette, such as removing your shoes when entering a home or traditional restaurant