Asakusa Big-Picture History Walk: Small Group or Private
Taito City, JP
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Fascinating historical facts about Asakusa's development
- Use of headsets for clear guidance
- Tasting freshly made Japanese sweet snacks
- Small group size for a more personalized experience
- Exploring the traditional entertainment district of Rokku
-
Duration 3.5 hours
-
Small group tour (max 8)
-
English-speaking guide
-
Tasting of Japanese snacks
-
Earphone Guide System provided
-
Operates in all weather
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Asakusa and Tokyo on this captivating tour. Uncover the fascinating folklore of the two fisherman brothers who founded the Sesoji-temple 1400 years ago, and discover how Asakusa played a pivotal role in Japan's modernization. Explore the origins of Senso-ji temple and its development alongside Asakusa, and learn how the culture of this area has had a global impact. With the use of headsets, you can hear the guide's captivating stories clearly, even from a distance. Indulge in the delicious Japanese sweet snacks made right in the back of the shops, and enjoy the intimate setting of small group sizes limited to 8 participants. From the iconic Kaminarimon gate to the historic Nakamise shopping street and the awe-inspiring Senso-ji Temple, this tour is a must for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
3 hours 30 minutes
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in English, Japanese
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Mobile voucher
-
Small Group tour
-
Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover Asakusa's 1400-year history with an engaging tour that explores the origins of Senso-ji Temple and its cultural significance in Tokyo.
Included
-
OtherYour choice of English- or Japanese-speaking guide -
OtherSelection of Japanese sweet snacks (e.g. melon pan, rice dumpling, rice cracker, sweet puffed rice).
Excluded
-
OtherHotel pickup and drop-off -
OtherFood and drinks, except those specified
Meeting Point
The meeting place is in front of a Burger King restaurant right next to Exit 4 of Asakusa subway station (G19) on the Ginza line. Please step outside when you reach Exit 4. See below for details. https://bit.ly/3KBlIr5
Cross Bil Royal Palace, 2 Chome-20-6 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034 , Japan
End Point
The meeting place is in front of a Burger King restaurant right next to Exit 4 of Asakusa subway station (G19) on the Ginza line. Please step outside when you reach Exit 4. See below for details. https://bit.ly/3KBlIr5
Cross Bil Royal Palace, 2 Chome-20-6 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034 , Japan
What to expect
Just as Asakusa’s history started by the Sumida river, so do our tours. Across the Azumabashi bridge, we will see Tokyo Sky Tree, Asahi Breweries' headquarters with its world-famous golden flame object.
15 minutes
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
From Sumida river, we will stroll to Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. This is not not just a valuable source of sightseeing information, but one of Asakusa’s newest sightseeing attractions. This 8-story building, designed by a world famous Japanese architect, has a very striking structure with the appearance of a stack of separate wooden buildings that seem piled up on top of each other at different angles. From the open terrace Observation Deck on the 8th floor of the Center, we will have a preview of the entire tour course: not just Tokyo Sky Tree and Asahi Flame we have just seen but the landmarks we are going to see including Kaminarimon gate, Nakamise shopping street, Hozomon gate, Sensoji Temple, and more.
30 minutes
Admission Included
Asakusa Kaminarimon Gate
Kaminarimon gate ("Thunder Gate") is the outer of two large entrance gates that ultimately leads to the Sensō-ji temple. The gate, with its huge red lantern and statues, is popular among tourists. The guide will demystify this giant lantern and its surrounding objects.
15 minutes
This shopping street connects Kaminarimon gate and Sensoji-temple's main gate. The 250 m approach is lined with a number of souvenir shops and food stalls. The guide will show you where to buy souvenirs you are interested in. The other fun part of strolling along it is that the guide will buy you traditional snacks in Asakusa; note that the guide may buy snacks in other places in the tour based on your preferences. Toward the end of this long street, we will see a history tablets on its side which depict how Asakusa started and developed around Sensoji-temple.
30 minutes
The Hōzōmon (Treasure-House Gate) is the inner of two large entrance gates that ultimately leads to the Sensō-ji temple (the outer being the Kaminarimon), Tokyo. A two-story gate, the Hōzōmon's second story houses many of the Sensō-ji's treasures. We will see two statues, three lanterns and two large sandals housed in the first story.
15 minutes
Senso-ji Temple
Between Hozomon gate and Sensoji's main hall, we have a lot to see and do. On the left, we will see Five-storied Pagoda the second highest (53m-high) pagoda in Japan built in 942. It holds Buddha's ashes on its top floor given by Sri Lankan goverment and buddhist society for goodwill between Sri Lanka and Japan. We will have three major things to observe or do before entering the temple's main hall. First: - You will draw omikuji, or paper fortune, to predict your future (included in the costs you have already paid). Second: - Most Japanese stop at the huge bronze incense burner to bathe their hands and faces in the smoke. This is a ritual to ward off illnesses-before climbing the stairs to offer their prayers. Third: - Water purification fountain which people use to purify themselves before going inside the temple. You will also see a famous sculpture perching on the fountain. We will now proceed to the main hall of the temple which is the climax of the tour. Look forward to what you will see and the guide will recount there!
45 minutes
To those familiar with religions,it is unfathomable that Busshist temple and shinto shrine coexist on the same premises and share both their origins and worshipers. In that sense, Asakusa shrine is not just another shinto shrine in Japan. The guide will tell you why and you will found how these two religions are ingrained in life of the ordinary Japanese.
15 minutes
Denboin Street
After the magnificence of Sensoji, we'll escape into the Rokku area: Asakusa's traditional entertainment district, always bustling yet rarely busy. Walk through the Meiji period into the present day (with stops along the way for more Japanese sweet snacks). Once a district of endless novelty — movies, comedians and exotic animals — Rokku passed through its glory days to become a quaint neighborhood of handicrafts and nostalgia. Through vivid descriptions of its complex, colorful history, you'll even see sights that aren't there to see anymore! Packed with cosy bars, eateries, and snack stands, as well as boutique shops for traditionally crafted goods of all kinds, the narrow, winding and wandering streets of Rokku will lead you through the other Asakusa experience.
45 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
A moderate amount of walking is involved; please choose appropriate footwear -
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
-
Bottled water is recommended but vending machines are available
-
Children younger than 12 may join the tour without charge but will not be entitled to inclusions
-
Due to the historical focus of the tour, it is recommended for adults, but families are welcome
-
If you have special dietary or accessibility requirements, please contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate you
-
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
-
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
-
Operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Service animals allowed
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
-
The maximum group size is 8 people, to ensure proper hospitality
-
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
-
We accept last-minute bookings until two hours prior to the tour start time.
-
Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
-
Wear comfortable walking shoes. -
Try melon pan at Nakamise Street.
-
Visit nearby Asakusa Shrine too.
-
Enjoy views from the Culture Center.
-
Bring cash for extra snacks or souvenirs.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Embark on a fascinating journey through 1400 years of history with the Asakusa: 1400-year history exploration tour. This captivating tour is perfect for those who have a keen interest in folklore and want to uncover the intriguing stories behind the development of Asakusa and Tokyo.What to expect?
During this tour, expect to immerse yourself in the rich history of Asakusa and discover the connections between Senso-ji temple, the Sumida river, and the cultural development of the area. You will have the opportunity to demystify historical facts such as why Sumida river is the origin of Senso-ji temple and how Asakusa has played a significant role in Japan's modernization. Additionally, you will learn about the cultural impact Asakusa has had on the world.Who is this for?
This tour is for anyone who is curious about the history and development of Asakusa and Tokyo. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or just someone who enjoys immersive experiences, this tour will offer you a wealth of knowledge and insights. It is designed for individuals or groups of up to 8 participants, making it a perfect choice for both solo travelers and those exploring with friends or family.Why book this?
Book this tour to gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance of Asakusa and Tokyo. The experienced guide will take you through the captivating stories and legends surrounding the area, bringing history to life. With the use of headsets, you can hear the guide clearly even from a distance, ensuring you don't miss a single word. You will also have the opportunity to taste delicious Japanese sweet snacks made right behind the shops, adding a delightful culinary element to the tour.Good to know
It is good to know that the tour's duration is 210 minutes, allowing you ample time to explore the various landmarks and attractions of Asakusa. The meeting point is conveniently located at Exit 4 of Asakusa subway station, near the iconic Azumabashi red bridge. Don't forget to look out for the guide holding a sign reading "Arumachi" to ensure a smooth start to your tour. Remember that each group is limited to 8 participants, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this tour have expressed their satisfaction and praise for the knowledgeable guides who provided fascinating insights into the history and development of Asakusa. They appreciated the use of headsets, which ensured clear communication even in larger groups. The opportunity to taste freshly made Japanese sweet snacks was also highly regarded by many, adding a delightful and memorable element to the experience. Overall, reviewers praised this tour for its educational and immersive nature, making it a must-try for history and culture enthusiasts.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is
