Tokyo Asakusa Traditions: Temples & Shrines
Taito City, JP
Non-refundable - Your booking can not be cancelled, modified or refunded.
Guaranteed Lowest Prices - Find a lower price? We'll match it!
Highlights
- Explore the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street with 90 unique shops
- Marvel at the impressive Hozomon Gate and its 6-meter-high guardian statues
- Visit the historic Asakusa Shrine and its beautiful torii gate
- Experience Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, Senso-Ji, with its stunning pagoda and Thunder Gate
- Discover the powerful Mitsumine Shrine, known for supporting strong-willed individuals
-
Duration 1.5 to 2 hours
-
Private Tour
-
English Speaking Guide
-
Visit Senso-ji Temple
-
Explore Denboin Garden
-
No Entrance Fees
Discover the heart of Tokyo on a captivating walking tour through the vibrant and traditional neighborhood of Asakusa. Led by a professional guide, this tour takes you on a journey through time as you explore iconic landmarks such as the Senso-Ji Temple, the oldest in Tokyo, and the Hozomon Gate with its impressive red lantern. Immerse yourself in the bustling Nakamise Shopping street and discover 90 unique shops selling everything from traditional Japanese food to high-quality souvenirs. Experience the spiritual atmosphere at Asakusa Shrine and the Mitsumine Shrine, known for its powerful presence. Marvel at the Edo-style Nishi-Sando shopping street, where you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to the Edo period. And for a moment of tranquility, explore the secret Denboin Garden, a hidden gem nestled within the busy streets of Asakusa. Get ready to embrace the beauty and traditions of Tokyo on this unforgettable walking tour.
At a Glance
-
2 hours
-
Available in English, Japanese
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Mobile voucher
-
Small Group tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Discover Tokyo's rich culture on a guided walking tour exploring Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and hidden gems of the historic Asakusa district.
Included
-
Private guided tour
Excluded
-
Gratuities and refreshments
Meeting Point
Meeting Point at hotel possible (if centrally located).
1 Chome-1-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032 , Japan
What to expect
Nakamise-dori Street
In front of you stands one of the busiest shopping streets in the world! Nakamise Dori is a street leading to Sensoji temple and its wonders. But Nakamise Dori is more than just a shopping street. On this 250-meters-long gallery, you will have the chance to look at 90 unique shops! This tourist market is standing here since the 17th century, so shops are being run by the same family from generation to generation. It is the best place in Tokyo to try Japanese food as well as to buy souvenirs of good quality. Here you can purchase many different gifts like cute chopsticks, geta, yukata, and folding fans.
Senso-ji Hozomon Gate
The Hozomon gate, meaning the Treasure-House Gate in Japanese, is one of the two impressive gates leading to the Senso-Ji temple. This gate is almost 23 meters high and 21 meters wide. But the most impressive part of this gate is what it contains. Two guardians statues are standing on each side of the gate. Those 6-meters-high statues represent Niō, the guardian of deities of the Buddha. Another impressive feature of the Hozomon gate is the presence of three large lanterns. The largest is 4 meters high, weighs 400 kg and hangs right in the center of the gate. It made the gate famous around the world.
Right next to Senso-Ji temple is the Asakusa Shrine. It is quite common in Japan to see two different religious places right next to each other. This Shinto shrine, also known as the Shrine of the Three Gods, honors the three men who founded the Senso-Ji Temple. It is one of the only two buildings in Asakusa that survived World War II, the other one being Senso-Ji Temple itself. You will stand in front of its impressive torii gate, knowing its rich history made it an Important Cultural Property of the Japanese Government in 1951!
30 minutes
Senso-ji Temple
Finally, you will walk to Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple. Senso-Ji is an amazing part of this tour as you will see stunning things in there. The first one is an impressive five-story pagoda, a significant monument in a temple. The second one is the Kaminarimon, also called the Thunder Gate. This gate is a twin of the Hozomon gate. A massive red and black paper lantern hangs in the center of the gate. The gate contains four statues representing the Shinto gods Fujin and Raijin and Buddhist gods Tenryu and Kinryu. The Senso-Ji Temple is the most visited spiritual site in the world, dedicated to Kannon Bosatsum the Bodhisattva of compassion.
15 minutes
Mitsumine-jinja Shrine
Many fires and catastrophes happened in Asakusa during the Edo Period. In consequence of those events, the shrine has been build. Indeed, the Mitsumine Shrine is a branch of the Mitsumine Shrine located in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture. This shrine is known for being the most powerful in the Kanto Region. You will have a different feeling from Senso-Ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine there. Take the time to visit it and enjoy its effects. It is said the Mitsumine Shrine supports people with a strong will.
Asakusa Nishi-sandō Shopping Street
Nishi-Sando Shopping Street is different from Nakamise Shopping Street. First, you will look at its unique entrance decorated with replicas of hanafuda, a traditional card game. This covered street is different as the floor is made of laid natural cypress and the main color is vermilion. Here, shops have ornamental tiles and lanterns in a Senso-Ji Temple kind of style. You will feel like you traveled back in the Edo period, walking by this 100-meters-long street and its 40 stores. Each one of them sells unique charms, food, and souvenirs.
Denboin Garden
This step of the tour is special. Denboin garden is the residence of the head priest of Senso-Ji temple. As for, the garden isn't opened to the public all year long. Designated as National Scenic Beauty in 2011, Denboin Garden is a small space of silence and peace in the noisy Asakusa. Rich in nature, you will be able to visit the garden from the middle of March to early May. You will enjoy this 10,000 square meters garden where each part has been carefully taken care of by the priests. It is a typical Japanese garden, with a small pond, flowers and wonderful cherry trees. During this specific period, you will walk on a stone bridge under full bloomed cherry trees while looking at a small waterfall.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
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
-
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller -
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
-
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
-
Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
-
Try local snacks on Nakamise Street. -
Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
-
Visit during cherry blossom season.
-
Explore nearby shops for souvenirs.
-
Consider a kimono rental for photos.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Discover the vibrant city of Tokyo on a captivating walking tour through the historic district of Asakusa. As the largest city in the world, Tokyo offers a fascinating blend of tradition and technology, and this tour will provide an immersive experience of both. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the bustling Nakamise Shopping street, where you will have the opportunity to explore unique shops and try traditional Japanese snacks. The tour will then take you to the impressive Senso-Ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, as well as other significant landmarks such as Asakusa Shrine, Mitsumine Shrine, and the secret Denboin Garden. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Japan as you wander the ancient streets of Asakusa and gain insights into the country's traditions and customs. Put on your kimono and get ready to embark on a journey through the heart of Tokyo!What to expect?
During this 90 to 120-minute tour, you can expect to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Tokyo's historic district. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of each landmark you visit, making the experience educational and enriching. From exploring the bustling Nakamise Shopping street to admiring the iconic Senso-Ji Temple and the picturesque Denboin Garden, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of Asakusa's cultural heritage. Along the way, enjoy the opportunity to taste traditional Japanese cuisine and browse unique shops for high-quality souvenirs. This tour promises to be a memorable and authentic introduction to Tokyo's rich history and charm.Who is this for?
This walking tour is designed for curious travelers who want to delve into the cultural heritage of Tokyo. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply someone who enjoys exploring new destinations, this tour offers something for everyone. The tour is suitable for all age groups, making it an excellent choice for families and solo travelers alike. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Tokyo or a seasoned traveler, this tour will provide a fresh perspective on the city and its fascinating history. Join this tour and discover the hidden gems of Asakusa, a district that seamlessly blends traditional Japan with the modern world.Why book this?
By booking this walking tour, you gain exclusive access to a knowledgeable guide who will enrich your experience with in-depth knowledge and local insights. Forget about guidebooks and maps – your guide will lead you through the winding streets of Asakusa, ensuring you don't miss any hidden gems or significant landmarks. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Nakamise Shopping street, where you can sample delicious Japanese snacks and shop for unique souvenirs. With the guide's expertise, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of each location, allowing you to fully appreciate Tokyo's rich heritage. Don't miss the chance to explore Asakusa like a local and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Tokyo.Good to know
Asakusa can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking. The duration of the tour is approximately 90 to 120 minutes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Asakusa. If your hotel is centrally located, the meeting point can be arranged at your accommodation for added convenience. It's recommended to bring a bottle of water and sunscreen, especially during warmer months. This tour will provide you with a unique opportunity to experience both the traditional and modern aspects of Tokyo, making it a must-do activity for any traveler seeking an authentic cultural experience.Reviews
Customers who have participated in this walking tour have praised its knowledgeable guides, excellent organization, and the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Asakusa. Many have commended the guides for their informative commentary and friendly demeanor, which added to the overall enjoyment of the tour. Travelers have also appreciated the opportunity to taste traditional Japanese snacks and shop for high-quality souvenirs along Nakamise Shopping street. The tour has received positive reviews for its educational value, providing participants with a deeper understanding of Tokyo's history and culture. Overall, customers have found this walking tour to be an enriching and immersive experience that offers a unique insight into the heart of Tokyo.
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is
