Tokyo Highlights 6 Hours – West Tokyo [Meiji-Jingu, Harajuku, Shibuya, T.M.G. Bldg. Observatory]

If you are interested in both traditional and pop culture of Japan, this private tour will be the most suitable one for you!
For pop culture spots, you will visit Harajuku and Omotesando district and Shibuya town. Harajuku is well known for teen’s fashion. The town is full of small boutiques with Japanese teens donning their unique styles influenced by cosplay, gothic, lolita, hip hop, punk, and other subcultures. Being adjacent to Harajuku, Omotesando has a different atmosphere with high fashion brand shops and eye-catching designed buildings by prominent architectures. Shibuya is known as the center of youth culture. You can also experience the famous zebra crossing there!

For traditional cultural spots, you will be in Meiji-jingu shrine. Meiji-jingu is Tokyo’s largest Shinto shrine established in 1920 in a large forest area to enshrine Meiji Emperor and the Empress Shoken. Meiji Emperor is the first Emperor of modernized Japan after the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The shrine is famous for the large wooden Tori Gate. Many wedding ceremonies are held at the shrine, and if you’re lucky, you might even come across a traditional wedding procession led by a Shinto priest!

At the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of this never-ending cityscape.

Let’s fully enjoy the city like a local, with a nationally licensed English-speaking guide!

Tour Highlights

Meiji Jingu Shrine: Tokyo’s sacred Oasis

Escape the bustle and enter a haven of tranquility at Tokyo’s largest Shinto shrine, dedicated to the revered Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Admire the majestic wooden Tori Gate and, if you’re lucky, witness a traditional Japanese wedding procession led by a Shinto priest.

• Giant Torii Gate: Gateway to the Sacred
  Pass under the imposing torii gate, a symbol marking the entrance to sacred Shinto grounds. Admire its scale and simple beauty, crafted from centuries-old cypress wood.
• Forest Sanctuary: Breath in Tranquility
  Wander through the vast forest that surrounds the shrine, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban landscape. Admire the towering trees and breathe in the fresh, clean air, leaving the city sounds behind.
• Traditional Architecture: Elegancy in Simplicity
  Apprecaite the shrine’s beautiful structures, built in the traditional nagare-zukuri style. Observe the intricate details and the harmonious blend of simplicity and elegance.

Admission: free

Harajuku: Tokyo’s Fashion Playground

Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant self-expression, where Japanese teen fashion explodes in a riot of colors and styles. Explore quirky boutiques overflowing with cosplay, gothic, lolita, hip hop-inspired clothing, and more.

• Takeshita-dori Street: A Burst of Color and Chaos
  Dive into the heart of Harajuku’s kawaii (“cute”) culture along Takeshita-dori Street. This narrow pedestrian lane teems with quirky shops, crepe stands, and trendsetting teens showcasing eye-catching subculture styles like Lolita, decora, and cosplay.
• Omote-sando Street: Where Fashion Meets Architectural Masterpieces
  Experience a fusion of cutting-edge fashion and architectural brilliance on Omote-sando Street. Discover a stunning showcase of buildings designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects like Fumihiko Maki, Kenzo Tange, Toyo Ito, and SANAA (Kazuyo Sejima + Ryue Nishizawa). Marvel at their innovative designs, where glass, concrete, and light come together in groundbreaking forms. This haven for design enthusiasts offers a unique blend of high-fashion and architectural exploration.

Admission: free

Shibuya: Tokyo’s Beating Heart

Experience the electrifying energy of Tokyo at Shibuya, a district renowned for its iconic scramble crossing, youthful spirit, and a loyal canine companion.

• Shibuya Scramble Crossing: A Choreography of Chaos
  Immerse yourself in the legendary Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where thousands of people surge in a mesmerizing dance of organized chaos with each traffic light change. Find a vantage point and witness this iconic symbol of Tokyo’s dynamic energy.
• Hachiko Statue: A Symbol of Loyalty
  Discover the heartwarming story of Hachiko, the loyal Akita dog whose bronze statue outside Shibuya Station has become a beloved symbol of unwavering devotion. Learn about this touching tale that has captured hearts worldwide.

Admission: free

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Panoramic Views, Architectural Marvel, and Civic Center

Ascend to the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and witness a breathtaking panorama of this sprawling metropolis. Explore this iconic landmark designed by legendary Pritzker Prize-winning architect Kenzo Tange, an architectural expression of Japanese modernism.

• Kenzo Tange’s Architectural Masterpiece
  Admire the building’s distinctive postmodernist design, inspired by the shapes of integrated circuits and resembling a Gothic cathedral. Discover its unique architectural elements and Tange’s signature style.
• Observatory Decks: Tokyo at Your Feet
  Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Tokyo from the free observatory decks situated atop the twin towers. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance.

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Tour Details

Schedule

• Availability: Daily
• Start Time: Flexible, 10:00 – 13:00 recommended
• Duration: 6 hours
• Start/End locations: Your hotel in central Tokyo*
  *Remote start options available, please contact us.

Transportation:

• Primarily subways and local trains

Pricing

Tour Fare:

• ¥31,000 (+ 10% consumption tax) for groups up to 6 guests
• (+¥4,000 per additional person for groups exceeding 6)

Included:

• English-speaking guide
• Guide’s transportation and admission (unless itinerary is customized)

Not included:

• Your group’s transportation and admission fees

Estimated Additional Costs

• Transportation: Approximately ¥800 per person (depending on start location)
• Meals & Snacks/Beverages (optional): Allow extra depending on your preferences

Important Notes

• Walking Tour: Be prepared to walk several miles/kilometers. Wear comfortable shoes and dress accordingly.
• Private Tours: We cater each tour to your group – no mixed groups.
• Changes to the suggested itinerary may in some cases affect the guide’s transportation and admission costs.