Tokyo Highlights 8 Hours – [Imperial Palace Plaza, Asakusa, Harajuku, Meiji-Jingu, Shibuya]

Embark on a full-day adventure through Tokyo, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with a cutting-edge cityscape. From the historic Imperial Palace to the vibrant Asakusa district and bustling Shibuya crossing, this private tour unveils the city’s iconic landmarks. Alongside your English-speaking guide, you’ll navigate Tokyo’s efficient subway system like a local, unlocking the secrets of this captivating metropolis. Perfect for first-time visitors!

Tour Highlights

Imperial Palace Plaza: Echoes of History and Imperial Legacy

Discover the symbolic heart of Tokyo at the Imperial Palace Plaza, the current residence of the Japanese Imperial Family and the former site of the Edo Castle. While the inner palace grounds are generally closed to the public, explore the plaza and its surroundings to appreciate its historical and cultural significance.

• Nijubashi Bridge: An Iconic Landmark
  Admire the elegant double-arched Nijubashi Bridge, a beloved symbol of Tokyo and the entrance to the inner palace grounds. Capture its beauty reflected in the tranquil moat waters.
• Imperial Palace East Garden: A Serene Oasis (Subject to Schedule)
  Explore the tranquil Imperial Palace East Garden, open to the public (check the official schedule for visiting days and hours). Stroll through the meticulously maintained Japanese gardens, discover historical structures, and experience a moment of peace within the bustling city.

Admission: free

Asakusa: Tokyo’s Historic Heart

Step back in time and experience the enduring spirit of old Tokyo in Asakusa, a district steeped in history and bursting with traditional charm. From the iconic Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest, to the bustling Nakamise Shopping Arcade, Asakusa offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s past and a vibrant taste of its present.

• Senso-ji Temple: A Legacy of Faith
  Founded in the 7th century, Senso-ji Temple is a testament to Tokyo’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Marvel at the full suite of buildings, including pagodas, gates, and the magnificent main shrine. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere amidst the incense smoke and the gentle sound of temple bells.
• Kaminari-mon Gate: A Symbol of Asakusa
  Marking the entrance to Senso-ji Temple stands the imposing Kaminarimon Gate. Admire its vibrant red hues and be awed by the enormous paper lantern hanging at its center, a symbol of Asakusa’s enduring spirit.
• Nakamise Shopping Arcade: …A Time Traveler’s Delight
  Stroll along the bustling Nakamise Shopping Arcade, one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets, 250m long with around 90 shops Discover traditional souvenirs, local crafts, and an array of delectable street food treats. Experience the vibrant energy and immerse yourself in a shopping experience that transcends time.

Admission: free

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

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Tour Details

Schedule

• Availability: Daily
• Start Time: Flexible, 9:00 – 10:00 AM recommended
• Duration: 8 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:

• ¥39,000 (+ 10% consumption tax) for groups up to 6 guests
• (+¥5,000 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 ¥1,000 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.