Tokyo

Discover Ueno, Yanaka, and Sendagi Heritage: A Guided Walking Tour

Explore Tokyo's hidden gems on our guided tour through the historic Ueno and Yanaka districts. Dive into age-old traditions, stroll through charming lanes, and experience authentic Japanese culture. Book now and discover a side of Tokyo many travelers miss!

Language

English

Location

Tokyo

Duration

4hrs

Immerse yourself in Tokyo's old-world charm as you journey through the picturesque neighborhoods of Ueno and Yanaka. As the sprawling metropolis hums in the distance, you'll discover a nostalgic tale waiting to be told here in these pockets of Tokyo. Your adventure commences right from your hotel lobby, from where our local expert will whisk you away to the enchanting Yanaka precinct using Tokyo’s efficient public transport. As you tread along, the Nezu shrine invites you with its iconic red torii gates and the vibrant bloom of azaleas in the early summer. Not just a visual treat, Yanaka Ginza spoils you with its bustling local shops and an array of cafes and restaurants, each narrating a different story of tradition and taste.

The Yuyake Dandan steps provide the perfect backdrop for memorable photos, making sure you capture a piece of history with you. And just when you think you've seen it all, we'll guide you to the serene Kanei-Ji Temple, followed by a leisurely walk to Ueno Park, which houses both a zoo and museums. As the day winds down, you can choose to conclude your journey at Ueno station or perhaps continue to explore the wonders of the park's zoo or museum at your own pace. With every step, you'll experience Tokyo not just as a bustling metropolis but as a story, a feeling, and a memory. So why wait? Dive into a side of Tokyo many miss, and create stories that last a lifetime. Book your spot now, and let’s make memories together!

Tour Itinerary

Journey to Nezu Shrine

Dive deep into the heart of Tokyo's Bunkyo ward, where the age-old Nezu Shrine awaits. This sanctuary is not only among Japan's eldest but also one of its most mesmerizing. Nestled amidst verdant surroundings, it offers visitors a serene escape with carp-filled ponds and pathways that unfold as tunnels adorned with quaint shrine arches. The elegant wooden structures, painted in vibrant hues, stand as a testament to Japan's enduring culture and architectural brilliance.

A Stroll Down Yomise-dori

Venture towards the west end of Yanaka Ginza until you reach a T-junction introducing you to Yomise-dori. Unlike the bustling tourist avenues, Yomise-dori retains an authentic charm that predominantly caters to the locals. Yet, the nostalgic aura of this old-style shopping stretch is compelling, making it a delightful detour for those keen on savoring the genuine local essence.

Capturing Moments at Yuyake-dandan Steps

Leading you to the eastern entrance of Yanaka Ginza from Nippori Station are the iconic Yuyake-dandan steps. Comprising 36 steps that descend a modest 4.4 meters, they are lovingly termed the "Sunset steps". This nomenclature emerged in 1990, post a local newspaper's naming contest, marking the stairway's refurbishment. From this elevated vantage point, enjoy a panoramic view of Yanaka Ginza, often spotlighted in media. And as the name suggests, it's an idyllic spot to catch a breathtaking sunset, preferably with a cherished companion.

Rediscovering Old Tokyo at Yanaka Ginza

Yanaka Ginza serves as a portal to Tokyo's bygone era. Located in the heart of the temple-rich Yanaka district of Taito ward, this shopping lane either conserves or revives the ambiance of vintage Tokyo. Despite borrowing its "Ginza" tag from the upscale shopping boulevard in Chiyoda ward, Yanaka Ginza offers a stark contrast with its rich, historical undertones.

Ueno Park: A Mosaic of Experiences

Lastly, Ueno Park in Taito ward is like a big outdoor festival. Famous for cherry trees, it's also home to museums, temples, a zoo, and even street performers. Ueno's surrounding area has a rich history, and it's easy to get to with Ueno station nearby. The park's a real treat in spring with blooming flowers and in fall with colorful leaves. There's a lot to see and do, so it's a good idea to pick your favorites and explore at your own pace. And a little tip: it's quieter in the mornings, and some places might be closed on Mondays.

Included in Your Tour:

Professional Guiding Service
Costs for Public Transportation
Convenient Hotel Pickup

Please Note the Exclusions:

Meals and Beverages
Entry/Admission Charges
Drop-off Service (The tour concludes in the Ueno area)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much time should I set aside for this tour?

Ans: The complete Ueno and Yanaka guided experience spans approximately 3-4 hours. This duration ensures that participants truly immerse themselves in the heritage and ambiance of these iconic districts, without feeling rushed.

Q: Where does the tour commence?

Ans: Our tour initiates with a pick-up right from your hotel. We advise guests to be punctual and wait in the hotel's lobby area at the pre-specified time to ensure a smooth start.

Q: Are there age-related considerations for this tour?

Ans: Our tour is crafted to cater to a wide age range. However, considering the walking involved, it might be challenging for extremely young children or senior participants. If they're accustomed to walking, they should find the tour enjoyable.

Q: Will there be provisions for meals and refreshments?

Ans: The tour itself doesn't include meal provisions. However, there's ample opportunity to indulge in local delicacies, especially when we traverse areas like Yanaka Ginza. Do ensure you have sufficient yen with you to enjoy these authentic treats.

Q: What's the plan in case of adverse weather conditions?

Ans: While we generally operate irrespective of rain or other mild weather disruptions, extreme conditions might necessitate rescheduling or even canceling the tour. Participant safety and comfort are our top priorities.

Q: What's the tour's cancellation policy?

Ans: We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is structured as follows: if a booking is canceled 2 or fewer days before the event, there's a 100% cancellation fee. For cancellations made 5 or fewer days before, the fee is 50%. And if canceled 15 days or less before the event, a 20% cancellation fee will apply. This policy ensures fairness to other participants and covers administrative costs.

From $171

/person

Adults

Ages 8-99

A cancellation penalty of 20% applies if you cancel within 15 days of the start time.

A cancellation penalty of 50% applies if you cancel within 5 days of the start time.

The booking is non-refundable if you cancel within 2 days of the start time.

Itinerary

Nezu Shrine

1 Chome-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo City, Tokyo

It is set in lush greenery, with ponds of carp, pathways that are tunnels of small shrine arches, and elegant, beautifully colored, wooden structures that reflect Japanese culture in all its age and beauty.

Yomise-dori

3 Chome-19 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo

It is another old-style shopping avenue, but one that caters more to local residents than tourists. Yomise-dori still has enough of interest in terms of old local flavor to warrant exploring.

Yuyake-dandan Steps

3 Chome-14 Nishinippori, Arakawa City, Tokyo

Yuuyake-dandan means "Sunset steps" and was so named in 1990 as a result of a naming competition in a local community newspaper on the occasion of the steps' renovation.

Yanaka Ginza

3 Chome-13-1 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo

Yanaka Ginza is a shopping lane in Tokyo's traditional Yanaka temple district in Taito ward. Yanaka Ginza partly preserves and partly recreates something of the atmosphere of old Tokyo.

Ueno Park

4 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo

Ueno Park, in Taito ward, is home to Tokyo's most famous cherry trees, art galleries, museums, temples, a zoo, street entertainers, the odd proselytizer, and more than the odd crow.