The Imperial Palace and Nihonbashi Tour

Step into the heart of Japan with our unique Imperial Palace and Nihonbashi Tour, where history and tradition come alive in Tokyo's most iconic locations. Your journey begins at the Imperial Palace, where you'll be captivated by the scenic East Gardens, brimming with seasonal flowers, and the storied ruins of Edo Castle. Then, immerse yourself in the bustling streets of Nihonbashi, a district renowned for its 400-year-old commercial heritage, offering a deep dive into Japan's rich history.

Your cultural odyssey continues as you indulge in the authentic flavors of Japan, starting with a taste of the centuries-old dashi soup. Witness the traditional art of seaweed roasting and the precision of Japanese knife crafting. Uncover the secrets of washi, the traditional Japanese paper, in a shop that's been its guardian for ages. Your tour concludes with a delightful sake-tasting experience at the Toyama-kan store, where you'll explore Japan's esteemed sake varieties. This tour promises a memorable journey through Japan's imperial elegance and enduring traditions, offering insights and experiences that resonate with the soul of Japan.

Tour Highlights:

• Visit the Imperial Palace's East Gardens and Edo Castle ruins

• Stroll through the historic Nihonbashi district

• Sample dashi soup from a 300-year-old shop

• Watch traditional seaweed roasting

• See Japanese knife sharpening in action

• Discover the art of washi paper making

• Taste various sakes at Toyama-kan store

What’s Covered

• Guided tour of the Imperial Palace East Gardens

• Walk through Nihonbashi district

• Dashi soup tasting

• Seaweed roasting demonstration

• Knife sharpening observation

• Washi paper-making experience

• Sake tasting at Toyama-kan

What’s Extra

• Personal purchases

• Additional meals and beverages

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• The tour is conducted in a group setting with multiple parties.

• Follow the guide's instructions for your safety; the company is not liable for accidents due to non-compliance.

• Tour length may vary with group size and conditions.

• The tour is primarily in English & Japanese.

• A minimum of two participants is required for the tour to proceed.

• Participants aged six and above are subject to the same fees.

• A digital voucher will be emailed to you; present it at the starting point.

Meeting Point 

Tokyo Sta. Marunouchi-Kitaguchi, 1-chōme Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005

Please meet at the Marunouchi North Exit of Tokyo Station

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear for the tour?

Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes as the tour involves a fair amount of walking, especially in the Imperial Palace's East Gardens and throughout Nihonbashi. Depending on the season, bring appropriate weather gear, such as an umbrella for rain or a hat for sunny days.

Can I bring my children on the tour?

Yes, children are welcome on the tour. However, please note that the same charges apply to all participants aged six and above. Ensure that children are supervised at all times during the tour for their safety.

What if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?

If inclement weather affects the tour schedule, alternative arrangements will be made. The guide may modify the itinerary to include indoor activities or other suitable locations that are less affected by weather conditions.

Is the tour accessible for individuals with mobility issues?

Please indicate any special assistance required due to physical conditions when booking the tour. While we strive to accommodate all guests, some parts of the tour may be challenging for those with limited mobility. We recommend contacting us in advance to discuss specific needs.

What languages is the tour offered in?

The tour is primarily offered in English. If you require a tour in another language, please inquire at the time of booking to see if arrangements can be made.

Related Read: Tokyo Imperial Palace: Everything You Need to Know