Itinerary
- Sumida Park: Begin along the Sumida River, where the story of Japan’s isolation and opening to the world comes alive. Learn why the Edo shogunate sealed the country for over 200 years, why the Netherlands alone was permitted to trade, and how Admiral Perry’s arrival forced Japan to reopen. The guide connects this past to modern Tokyo—right down to Odaiba’s former gun batteries and today’s Statue of Liberty replica facing the Pacific.
- Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center: Get a clear introduction to Japan’s two major religions, Buddhism and Shinto, setting the foundation for everything you’ll see ahead.
- At Asakusa’s iconic gate, explore the fascinating contrast between Japanese and Western dragons—and learn why the Japanese dragon plays exactly an opposite role from the Western one.
- Nakamise Shopping Street (Kaminarimon): Stroll through one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets while learning about Buddhist symbols like the vajra (tokko) and the world-changing impact of ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Discover how these prints unexpectedly reached Europe—and inspired Western Impressionist painters.
- Hozomon: Here, your guide reveals a surprising truth: people in Japan and the West shared remarkably similar ways of thinking 1,000 years ago.
- Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple offers another striking comparison between medieval Japan and Europe, along with a clear explanation of how prayer differs in Buddhism and Shinto.
- Asakusa Shrine: End the tour at a place that amazes many visitors: a Shinto shrine and Buddhist temple sharing the same grounds, worshippers, and history—peacefully coexisting for over a millennium. Learn why.
- Tokyo Skytree: The Tokyo Skytree area is the other popular tourist spot in the Asakusa area. It boasts not only the tallest structure in Japan with observation decks but also huge complex of dining facilities and shops.
Includes
- For a group of 3 or more, headsets for each to hear the guide's voice clearly even from distance
- Tokyo Skytree combo tickets for upper and lower observation decks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Train fare of JPY160 from Asakusa Station to Tokyo Skytree Station
Details
The first short walk tour in Asakusa will explain all of Japanese history.
At every landmark, your expert guide explains not only what you’re seeing, but uses it as a gateway to Japan’s history, beliefs, and global connections. By the end of the walk, you’ll have a clear, big-picture understanding of how Japan evolved from a closed feudal society into the country you see today.
After building this historical foundation, take a short two-minute train ride across the Sumida River to Tokyo Skytree—linking old Tokyo with its most iconic modern landmark.
At the Skytree, ascend to both observation decks, first at 350 meters and then at 450 meters above ground. From the heights above Tokyo, enjoy experiences that bring the city into perspective:
• Let your guide help you identify major landmarks spread across the vast metropolis.
• Step onto the glass floor for a thrilling look straight down at the streets below.
• Take a commemorative photo, with the option to purchase a downloadable copy.
At every landmark, your expert guide explains not only what you’re seeing, but uses it as a gateway to Japan’s history, beliefs, and global connections. By the end of the walk, you’ll have a clear, big-picture understanding of how Japan evolved from a closed feudal society into the country you see today.
After building this historical foundation, take a short two-minute train ride across the Sumida River to Tokyo Skytree—linking old Tokyo with its most iconic modern landmark.
At the Skytree, ascend to both observation decks, first at 350 meters and then at 450 meters above ground. From the heights above Tokyo, enjoy experiences that bring the city into perspective:
• Let your guide help you identify major landmarks spread across the vast metropolis.
• Step onto the glass floor for a thrilling look straight down at the streets below.
• Take a commemorative photo, with the option to purchase a downloadable copy.
Know Before You Go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Since the Skytree entry tickets sell quickly, we buy them as soon as the booking is made. In the meantime, the tickets are not cancellable and their dates cannot be changed. Therefore, this activity is not cancellable and no refund will be made in case of cancellation by the customer.
