Tokyo Private Asakusa Walking Tour Senso ji Matcha and Mochi
5.0 / 5 · 3 traveler reviews
@TOKYO | 1–8 people | Private Tour Experience the history, traditions, and flavors of old Tokyo like a local with your guide on this 2.5 hour walking tour of Asakusa. Explore Asakusa's historic temples, lively streets, and local traditions. From the famous Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and Nakamise Shopping Street to Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine, learn their stories, and cultural insights. Visit a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine, test your luck with an omikuji fortune, and experience the incense ritual at Senso-ji. Discover the history and traditions behind some of Asakusa's most recognizable landmarks. Beyond the famous sights, explore Asakusa's quieter, more local side where Japanese residents spend their time beyond the main tourist attractions. For an optional hands-on experience, make your own bowl of matcha or try mochi pounding with a wooden mallet and mortar. These experiences are paid for separately. *Note: Mochi pounding is not available on Wednesdays.
Your experience
Stop 1
Start at the observation terrace for a panoramic overview of Asakusa. See Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Tokyo Skytree from above while your local guide introduces the route and the history of this famous Old Tokyo district. Guests may also view the displays or take photos at the character photo frame. The planned duration includes the possible elevator wait.
Stop 2
Visit Asakusa’s iconic Kaminarimon, also known as Thunder Gate. Learn about the enormous red lantern and the guardian deities of wind and thunder, and let your guide help you take a classic Asakusa photo.
Stop 3
Walk along the historic approach to Senso-ji Temple. Browse traditional shops selling Japanese sweets, crafts, and souvenirs while learning about the culture of the temple town. Food and shopping purchases are optional and at your own expense.
Stop 4
Enter the main Senso-ji Temple grounds through Hozomon Gate. See its giant straw sandals and guardian statues while learning about the history and significance of this Buddhist temple gate.
Stop 5
Explore Senso-ji Temple, widely known as Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Experience Japanese temple customs at the purification fountain and incense burner before visiting the main hall. If you wish, try a traditional omikuji fortune slip. The omikuji fee is not included.
Stop 6
See Nitemmon, a historic and quieter gate on the eastern side of the temple grounds. Hear its story before continuing to Asakusa Shrine.
Stop 7
Visit the Shinto shrine beside Senso-ji Temple. Learn the difference between a temple and a shrine, experience the Shinto way of praying, and hear about the famous Sanja Matsuri.
Stop 8
See Senso-ji Temple’s Five-Story Pagoda from the outside and learn about its place in Buddhist architecture and the temple grounds.
Stop 9
Walk along retro Hanayashiki Street, where the atmosphere is calmer than Asakusa’s busiest routes. Enjoy its nostalgic, Edo-inspired streetscape and take memorable photos against its colorful, photogenic backdrop.
Stop 10
Walk through lively Hoppy Street, known for its casual izakaya atmosphere, and experience the energetic local side of Asakusa.
Stop 11
At this Japanese cultural experience venue, guests who wish may whisk their own matcha with a traditional bamboo whisk under staff guidance and try a hands-on mochi-pounding experience using a wooden mallet and mortar. Both experiences are available without advance reservations and are paid for directly at the venue.
What’s included
- Liability Insurance – Covers injury and damage at visited sites (excludes intentional acts).
- Photos taken by your guide during the tour and shared with you online afterward
- Private Asakusa walking tour with a local guide
Not included
- Optional experience fees and other personal expenses including food, drinks, omikuji, and souvenirs.
Meeting and pickup
Please look for your guide holding a paddle fan of EYT Japan's logo
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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