- Experiences
- Sensoji Temple, ...
- Asakusa: 3.5-hou...
Asakusa: 3.5-hour Big-picture History Walk
What if a half-day walk in Asakusa could explain pretty much everything about Japanese history, beliefs, and its global connection? This tour goes far beyond sightseeing. At every landmark, your expert guide explains not only what you’re seeing, but why it matters—using each site 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. Here is just one example: at the Tokyo Cruise Asakusa Pier.
- Why did Japan close itself?
- Why did Japan choose the Netherlands as its only trading partner when it isolated itself?
- What impact did Japan’s 19th-century art have on the world, especially the French Impressionist painters?
What’s included
Admission to attractions
English-speaking guide
English-speaking staff
Professional guide
Snacks
Insurance provided by the operator
Not included
- Transport
- Other personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Pricing & availability
Things to know
Voucher type
- Present your mobile voucher
Things don’t always work out, so enjoy peace of mind knowing that the following cancellation options are available to you.
100% refund to your original payment method or credits
- Up to 24 hours before booking date
Non-refundable
- From 24 hours before the booking date
3hr 30min Duration
Please select a tour date
Join in group
Eligibility
- This activity has no age limit
Usage validity
- The voucher is valid only on the specified date (and time if applicable)
- Small group tour - up to 8 travelers
- Headset is used to hear the guide clearly (applicable when the group size is more than 2)
- Sampling of traditional Japanese sweets is included.
- Explore Asakusa - heartland of Tokyo and forerunner of Japan’s modernization
- [Departure] 13:30, meet up at Burger King Asakusa Azumabashi. In front of a Burger King restaurant right next to Exit 4 of Asakusa subway station (G19) on the Ginza line 2 Chome-20-6 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan..Latecomers or no-shows can’t be refunded Please arrive at the location 10 mins before the departure time
- [Attraction/experience] 15 min(s), Guided tour, Sumida River, 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.
- [Attraction/experience] 30 min(s), Guided tour, 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.
- [Attraction/experience] 15 min(s), Guided tour, Kaminarimon, 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.
- [Attraction/experience] Nakamise-dori Street, 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
- [Attraction/experience] 15 min(s), Guided tour, Hozomon, Here, your guide reveals a surprising truth: people in Japan and the West shared remarkably similar ways of thinking 1,000 years ago.
- [Attraction/experience] 45 min(s), Guided tour, Sensoji 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.
- [Attraction/experience] 15 min(s), Guided tour, Asakusa Shrine, It is unfathomable that Buddhism and Shintoism have coexisted for centuries in Japan peacefully. As you see both the temple and shrine in close proximity, the guide will tell you why.
- [Attraction/experience] 45 min(s), Guided tour, Yōgō-dō Pavilion, The Yōgōdō Hall is the only place at Sensō-ji where you can receive a goshuin. A goshuin is a sacred temple seal, hand-written in beautiful calligraphy by a monk or temple staff member.
- [Attraction/experience] Asakusa Nishi-sandō Shopping Street, Compared with the busy souvenir stalls of Nakamise Street, this small shopping street offers a quieter, nostalgic atmosphere. Enjoy the respite away from the bustling Nakamise.
- [Return] 17:00, at Nishisandō Shopping Street, The tour will end at the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station.
- Day {num}
Additional information
Accessibility
- This activity is stroller-friendly / wheelchair-accessible Address
- Burger King Asakusa Azumabashi
- Cross Bil Royal Palace, 2 Chome-20-6 Kaminarimon, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0034, Japan
- Please refer to the map for assistance
Meet with guide