Culture, History and Religion - Encounter Japan
Joined 2025
This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Tokyo’s history and culture. Beginning at the Imperial Palace, you will explore Japan’s early modern period. Next, you will visit Senso-ji Temple to learn about Buddhism’s arrival and its connection with Shinto. After lunch, you will experience a tea ceremony. The afternoon includes a stroll through Rikugien, a Daimyo garden reflecting days of SHogun. The final stop is Meiji Jingu, where you gain insights into Shinto’s spiritual influence.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Tokyo Station or hotel pick-up
- Free pick up/drop at your hotel within Tokyo 23wards.
the Imperial Palace(Tokyo Station)
The Imperial Palace stands on the grounds of the former Edo Castle, showcasing scenery characteristic of Japan.
I will provide an overview of Japan's early modern period, the evolution of modern Japan, and the Emperor system.
Senso-ji Temple(Asakusa station)
One of the most famous tourist destinations, it also showcases the interaction between Buddhism and Shinto. I will explain the origins of Buddhism, its introduction to Japan, and its relationship with Shinto.
Lunch
Lunch in the Tokyo Station area.
Many options available, such as Ramen, Sushi, and typical Japanese dishes.
Tea ceremony
Renowned as a essential part of Japanese culture among tourists, this can be experienced at a traditional tea room, or even at a confectionery shop integrql to tea/match culture.
Rikugien(Komagome station)
Daimyo gardens were constructed in large numbers during Japan's early modern period (the Edo/Tokugawa era) because of the era's peaceful nature, shaped by internal stability and external circumstances.
Meiji Jingu Shrine(Harajyuku station)
Visit a shrine to experience Shinto, a religion as important as Buddhism in Japan. I will discuss the origins of Shinto and its significant influence on Japanese spirituality.
Ending Point
At your hotel in Tokyo (TBD)
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Hotel pick-up
Public transportation fee ~2000JPY
Lunch
Entrance fee ~2000JPY
Tour Important Information
- As we will walk a lot, comfortable shoes are recommended.
- Tours are NOT covered by insurance. Make sure to be covered by your own insurance.
-Transportation fare, entrance fees and lunch are NOT included in the guide fee.
-Direct payment for tickets, lunch and others will be occurred in CASH on the spot on the day of the tour.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Kent I.
Hello! My name is Kent and I live in Shinjuku with my wife. I am a tea maseter and Ikebana master.
I have been learning these cultural activities for more than 10 years. I have assisted with tea ceremonies at a Zen temple and participated in Ikebana shows for tourists. These experiences have provided me with extensive knowledge and deep insights into Japanese culture.
While I studied these cultural traditions privately, I majored in engineering and earned a degree in the field from Kyoto University. My days in Kyoto has made me familier with the city's transportation system, local lives and cultural activities including Zen experiences.
After graduating, I worked in robot software development, collaborating remotely with our American colleagues in Michigan. I also engaged with clients and local sales teams in Germany, India, and China They showed strong interests in Japanese culture and my background. This exposure deepened my appreciation for Japan’s rich cultural heritage, inspiring me to guide tours as well as practicing cultural activities.
Now, I live in Shinjuku, Tokyo, enjoying life here. I will guide tours to convey the history and culture of Japan and provide creative experiences.
I am also available to offer tours of Kyoto or other places than Tokyo for an additional transportation fee.
$264/ per group
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