Once upon a time in Asakusa: Handicraft & Samurai
The Edo period, when Tokyo became the capital, is often seen as the peak of Japanese art and culture!
Temple architecture, woodworking, woodblock prints, porcelain...
I will use traditional handicrafts to illustrate the history and lifestyle of the people of Tokyo.
Who were the samurai? What difference with a Ninja? How were armors crafted?
I am also going to teach you all you need to know about those fierce warriors in front of a large collection of authentic weapons & armors.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
- Upon request, we can arrange another meeting point in Tokyo.
Asakusa Temple (Senso Ji)
As we walk through the famous 'Thunder Gate', I will impart the history of Tokyo's oldest temple to you.
And if you're interested in learning more, I can teach you more about the architecture of Japanese temples.
(!) If you hate crowded places, let me know and we will take a detour.
Asakusa garden & shopping street
We will walk leisurely towards the restaurant.
Asakusa's shopping street is famous for its kimonos, wooden dolls and kitchen utensils.
Lunch Break
If you like apples and Breton galettes, I know a Japanese couple who have skillfully adapted French cuisine, a real delight!
Otherwise, Asakusa's specialty remains shrimp and vegetable tempura.
(about 1000~2000JPY = 6~12USD/EUR per person)
Edo Traditional Crafts Center
In this small museum we will dive into Japanese handicraft.
I intend to use this occasion to illustrate the history of Tokyo and the lives of individuals during the Edo period.
Artisans frequently showcase their abilities during the weekend !
Samurai & Ninja Museum
This museum has a very interesting collection of weapons and armors, and since I have experience with the restoration of old samurai armors, it would be my pleasure to provide you with a better understanding of the samurai's life and the manufacturing process of their gears.
(reservation preferred 3000JPY ~ 20USD/EUR per person)
Matcha Time !
Asakusa is well known for its desserts made from matcha (fermented green tea).
Whether you prefer a matcha tea, sorbet, or cake, let's enjoy it while walking back to the station !
Ending Point
Back at your hotel in Tokyo
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
English/French/Japanese speaking guide
Various anecdotes about the history of the places visited
Pick up and Drop off at your hotel
Meal and drinks for you and the guide 2000JPY ≈ 12USD/EUR p.p.
(Opt.) Samurai & Ninja Museum, 3000JPY ≈ 20USD/EUR p.p.
Public transportation (if used)
Tour Important Information
* This tour can be customized to your likings.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies.
Important message from the supplier
I am unable to make bookings for customers (e.g. chartered taxi / accommodation....), but I can provide guidance and end my tour at a specific location upon request.
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
About Tour Guide Hardy M.
Being a former student and staff member of the University of Tokyo,
I have a natural ability to communicate with people from all corners of the world.
Regardless of whether you prefer to speak English, French, or Globish with me !
I have practiced Aikido, Iaido (Katana), and Kyudo (Bow) martial arts, and I have also worked on the restoration of Japanese armor. Therefore, I am well-versed in the art of war in ancient Japan.
But my passion for history goes further, and during my guided tours, I will share various anecdotes that will bring ancient Japan to life for you !
I'm also a huge fan of old Japanese video games, especially RPGs, so if you want a true otaku experience, follow me to Nakano Broadway and Akihabara!
If you're interested in arranging a tour that's tailored to your preferences, feel free to send me a message !
Reviews
Milton R.
“Very impressive knowledge of history ”
Love the trip telling about shinto and budism and history and loves what he does even in the rain he kept explaining details of Mt takao Thank you Hardy
$189/ per group
More tours by Hardy M.
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Mt. Takao: temples, monkeys & waterfall
Get the Tengu's protection with an easy forest trail just 1h from Tokyo! The temple devoted to those deities, is surrounded by centuries-old trees, home of flying squirrels and monkeys. With along the way waterfalls still in use by monks for meditation. Mt. Takao hiking is relatively easy and only requires comfortable shoes, and if the weather is favorable, Mt. Fuji can be seen at the submit! And in the old town, restaurants and snacks offer a different taste than the capital.
Mt. Takao: temples, monkeys & waterfall
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Nakano & Koenji: Otaku & Punk Culture !
Dive into Japanese Otaku and Punk subcultures only 10 minutes away from Tokyo. Nakano Broadway is a cheaper and easier alternative to Akihabara for Anime, Manga, Figurine, and Video Games lovers. Thus, I highly recommend visiting Nakano Broadway first and then heading to Akihabara. Koenji is the hub of Punk, alternative rock, and Gothic subculture in Tokyo, and it has a lot of vintage clothing stores. Also, there are a lot of barbecue bars in the vicinity of the station.
Nakano & Koenji: Otaku & Punk Culture !
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Akihabara: Hub of all Japanese pop culture!
Let me tell you the incredible story of Akihabara, the post-war electric town that became the Japanese capital for the otakus subculture: Anime, Manga, Video Games, and cosplay! Then, once you are more familiar with this labyrinth of a place, I will guide you to the best shops according to your preferences. And let's not forget to try an Akihabara specialty: Japanese Crêpes! PS: For true otaku, I recommend starting with my Nakano Broadway tour first!
Akihabara: Hub of all Japanese pop culture!
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Il était une fois Asakusa : Artisanat et Samouraï
La periode Edo, lorsque Tokyo devint capitale, est souvent considérée comme l'apogée de l'art et de la culture japonaise ! Architecture des temples, objets en bois et laque, estampes, porcelaine… Laissez-moi vous conter l’histoire et le mode de vie des habitants de Tokyo à travers l'artisanat local. Qui étaient les samouraïs ? les ninjas ? Je vous dévoilerai également tout ce qu’il faut savoir sur ces redoutables guerriers, devant une vaste collection d’armes et d’armures authentiques.
Il était une fois Asakusa : Artisanat et Samouraï
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Tokyo
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Harajuku, Omotesando & Shibuya, Half Day Tour
Our Tour will start from Meiji Shrine, then move to Takeshita street where you can find cute ‘Kawaii’ culture. On Omotesando Promenades you will find a gorgeous line-up of newly designed architecture, such as Omotesando Hills by Tadao Ondo etc. Finish is Shibuya where you can enjoy Shibuya Crossing. Goal will be good Japanese restaurant.
Harajuku, Omotesando & Shibuya, Half Day Tour
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Asakusa, 3 hours.
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Asakusa, 3 hours.
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Alte Japanische Kulturgüter besuchen
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Alte Japanische Kulturgüter besuchen
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Historical Tokyo Highlights, 100, 400 and 1400
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Historical Tokyo Highlights, 100, 400 and 1400
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