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
Maya I.
“Tokyo en français ”
J'étais ravi d'avoir l'opportunité de découvrir des quartiers de Tokyo inconnus pour moi en compagnie d'un jeune homme aussi érudit et agréable.
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Hardy M.
Merci ; j’ai été tout aussi ravi de pouvoir vous faire découvrir des quartiers de Tokyo moins connus du grand public. Bien à vous.
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Julie S.
“An Unforgettable Tokyo Experience with a Fantastic Guide!”
Booking Marciel Hardy through GoWithGuide was the best decision I made for my trip to Tokyo! From the moment we met, Hardy effortlessly guided me through Tokyo's dense web of trains and subways, helping me seamlessly navigate the crowds to drop off my luggage at my hotel. What truly sets Hardy apart is his dedication and thoughtfulness. On our first day, a few tightly timed stops meant we narrowly missed the closing times for the Imperial Palace and Meiji Jingu. Without missing a beat, Hardy took full accountability and kindly offered to take me back to the Imperial Palace on Sunday as a personal apology. He even generously treated me to lunch that day! His ability to pivot and make sure I didn't miss out on anything important showed what a consummate professional he is. Thanks to his wonderful planning, I got to experience everything from the ancient beauty of Senso-ji Temple to a spectacular Ukiyo-e art exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum, ending with a fun souvenir shopping trip in Akihabara. Hardy is knowledgeable, reliable, highly adaptable, and incredibly kind. If you are looking for a guide who truly cares about making your time in Tokyo magical and stress-free, I cannot recommend Hardy enough! Thank you for an amazing trip!
Amina S.
“Une magnifique expérience à Tokyo”
Nous avons passé un excellent moment avec notre guide à Tokyo ! La visite était très agréable, bien organisée et enrichissante. Notre guide était sympathique, professionnel et patient. Grâce à ses explications, nous avons pu découvrir les lieux emblématiques de Tokyo et en apprendre davantage sur la culture japonaise. Nous avons beaucoup apprécié sa gentillesse et sa disponibilité tout au long de la visite. Une très belle expérience que nous recommandons vivement à tous ceux qui souhaitent découvrir Tokyo ! Merci pour cette magnifique journée.
$203/ per group
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