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Backstreet Shrines, Secret Garden! & Traditional Shopping Street Walk
Away from the tourist routes along the meandering backstreets to Tokyo's best kept secret Japanese garden. No tourists will know about this spot so we can have it all to ourselves! We will go through side-streets and old shops and past some significant hidden temples and shrines. Finish the tour in Sugamo - a traditional shopping street on the old Nakasendo pilgrim road. Come and join me : )
Meeting Point
Hotel or Ikebukuro Station
- On the east side of Ikebukuro station there is a statue of a 'Mother and Child'. The Japanese name is 母子像 if you need to find it on google map. (We can communicate directly 48 hours prior to meeting time as our phone numbers will be exchangeable)
Azuma Street
We will start our walk in a little known backstreet. There are various shops if you want to buy some snacks.
Ikionarido Shinto Shrine
A tiny quiet temple hidden way in the busy urban jungle. It feels like you are in a forest in the middle of the city.
Kishimojin Temple
A Buddhist temple dedicated to a deity of childcare. There is also a mini style Fushimi Inari Shrine with many red shrine gates to walk through.
Old shopping street
A pleasant walk from the temple to the start of the old shopping street. We can try some snacks or stop off at a cafe and maybe wave to the tram as it passes : )
Higo Hosokawa Japanese Gardens
Tokyo's best kept secret garden. Visit the beautiful Japanese gardens popular with locals. Very quiet and peaceful, relax and wander through the gardens and have some time to reflect : )
Sakura Tram line from Waseda to Sugamo
Take the little known tram line that snakes it's way through the backstreets of Tokyo. A chance to travel like a local! (170 yen one way)
Sugamo
This traditional old shopping street sees few tourists, but is popular with locals. Stroll through the area visiting the local shops, the famous 'healing' temple and maybe spot the local mascot 'Sugamon' the duck!
Ending Point
Sugamo Station or your hotel
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Inclusions & Exclusions
Tour guide fee
Guests Transport, Food & Refreshments
Tour Important Information
1) We will start at Ikebukuro Station
2) Start the tour at 'Azuma Street'
3) Walk down the backstreets visiting Shrines and temples
4) Many traditional old shops
5) Visit the Japanese garden (Open from 9am & closes at 4.30pm)
6) Take the Sakura Tram to Sugamo
Important message from the guide
I am flexible with dates and times and areas to explore. I can arrange an interesting itinerary for you or you can give me ideas as to what you would like to see and do.
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
Tokyo Tour Reviews
“A hidden gem ”
If I could I would give Ed a 5 + rating he is the hidden gem In Japan we had an excellent day made happy memories with Ed he thought of everything that we would need and we learnt not only about the history but how navigate the train system he gave us a unique experience the old and new Japan and a few more tips along the way friendly and easy to get on with just give Ed your personal interest which he can factor into into your tour
Ed J.
(6 reviews)It was an absolute pleasure showing you guys around Tokyo. My highlight was chatting to the wise, senior lady in Asakusa. We were so lucky having her pose for a photo with us in front of the Gold Mikoshi shrines at Asakusa Shrine. And, also the ice-cream in Yanaka was super delicious : ) Have a safe trip. Ed
“Nice Guy, Decent experience”
Ed was great at communication and booking. He was flexible as our plans changed a bit a and we made a few changes to our day including meeting location and time, and Ed just worked with it. He took us to some great local eats and we had a great experience. One location was a local ramen shop and another a local coffee house. We didn't give 5 stars as Ed wasn't a take charge type and we spent a bit of time just discussing what to do next. I think that might be because our timing and the location changed so Ed wasn't really prepared for all that. I think you will have a great time either way! Enjoy
Ed J.
(6 reviews)Happy that you had a good time. We 'struck gold' with the Ramen shop. Definately a highlight for me. Also, getting to see Sensoji temple in the evening as they were closing up the huge doors was quite an unique experience. Hope Canada is treating you well! Hope to see you again on your next Japan trip : )
“Fantastic Guide”
Ed, our tour guide in Tokyo, provided an exceptional experience that exceeded our expectations. He expertly guided us through shrines, temples, and lesser-known spots, catering to our desire for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. His assistance with navigating the subway system was invaluable, ensuring seamless transportation throughout our journey. What truly stood out was the door-to-door service, as he picked us up from the lobby of our Airbnb and dropped us off there, offering convenience and peace of mind. Overall, Ed's knowledge, professionalism, and personalized approach made our Tokyo exploration unforgettable. Highly recommended!
Ed J.
(6 reviews)Thanks Sue. I had a great time with you and Rick. You were both amazing and patient as we worked our way around the city. I hope you had a great Japan adventure with your family. Looking forward to the next time : ) And thanks for the awesome review. I appreciate it. Ed
