Explore one of Tokyo’s most culturally and historically rich districts on this private walking tour of Ueno Hill. From the powerful legacy of the Tokugawa Shogunate to the artistic brilliance of ukiyo-e prints, this immersive experience offers an in-depth look at Japan’s evolution through the Edo and Meiji periods.

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Highlights

Tokyo National Museum – Discover Japan’s oldest and largest museum, home to more than 110,000 works, including samurai armor, Buddhist sculptures, calligraphy, ceramics, and ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
Ueno Toshogu Shrine – Visit this lavishly preserved 17th-century shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, and known for its golden leaf decoration and elaborate carvings.
Kiyomizu Kannon-dō – Enjoy a serene view from this historic temple modeled after Kyoto’s famous Kiyomizudera. Its stage overlooks Ueno Park and is especially scenic during cherry blossom season.
Ueno Park & Ueno Hill – Learn how this large public park was once the grounds of the grand Kan’ei-ji Temple, a center of Tokugawa religious power, and how it was later transformed into a symbol of modernity after the Meiji Restoration.
Ukiyo-e History – Trace the cultural rise of the ukiyo-e art form, which depicted scenes of everyday life, landscapes, kabuki actors, and courtesans, and learn how it influenced global art movements.

Full Description

Ueno is more than just a park—it’s a historic and cultural crossroads where centuries of Japanese history are layered across sacred temples, war-torn landscapes, and artistic triumphs.

Begin the tour at the Statue of Saigō Takamori, one of the last samurai and a key figure in the Meiji Restoration. Your guide will introduce the role Ueno played during Japan’s transition from feudal rule to modern statehood, including its role in the 1868 Battle of Ueno, where forces loyal to the Tokugawa shogunate clashed with imperial troops.

Stroll through Kiyomizu Kannon-dō, a peaceful temple built in 1631 with a wooden terrace that offers panoramic views of Ueno Park. Learn about the significance of the Goddess of Mercy (Kannon) worshiped here and the temple’s unique pine tree—shaped like a dragon—believed to grant wishes.

Next, walk to Ueno Toshogu Shrine, which has stood intact since 1627 despite wars and natural disasters. The shrine enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu and is one of the few original Edo-period structures left in Tokyo. Marvel at its ornate architecture and hear stories of the Tokugawa family’s influence over Japan for more than 260 years.

The highlight of the tour is a curated visit to the Tokyo National Museum, located within Ueno Park. As Japan’s premier repository of historical and artistic artifacts, the museum showcases national treasures, including ancient Buddhist statues, finely crafted katana swords, ceremonial garments, and ukiyo-e masterpieces from artists such as Hokusai and Hiroshige. Your guide will tailor the museum portion based on your interests and ensure deeper context is given to the objects on display.

This tour offers an accessible and enlightening way to discover the transformation of Ueno from a seat of religious power to a modern cultural heart of Tokyo.

Pricing

From ¥16,500 per person
Private groups only

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Includes

Private, English-speaking historical guide
Admission to Tokyo National Museum
Entry to Kiyomizu Kannon-dō
Expert commentary on Edo to Meiji transition, ukiyo-e art, and the Battle of Ueno

Meeting Point

Statue of Saigō Takamori, Ueno Park
1 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan

Directions: Take the train to JR Ueno Station. Use the Shinobazu Exit (closest), or alternatively the Hirokoji or Central Exits. Your guide will be waiting by the bronze statue of Saigō Takamori with a visible tour sign.

Itinerary

Saigō Takamori Statue – Meet and learn about the Meiji Restoration
Kiyomizu Kannon-dō – Guided temple tour and scenic overview
Ueno Toshogu Shrine – Cultural and historical visit
Tokyo National Museum – Guided gallery walkthrough
Tour ends at the Tokyo National Museum (you are welcome to explore further independently)

Reviews

“We had an excellent and informative tour around Ueno Park with our guide Ms. Mieko. Starting with the historical grounds and ending at the National Museum, she brought centuries of Japanese history to life.”

“Masahito was extremely knowledgeable and tailored the museum visit to our interests. We were particularly impressed by his explanations of the ukiyo-e works and the political history of the Meiji era.”

“A very professional and insightful tour that goes beyond surface-level sightseeing. I recommend this experience to anyone serious about understanding Japan’s cultural roots.”

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