Product Description

Explore the nostalgic charm of Tokyo’s Yanaka and Nezu neighborhoods on a relaxed walking tour. Step off the tourist track and into winding residential backstreets, discovering a side of Tokyo that has remained beautifully unchanged for decades.

Highlights

• Experience the atmosphere of old Tokyo, untouched by modern redevelopment
• Learn about Japan’s main religions and visit historical places of worship
• Explore hidden gems in quiet, local neighborhoods known only to insiders
• Discover wooden houses, shops, and architecture from before World War II
• Engage with locals at traditional family-run shops passed down for generations

Full Description

Take a slow-paced, intimate stroll through Tokyo’s most traditional and picturesque districts—Yanaka and Nezu. This tour offers a rare chance to see a side of Tokyo that many visitors miss: charming alleyways, retro architecture, and a thriving, close-knit local culture.

Your expert guide will lead you through quiet residential areas dotted with wooden houses, Showa- and Taishō-era buildings, temples, shrines, and local businesses that predate the war. You’ll gain insight into the daily life of Tokyoites in one of the city’s best-preserved districts.

Along the way, visit:

• Nezu Shrine – One of Tokyo’s oldest shrines, known for its picturesque red torii path and seasonal flowers
• Tennoji Temple – A peaceful temple with a large bronze Buddha statue and serene garden
• Yanaka Cemetery – A scenic and historical site, final resting place of the last Tokugawa Shogun
• Yoshida Liquor Store – A traditional sake shop where you’ll experience Japan’s long-standing drinking culture
• Yanaka Ginza – A charming shopping street lined with local food stalls, crafts, and souvenirs
• Yuyake Dandan – A famous “sunset staircase” and ideal photo stop at the heart of Yanaka Ginza

You’ll also stop for a break at a local vending machine—your guide will explain some of the unique Japanese drinks available, and one drink is included for each guest (for tours from May to October 2025).

What Makes This Tour Unique?

• Small group sizes for a personal experience
• Led by experienced, knowledgeable guides who are passionate about preserving tour quality
• A perfect tour for those interested in local culture, hidden streets, and genuine interaction with locals
• Tours are flexible—we adjust the pace and timing slightly to suit the group’s comfort

Itinerary

• Starting Point: Nippori Station (West Exit – for Yanaka)
• Main Stops:
  • Residential neighborhoods
  • Nezu Shrine
  • Tennoji Temple
  • Yanaka Cemetery
  • Traditional Showa- and Taishō-era buildings
  • Yoshida Liquor Store
  • Yanaka Ginza
  • Yuyake Dandan
• End Point: Yanaka Ginza
• Duration: ~3.5 hours

Pricing

From ¥6,000 per person

Includes

• Guided walking tour by a local expert
• One complimentary drink from a Japanese vending machine (available May–October 2025 only)

Meeting Point

Nippori Station – West Exit (Yanaka side)
The guide will be waiting at the designated waiting area just outside the West Exit.
Address: 2 Chome Nishinippori, Arakawa City, Tokyo, Japan

Please refer to the final two photos in the listing for specific directions to the meeting point.

Reviews

“Sui was excellent. It was a great experience walking through Yanaka and visiting Nezu. The slower pace made it really enjoyable.”

“Sui was a wonderful guide! Even with the cold and snow, the stories, history, and local insights made this a memorable day. Highly recommended!”

“Fantastic tour! My favorite in Tokyo. The guide was funny, knowledgeable, and made the neighborhood come alive. A must-do experience.”