Tokyo: Asakusa Shrine and Yanaka Cemetery Guided Tour

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Sanja Matsuri festival
• Explore the historic Asakusa Shrine, a rare Edo-period structure
• Stroll through Yanaka Cemetery, a serene escape from Tokyo's bustle
• Discover the final resting place of Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun
• Enjoy the old-town charm of Yanaka with its traditional shops and temples

Description

Visit Asakusa Shrine, also known as Sanja-sama (Shrine of the Three Gods), one of Tokyo’s most significant Shinto shrines. Located in the Asakusa district, right beside the famous Sensō-ji Temple, it is dedicated to the three men who founded Sensō-ji in the 7th century. Built in 1649 during the Edo period under Tokugawa Iemitsu, the shrine has remarkably survived wars, fires, and earthquakes, making it a rare historical structure still standing in its original form. The shrine is most famous for hosting the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s largest and liveliest festivals, held every May. During the celebration, portable shrines (mikoshi) are paraded through the streets, attracting millions of visitors who come to experience the vibrant atmosphere, traditional music, and energetic crowds. Asakusa Shrine beautifully blends with the surrounding Asakusa area, which is known for its traditional charm, shopping streets like Nakamise-dori, and views of Tokyo Skytree in the distance. Visiting the shrine offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage while immersing travelers in one of Tokyo’s most historic neighborhoods. Then, visit Yanaka Cemetery, one of Tokyo’s most historic and tranquil resting places, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling streets. Located in the charming Yanaka district, this expansive cemetery is famous not only as a burial ground but also as a cultural landmark that reflects Japan’s history and traditions. Established during the Edo period, Yanaka Cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures, including Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of Japan. Its wide pathways, lined with cherry trees, make it especially popular during spring when the blossoms create a picturesque tunnel of pink and white. Unlike many cemeteries, Yanaka’s serene atmosphere attracts both locals and travelers who come to stroll, reflect, and admire the seasonal beauty. The cemetery is also surrounded by Yanaka’s old-town charm, with traditional shops, temples, and nostalgic streetscapes nearby. This area survived much of the destruction of World War II, preserving a sense of “Shitamachi” (old Tokyo) that is increasingly rare in the city.

Includes

Visit to Asakusa Shrine Visit to Sensō-ji Temple Experience Sanja Matsuri festival Visit to Yanaka Cemetery Cherry blossom viewing in Yanaka Cemetery Explore traditional shops and temples in Yanaka

Important Information

• Asakusa Shrine is a significant Shinto shrine in Tokyo. The shrine hosts the Sanja Matsuri festival every Year Yanaka Cemetery is a historic and tranquil resting place. Yanaka district survived much of the destruction of World War II.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund