Tokyo: Asakusa Temple & Shrine Walking Tour with Local Guide
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Walk Tokyo’s oldest streets, visit Sensoji Temple and shrines, try omikuji, feel healing incense, and learn Shinto-Buddhist culture with a passionate, storytelling guide.
Highlights
- Walk through 1400 years of history at Sensoji Temple
- Discover hidden Shinto shrines and sacred rituals
- Small groups (max 8) with a passionate, friendly guide
- Try omikuji fortune slips and healing incense traditions
- Learn how Buddhism and Shinto blend in modern Japan
Description
Step into the heart of traditional Tokyo on this small-group walking tour through Asakusa! Home to Japan’s oldest temple, Sensoji, and a neighborhood steeped in local history.
We’ll begin at the Azumabashi Bridge with riverside views of the Tokyo Skytree, then head to the top of the Asakusa Tourist Information Center for one of the best panoramas in the city.
From there, we’ll enter the famous Kaminarimon Gate, where you’ll learn the story behind its 700kg red lantern and the meaning of its name; 'The Thunder Gate.' As we walk through Nakamise shopping street, your guide will share the cultural significance behind the treats and souvenirs, as well as where to find the good stuff!
But the real heart of the tour lies in what most visitors miss: tucked away shrines and temple sites that reveal the complex spiritual life of Japan. You’ll discover how Shinto and Buddhism coexist, how rituals like temizu hand washing and omikuji fortune telling work, and why locals burn incense for healing at the jokoro.
Inside the Sensoji Temple itself, you’ll learn how to properly pray in the Buddhist style , a different process than at the neighboring Shinto Asakusa Shrine. You'll even learn how to bow, walk respectfully through the torii gates, and what most Japanese people don’t realize about their own mix of traditions.
Whether you’re here for the history, the hidden rituals, or just want a deeper connection with Japanese culture, this tour is your gateway!
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★★★★★ “While the tour might be a bit more expensive compared to others, it’s absolutely worth every penny for the level of service and support provided.” — Jackie, Canada
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'Sensoji Temple tour'
'Asakusa walking tour'
'Tokyo cultural walking tour'
'Shinto and Buddhism Japan'
'Omikuji fortune Sensoji'
'Tokyo local guide'
'Japanese shrine etiquette'
Includes
Walk through 1400 years of history at Sensoji Temple
Discover hidden Shinto shrines and sacred rituals
Enjoy rooftop city views from Asakusa’s best viewpoint
Try omikuji fortune slips and healing incense traditions
Learn how Buddhism and Shinto blend in modern Japan
Small groups (max 8) with a passionate, friendly guide
Important Information
- The tour starts at Burger King Asakusa
Tour lasts approx. 2 hours; be prepared to walk for 2 hours
Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately
This is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended
The tour operates rain or shine, so please dress appropriately for the weather
No additional costs are required during the tour, but you may wish to bring some cash for personal purchases like snacks or souvenirs
Great for solo travelers, couples, and first-time visitors to Tokyo
No additional fees, but bring coins for omikuji if interested (¥100)
Tour ends near the Sensoji Main Hall
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund