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Discover the quieter side of Tokyo on a walking tour of Zoshigaya. Visit the Kishimojin Shrine, sample retro snacks, and explore the Zoshigaya shopping street.

Highlights

• Discover the quieter side of Tokyo in the Zoshigaya neighborhood
• Visit the Kishimojin Shrine and learn about its history and traditions
• Sample retro Japanese snacks at Tokyo’s oldest candy store
• Explore the Zoshigaya shopping street and its charming local shops
• Relax with a cup of matcha or coffee in a cozy neighborhood café

Description

Meet your guide at the Ikefukuro Owl Statue, a popular meeting spot at Ikebukuro Station. From there, take a short tram ride on the nostalgic Toden Arakawa Line, one of Tokyo’s last remaining streetcars, to Kishimojin-mae Station. The ride itself feels like traveling back in time—passing quiet residential streets and small local shops rarely seen by tourists. Make your first stop at the Kishimojin Shrine, dedicated to the goddess of safe childbirth and child protection. Built more than 400 years ago, the shrine is surrounded by tall zelkova trees that whisper stories of old Edo. Learn how to purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya, ring the bell, and make a prayer in the traditional Shinto way. Your guide will explain the meaning behind the gestures, the purpose of the omikuji (fortune paper), and the colorful ema wooden plaques where visitors write their wishes. Just outside the shrine grounds lies the Zoshigaya shopping street, a charming lane filled with mom-and-pop stores, antique bookshops, and traditional sweets shops. Stop at Kamikawaguchiya, Tokyo’s oldest candy store, still running since the Edo period. Sample some dagashi—retro Japanese snacks that children used to buy for a few yen decades ago. This stop brings a touch of nostalgia and laughter to the walk. Next, stroll toward Zoshigaya Cemetery, one of Tokyo’s most peaceful and historic resting places. Unlike Western cemeteries, this one feels like a tranquil garden, filled with cherry trees, moss-covered stones, and bird song. Many famous writers and politicians from the Meiji era rest here, including Lafcadio Hearn (Koizumi Yakumo), the Irish-Greek author who introduced Japan to the West through his haunting folktales. Your guide will share his story and why this place symbolizes Japan’s blend of East and West. As you leave the cemetery, stop by a cozy neighborhood café housed in a renovated wooden building. Relax with a cup of matcha or local roasted coffee, served with a small wagashi (traditional sweet). It’s a great moment to reflect on the journey and chat with your guide about daily life, culture, and the meaning of “wa”—Japanese harmony.

Includes

Guided walking tour Tram ride on Toden Arakawa Line Visit to Kishimojin Shrine Visit to Zoshigaya shopping street Visit to Zoshigaya Cemetery Stop at a neighborhood café

Important Information

• The tour involves walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Bring cash for any personal purchases at the shopping street or café. Photography is allowed, so bring a camera.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund