• Gotokuji Temple - The centerpiece of this half-day excursion is Gotokuji Temple, a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary with an enchanting tale. Established in the mid-15th century, it later became the family temple of the influential Ii samurai clan. Gotokuji is renowned as the origin of the Maneki Neko, or beckoning cat, a cherished emblem of luck in Japan.

Legend has it that during a thunderstorm, a samurai lord from the Ii clan was invited into the temple by a cat. Seeking refuge there, he narrowly escaped the storm—an event that sparked the tradition. Today, visitors from around the globe come to purchase small white Maneki Neko statues and leave them at the temple as a token of thanks or to wish for good fortune. Hundreds of these delightful cat figures create a truly distinctive and photogenic scene.

• Shoin Shrine - Shoin Shrine is a modest yet historically important Shinto shrine situated in Setagaya, Tokyo. The shrine honors Shoin Yoshida, a respected scholar and educator who profoundly influenced many young samurai of the Choshu Domain. His teachings inspired several key figures who later led the Meiji Restoration, a pivotal moment in Japan’s modern history.

Shoin was detained by the Tokugawa shogunate for his political beliefs and was executed at the age of 30. Following his death, his loyal students reinterred his remains at this location and subsequently established the site as a Shinto shrine to commemorate his legacy. Today, the shrine remains a serene place where visitors can contemplate the life and impact of a man who helped shape Japan’s future.

• Yanaka District - Yanaka is a historic downtown area of Tokyo that remarkably survived World War II unscathed. The neighborhood is characterized by narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses. It also boasts a well-known shopping street called Yanaka Ginza, which leads to a staircase offering a stunning sunset view at dusk.
• Yanaka Cemetery - This expansive public cemetery, managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, covers a large area and is the final resting place of many notable individuals, including the last shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu—the 15th Tokugawa shogun who restored power to the emperor in the mid-19th century. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil walk through this peaceful cemetery, which is also surrounded by numerous local Buddhist temples.
• Ueno Park - The tour concludes at Ueno Park, one of Japan’s most celebrated parks. The park houses the Tokyo National Museum—the oldest and most prestigious museum in the country—Ueno Zoo, and various historical sites. Visitors can spend the remainder of their day exploring and enjoying the area at their own pace.

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• English-speaking guide
• Transportation fee (subway/train)

• Gratuity (not obligatory)
• Lunch

Tiered Pricing

• 12,000 JPY per person — Group of 5-8
• 14,000 JPY per person — Group of 4
• 17,000 JPY per person — Group of 3
• 21,000 JPY per person — Group of 2
• 35,000 JPY per person — Solo traveler (1 person)
• 4,000 JPY per child (ages 6–11)

This tour is ideal for those seeking a break from Tokyo’s busy atmosphere. An English-speaking guide will lead the way to a temple just outside central Tokyo, famous for its numerous small beckoning cat statues. Additionally, a visit to a nearby Shinto shrine will provide insight into the differences between Japan’s two primary religions. These attractions are located in a serene, elegant residential area, perfect for a leisurely walk through local streets to experience daily life. Following this, the tour will proceed to the other side of Tokyo to discover Yanaka, a delightful historic neighborhood known for its narrow lanes, wooden houses, and quaint shops. The tour also includes a visit to Yanaka Cemetery, a historic public cemetery and the final resting place of many distinguished individuals.

• Please prepare rain gear, such as umbrella or a raincoat, in case of bad weather.
• If your hotel is situated outside our designated pick-up range and alternative transportation, such as a subway, is not feasible, guests are responsible for covering the fare. This includes the cost for both the guide’s transportation to the first destination and from the last destination back to your hotel.
• Due to weather condition or other operational reasons, the itinerary may be subject to change or certain visits may be omitted or substituted. Even in such circumstances, the tour may not be canceled, and the tour fare will not be refunded.
• Remaining time will be allotted for pick up and travel time in between the attractions .
• The tour involves a good amount of walking outdoors. We suggest wearing sneakers or comfortable shoes.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.