Sanja Festival at Senso-ji Temple
After enjoying a hearty breakfast buffet, our guide will be waiting for you in the lobby. We’ll start our enriching private car tour to the
Meiji Jingu Shrine, which honors the venerated spirits of Emperor Meiji (1852 – 1912 AD) and his wife, Empress Shoken. Nestled in a tranquil oasis amidst Tokyo’s vibrant cityscape, the shrine will make you feel embraced by serenity and holiness. You may have a chance to immerse yourself in the graceful Japanese rituals as you witness a captivating Shinto wedding ceremony unfolding within the shrine’s sacred grounds. Next, prepare to be amazed by the
Shibuya Crossing, renowned as the busiest crossing in the world. When the light turns green, the traffic sometimes reaches up to 3,000 people at a time. If you are interested, let the guide show you the
Hachiko Memorial Statue, a poignant tribute to a loyal Akita dog, around which several famous movies have been based. Japan’s deep affection for dogs is evident in its high rate of dog ownership. With surprisingly over 20 million dogs residing in the country, one out of every six people owns a dog. Their well-established animal protection laws ensure that dogs thrive even in such bustling urban environments.
★
Tokyo Premium Food Tour with Famous Chef at ShibuyaBeyond its fashion-forward reputation, Shibuya is also a food paradise. Here, we've picked an Instagram-trending restaurant for you to try the omakase sushi (or teppanyaki) and a cup of sake for lunch. A local celebrity chef will prepare the food right before your eyes, and you can see how the raw ingredients are transformed into exquisite dishes under his magical hands. What an eye-opening experience!
After lunch, let’s explore Asakusa, the liveliest entertainment district in Tokyo since ancient times and a treasure trove of traditional Japanese culture. Pass through the iconic
Kaminarimon Gate, with its towering red structure symbolizing the gateway to the spiritual realm. Strolling down the bustling
Nakamise-dori Street, you’ll be enveloped in a vibrant atmosphere of colorful stalls and enticing aromas. Then, we will visit the prosperous
Senso-ji Temple, built in 628 AD. Follow the guide, do as the locals do, wash your hands and gargle in the front sink before entering the main hall for worship.
★
Special Treat: Rickshaw Ride around Senso-ji TempleWe will arrange a complimentary 30-minute rickshaw ride for you, which is a unique Japanese cultural experience. A rickshaw man clad in traditional attire will serve you from the Kaminarimon Gate into enchanting backstreets inaccessible to buses and taxis, and with vibrant Showa-era nostalgia. During the ride, your gaze will be drawn to the majestic
Tokyo Skytree to the east.
► Tip: If you like, rent a kimono at your own expense near the Senso-ji Temple, dress like a local, pose against an antique backdrop, and immerse yourself in the unique costume culture.
★
Capture Breathtaking Panorama of Tokyo from Roppongi HillsWhen the afternoon sun paints the sky with golden hues, we will ascend to the roof observation deck on the 52nd floor of the skyscraper Roppongi Hills to enjoy the urban views of the
Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba, and the glistening expanse of the Tokyo Bay. On a clear day, you can even see the Mount Fuji. After absorbing the sunset and night view, you can also visit the
Mori Arts Center on the 53th floor (closed when there is no exhibition).
Finally, our guide and the driver will escort you back to your hotel or the Shinjuku Golden Gai if you like.
► Recommended Restaurant: Sushidokoro Shigeru
If you would like a dinner, Sushidokoro Shigeru is a Michelin Bib Gourmand sushi restaurant south to the Akebonobashi Toei subway station. Although it’s a little far, 2 stations away from the hotel, it’s high recommended to try on your own, as it opened from 18:00 pm to 01:00 am. Taking JPY 8,000-10,000 (USD 52-65), you could enjoy the good-quality and authentic nigiri sushi freshly made. On the omakase menu, snacks like seasoned vegetables and sakes are also provided. In addition to the incredibly good food, you’ll also enjoy a friendly service.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Century Southern Tower (4 stars) or Hilton Tokyo (5 stars)