Monzen-Nakacho: Walking Tour With Sashimi Lunch & Teamlab

Tucked away in the heart of Tokyo’s Koto district lies the captivating neighborhood of Monzen-Nakacho. Here, visitors can embark on a walking tour that promises to unveil the area’s rich cultural tapestry. From the serene Kiyosumi Gardens to the renowned Iroha restaurant, where a delectable sashimi lunch awaits, this immersive experience blends traditional and contemporary elements. But the true highlight lies in the mesmerizing digital installations of teamLab Planets, where the boundaries between the physical and virtual realms are beautifully blurred. As one explores this fascinating fusion of old and new, the stage is set for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tokyo.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Tokyo.

Key Points

• A 7-hour walking tour in Tokyo’s Koto district exploring traditional Japanese gardens, the vibrant Monzen-Nakacho neighborhood, and the digital art installations of teamLab Planets.
• Includes a sashimi lunch at the renowned Iroha restaurant and a 1.5-hour visit to the immersive digital art museum of teamLab Planets.
• Highlights the serene Kiyosumi Gardens, the charming streets and historic sites of Monzen-Nakacho, and the distinctive architecture of the Naritasan Fukagawa Fudo-do and Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine.
• Offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Tokyo, blending the city’s rich cultural heritage with cutting-edge digital art experiences.
• Utilizes public transportation with approximately 10 minutes of walking between the tour’s various locations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The 7-hour walking tour in Tokyo’s Koto district offers an immersive experience that combines the serenity of traditional Japanese gardens, the vibrant charm of the Monzen-Nakacho neighborhood, and the captivating digital art installations of teamLab Planets. Participants will start at Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station and explore Kiyosumi Gardens, Monzen-Nakacho, and Naritasan Fukagawa Fudo-do and Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine.

A sashimi lunch at Iroha restaurant and a 1.5-hour visit to teamLab Planets are also included. The tour uses public transportation, with approximately 10 minutes of walking between locations. An English-speaking guide, admission tickets, and transportation are provided, but the tour isn’t recommended for those with low fitness levels or over 95 years old.

Kiyosumi Gardens

Kiyosumi Gardens, one of Tokyo’s most serene and picturesque green spaces, greet visitors with a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese landscape design and serene natural beauty.

The 15-acre garden features:

1. Calming ponds and streams that reflect the surrounding foliage and architecture.
2. Meticulously pruned bonsai trees and well-manicured shrubbery that accentuate the garden’s tranquil atmosphere.
3. Historic bridges and pagodas that offer unique vantage points to admire the scenic landscape.

As the first stop on the walking tour, Kiyosumi Gardens sets the tone for a day of culture and appreciation for Japan’s time-honored traditions of gardening and architecture.

Monzen-Nakacho District

After exploring the serene beauty of Kiyosumi Gardens, the walking tour leads participants into the vibrant Monzen-Nakacho district. This historic neighborhood is known for its charming streets lined with traditional shops and eateries.

Visitors will wander through the quaint alleys, discovering local artisans and sampling delectable street food. The tour includes a stop at the Naritasan Fukagawa Fudo-do, a serene Buddhist temple with a distinctive architecture. Nearby, the Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine stands as a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage. With its atmospheric ambiance and unique attractions, Monzen-Nakacho offers an authentic glimpse into the heart of traditional Tokyo.

Naritasan Fukagawa Fudo-do

Nestled within the charming Monzen-Nakacho district, the Naritasan Fukagawa Fudo-do is a serene Buddhist temple renowned for its distinctive architecture. Dedicated to the fierce deity Fudo Myoo, the temple’s striking vermilion gates and pagoda-style roofs reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the tranquil grounds, which feature:

1. A beautifully landscaped garden with a serene pond and stunning cherry blossoms in spring.
2. Ornate statues and carvings that depict the temple’s spiritual significance.
3. An impressive main hall where visitors can witness Buddhist rituals and ceremonies.

The Naritasan Fukagawa Fudo-do offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, inviting travelers to enjoy Tokyo’s centuries-old religious traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine

Moving on from the serene Naritasan Fukagawa Fudo-do, the tour now leads visitors to the impressive Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine. This 17th-century shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity Hachiman, the god of war and protector of the Japanese state. Visitors can explore the grand main hall, adorned with intricate carvings and a dramatic tiled roof.

The shrine’s tranquil gardens offer a peaceful respite, with a picturesque pond and bridges. Tomioka Hachimangu is an important cultural site, hosting several annual festivals that draw large crowds. The 30-minute visit allows guests to soak in the shrine’s historic atmosphere and serene ambiance before continuing the walking tour.

Sashimi Lunch at Iroha

The tour now leads participants to the renowned Iroha restaurant, where they indulge in a delectable 70-minute sashimi lunch. Renowned for its fresh and expertly prepared seafood, Iroha offers a wide selection of sashimi, sushi, and other Japanese delicacies.

The lunch includes:

1. A variety of seasonal, locally sourced sashimi, featuring the day’s finest catch.
2. Perfectly seasoned rice, complementing the delicate flavors of the sashimi.
3. Traditional Japanese side dishes, such as miso soup and pickled vegetables, to balance the meal.

Diners savor the exquisite flavors and textures, immersed in the authentic atmosphere of this beloved Koto district hotel.

Teamlab Planets Experience

After the sashimi lunch, the tour ventures to the captivating teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum that promises a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors are transported into a world of endless discovery, where digital artworks respond to their presence and movements.

The exhibition features various installations, including a vast indoor waterfall and a room filled with glowing, floating orbs. Guests must remove their shoes and explore the mirrored floors and shallow water features that enhance the surreal atmosphere. With 1.5 hours to immerse themselves in this digital wonderland, the tour provides a truly mesmerizing finale to the day’s adventures.

Transportation and Restrictions

How does the tour make use of public transport between the attractions? The tour utilizes public transportation, such as the subway and walking, to travel between the various sites. The walking time between locations is approximately 10 minutes. This allows participants to experience the local neighborhoods and transition between the different attractions seamlessly.

The tour also has the following restrictions:

1. It isn’t suitable for those with low fitness levels or over 95 years old.
2. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
3. Avoiding short skirts is advised, as some areas at teamLab Planets require going barefoot and have mirroring floors and shallow water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be modified to visit additional sites. The guide can work with the group to incorporate extra stops that align with their interests within the overall tour duration and transportation constraints.

Is There an Option to Have a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there is an option to book a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours offer a more personalized experience and allow for greater flexibility in the itinerary and pace of the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule the Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows rescheduling or refunds up to a certain number of days before the tour. Customers should check with the tour provider for their specific cancellation terms and deadlines to avoid any penalties.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Requests I Can Accommodate?

The tour operator can accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests. Guests should notify the tour provider in advance about any dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences, to ensure a suitable lunch option is arranged.

Will the Guide Provide Recommendations for Other Attractions or Restaurants in the Area?

The guide will likely provide recommendations for additional attractions and restaurants in the Koto district based on the group’s interests and available time. They may suggest nearby temples, museums, or traditional shops to explore after the main tour.

Recap

This immersive walking tour offers a captivating blend of traditional and contemporary Tokyo. Visitors will explore the serene Kiyosumi Gardens, wander through the charming Monzen-Nakacho neighborhood, and enjoy the digital artistry of teamLab Planets. A delectable sashimi lunch at the renowned Iroha restaurant completes this multifaceted journey, providing a comprehensive and unforgettable experience of Tokyo’s rich cultural tapestry.

You can check if your dates are available here: