Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Tokyo’s Asakusa district, the morning temple and onigiri walking tour offers an immersive experience for visitors. Participants can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the iconic Sensoji Temple, witness ancient rituals, and indulge in the iconic Japanese delicacy of onigiri. As they stroll through the lively Nakamise shopping street, they’ll have the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the Skytree tower and the vibrant temple complex. This quintessential Japanese experience promises to leave a lasting impression, and for those eager to uncover the secrets of this cultural gem, the tour is a must-try.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Walking Tours In Taito City.

Key Points

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Key Points

  • Experience the iconic Sensoji Temple and surrounding Asakusa district in the morning, including worshiping at the temple and shrine.
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast of onigiri (rice balls) while walking through the lively streets of Asakusa.
  • Capture stunning photos of the Skytree, Tokyo’s tallest structure, from a designated viewpoint.
  • Immerse in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Asakusa, a historical and culturally significant area of Tokyo.
  • The tour concludes at 10:00, allowing ample time for further exploration of the Asakusa neighborhood.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Overview of the Tour

The morning tour of Sensoji Temple in Asakusa offers visitors a chance to experience the iconic temple and its surrounding area. The tour includes a photo stop at a viewpoint that showcases the stunning Skytree, Tokyo’s tallest structure. Participants will also have the opportunity to try the traditional Japanese snack, onigiri, or rice balls, while exploring the temple grounds.

After worshiping at the Sensoji Temple and Sensojinja Shrine, the tour concludes at 10:00, allowing for further sightseeing in the vibrant Asakusa neighborhood. The tour is guided and includes the cost of the onigiri, making it a convenient and immersive way to discover the cultural heritage of this historic area.

Highlights of the Experience

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Highlights of the Experience

Taking photos of the iconic Skytree from the designated viewpoint is a highlight of this tour. Participants will have an opportunity to capture stunning images of Tokyo’s famous landmark against the backdrop of the historic Sensoji Temple.

Another highlight is the chance to experience "eat-walking" the traditional Japanese onigiri, or rice balls. Guests will enjoy the unique sensation of savoring these portable snacks as they explore the temple grounds.

The tour also includes the chance to worship at the Sensoji Temple and Sensojinja Shrine, immersing participants in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Asakusa. The tour ends at 10:00, allowing ample time for further sightseeing in the area.

Sensoji Temple and Shrine

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Sensoji Temple and Shrine

At the heart of the Asakusa district lies the iconic Sensoji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple that has stood as a revered spiritual landmark for centuries. As part of the morning tour, you will have the opportunity to worship at this magnificent structure and its adjoining Sensojinja Shrine.

Key highlights include:

  • Admiring the intricate architecture and vibrant red pagodas
  • Ringing the large bronze bell to bring good fortune
  • Observing the ritual of cleansing one’s hands and face at the purification fountain
  • Exploring the lively Nakamise shopping street leading to the temple’s entrance

The serene atmosphere and timeless traditions of Sensoji Temple provide a truly authentic cultural experience for visitors.

Onigiri Breakfast Walkthrough

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Onigiri Breakfast Walkthrough

After the reverent experience at Sensoji Temple, the tour seamlessly transitions into a delightful culinary adventure. Participants are provided with a traditional Japanese onigiri, or rice ball, to enjoy as they embark on an "eat-walking" experience through the bustling streets of Asakusa. The onigiri, priced between 100-120 yen, offers a delicious and portable breakfast option, allowing the group to savor the flavors while exploring the area. This interactive component of the tour enhances the overall culture, providing a hands-on opportunity to engage with a quintessential Japanese food item.

Onigiri Flavors Description Price
Umekomi Pickled plum 120 yen
Natto Fermented soybeans 100 yen
Salmon Grilled salmon 120 yen
Kombu Seasoned kelp 100 yen
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Photography Opportunities

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Photography Opportunities

The tour’s focus now shifts to the prime photography opportunities awaiting participants. First, the group will make their way to a prime viewpoint to capture stunning shots of the iconic Skytree tower. Towering over the surrounding cityscape, the Skytree provides a magnificent backdrop for memorable photos.

Next, you will have the chance to document their "eat-walking" experience with the onigiri breakfast, capturing the unique cultural practice in action. Within the grounds of Sensoji Temple, there are ample opportunities to photograph the impressive Buddhist architecture and the lively atmosphere of the temple complex.

Tour Duration and Group Size

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Tour Duration and Group Size

This tour’s duration is 1 hour, making it a concise yet impactful experience for participants. The short timeframe allows visitors to efficiently explore the highlights of Asakusa without feeling rushed.

The tour is also limited to a maximum of 4 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. This small group size enables the guide to provide focused attention and tailored insights to each guest, enhancing the overall tour experience.

The compact duration and intimate group setting make this Asakusa morning tour an ideal option for travelers seeking a quick yet immersive introduction to the neighborhood’s iconic temple and local delicacies.

Meeting Point and Directions

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Meeting Point and Directions

Participants are to meet the tour guide at the Burger King located outside of Asakusa Station’s Exit 4. This meeting point is conveniently situated just a short walk from the temple grounds.

Once the group has assembled, the guide will provide further instructions and ensure everyone is ready to begin the tour.

  • The Burger King is an easy-to-spot landmark, making it an ideal starting point.
  • Asakusa Station is served by the Ginza, Asakusa, and Tsukuba Express subway lines, providing excellent accessibility.
  • Exit 4 is the closest point to the Sensoji Temple complex and the meeting location.
  • Participants should arrive a few minutes early to allow time for the group to gather and depart on schedule.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Inclusions and Exclusions

For this Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour, the tour guide provides participants with several inclusions. First, a knowledgeable guide will lead the group throughout the tour.

Plus, the cost of the onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, is covered, which typically range from 100 to 120 yen per onigiri. This allows participants to fully experience the local cuisine while exploring the Sensoji Temple and its surroundings.

However, any other food, drinks, or personal expenses incurred during the tour aren’t included in the tour price. Participants are responsible for these additional costs on their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on Weekends?

The tour is available on weekends. The tour guide leads a morning exploration of Sensoji Temple, offering photo opportunities of Skytree and a chance to experience the local culture by eating onigiri as you walk.

Can I Bring My Own Food to Eat During the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food to eat during the tour. The tour includes the cost of an onigiri (rice ball) breakfast, which is provided as part of the experience.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The paths and facilities at Sensoji Temple are designed to accommodate wheelchair users. However, the tour does involve some walking, so visitors with limited mobility may need assistance.

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Other Attractions?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit other attractions. The tour operator is flexible and open to accommodating requests, as long as the additional activities fit within the 1-hour time frame and do not conflict with the core tour elements.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Photography?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment for photography. Visitors can use their smartphones or compact cameras to capture the picturesque Skytree views and temple scenes. The guide will provide tips on the best angles and settings to get great shots.

Recap

The Tokyo Asakusa Morning Temple and Onigiri Walking Tour offers a captivating culture. Visitors can explore Sensoji Temple, sample traditional onigiri, and capture stunning photos of the iconic Skytree tower. With its mix of spiritual and culinary experiences, the tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant Asakusa neighborhood, leaving participants with lasting memories of this quintessential Japanese experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: