Tokyo Cityrama Morning : Meiji Shrine, Asakusa Temple and More

Tokyo is a city that effortlessly blends the ancient and modern, offering visitors a chance to enjoy its rich cultural tapestry. The Tokyo Cityrama Morning tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the city’s top attractions, from the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine to the iconic Asakusa Kannon Temple. With seamless transportation, informative commentary, and a hands-on experience in traditional Japanese dance, this tour promises an engaging and personalized exploration of Tokyo’s must-see sights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive half-day journey offers a glimpse into the city’s captivating past and its vibrant present, leaving you eager to uncover more of Tokyo’s enchanting wonders.

Key Points

1. The tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Tokyo’s top attractions, including the Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Palace East Garden, and Asakusa Kannon Temple.

2. Visitors can learn about Shinto rituals and traditions at the serene and lush Meiji Jingu Shrine, and explore the historical architecture and landscaping at the Imperial Palace East Garden.

3. The tour includes the vibrant cultural atmosphere of the Asakusa Kannon Temple, featuring its massive lantern-lit entrance gate, the Kaminari-mon.

4. The tour concludes with a hands-on experience, allowing participants to don colorful yukata robes and learn traditional Japanese dances under the guidance of experienced instructors.

5. The half-day tour is designed for first-time visitors and those short on time, providing an efficient overview of Tokyo’s highlights with a maximum group size of 40 travelers.

Tour Overview

The Tokyo Cityrama Morning tour offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the city’s top temples, gardens, and shopping areas, including the renowned Meiji Jingu Shrine, the Imperial Palace East Garden, and the historic Asakusa Kannon Temple (Senso-ji).

Designed for first-time visitors and those short on time, the half-day bus tour provides an engaging overview of Tokyo’s highlights.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour includes transportation between sites and admission tickets, ensuring a seamless experience.

Participants will have the opportunity to explore Shinto shrines, imperial gardens, and a 1,300-year-old temple, gaining valuable insights into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour concludes with a traditional Japanese dance activity, offering a fitting finale to this comprehensive introduction to Tokyo.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

As the most renowned Shinto site in Japan, Meiji Jingu Shrine impresses visitors with its serene and lush surroundings, offering a peaceful respite from the bustle of Tokyo’s urban landscape.

Dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken, the shrine is known for its towering gates, ornate structures, and meticulously-maintained gardens.

Travelers can explore the shrine’s various attractions, including its treasure house, sanctuary, and other architectural marvels. The tour also provides an opportunity to learn about Shinto rituals and traditions, giving guests a deeper understanding of Japan’s cultural heritage.

With its tranquil atmosphere and historical significance, Meiji Jingu Shrine stands as a highlight of the Tokyo Cityrama Morning tour.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Adjacent to the iconic Edo Castle grounds, the Imperial Palace East Garden offers visitors a serene respite from the bustling city streets. Meticulously maintained, the expansive garden showcases exquisite landscaping and historical architecture, providing a glimpse into Japan’s imperial legacy.

Visitors can stroll along the winding paths and admire the carefully pruned trees, tranquil ponds, and traditional bridges. The garden also features the remains of the Edo Castle’s foundation, offering a chance to appreciate the site’s rich history.

Though the palace itself isn’t open to the public, the East Garden provides a peaceful retreat where travelers can enjoy the serenity of Japanese garden design and the grandeur of the imperial era.

Asakusa Kannon Temple

Towering over the lively Senso-ji temple complex, the Asakusa Kannon Temple stands as one of Japan’s most revered and historically significant Buddhist sites.

Dating back to the 7th century, this ancient pagoda-style structure draws countless devotees and visitors annually, captivating them with its ornate architecture and deep spiritual significance.

Dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, the goddess of mercy, the temple is renowned for its massive lantern-lit entrance gate, the Kaminari-mon, and its serene inner sanctuaries.

Visitors can explore the temple’s many shrines, shop at the bustling Nakamise Street, and enjoy the vibrant cultural atmosphere of this iconic Tokyo landmark.

Traditional Japanese Dance

The tour concludes with a traditional Japanese dance activity in Yurakucho, allowing visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage of Japan firsthand. Participants are invited to don colorful yukata robes and learn the graceful movements of traditional dances, guided by experienced instructors. This hands-on experience provides a unique opportunity to take in the art form, gaining a deeper appreciation for the discipline and artistry behind these timeless performances.

Dance Style	Origin	Cultural Significance
Kabuki	Edo Period	Dramatic storytelling through stylized movement
Noh	14th Century	Slow, meditative performances with spiritual undertones
Butoh	1950s	Avant-garde, expressive dance challenging traditional forms
Bon Odori	Obon Festival	Community-based celebratory dances honoring ancestors
Tsugaru-jamisen	Aomori Prefecture	Lively folk music and dance from northern Japan

Tour Duration and Size

The tour lasts half a day, providing an efficient overview of Tokyo’s top attractions for those short on time.

With a maximum group size of 40 travelers, the experience offers a personalized and intimate exploration of the city’s historic sites and cultural traditions.

This intimate group size allows for:

• Ample personal attention from the guide
• Flexibility to move through sites with ease
• Opportunities for deeper culture
• Memorable interactions with fellow travelers
• A more enjoyable and enriching overall experience

The compact duration and group size make this tour an ideal introduction to Tokyo, ensuring visitors make the most of their limited time in the captivating capital.

Tour Meeting and Ending Points

The tour conveniently begins at Tokyo Station, allowing participants to easily access the starting point. From there, the experience concludes near the Marunouchi South Entrance of Tokyo Station around 1:20 PM, making it simple for travelers to continue their exploration or return to their accommodations.

Meeting Point	Ending Point
Tokyo Station	Near Tokyo Station Marunouchi South Entrance
Around 1:20 PM

The tour’s strategic start and end locations ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience, enabling visitors to maximize their time in Tokyo and explore the city’s highlights with ease.

Additional Tour Information

On Mondays, Fridays, and other days when the Imperial Palace East Garden is closed, the tour will instead visit the Imperial Palace Plaza. Plus, the tour utilizes an environment-friendly hybrid bus for transportation, reducing its carbon footprint.

On top of that, children up to 5 years old may join the tour for free, though they won’t be allocated a bus seat.

The Tokyo Cityrama Morning tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to first-time visitors and those short on time. From the grandeur of Meiji Jingu Shrine to the serenity of the Imperial Palace grounds, and the historic Asakusa Kannon Temple, this tour showcases the city’s highlights. The tour concludes with a traditional Japanese dance activity in Yurakucho, providing a memorable culture.

• Eco-friendly transportation
• Free admission for young children
• Comprehensive overview of Tokyo’s top sights
• Guided exploration of iconic temples and shrines
• Authentic cultural experience at the tour’s finale

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes time for shopping at the traditional Asakusa area, where travelers can purchase Japanese souvenirs and gifts such as kimonos, fans, and other traditional crafts.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Traditional Dance Activity?

The tour does not specify any dietary restrictions for the traditional dance activity. Participants can fully engage in the cultural experience regardless of their dietary needs or preferences.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers interested in a longer experience can opt for a full-day tour that includes more destinations and activities beyond the standard half-day itinerary.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Yes, you can typically request a specific language for the tour guide. Many tour providers offer tours in multiple languages, such as English, Japanese, Chinese, or other options, to accommodate the preferences of different travelers.

Will There Be Any Opportunities to Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, there will be ample opportunities to take photos during the tour. The tour includes stops at several renowned landmarks, allowing travelers to capture the stunning architecture, gardens, and cultural elements along the way.

Recap

This comprehensive half-day tour provides first-time visitors to Tokyo with an engaging overview of the city’s top attractions.

Seamless transportation, admission tickets, and a hands-on cultural experience in traditional Japanese dance ensure a personalized and intimate exploration of Meiji Jingu Shrine, the Imperial Palace East Garden, and the iconic Asakusa Kannon Temple, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage.

The small group size of up to 40 participants further enhances the tour’s personalized experience.