Itinerary

1. Asakusa Tour

   • Meet the tour guide and explore the beautiful sights of Asakusa. The charm of Asakusa lies in the convergence of old traditions. You will see one of the most famous temples of Asakusa: Senso-Ji. Your guide will begin the tour from one of the oldest structures in the temple complex, which was built in 1618. Here you will see the idols of the 'Guardians of the Gate' - the legend behind them is that they are here to protect the temple from ill will. 
   • You will pass underneath the Todi Gate and head towards the Shinto Shrine, where your guide will teach you how to awaken the deities so that they listen to your prayers. He will also show you the water fountain and smoke pit where devotees go to clean themselves before entering the Shinto shrine. As you approach the main hall of the shrine, observe people offering coins and then entering the shrine to pray.
   • Next on your list is the 'Five Storey Pagoda'; your guide will explain what each storey signifies according to Buddhist beliefs. The pagoda has been built to sustain earthquakes, as these are a common phenomenon in Japan. At the Hozo-Mon Gate, your guide will introduce you to its guardians as well and tell you why one idol has its mouth open while the other has its mouth closed.
   • You will stroll through the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, where your guide will show you local novelties such as Japanese sweets and souvenirs such as Maneki-Neko, Daroma toys folding fans, and yukatas, all of which you can try when you actually visit!
   • The third most important gate is the Kaminaimon Gate. You will see the guardians of this gate and learn why it is called the "Gate of Thunder and Wind". This is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Your guide will end the experience with you at the banks of the Sumida River with views of Tokyo Sky-tree, the tallest structure in the city.