Free tour

Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace , Historical Walking Tour

4.57

Acceptable (14 ratings)

Tokyo

Duration: 2 hours

Languages: English

Guru: Saki

Registered on 30 November 2024

I have lived in Tokyo for 30 years. I know how Tokyo has developed and what has remained unchanged and permeated our lives. I love food and history and can tell you about the food the locals love and the history of the city.

Free booking and cancellation

Pay-what-you-wish tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free

Tour description

Learn about samurai culture and the 2,600-year legacy of Japan's emperors. An expert guide will uncover the secrets of Edo Castle, Japan's largest fortress, which was never breached by enemies.

Today, only parts of it remain, but you can still find traces of the castle throughout Tokyo. A local guide will explain just how massive Edo Castle was and how its defenses made it nearly impenetrable. This castle played a key role in maintaining the peaceful samurai era that lasted for 260 years. Today, Edo Castle serves as the Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan’s emperor. The imperial system is a tradition that has continued for 2,600 years. But how has it managed to survive for so long? Join us to uncover the secrets behind this enduring legacy.

Tour Highlights

The Secret Behind Edo Castle's Impenetrable Defense
Japan's 2,600-Year-Old Imperial System
Visiting Yasukuni Shrine and Its Political Significance
Visiting the Japanese Garden Admired by the Emperor
Seasonal Beauty: Cherry Blossoms in Spring

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

1-chōme-13-19 Kudankita, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0073, Japan

Outside the exit 1 of Kudanshita Station. There will be a guide holding a sign that says "Contents Like". https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zs7U9VQpYRhDyFw76

Outside visit

Yasukuni Shrine

Yasukuni Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine in Tokyo, dedicated to honoring Japan's war dead. Surrounded by serene gardens and cultural landmarks, it offers a unique glimpse into Japanese history and traditions, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the country's heritage.

Outside visit

Budókan

The Nippon Budokan is an iconic venue in Tokyo, originally built for martial arts events during the 1964 Olympics. It later gained global fame when The Beatles performed there in 1966, marking their first-ever concert in Japan. Today, it's a legendary stage for music and martial arts, blending cultural tradition with modern entertainment.

Outside visit

Edojoato Annaiban

The view from the site of the castle tower offers a unique experience where you can feel the historical background while also enjoying the modern scenery of Tokyo. It is a spot where you can shift perspectives and sense the connection between Edo and the present day.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours don't have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).