Historical Journey including Akasaka Palace Admission Ticket

Tokyo , Japan

Historical Journey including Akasaka Palace Admission Ticket

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About this experience

Discover the refined charm of Akasaka, a Tokyo district where history, diplomacy, and elegance meet. This tour takes you through hidden corners rich in samurai heritage, luxurious Western-style architecture, and long-standing artisan traditions. Perfect for those seeking a deeper cultural perspective beyond the city's usual tourist routes.

・Step inside Japan’s first Western-style guesthouse, a Versailles-inspired palace used to host royalty and world leaders
・Explore the historic Toyokawa Inari Shrine and stroll through Akasaka’s geisha-rooted “Karyukai” district
・Admire handcrafted traditional art at Aoyama Square and enjoy a refined Japanese lunch in a symbolic local restaurant

Available options

Historical Journey including Akasaka Palace Admission Ticket

What's included

Admission Ticket

Private tour

Professional guide

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This guest house (a bit of a misnomer – it should be thought of as more of a palatial hotel) was the first Western style grand building in Japan, built by the then crown prince, later the Taisho Emperor, with stylistic reference to France’s Versailles. Total construction cost was the equivalent to over 100 billion yen in today’s money. Construction took about ten years, and it used the latest in building chic and decoration technology. It is now used as a facility to host state guests such as foreign kings or presidents, and it is also used as a stage for summit talks and dinner parties.

Ooka Echizennokami, who was an Edo town donor in the 18th century, has been deemed to have dedicated Echizennokami it from his house in Toyokawa Inari of Aichi Prefecture as a shrine to the residence. Since the latter half of the 19th century, Akasaka has been the gathering place of restaurants and also, as geisha gathered here in the “Karyukai,” inflows of people who live with artists increased. Even now the area is known as a popular area among prominent celebrities and famous athletes.

Aoyama Square displays and sells selected traditional craft items from all over Japan. A wide range of treasures and handicrafts are available, all made using the finest techniques that will allow for enjoyment 100 years or more. The shop invites craftsmen from all over the world to hold workshops from time to time, so you can also often see these artisans at work first-hand.

Small classic Japanese garden in the middle of the city. Refresh from the hustle and bustle.

Toraya is a Japanese confectioner with 500 years of history. Its newly refurbished flagship store in Akasaka will reopen on Monday, October 1, 2018. Inside, you will find a shop, a factory, a cafe and a gallery. The building facade is covered in glass, giving it an open and inclusive atmosphere. The wooden interior, made from Japanese cypress, embodies the best of elegant tradition.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Taxi / Private Car or Bus

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

5 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A maximum of 8 people per booking

The guest house (palace) visitation includes the front garden, main house, and main garden.

Please join us wearing shoes that are easy to walk in. The tour includes approximately 3.5km of walking.

Meeting point

Yotsuya Station

Important notes

・Please join us wearing shoes that are easy to walk in. The tour includes approximately 3.5km of walking.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.