Tokyo National Museum & Ueno Park Private guided tour

Tokyo , Japan

Tokyo National Museum & Ueno Park Private guided tour

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About this experience

Are you interested in Japanese art, history, culture, and lifestyle? A visit to Japan's oldest and most renowned museum, the Tokyo National Museum, could be a perfect choice.
Built in the early 20th century, the Honkan (main building) has been designated as an Important Cultural Property and consists of two floors. We will begin our exploration on the 2nd floor, where you’ll learn about Japan's history through the exhibits. On the 1st floor, the rooms are categorized by artifact type, including Buddhist statues, samurai swords, kimonos, and more.
The museum also features a well-regarded shop and a stunning Japanese-style garden with teahouses. Additionally, we will enjoy a leisurely stroll through Ueno Park. Once the property of a renowned temple during the Samurai Era, the park is rich in historical sites and remains.
We also offer a range of reasonable, tiered pricing options!

Available options

from Jan. 2025

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pick-up

English-speaking Guide

Admission to the museum

Transportation fee to Ueno Station (one-way / subway or JR train)

Detailed itinerary

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel at 9:30 am. Together with the guide, you will take the subway or JR train to Ueno Station.

Stop 2

Immerse yourself in Japanese art, history, and culture at Tokyo's oldest museum, located in Ueno. We will visit the Honkan (main building), which was rebuilt in 1938 and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. With the help of your experienced English-speaking guide, you will gain insight into Japan's history. The Tokyo National Museum also houses and exhibits many Important Cultural Properties designated by the State, including numerous National Treasures.

If time permits, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Japanese-style garden behind the museum. The garden features teahouses and a serene pond, allowing you to relax and experience a tranquil atmosphere amidst the lush greenery.

Stop 4

Ueno Park was once the property of Kaneiji Buddhist Temple, which was known as the family temple of Tokugawa Shoguns. As a result, the park is home to many historic sites and buildings. Your guide will show you around this beautiful park, and the tour will conclude there. At the end of the tour, the guide will provide instructions on how to return to your hotel or proceed to your next destination.

What's not included

Gratuity (not obligatory)

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please prepare rain gear, such as umbrella or a raincoat, in case of bad weather.

If your hotel is situated outside our designated pick-up range and alternative transportation, such as a subway, is not feasible, guests are responsible for covering the fare. This includes the cost for both the guide's transportation to the first destination and from the last destination back to your hotel.

Due to weather condition or other operational reasons, the itinerary may be subject to change or certain visits may be omitted or substituted. Even in such circumstances, the tour may not be canceled, and the tour fare will not be refunded.

Remaining time will be allotted for pick up and travel time in between the attractions .

The tour involves a good amount of walking outdoors. We suggest wearing sneakers or comfortable shoes.

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.