Lucky Cats Temple & Old Tokyo Yanaka 1/2-Day Walking Private Tour

Tokyo , Japan

Lucky Cats Temple & Old Tokyo Yanaka 1/2-Day Walking Private Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is perfect for those who feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. An English-speaking guide will take you to a temple just outside central Tokyo, known for its countless small statues of beckoning cats. We'll also visit a nearby Shinto shrine, offering a chance to learn the differences between Japan’s two main religions. These sites are in a quiet, refined residential area, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll through local streets and get a feel for everyday life. Next, we’ll head to the other side of Tokyo to explore Yanaka, a charming old neighborhood known for its narrow streets, wooden houses, and small shops. You’ll also visit Yanaka Cemetery, a historic public cemetery and the resting place of many notable figures. The tour ends at Ueno Park, one of Japan’s most famous parks. From there, you’re free to spend the rest of your day. Through this tour, you’ll discover a quieter, more traditional side of Tokyo and gain insight into the daily lives of its people.

Available options

2025 Cat Temple Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pick-up

English-speaking Guide

Hotel drop-off

Transportation fee (subway/train)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The highlight of this half-day tour is Gotokuji Temple, a serene Buddhist temple with a charming legend.
Originally founded in the mid-15th century, the temple later came under the patronage of the powerful Ii samurai clan, who made it their family temple for generations. Gotokuji is best known as the birthplace of the Maneki Neko, or beckoning cat, a beloved symbol of luck in Japan.

According to legend, during a thunderstorm, a samurai warlord from the Ii clan was beckoned into the temple by a cat. Taking shelter there, he narrowly avoided the storm—an event that inspired the tradition. Today, visitors from all over the world come to buy small white Maneki Neko statues and leave them at the temple as a gesture of gratitude or to wish for good fortune. You’ll see hundreds of these charming cat figures, creating a truly unique and photogenic scene.

Shoin Shrine is a small but historically significant Shinto shrine located in Setagaya, Tokyo.
The shrine is dedicated to Shoin Yoshida, a revered intellectual and educator who deeply influenced many young samurai of the Choshu Domain. His teachings inspired a number of key figures who went on to lead the Meiji Restoration, a major turning point in Japan's modern history.

Shoin was arrested by the Tokugawa shogunate for his political views and was executed at the young age of 30. After his death, his devoted students reburied his remains at this site, and later established the area as a Shinto shrine to honor his legacy. Today, the shrine remains a peaceful spot where visitors can reflect on the life and impact of a man who helped shape Japan’s future.

Stop 3

Yanaka is an old downtown area of Tokyo that miraculously escaped damage during World War II. The neighborhood is filled with narrow streets lined with old wooden houses. It also features a famous shopping street called Yanaka Ginza, which leads to a staircase where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset at dusk.

This large public cemetery, operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, spans a vast area and is the final resting place of many renowned figures, including the last shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu—the 15th Tokugawa shogun who returned power to the emperor in the mid-19th century. We'll enjoy a peaceful stroll through this serene cemetery, which is also surrounded by many local Buddhist temples.

Stop 5

The tour ends at Ueno Park, one of the most famous parks in Japan. The park is home to the Tokyo National Museum—the oldest and most renowned museum in the country—Ueno Zoo, and many historical sites. You can spend the rest of your day exploring and enjoying the area at your leisure.

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

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.