Best of Downtown Tokyo: Nature, Coffee, & Japanese Sweets Tasting

Tokyo , Japan

Best of Downtown Tokyo: Nature, Coffee, & Japanese Sweets Tasting

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About this experience

Kiyosumi Shirakawa: Tokyo’s Hippest Downtown Neighborhood Tour

Looking to start your Tokyo trip at a relaxed pace? Join me in Kiyosumi Shirakawa—an off-the-beaten-path district that’s still close to central Tokyo attractions. Discover a vibrant mix of modern coffee shops and galleries nestled among traditional family-run bars and old warehouses.

On this leisurely morning tour, we’ll:
• Stroll through Kiyosumi Gardens, one of Tokyo’s nine famous public gardens
• Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a light breakfast of your choice at the neighborhood’s first roastery and coffee shop
• Indulge in a sweet or savory Japanese treat of your choice

This is perfect for travelers eager to see a lesser-known side of Tokyo most tourists miss. I can’t wait to guide you through Kiyosumi Shirakawa’s hidden gems!

Available options

Best of Downtown Tokyo: Nature, Coffee, & Japanese Sweets Tasting

What's included

Admission to Kiyosumi Garden

Expert English tour guide

Selection of 2 Japanese Sweets

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Our tour will start at Kiyosumi Teien, a traditional Japanese-style garden built by a feudal lord during the Kyoho era.
I will explain some of the garden's key historic points and landmarks.
Taking in this traditional garden may make you forget that you are even in Tokyo!

Stop 2

Kiyosumi Shirakawa is known as the birthplace of Japan's thirdwave coffee scene and is home to numerous independent coffee shops pulling some of the best espresso in Tokyo.
I will take you to Allpress Espresso, a cafe and roastery where you can catch a glimpse of espresso beans being roasted while relaxing with a quality espresso before making our way towards our next tour destination.

For the final part of the tour, enjoy eating two very distinct Japanese sweets—something modern and something traditional. Secrets will be reveals on the tour!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for people who don't like tea, coffee and sweets

Meeting point

Our tour will start at Kiyosumi Teien, a traditional Japanese garden constructed in the Edo era.
Taking in the garden's meticulous nature and wildlife may make you forget that you are even in Tokyo!
Our tour will begin at the front entrance of Kiyosumi Teien by the ticket counter.

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.