Tokyo: Private tour of Beckoning Cat Painting at Yanaka

Tokyo , Japan

Tokyo: Private tour of Beckoning Cat Painting at Yanaka

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 private tour offers a cultural experience in Yanaka, a popular strolling area for Japanese people.
Yanaka is also known as “Cat Town". It is also full of alleys, slopes, and temples, where cats can be seen relaxing in the emotional streets.
In addition to the experience of painting “Manekineko (beckoning cats),” cute ornaments that have been placed in stores as merchants' items since the Edo period, you will watch a finger puppet show.
You can design your own beckoning cat and take it home as a mascot that will continue to bring you good fortune even after the tour is over.
The finger puppets will be played in a theater dedicated to finger puppets. You can enjoy a short play that makes you laugh without words.

Recommended for those who want to experience Japanese culture with a difference!

Available options

Tokyo: Private tour of Beckoning Cat Painting at Yanaka

What's included

Finger Puppet Show

An English-speaking guide

Manekineko (beckoning cats) painting experience

Detailed itinerary

Established in 1874, the Yanaka Cemetery is a historic cemetery with many graves of famous Japanese cultural and historical figures.
The cemetery is lush and quiet, and is a precious place where visitors can feel nature even though they are in the heart of the city. There are also many cats in the vicinity, and they too provide a bit of comfort to visitors.

Stop 2

This café, housed in a renovated 90-year-old traditional Japanese house, allows visitors to paint their own "Manekineko" (beckoning cat) .
You can enjoy making your own beckoning cat while drinking tea.
It is up to you what kind of painting you want to do!
If you are not sure how to do it, you can experience it easily and conveniently by referring to the many beckoning cats in the store. Our guide will be on hand to assist you.

This is a finger puppet theater that is virtually nonexistent in Tokyo.
Here, short comedies are shown for 30 minutes.
There are almost no words, and the “movements” of the finger puppets naturally convey the audience's feelings, making the work funny.

Finally, we will go to a store that sells a popular Japanese snack called sembei.
Made from carefully selected rice, each rice cracker is carefully baked using traditional methods. Popular products include soy sauce-flavored rice crackers and sweet rice crackers dusted with white sugar, offering a wide variety of flavors and ingredients. The store also offers a selection of gift crackers and seasonal products, which are popular as souvenirs and gifts.

What's not included

Gratuities

Shopping cost (it depends on the guest and store)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of the South exit ticket gate of JR Nippori Station.

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.