Tokyo Ginza Deep Back Alley Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What do you imagine when you hear the word “Ginza”?
A shopping district lined with luxury brand stores? A gourmet district lined with high-end restaurants? All of these are true, but in fact, Ginza is exciting “backbehind the scenes” as well !
This is a two-hour walking tour of Ginza's six back alleys. There are hidden shrines and popular stores in the back alleys.
You walk around the glamorous “front” side of Ginza while experiencing its history, and once you step into the back alleys, you can experience the maze-like “back” side of Ginza!
*This tour is not recommended for those who are not confident in their physical strength or have weak legs and hips, as it is a two-hour walk.
Please wear comfortable walking clothes and bring drinking water in summer.
Kabuki viewing is not included in the tour.
Available options
Tokyo Ginza Deep Back Alley Walking Tour
What's included
An English-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Now, let's start the tour from the birthplace of Ginza!
While walking, your English-speaking guide will talk about the transition of Ginza.
2
Stop 2
You will see the Wako Building and the Mitsukoshi Lion statue which are the symbols of Ginza, , small angel and monkeys, and a shrine tucked away in an alley.
3
Stop 3
It goes back and forth between the front and back streets.
In the back alleys, stores that survived the turmoil of wartime and the postwar period remain.
4
Stop 4
The former Kojun Building is an essential part of Ginza's history.
5
Stop 5
Located in a narrow alley that you might accidentally pass by is the Toyoiwa Inari Shrine.
The shrine has been located here since the early Edo period, and many people, including Kabuki actors, have long worshipped at this historic shrine.
The tour will then walk back toward Ginza 5-chome.
Take pictures in the classical and quaint alleys and visit the small shrines that have long been beloved by the locals.
6
Stop 6
Finally, the tour ends when you reach the Kabuki-za Theater.
Thank you for your hard walking!
What's not included
Kabuki viewing is not included.
Gratuities
Hotel pick up and drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Meet in front of the Tiffany Ginza store
About Ginza
Ginza is Tokyo's upscale shopping district, known for its luxury boutiques, high-end dining, and vibrant nightlife. This area offers a blend of traditional and modern Japanese culture, with historic sites nestled among contemporary architecture.
Top Attractions
Ginza Six
Ginza Six is a high-end shopping complex with luxury brands, a rooftop garden, and various dining options. It's a great place to experience the latest in fashion and design.
Shopping/Mall
2-4 hours
Expensive
Kabukiza Theatre
Kabukiza Theatre is one of the most famous theaters for traditional Japanese kabuki performances. It's a must-visit for those interested in traditional Japanese culture.
Cultural/Theater
2-3 hours for a performance
Moderate to Expensive
Tsukiji Outer Market
Tsukiji Outer Market is a bustling market known for its fresh seafood, sushi, and other Japanese delicacies. It's a great place to sample local cuisine and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Food/Market
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sushi
Fresh, high-quality sushi made with the finest ingredients. Ginza is home to many renowned sushi restaurants.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and seafood; some restaurants offer vegetarian options.
Tempura
Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables, served with a dipping sauce. Tempura is a popular dish in Ginza.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood; vegetarian options may be available.
Kaiseki
A traditional multi-course meal that showcases the seasons and the chef's skills. Kaiseki is a high-end dining experience.
Dinner
Contains various ingredients, including seafood and meat; vegetarian options may be available.
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby parks and gardens
Biking around the city
Spa and wellness treatments
Tea ceremonies
Strolling through parks and gardens
Kabuki performances
Temple and shrine visits
Boat tours in Tokyo Bay
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and shopping. Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn add to the charm.
10-25°C (50-77°F)
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and hotels)
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Ginza is a very safe area with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is uncommon. However, travelers should still take basic precautions to protect their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and check the meter.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles)
- Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles)
By train
Tokyo Station, Shimbashi Station
By bus
Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shimbashi Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Tokyo Metro system is efficient, clean, and covers all major areas of Ginza. The Ginza Line is particularly useful for exploring the district.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, JapanTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Ginza
Yurakucho
Shimbashi
Day trips
Asakusa
3 km (1.9 miles) • Half day
Asakusa is a historic district known for its traditional architecture, temples, and street food. It's a great place to experience old Tokyo.
Odaiba
6 km (3.7 miles) • Full day
Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, known for its futuristic architecture, shopping, and entertainment venues.
Kamakura
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Kamakura is a historic city known for its temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a popular day trip from Tokyo.
Festivals
Ginza Festival • Late October to early November
Sanja Matsuri • Third weekend of May
Tokyo New Year's Countdown • December 31 - January 1
Pro tips
- Use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for easy payments on public transportation and in some stores and vending machines.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Try local street food and snacks for an authentic and budget-friendly dining experience.
- Explore the backstreets and alleys of Ginza to discover hidden gems and local shops.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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