Tokyo: Step into tradition, sumo wrestlers and geisha

Tokyo , Japan

Tokyo: Step into tradition, sumo wrestlers and geisha

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About this experience

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of tradition with our Step into Tradition, Sumo Wrestlers and Geisha. This journey invites you to witness the rich legacies of sumo and geisha in Japan.

This tour will lead you to some of the most peculiar and off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods of Tokyo. Ryogoku, laying on the banks of Sumida River, is the center of Tokyo’s Sumo culture. This usually quiet area lights up during sumo tournaments, held here in the Kokugikan, the sumo stadium. This small area is filled with sumo culture, from the stadium to the statues of famous sumo wrestlers. Kagurazaka on the other hand, not far from the Imperial Palace, is a former geisha district of the Edo period. Nowadays the main street is an elegant shopping district full of traditional and international shops. The narrow, paved back alleys of the neighborhood though are a real rarity in modern Tokyo and give a glimpse of old Edo.

**Rain, shine, or a bit of both— our walking tours still go on!**

Available options

English Guide

Italian Guide

What's included

English or Italian speaking travel story teller

Detailed itinerary

Ryogoku is the home of Sumo. With its Kokugikan and dedicated museums, the district still keeps one of Japan's iconic sports alive today. Walking through its streets, it is very common to bump into numerous athletes arriving from all over the country to participate in representative matches.

A small green oasis next to the Ryogoku Kokugikan. From this small park, you can also strategically visit the Japanese Sword Museum and Yokoamicho Park.

A park of historical significance, which served as a safe place to house all the people evacuated during the Great Kanto Earthquake. It is also a memorial symbol for all those who lost their lives during the great Tokyo air raid.

Kakurembo Yokocho, better known as the Hide-and-Seek alley, is a very distinctive route present in Kagurazaka. Its uniqueness is due not only to the peculiar paving but also to the fact that there are diamond- or heart-shaped cobblestones. These cobblestones are said to have magical properties and to grant good luck and wealth to all who find them.

An alley that evokes the old atmosphere of the ancient city. Its name is said to derive from the arsenal (Hyogo) of Ushigome Castle during the Sengoku era.

Known as the little Paris of Tokyo, Kagurazaka is renowned for its high-end restaurants and cafes as well as the unique style of its alleys. The area was once populated by many French people because of the multitude of French language schools there. Since the Edo period, it is considered one of the few neighborhoods in Tokyo that boast the presence of geisha, who still perform in some of the clubs in the area today.

What's not included

Public transportation (about 200 JPY)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

JR Ryogoku Station, North Exit West Side.

Travel Story Teller will wait for you showing a nameboard with “IOJ Logo” on it.

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.