Hidden Tokyo: Ogikubo Walking Tour with Local Ramen Culture
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Ogikubo, one of Tokyo’s ramen capitals, on a relaxed local walking tour. Learn how ramen culture shaped the neighborhood and enjoy a bowl of authentic Ogikubo-style ramen loved by locals.
Led by a licensed English-speaking Japanese guide who lives in the area, this tour explores everyday Tokyo through its ramen culture and local history. The route is short, flat, and slow-paced, ideal for travelers who want a calm, authentic experience away from the crowds.
⚫︎ Explore one of Tokyo’s ramen capitals on foot
⚫︎ Learn the story behind Ogikubo’s ramen culture
⚫︎ Enjoy authentic Ogikubo-style ramen loved by locals
⚫︎ Walk at a relaxed pace through a local neighborhood
Available options
Ogikubo walking tour
What's included
One bowl of local Ogikubo-style ramen (or equivalent food item)
Licensed English-speaking Japanese guide
Cultural explanations and local insights
Guided walking tour of Ogikubo
Detailed itinerary
1
Stroll through one of Tokyo’s most beautiful hidden gardens, originally the private residence of a music critic. Enjoy the peaceful pond, seasonal scenery, and classic Japanese landscaping.
2
Explore this elegant garden and historic residence connected to Japanese literature and haiku culture. Optional matcha tea experience available depending on the day.
3
Walk through Ogikubo Ginza and its surrounding backstreets, including remnants of postwar barrack-style alleys. Learn how these streets developed after WWII, why small family-run shops survived here, and how everyday local life still thrives away from major tourist areas. This area offers a rare look at Tokyo’s layered history—from reconstruction to modern neighborhood life.
4
Visit a classic ramen shop known to locals. Your guide explains ramen culture, ordering etiquette, and the history of Tokyo-style soy sauce ramen. If the main shop is crowded, an excellent local alternative will be chosen.
5
Explore the charming "Kyokai-dori" (Church Street). It’s a nostalgic maze of independent bakeries, tea shops, and vegetable stands. You’ll see the "real" Tokyo lifestyle away from the crowds.
6
The tour finishes near Ogikubo Station. Optional guidance to local supermarkets or cafés is available for guests interested in daily Japanese life.
What's not included
Gratuities
Transportation to/from Ogikubo Station
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour operates rain or shine
Ramen shop selection may change due to wait times
Comfortable walking shoes recommended
Meeting point
Lumine Ogikubo Main Entrance (JR Ogikubo East Exit). Look for the guide with a neck strap.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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