Sugamo Walking Tour and Takoyaki Making in a Japanese Home

Tokyo , Japan

Sugamo Walking Tour and Takoyaki Making in a Japanese Home

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About this experience

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Experience the charm of Japanese culture with our exciting hands-on Takoyaki-making tour. Guided by professionals, you'll create this iconic Japanese snack while immersing yourself in the warm atmosphere of a traditional Japanese home. From exploring the lively streets of Sugamo to relaxing in a tatami room at Koikoi Land, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and fun. Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers, this unique tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Japan’s everyday life. Book now and make delicious memories!

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Sugamo Walking Tour and Takoyaki Making in a Japanese Home

What's included

The takoyaki-making experience fee is included.

A 500 yen allowance per person for drinks purchased at a supermarket is included

Detailed itinerary

Welcome to Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street, often called "Grandma's Harajuku." This lively 800-meter street has over 200 shops offering traditional goods, food, and souvenirs. You’ll find stores specializing in herbal medicines, kimonos, and red underwear, believed to bring good luck. The street is named after the nearby Togenuki Jizo, a temple many visit for healing.

Sugamo offers a nostalgic atmosphere where you can experience Japan's traditional side, missed in modern tourist spots. Be sure to try local snacks like rice crackers, sweet bean-filled pastries, and the famous salty-sweet shio-daifuku. The locals are friendly, often sharing stories or recommending items.

This street attracts not only elderly visitors but also younger people who appreciate old Tokyo's charm. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or just enjoying the traditional vibe, Jizo-dori offers a special experience of Japanese culture and hospitality.

Togenuki Jizo is a revered temple in Sugamo, known for its healing powers. The temple is home to the Koganji statue, believed to cure illnesses and protect the body. Visitors come from all over Japan to wash the statue with water and pray for good health. This ritual involves pouring water over the statue and gently rubbing the area corresponding to their ailment, hoping for recovery or protection.

The temple’s atmosphere is peaceful and traditional, offering a moment of reflection in the bustling city. While it's popular among elderly visitors seeking health benefits, many younger tourists also visit to experience this unique aspect of Japanese spiritual culture. Whether for health or curiosity, the visit to Togenuki Jizo provides an insight into Japan’s rich religious heritage.

At Koikoi Land, you can enjoy a hands-on takoyaki-making experience. Under the guidance of professionals, you will create this traditional Japanese snack and savor your own freshly made takoyaki. The experience takes place in a relaxing, tatami-style room, allowing you to enjoy the cozy atmosphere of a typical Japanese home. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese food culture while spending a tranquil and enjoyable time in a traditional setting.

I will take you to the meeting point.

What's not included

Additional food and drinks are not included.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point for this tour is in front of the Jizo-dori Shopping Street arch near Sugamo Station. Gather at the large arch marking the entrance. Our guide will hold a sign with our name. The location is easy to find and a short walk from Sugamo 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.