Ueno Walking Tour: Shrines, Markets and Modern Japan

Tokyo , Japan

Ueno Walking Tour: Shrines, Markets and Modern Japan

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About this experience

Legendary local curry, quirky shopkeeper discounts, sacred shrine boundaries, and the roots of Japan’s modern culture—this tour brings it all together. We’ll share laughs and light moments, but also dive into deep stories about unique traditions and history. Just like Ueno itself, it’s a blend of chaos and sophistication. Join me and experience the real Tokyo!

Available options

Extend Your Experience

Duration: 1 hour: Enjoy one more hour of exploring much deeper streets and architectures that were established before WW2.

Tokyo Was Built With Beliefs: Where Chaos Meets Sophistication

What's included

English-speaking local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

From the postwar black markets to today’s street culture,Ameyoko has been center of Ueno’s most chaotic and colorful alley.Exotic spices,regional snacks and even legendary curry born from Pakistani ingredients,everything is packed in here!!But also people's spirit is something we cannot ignore.Here Ameyoko, getting discount or bonus stuff are not that rare.You can get a discount if you say the magical word.That deep culuture you never experience somewhere else is waiting for you!

Stop 2

Ueno flips the atmosphere inside out — from the chaotic streets of Ameyoko to the calm beauty of Ueno Park.At first glance, Ueno Park looks like just a peaceful place to relax. But did you know this used to be sacred temple land? It was the grounds of Kan’eiji, built to protect Tokyo from bad spirits entering from the northeast — the so-called “demon gate.”

After a civil war in 1868, much of the temple was destroyed. So what did the new government do? Instead of rebuilding the temple, they turned it into Japan’s very first public park. That was a huge shift — from sacred ground to a public space for everyone.

This park became home to Japan’s first zoo, first music school, first national museum... basically, it was the start of Japan’s modern cultural life. A lot happened right here!

So today, when you walk through the trees or visit the museum, you're walking through history — not just old history, but the moment Japan started becoming the country we know today.

What's not included

Food isn’t included in the tour price, but it’s totally up to you! Enjoy curry, croquettes, takoyaki—or skip them. Follow your taste and mood!

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet in front of the statue of Saigo Takamori (the man with a dog), near the Shinobazu Exit of JR Ueno Station.
I’ll be holding a folding fan with a Mt. Fuji design and usually arrive 10 minutes early.

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.