Samurai Outlaws, Crime & Punishment Tokyo Offbeat Tour

Tokyo , Japan

Samurai Outlaws, Crime & Punishment Tokyo Offbeat Tour

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About this experience

Kabuki, swordsmanship, ukiyo-e, jujutsu, sword appraisal, Western medicine, ghosts, drugs, and even outcasts of society—during the Edo period, one place connected them all. That place, central to Edo culture, was the execution grounds.

■ Punishment and Execution Grounds: The Birthplace of Japanese Culture
When we think of Japanese punishment, seppuku comes to mind, but Edo punishments went far beyond. On this tour, we follow the path of a young samurai executed for murdering over 130 people, visiting his crime scenes and the northern and southern execution grounds of Tokyo. We will see towering statues that witnessed executions, giant memorials for the condemned, pedestals once used in executions, and wells where severed heads were washed.

We will uncover how these grim places shaped the very heart of Japanese culture.

Want more insider stories, culture deep-dives, and Japan life tips?

Available options

Samurai Outlaws, Crime & Punishment Tokyo Offbeat Tour

What's included

Guided tour

Detailed itinerary

Learn about the infamous execution grounds active during the Edo period and see the peaceful jizo that watched over the condemned. Learn about how it played an integral part in bringing wester learning and medicine to Japan, as well as how the generational executioners contributed.

Visit the throw in temple, where the bodies of those who lived on the edges of society were discarded after they were no longer useful in the eyes of society.

Visit the grounds of the former Kodenmacho prison and learn about the daily life of prisoners, what they did to end up there, as well as the flow from arrest, interrogation, to verdict.

There are periodically special exhibitions nearby, such as ukiyo-e showcases. We will visit if time permits.

Visit the lower execution site, the stage of the last infamous fight of Hirai Gonpachi and the final stop of where the mist notorious criminals were paraded before they were executed in different ways. Many artifacts used are still there.

What's not included

There will be a stop for lunch with many choices of restaurants, so please bring cash, as not all restaurants take credit or digital money.

We will be using public transportation to travel to some stops on the tour, so please bring budget about ¥1000 per person in your group. This is done to avoid overcharging smaller groups.

There will be souvenir and refreshment opportunities along the way, so please bring cash for souvenir shops, convenience stores, and vending machines if you would like to purchase something.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We will meet you outside if the McDonald's. We will have a Japan B sign.

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.