Tokyo , Japan

Samurai Heritage Walk in Sakura

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private tour offers an intimate way to explore Japanese history and culture at a relaxed, unhurried pace.
With personalized guidance, you will begin by gaining an overview of Japan’s history at a national museum, then stroll through former samurai residences and historic streets, discovering how warriors lived and shaped daily life.
The experience includes a purification ritual at a shrine once revered as the guardian of the Sakura Domain, as well as viewing a traditional portable shrine connected to local faith and festivals.
Designed for small groups, this tour goes beyond standard sightseeing, providing a thoughtful and immersive introduction to Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

[Schedule]

9:00 Meet your guide at Keisei Sakura Station
9:30–11:30 National Museum of Japanese History
12:15–13:00 Samurai Residence Tour
13:00–14:00 Lunch (Soba at Boshuya)
14:00–15:00 Magata Shrine
15:00–15:30 Tsukamoto Museum of Art
16:00 Finish at Keisei Sakura Station

Available options

Samurai Heritage Walk in Sakura

What's included

Admission fee (history museum, samurai residence)

Guide fee(English-Speaking)

Lunch at Bōshūya (Sakura City) offers a simple, traditional soba meal enjoyed by locals, providing a relaxed break and a taste of everyday Japanese food culture.

Detailed itinerary

The National Museum of Japanese History (Sakura, Chiba) is one of Japan’s leading museums for exploring the country’s history and cultural heritage in a comprehensive and experiential way.
Through authentic artifacts and carefully reconstructed exhibits, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of how everyday life, society, and traditions in Japan have evolved over time.
It serves as an ideal “gateway” to learning about Japanese history and culture, enriching later walks and cultural experiences with greater context and insight.

At the Sakura Samurai Residences (Bukeyashiki Street), visitors can explore former residences where samurai of the Sakura Domain lived during the Edo period, gaining insight into their daily lives, social structure, and samurai culture.
The simple, functional architecture and gardens reflect the values and everyday life of the samurai, offering a more personal and approachable way to understand Japanese history.
This area provides an important opportunity to connect knowledge gained at museums with the actual historic streetscape, making history tangible through a real-world setting.

Hiyodorizaka Slope (Sakura City)
Take a walk along this historic slope leading toward the former Sakura Castle town. Once used by samurai during the Edo period, the path still retains its original atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery. With its stone steps and seasonal scenery, it is also a popular photo spot, offering a picturesque setting as you make your way toward Sakura Castle Park while experiencing the charm and history of the castle town.

Magata Shrine (Sakura, Chiba) is a historic Shinto shrine that was revered as the guardian shrine of the Sakura Domain during the Edo period.
This tour includes a purification ritual (prayer ceremony) conducted by a Shinto priest, offering firsthand insight into the Japanese concept of ritual cleansing and prayer.
Visitors will also view the shrine’s portable shrine (mikoshi) on display, learning about the history of local festivals and regional faith.

Tsukamoto Museum of Art
Visit a private museum dedicated to Japanese swords and samurai culture. The collection features authentic Japanese swords from the Muromachi to Edo periods, along with sword mountings and related objects. Through close-up viewing, guests can appreciate the refined craftsmanship, beauty, and historical significance of Japanese sword-making in a quiet and intimate setting.

What's not included

Transportation cost to Sakura Station

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meeting Time: Please meet your guide at JR Sakura Station at 9:00 AM.
Our guide will be waiting for you at the ticket gate of Keisei Sakura Station.
There is only one ticket gate, so it’s easy to find.
Look for an “ORU Trip” sign or card held by your guide.

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.