Sangenjaya Back Alleys Private Food and Drink Tour

Tokyo , Japan

Sangenjaya Back Alleys Private Food and Drink Tour

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About this experience

•Private, fully inclusive and customizable experience.
•Explore the narrow lantern lit back alleys of funky Sangenjaya, a central neighbourhood not often visited by tourists.
• Try traditional foods such as kushikatsu, charcoal grilled meat, sashimi and much more.
• Cook your own okonomiyaki or monjayaki in a local institution.
• Visit three off the beaten track izakayas specially selected by your guide.
• Meet the locals in a tiny but raucous kushikatsu standing bar.
• Try unusual Japanese drinks such as Hoppy, shochu and sake.
• Experience Tokyo's real nightlife away from the tourist crowds.
• Eat and drink what you like.
• Flexible start times.

Available options

Sangenjaya Back Alleys Private Food and Drink Tour

What's included

Guided tour of Sangenjaya

Visit three off the beaten track izakayas where you'll experience a wide variety of dishes

Dinner

Try a minimum of 10 delicious Japanese delicacies recommended by your guide

Experience an array of traditional drinks including beer, sake, shochu, hoppy and umeshu

Detailed itinerary

Spend the evening in the funky and charming neighborhood of Sangenjaya (just 5 minutes from Shibuya).

Explore the area's labyrinth of tiny lantern lit back alleys packed with tiny and hidden bars, restaurants and izakayas.

Experience 3 different Japanese cuisines in 3 different izakayas during the course of the night with a local guide.

Learn how to cook okonomiyaki and monjayaki in a local institution.

Get friendly with the locals in a tiny but raucous Kushikatsu bar while enjoying delicious kushikatsu and trying the retro drink 'Hoppy'

Try delicious seafood and nihonshu in hidden sake restaurant.

Get the real taste of Japanese food culture away from the tourist crowds on this 4 hour all inclusive food and drink tour of one of Tokyo 'best kept secret' neighborhoods.

What's not included

Transport to and from Sangen-jaya station.

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

47 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

69 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The legal drinking age: in Japan is 20. Soft drinks will be served to those under the age of 20

Dietary Requirements: Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements and we will make sure you are catered to.

Sharing: We will be experiencing izakaya the Japanese way and so sharing plates between the group. (Don't worry you will be full!)

Group Size: To keep things friendly and allow us access to some of the smaller and more unique places we prefer to keep group sizes from 2-6 people although we are able to cater to large groups to

Smoking is permitted in most bars and restaurants in Japan and therefore we don't advise pregnant travelers to join this tour

There will be some light walking involved on this tour through narrow back streets so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Solo travelers are very welcome

Meeting point

We will meet you in front of the ticket gates at the central exit of Sangenjaya station and will provide detailed instructions on how to reach Sangenjaya from your accommodation a few days before the tour.

Important notes

・Children

Children 12 or under go for free.

・Large Groups

Large groups are welcome. We aim to offer an intimate experience so the tour may be altered to fit your group. Please contact us for more information.

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.