Onsen Spa in Tokyo and Asakusa Bar Hopping with Local Guide

If you’re looking to step away from the bustling city streets and experience a more authentic, relaxing side of Tokyo, this tour offers a compelling blend of traditional onsen bathing and vibrant bar hopping in Asakusa. Although it’s a half-day experience, it packs enough culture, comfort, and fun to satisfy travelers craving both relaxation and local flavor. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Japanophile, this tour delivers a taste of Tokyo’s hidden gems with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

What makes this experience truly appealing? First, the hot spring experience promises a peaceful escape amid Tokyo’s urban landscape. Second, the visit to Hoppy Street offers a lively dive into local drinking culture, far from touristy spots. Third, the walking tour around Asakusa introduces you to a nostalgic neighborhood full of charm and history. The only caveat? The onsen’s strict tatoo restrictions might require some planning if you have visible ink. This tour suits travelers seeking a relaxing, authentic, and culturally rich half-day adventure in Tokyo.

Good To Know

• Authentic Onsen Experience: Relax in a traditional Japanese hot spring and learn proper onsen etiquette.
• Local Food & Drinks: Enjoy a meal on Hoppy Street with Japanese alcohol, offering a genuine taste of Tokyo’s casual dining scene.
• Cultural Walk: Explore the retro streets of Asakusa, discovering its history and vibrant street life.
• Knowledgeable Guide: The tour is led by local experts, making the experience insightful and personalized.
• Flexibility: Tours are customizable, and all fees except for entrance and restaurant costs are included.
• Value for Money: At $174, the experience provides a well-rounded, authentic taste of Tokyo’s leisure culture.

This tour is carefully designed to give you a snapshot of how Tokyo locals unwind after work or on weekends. Starting at Ryogoku Station West Exit, you’ll meet your guide—Takeshi, who receives high praise for his friendly and informative manner. He’ll give a quick briefing on onsen manners, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared for your soak, especially if you’re new to Japan’s bathing etiquette.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Hot Spring (Onsen) Experience

The first stop is Edoyu, a renowned local Japanese onsen just a five-minute walk from Ryogoku Station. Our reviews highlight how the hot spring melts away travel fatigue, with Alfred praising it as “an amazing opportunity to relax completely, with the hot water easing away all stress.” The onsen offers both bedrock baths and traditional hot baths, providing a soothing experience that’s perfect for warming up during cooler seasons or just taking a break from sightseeing.

For privacy reasons, the guide does not enter the onsen with you, respecting your space. Tattoos are a common concern in Japanese baths, with restrictions on visible ink, but the guide offers discreet advice and alternatives for small tattoos. This aspect is crucial for travelers who might worry about restrictions; a little planning can make the experience smooth.

Asakusa and Hoppy Street

Post-onsen, you’ll stroll towards Asakusa’s famous Hoppy Street, a lively alley lined with cozy izakayas, bars, and eateries. Here, the focus shifts from relaxation to enjoyment. You’ll indulge in local dishes and sample Japanese alcoholic beverages—think of it as a casual, authentic way to toast to your trip.

One reviewer, Peko, describes the sashimi at the final izakaya as “possibly the best I’ve had on this trip,” emphasizing the high quality of food on this street. The street’s relaxed vibe offers an excellent opportunity to observe Tokyo’s casual drinking culture, far from the tourist-heavy spots.

Exploring Asakusa’s Retro Charm

Along With the bar hopping, your guide takes you on a walk around tour of Asakusa, a neighborhood famous for its traditional atmosphere. Expect to see nostalgic shops, historic temples, and lively street scenes that have remained largely unchanged for decades. The combination of sights, sounds, and smells provides an immersive experience that makes you feel like a local.

Practical Details & Tips

The entire tour lasts about 6 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. The price of $174 covers your guided experience, the onsen briefing, and visits to Hoppy Street, though entry fees for the onsen and restaurant bills are paid separately.

It’s worth noting that the tour is private, making it ideal for those who prefer a more personalized experience. The tour can also be customized to suit your preferences, whether you want more walking, extra time at the onsen, or specific dietary requests.

Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking around the historic streets and exploring different venues. Remember, if you have tattoos, you’ll want to plan ahead to cover or minimize their visibility.

At $174 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Tokyo’s leisure culture. It combines relaxation, cultural insight, and local cuisine into one manageable half-day adventure, ideal for travelers with limited time or those seeking a more genuine connection with the city.

The hot spring provides real relaxation, not just a superficial spa treatment, and the guided walk ensures you gain insights into the neighborhood’s history and modern-day life. The bar hopping element adds a social, lively aspect that contrasts beautifully with the serenity of the onsen.

What really sets this tour apart is the knowledgeable guide—Takeshi’s positive reviews reflect his ability to make guests feel welcome and well-informed, sharing insider tips that enhance the experience. The inclusion of a briefing on onsen etiquette is particularly helpful for first-timers, ensuring you feel comfortable and respectful of local customs.

This tour is perfect for relaxation seekers wanting to experience a traditional Japanese onsen within Tokyo, especially during colder months. It’s also ideal for food lovers and culture explorers eager to see a different side of Tokyo beyond the skyscrapers and shopping districts.

Travelers interested in authentic local experiences, rather than touristy attractions, will find this tour rewarding. It’s also great for those traveling in a private group who appreciate a flexible itinerary and tailored approach.

However, if you have large tattoos or require a very strict privacy environment, you should plan accordingly, as tattoos are prohibited in some onsens and the guide does not accompany you inside the bath.

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Japan?
Yes, it’s a great introduction to Tokyo’s relaxing side, with clear guidance on onsen etiquette and a friendly guide to help you navigate.

How much does the onsen entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay separately at the onsen location.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, and you can request specific preferences or additional stops, depending on your interests.

What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended, as you’ll be walking around the neighborhood and visiting different venues.

Are there any restrictions for tattoos?
Yes, tattoos are generally prohibited in the onsen, but the guide can advise you on ways to hide small tattoos or offer alternatives.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, with starting times varying based on availability.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, the activity is not recommended for pregnant women, mainly due to the onsen baths.

This Onsen Spa in Tokyo and Asakusa Bar Hopping experience provides a genuine taste of Japan’s relaxing traditions combined with vibrant local culture. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing, seeking meaningful, authentic moments that they will remember long after returning home.

The blend of soothing hot springs, delicious street food, and nostalgic neighborhood walks makes it a well-balanced and value-packed tour. The knowledgeable guide, flexible approach, and focus on local customs elevate this from a typical tour to a truly immersive experience.

Whether you’re looking to unwind from your busy travel schedule or want to connect more deeply with Tokyo’s everyday life, this tour offers a perfect half-day escape into Japan’s tranquil and lively sides.