Tokyo : Old Town~Yanaka,Nezu~~Paint Your Own “Lucky Cat”

Step back in time and discover the charming neighborhoods of Yanaka, Nezu, and Ueno Sakuragi on this immersive tour. Beyond the neon lights and skyscrapers, Tokyo’s historic old town still thrives, offering a glimpse into the city’s traditional cultural heritage. Explore iconic shrines and temples, browse lively local markets, and indulge in a unique hands-on experience – painting your very own "Lucky Cat" under the guidance of a skilled artist. This alluring adventure blends the past and present, inviting you to uncover the hidden gems that make Tokyo’s old town truly enchanting.

Good To Know

• A guided 4-hour tour exploring the historical Yanaka, Nezu, and Ueno Sakuragi neighborhoods in Tokyo, including a hands-on activity to paint a Maneki-neko "Lucky Cat" figurine.
• The tour offers an immersive experience of the area’s history, culture, and local attractions, such as Nezu Shrine, Tennoji Temple, and Yanaka Cemetery.
• Participants can enjoy optional activities like visiting Yanaka Beer Hall, exploring the Tomb of the last Tokugawa Shogun, and experiencing the historic Kayaba Coffee Shop.
• The tour is suitable for groups of up to 9 people, with flexible itinerary options and the ability to customize the experience based on individual interests.
• The Maneki-neko painting activity is priced at ¥2,750 and includes a small cat figurine, a drink, and a sweet treat, providing a unique cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

This 4-hour guided tour of Yanaka, Nezu, and Ueno Sakuragi neighborhoods in Tokyo caters to a small group of up to 9 participants.

The tour is offered in English and Japanese, and guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Pricing starts at ¥29.33 per person, with a 20% savings. Children aged 0-3 are free, while 4-12 year-olds pay 50% of the adult rate.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring cash, as many shops only accept cash payments.

The tour involves significant walking and some stairs, so guests should be prepared for a moderately active experience.

Itinerary and Highlights

Tokyo: Old Town Yanaka

Itinerary and Highlights

This immersive tour explores three distinct neighborhoods: Yanaka, Nezu, and Ueno Sakuragi. Guests embark on a journey through Tokyo’s rich cultural heritage, with several highlights along the way.

First, they visit the Nezu Shrine, one of the city’s oldest worship sites. This serene location offers a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions. Next, the tour continues to the Tennoji Temple, renowned for its large bronze seated Buddha, which captivates visitors with its impressive presence.

As the tour progresses, participants stroll through the scenic Yanaka Cemetery, the final resting place of notable figures. This peaceful area is filled with history and beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect spot for reflection.

The adventure continues at Yanaka Ginza, a vibrant shopping street brimming with local street food and souvenirs. Here, guests can indulge in delicious treats and discover unique items to take home.

One of the tour’s highlights is capturing the iconic "sunset staircase" at Yuyake Dandan. This picturesque location is a favorite among photographers and offers a stunning backdrop for memorable photos.

Finally, the tour explores the residential Hebimichi area, showcasing the local lifestyle. Participants get a chance to witness everyday life in this charming neighborhood.

Along the way, guests will also pass by an old bathhouse and the historic Kayaba Coffee Shop, adding to the cultural experience. They’ll also visit Enju-ji Temple, known for its prayers for strong legs, further enriching their understanding of local traditions.

Optional Activities

Beyond the core tour itinerary, participants have the opportunity to choose from a selection of optional activities to further enhance their Yanaka experience.

One option is to paint their own Maneki-neko "Lucky Cat" at an old Japanese house cafe, where they’ll enjoy a small cat figurine with a drink and sweet for £2,750.

Alternatively, visitors can visit the Yanaka Beer Hall for a taste of local craft beer.

For history buffs, they can explore the free-to-enter Tomb of the last Tokugawa Shogun.

Those seeking an authentic coffee experience can reserve a spot at the historic Kayaba Coffee Shop.

Important Information for Participants

Participants will meet at the Nezu Station, specifically at Exit 1, to begin their journey through the historic Yanaka neighborhood.

They should come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves significant walking and some stair climbing. Cash is recommended, as many shops and local establishments only accept cash payments.

Participants should also note that some shops may be closed on the tour day, so flexibility is advised. The tour will provide an immersive experience, allowing participants to explore the area’s rich history and culture:

• Discover Nezu Shrine, one of Tokyo’s oldest worship sites
• Visit the Tennoji Temple and its large bronze seated Buddha
• Stroll through the scenic Yanaka Cemetery
• Explore the charming Yanaka Ginza shopping street
• Capture the iconic "sunset staircase" at Yuyake Dandan

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Tour Options

Alongside the four-hour guided tour, the tour operator offers additional options for travelers seeking a more tailored experience.

For those with less time, there’s a 3.5-hour guided tour that explores the same neighborhoods without the Lucky Cat painting activity.

For a more personalized adventure, the private customized tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off, allowing visitors to curate their itinerary based on their interests.

Whether it’s immersing oneself in the local coffee culture at the historic Kayaba Coffee Shop or simply enjoying the tranquility of the Tomb of the last Tokugawa Shogun, these alternatives provide travelers with the flexibility to craft their perfect Yanaka exploration.

Explore Three Neighborhoods

The tour winds through three distinct neighborhoods – Yanaka, Nezu, and Ueno Sakuragi – each offering a unique glimpse into Tokyo’s old town charm.

Visitors wander the peaceful Yanaka Cemetery, home to the final resting places of notable figures. In Nezu, they marvel at the serene Nezu Shrine, one of the city’s oldest worship sites.

The tour also explores:

• The vibrant Yanaka Ginza, a shopping street filled with local eateries and artisan shops
• The Yuyake Dandan, a picturesque "sunset staircase" perfect for photos
• The residential Hebimichi area, showcasing the local lifestyle
• The Tennoji Temple, featuring a large bronze seated Buddha
• The Enju-ji Temple, known for prayers for strong legs

Visit Key Sites

The tour explores several iconic sites throughout the three neighborhoods.

At the Nezu Shrine, one of Tokyo’s oldest worship sites, visitors can admire the grand Torii gates and serene gardens.

They’ll then visit the Tennoji Temple, whose centerpiece is a large bronze seated Buddha.

The Yanaka Cemetery, with its scenic pathways and notable figures buried, offers a glimpse into Japan’s history.

The lively Yanaka Ginza shopping street presents an opportunity to sample local street food and browse for souvenirs.

The tour also includes a photo stop at the "sunset staircase" of Yuyake Dandan and a walk through the residential Hebimichi area to see everyday local life.

Painting Your Own "Lucky Cat"

Participants can choose to take part in a hands-on activity and paint their own Maneki-neko, the iconic "Lucky Cat" figurine, at an old Japanese house café. This activity is priced at £2,750 and includes a small cat figurine, a drink, and a sweet treat.

The experience allows visitors to:

• Select from a variety of cat designs and colors
• Learn traditional painting techniques from a local artist
• Customize their Maneki-neko to take home as a unique souvenir
• Enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the historic café
• Savor a revitalizing beverage and a delectable Japanese confection

This option provides an engaging and immersive cultural experience, allowing participants to create their own piece of Japanese art to commemorate their Yanaka adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Start and End?

The tour starts at Nezu Station (Exit 1) and lasts for 4 hours. The exact start and end times are not provided, but the duration of the tour is clearly stated as 4 hours.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour is suitable for young children, with those 0-3 years old free and 4-12 years old offered at 50% of the adult price. However, the tour involves significant walking and stairs, so parents should consider their child’s abilities.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Participants have the option to choose one of the listed activities, and the 4-hour Private Customized Tour provides the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to individual interests.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Lucky Cat Painting?

There’s no specific weight limit for the Lucky Cat painting activity. However, participants should be able to comfortably hold and paint the cat figurine, which is typically small. The cafe provides all necessary materials and guidance for the activity.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour, though casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Participants should dress in a way that allows for ease of movement during the significant walking involved.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour through Tokyo’s historic neighborhoods of Yanaka, Nezu, and Ueno Sakuragi offers a unique blend of culture, history, and creativity. Visitors can explore iconic sites, discover vibrant local markets, and even paint their own "Lucky Cat" at a traditional café. It’s an unforgettable adventure that truly captures the charm and essence of Tokyo’s old town.

You can check if your dates are available here: