Tokyo: Secrets of Tokyo Hidden Legends & Cultural Property

Take a journey through the hidden legends and cultural treasures of Tokyo. This unique tour invites you to discover the city’s enchanting past, from the architectural wonder of Hotel Gajoen to the romantic tale of Oshichi Wells. Enjoy Japan’s artistic heritage as an expert guide unveils the secrets behind these captivating sites. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Tokyo aficionado, this tour promises to uncover a side of the city that few get to experience.

Contents show

Key Points

This tour offers an in-depth exploration of Tokyo’s historic landmarks, cultural heritage, and architectural marvels, including the Daienji Temple and Hotel Gajoen Tokyo.
Participants will learn about Edo-era fire prevention rituals and the tragic love story of Yaoya Oshichi, providing insights into Japan’s rich cultural history.
The tour includes a visit to the iconic "Hyakudan Staircase" at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, showcasing the country’s artistic heritage and design sensibilities.
The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and lasts 1.5 hours, with a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.
The tour is priced at €75.83 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Tokyo: Secrets of Tokyo Hidden Legends & Cultural Property" tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich heritage and architectural marvels.

Priced at €75.83 per person, the 1.5-hour experience is limited to 10 participants and features a live English-speaking guide.

Visitors can look forward to visiting historic sites, including the Daienji Temple and the Oshichi Wells, as well as the luxurious Hotel Gajoen Tokyo.

The tour includes admission to the hotel’s renowned "Hyakudan Staircase" and an art exhibition.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Tokyo’s hidden gems.

Looking for more options in Tokyo? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can look forward to an immersive journey through Tokyo’s historic landmarks and cultural treasures on this tour.

They’ll explore the historic Daienji Temple, admiring its stone Buddha and learning about Edo fire prevention rituals. At the Oshichi Wells, they’ll uncover the story of a tragic love affair.

The highlight is a visit to the lavish Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, where they’ll marvel at the "Hyakudan Staircase" and discover the blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern luxury throughout the hotel’s interiors.

This tour offers a deeper understanding of Japan’s artistic heritage and architectural beauty.

Inclusions and Additional Information

Although the tour includes admission to the 100-step staircase and shopping fees that vary by store, it’s important to note that this experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year old.

The tour does, however, provide a guide and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Visitors should wear socks for the staircase, as shoes are removed and replaced with slippers.

Photography is restricted, with no flash, lights, tripods, or selfie sticks allowed. The stairway is also not recommended for those with weak legs or backs.

Meeting Point and Directions

Where exactly does the tour meet? The tour meets in front of the Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, Meguro Branch, near Meguro Station.

There are a few important things to keep in mind:

Wear socks for the 100-step staircase, as shoes must be removed and replaced with slippers.
No flash, lights, tripods, or selfie sticks are allowed.
The stairway isn’t suitable for individuals with weak legs or backs.
Be on time, as the tour starts promptly and won’t wait for latecomers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cultural Insights

This tour blends history, culture, and relaxation, providing a deeper understanding of Japan’s artistic heritage and architectural beauty.

Guests will explore Daienji Temple, established in 1624, and learn about its unique Edo-era fire prevention rituals.

The tour also delves into the story of Yaoya Oshichi, a tragic tale of forbidden love, at the Oshichi Wells.

Finally, the luxurious Hotel Gajoen Tokyo showcases the harmonious integration of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, inviting visitors to appreciate the nation’s artistic legacy.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the cultural richness and architectural wonders of Tokyo.

There's plenty more to explore in Tokyo

Historic Daienji Temple

Established in 1624, Daienji Temple is a historic site that holds a special place in Tokyo’s cultural heritage.

Visitors to this storied temple can:

Admire the impressive stone Buddha statue, a testament to the region’s rich Buddhist traditions.
Witness the captivating Edo-era fire prevention rituals, offering a glimpse into the past.
Explore the temple’s serene grounds, which provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city.
Learn about the temple’s role in the story of Yaoya Oshichi, a tragic love affair that has become a beloved part of Japanese folklore.

Oshichi Wells and Love Story

What is the connection between the Oshichi Wells and the tragic love story that has become part of Japanese folklore? The Oshichi Wells are linked to the tale of Oshichi, a young woman who fell in love with a temple page and set fire to their temple in hopes of seeing him again. Sadly, Oshichi was executed for arson, her love deemed a crime. Today, visitors can explore the wells and imagine the heartbreak that unfolded here centuries ago. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the power and perils of young love.

Oshichi	Love Story	Tragedy
Young woman	Fell in love	Executed for arson
Visited the wells	With temple page	Deemed a crime
Part of folklore	Set fire to temple	Heartbreak unfolded

Hotel Gajoen Tokyo and Its Architectural Beauty

The Hotel Gajoen Tokyo is a marvel of architectural beauty, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern luxury.

This stunning hotel offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Some highlights include:

The "Hyakudan Staircase," a grand 100-step ornate stairway adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.
Impressive art exhibitions showcasing the work of renowned Japanese artists.
Exquisite interiors that showcase the finest in traditional Japanese design, from delicate shoji screens to meticulously crafted woodwork.
A unique blend of historic charm and contemporary sophistication that makes the Hotel Gajoen Tokyo a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the secrets of Tokyo.

Things To Know

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year old. There is no minimum age requirement stated, but the tour may not be appropriate for very young children due to the nature of the activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour materials indicate that the tour package only includes the tour guide, admission fees, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. Bringing outside food and drinks is not permitted.

Is There Any Photography Allowed During the Tour?

No, flash, lights, tripods, and selfie sticks aren’t allowed during the tour. However, you can take photos without using those devices to capture the historic sites and architectural beauty you’ll explore.

What Is the Dress Code for This Cultural Tour?

The tour requires socks and slippers rather than shoes. Guests must remove their shoes when visiting the 100-step staircase. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking.

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues. It requires walking up a 100-step staircase, and the tour provider advises it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with weak legs or backs.

Sum Up

Discover the hidden gems of Tokyo on this captivating tour. Enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the historic Daienji Temple to the romantic tale of Oshichi Wells. Marvel at the architectural beauty of Hotel Gajoen Tokyo and gain insights into Japan’s artistic traditions. Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the secrets of Tokyo’s legendary sites.