Tokyo: Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street Walking Tour

Tokyo’s Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street is a culinary treasure trove, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant food culture. From traditional kitchenware to handcrafted knives, this guided walking tour promises an immersive experience, where visitors can witness the artistry behind Japanese craftsmanship and sample local sake. Whether you’re a passionate cook or simply curious about the region’s rich culinary heritage, this tour provides an opportunity to explore a fascinating slice of Tokyo’s gastronomic landscape.

Key Points

• A 2-hour walking tour of Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street in Asakusa, known as "Kitchen Town" of Tokyo, showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
• Opportunities to visit specialty shops, witness craftsmanship, and sample local sake, providing an immersive cultural experience.
• Guided tours available in Japanese, English, and German, with stops at hidden gems and lesser-known spots off the beaten path.
• Priced from 477 CZK per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without immediate payment.
• Starts at Wawaramachi metro station, exit 3, and culminates at the Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya Kappabashi Showroom and Musashi Japan Knife & Sake Shop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street walking tour is a 2-hour activity that allows participants to explore the hidden gems of Asakusa.

Available in Japanese, English, and German, the tour is likely to sell out. Priced from Kč 477 per person, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve a spot without immediate payment.

During the tour, visitors will visit several specialty shops, including Dengama, Majimaya, and Musashi Japan Knife & Sake Shop, where they can experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship and purchase unique tableware and souvenirs.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting from the Wawaramachi metro station, exit 3, the walking tour takes visitors through several highlights on Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street.

The tour includes stops at Dengama, known for its diverse selection of kitchenware, and Majimaya, a long-established store offering traditional Japanese tableware.

Visitors can also explore TSUCHI-YA Glassware and Crafts, Hashitou, and Iidaya, each showcasing unique artisanal wares.

The tour culminates at the Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya Kappabashi Showroom and Musashi Japan Knife & Sake Shop, where participants can witness the craftsmanship behind Japanese knives and sample local sake.

Unique Features

This walking tour offers several unique features that set it apart. Participants can explore hidden spots in Asakusa and purchase tableware and souvenirs exclusive to Kappabashi.

Visitors will also experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship, including:

1. Knives made using samurai sword techniques
2. Rare mizu-quenching technique knives
3. Guided tours through each stop, providing insights into the history and methods of the shops
4. A 15-minute walk between each stop, allowing time to absorb the atmosphere and shop at a leisurely pace.

These exclusive elements create an immersive cultural experience that’s difficult to find elsewhere.

Starting Location and Meeting Point

The walking tour starts at Wawaramachi metro station, exit 3. This is the designated meeting point where the tour guide will be holding a sign stating GetYourGuide. Once gathered, the group will embark on the 2-hour walking exploration of Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street.

Starting Location	Meeting Point
Wawaramachi metro station	Guide holding GetYourGuide sign
Exit 3	–

The tour covers several highlights along the way, including visits to Dengama, Majimaya, TSUCHI-YA Glassware and Crafts, and other unique shops. Participants will have the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship and purchase exclusive tableware and souvenirs during this captivating walking tour.

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Guided Tour Experience

What can visitors expect during the guided walking tour of Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street? The tour guides lead guests through this vibrant commercial district, showcasing the area’s unique offerings. The experience includes:

1. Intimate guided tours of specialty shops, where visitors can witness traditional Japanese craftsmanship firsthand.

2. Opportunities to browse and purchase exclusive tableware, kitchenware, and souvenirs found only in Kappabashi.

3. Insights into the history and significance of this renowned shopping destination, known as the "Kitchen Town" of Tokyo.

4. A chance to explore hidden gems and lesser-known spots off the beaten path.

Throughout the 2-hour tour, guests enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Tokyo.

Shopping Opportunities

Visitors can expect a wealth of shopping opportunities during the guided walking tour of Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street.

From handcrafted knives and unique tableware to quirky food samples, the area offers an array of exclusive, Japan-made products.

Stops at renowned shops like Tsubaya Cutlery and the Ganso Shokuhin Sample-ya showroom allow travelers to browse high-quality kitchenware and discover the art of samurai-inspired knife making.

The tour also highlights hidden gems, such as TSUCHI-YA Glassware and Crafts, where guests can find rare glass pieces.

With ample time at each location, visitors can shop to their heart’s content.

Traditional Japanese Craftsmanship

As visitors explore the Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street, they’ll have the opportunity to witness the traditional Japanese craftsmanship that has defined the area for generations.

From the intricate blade-making techniques used by Musashi Japan Knife & Sake Shop to the delicate glass-blowing artistry of TSUCHI-YA Glassware and Crafts, the tour showcases the mastery of Japanese artisans.

Visitors can:

1. Watch skilled knife-makers apply the same principles as samurai sword-makers to create razor-sharp blades.
2. Observe the mesmerizing mizu-quenching technique, where knives are tempered using water.
3. Marvel at the precision and artistry of hand-crafted glass tableware.
4. Gain insight into the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional Japanese crafts.

Booking and Practical Information

Booking the Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street walking tour is a straightforward process.

Simply select your desired date and time, then choose the number of participants. The tour is likely to sell out, so it’s best to reserve your spot in advance.

While the cost is from 477 CZK per person, you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.

The meeting point is Wawaramachi metro station, exit 3, where you’ll find the tour guide holding a GetYourGuide sign.

Transportation to the starting location isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your own way there.

Things To Know

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?

The tour is generally accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers. However, some of the narrow streets and shops may present challenges. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator for specific accessibility details.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Shops?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos inside the shops during the tour, but they should be respectful and ask for permission first. Some shops may have restrictions on photography for privacy or commercial reasons.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, as it involves walking and shopping at various stores along the Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street. Participants can enjoy the guided experience regardless of their age.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to enjoy the local cuisine and specialty shops along the walking route. Eating and drinking are generally allowed during the stops, but not during the walking portions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The walking tour is a fixed 2-hour experience, but you can explore the shops on your own after the guided portion ends if you’d like to spend more time shopping.

Sum Up

Enjoy Tokyo’s vibrant culinary culture on the Kappabashi Dougu Shopping Street Walking Tour. Explore specialty shops showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship, from exquisite kitchenware to unique glassware. Witness the artistry behind Japanese knives and sample local sake, while gaining insights into the area’s rich culinary heritage. With a convenient booking process and flexible cancellation policy, this immersive experience provides an unparalleled glimpse into Tokyo’s renowned "Kitchen Town."

You can check availability for your dates here: