Don't miss a rare chance of cherry blossom viewing along the Sumida river. Stroll on the banks of the Sumida river, a famous cherry blossom viewing spot for centuries. Enjoy the stunning beauty, ambience, and flavour of the blooming cherry trees with the Tokyo Skytree in the background.
After the cherry blossom walk along the river, we will move on to a big-picture history tour to learn Japan. What if one half-day walk in Asakusa could reveal the bigger storey of Japan? This tour goes far beyond sightseeing, using real landmarks to explain not just what you see, but as a gateway to understand Japan’s history, beliefs, and society. With your expert guide, you’ll:
1) Explore Japan’s 300-year isolation and reopening to the world.
2) Understand why Japan chose the Netherlands as its only trading partner when it closed itself.
3) Learn how the 19th-century Japanese art had an impact on the West, especially French impressionists.
4) Discover how Shinto and Buddhism have coexisted for over a millennium, with shared worshippers and a shared influence on everyday life.
5) Compare Japanese and Western symbolism, including dragons.
6) Discover the shared mindsets in Japan and the West a millennium ago.
7) Experience the contrast between the sacred temple and former entertainment districts
8) Explore nostalgic postwar lanes, and streets that evoke Edo-period Japan.
Important notice:
Cherry blossom blooming times vary depending on weather conditions. Depending on the blossom forecast or other factors, you can cancel your reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours before it starts. If the blossom is unavailable, the tour will focus on a big-piecture history tour to learn Japan.