Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine & Shogun Temple Special-Access Tour

5.0 (6 reviews) 3 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

6 reviews

5.0

Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine & Shogun Temple Special-Access Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine & Shogun Temple Special-Access Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Delve into Tokyo's rich spiritual heritage on this 3.5-hour walking tour. Begin at the serene Meiji Shrine, where the deep connections between Shinto beliefs and the Imperial Family come to life. Explore the historic Imperial Palace, home to the remnants of Edo Castle, and uncover Japan's political history. The tour also brings you to the significant Zojoji Temple, a key site for the Shogun family, juxtaposed against the dynamic Tokyo Tower. A local expert guides you through these landmarks, merging cultural insights with contemporary relevance.

3.5-hour walking tour exploring Tokyo's spiritual landmarks
Visit the iconic Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace, and Zojoji Temple in one half-day
Special access: Morning tour features entry to the Tokugawa Shoguns’ cemetery
Special access: Afternoon option includes observing a traditional Buddhist evening service

-Hear how Japan's power passed from the Shogun to the Emperor

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At a glance

Duration: 3 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: Japanese, English
Operated by: EXT Tours

Ages: Infants (0–4 years) · Children (5–14 years) · Adults (15–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Morning tour: entry to the Tokugawa Shogun cemetery (fee covered)
Included: Local English-speaking Friendly guide with deep knowledge
Included: Entrance fees: Entrance fee of Tokugawa Shogun’s cemetery and Buddhist evening ceremony
Included: Afternoon tour: guided participation in the monks’ evening buddhist service

Not included

Not included: Your Public Transportation fees(train fee: ¥390 per person).
Not included: Food and Drinks

Itinerary

Meiji Jingu Shrine

1 h 10 min

Discover the history, traditions, and spiritual significance of Meiji Jingu Shrine with a knowledgeable local guide. As you walk through the peaceful forested grounds, you'll learn about Shinto beliefs, the shrine's history, and its importance in Japanese culture.

Your guide will explain the proper etiquette for visiting a Shinto shrine, including how to purify yourself, make an offering, and pray respectfully. If you'd like to purchase omamori (good luck charms), ema (wooden prayer plaques), or other souvenirs, your guide will explain their meanings and help you choose one.

Although this is a group tour, you're always welcome to ask questions during the experience. Your guide will be happy to answer them and share additional insights about Japanese culture and traditions, making your visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine both enjoyable and meaningful.
Imperial Palace

1 h 10 min

Discover the fascinating history of the Imperial Palace, the former site of Edo Castle, with a knowledgeable local guide. As you explore the grounds, you'll learn about the Tokugawa shogunate, the samurai era, and the transformation of the castle into part of today's Imperial Palace.

Beyond its rich history, you'll also experience the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens, peaceful landscapes, and seasonal flowers and trees that change throughout the year. Every visit offers a different perspective, from cherry blossoms in spring to colorful autumn leaves.

Although this is a group tour, you're always welcome to ask questions along the way. Your guide will be happy to answer them and share insights into Japanese history, culture, and daily life, making your visit both informative and memorable.
Zojo-ji

1 h 10 min

Discover Zojoji Temple, one of Tokyo's most important Buddhist temples and a true hidden gem that remains loved by locals but is still overlooked by many international visitors. Explore its rich history, learn about Japanese Buddhism, and discover its deep connection to the Tokugawa shogunate with a knowledgeable local guide.

Your guide will explain temple etiquette, Buddhist traditions, and the meanings behind the temple's architecture and cultural symbols.

Depending on your tour time, you'll enjoy a special experience exclusive to this tour:

9:00 AM Tour: Exclusive access to the Tokugawa Shogun Mausoleum, normally closed to the public.

2:00 PM Tour: Join a special 10-minute Buddhist prayer ceremony led by the temple's monks.

Although this is a group tour, you're always welcome to ask questions throughout the experience. Enjoy a unique side of Tokyo where centuries of history meet the modern skyline of Tokyo Tower.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Your assigned guide will contact you directly three days before the tour to confirm the meeting details.

The meeting point is conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from either JR Harajuku Station (Meiji Jingu Exit) or Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) Station (Exit 2).