Old Town Tokyo Food Tour – Daytime

Escape the towering skyscrapers and busy streets and step into Yanaka, a hidden gem where Tokyo’s past lingers in every quiet alley and family-run shop. This nostalgic district, untouched by time, invites you to slow down and savor a side of the city that many travelers never see. Strolling through the charming streets, you’ll feel the contrast—where the hum of the modern metropolis fades into a peaceful, community-driven atmosphere filled with warmth and tradition. Enjoy a local shopping street and a relaxed morning tour during your Japan Journey.

Along the way, you’ll taste your way through generations of culinary craftsmanship, from crispy, golden croquettes made fresh at a beloved local shop to savory yakitori sizzling over charcoal. Discover the depth of umami in handcrafted snacks, prepared using techniques passed down for decades, and experience flavors that reflect the enduring spirit of post-war Tokyo.

The highlight of your journey? A serene matcha green tea ceremony, where time slows as you sip this vibrant, hand-whisked elixir, paired with delicate wagashi—traditional sweets that embody the changing seasons of Japan. It’s a moment of harmony, reflection, and connection, offering a glimpse into Japan’s deep-rooted traditions.

See a different side of Tokyo—one rich with history, flavor, and heart. This is Yanaka, where every bite and every step tells a story.

Single travelers: please email us directly and let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Family-friendly pricing: If you are traveling with children and need a price adjustment- please email our team at Bookings@ArigatoJapan.co.jp.

Tour Highlights:

• 3 hour tour of Tokyo’s Yanaka (Yanesen) District
• Visit small shops and try local specialties.
• Enjoy a delicious regional lunch.
• See how the Yanaka area is a great place for locals and visitors alike.
• Explore the art community and see wonderful galleries housed in traditional buildings.
• Finish up with a wonderful traditional tea ceremony in a hidden gem antique shop.

Private Tours: For a more customized experience, make your tour private for an additional ¥19,500. (min. 2 people). Please click the add-on button on your cart when you check out.

Strict start time policy:  We are sorry to say that if you are not able to arrive at the meeting point by the departure time, we will need to start the tour regardless and no refund can be provided. We are also unable to accommodate meeting up at any of the food stops. This is to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all guests and also to respect our relationships with restaurants.

5-minute grace period: We can only wait an additional five minutes after the starting time and then the tour will depart. In addition, please note that we cannot give directions or contact the guides on the phone once the tour begins.

Tour Schedule:

Changes on tours: Applicable substitutions may be made due to public holidays, weather conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances.

For Vegetarians: 

Some food that we serve may have dashi, a soup stock made from kelp (seaweed) and bonito (skipjack tuna) as well as other ingredients. Dashi is the cornerstone of Japanese cuisine and is used in many/most Japanese dishes. Please note that we may not be able to accommodate your dietary needs if you cannot consume dashi. Additionally, please inform us if you can eat eggs and dairy products.

If you cannot consume Dashi, we recommend booking a private tour with us and we can offer some alternatives. Again, be aware, it will still be a challenge to 100% avoid fish stock.

For this tour, it is possible (with advanced notice at the time of booking) to make adjustments to support the following dietary restrictions:

Please keep in mind, however, that we cannot make an allergy-free or dietary restriction food guarantee since food is prepared in kitchens that do not belong to Arigato Japan. Also, some stops may not have a viable substitution but we will make every effort to compensate at different stops throughout the tour.

TRAVEL BLOGGER Tested and Approved!

Luxury traveler Pierre reviews our Old Town Tokyo Food Tour and gives it top marks. Read his review here.

“what3words has given every 3 meter square in the world a unique combination of three words. We use what3words to specify the exact location of our tour meeting points to ensure you don’t get lost and enjoy your tour with us. Simply click on the what3words address below to see the exact 3 meter square of our meeting spot”

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The front of Coffee Room Renoir Nippori – Yanaka

Meeting Point Old Town Tokyo Food Tour

Address:

7-20-6 Yanaka, 1st Floor 

東京都台東区谷中7-20-6 谷中ホ－ムズ 1F

BY TRAIN:

The easiest way is to come on the JR Yamanote train to Nippori Station and exit from the North Gate to the West Exit.

Head outside and across the bridge up the hill about to the Coffee Shop. The Cafe is next to a 7/11.

Our guide will be there holding an “Arigato Travel” sign.

We suggest wearing comfortable shoes as there will be walking involved.

WEATHER REMINDER: 
On rainy days, we recommend bringing an umbrella. They can be easily purchased at any convenience store.