Our time spent with Rafael was excellent. It is not always that one has the opportunity to share and learn from someone with so much knowledge and will to share it. Learning from someonw who moved to Tokio for the love of the country and following a dream to learn from a master in his desired professional field is a real treat. His knowledge of history, architecture, art, and his fabulous way to communicate and teach make the experience unique and extremely enjoyable. ¡Gracias Rafael!
Introduction to Tokyo Tour, with Imperial Palace Gardens and Nihonbashi
Get acquainted with Tokyo and its history with a leading expert
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Imperial Palace Gardens
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Tokyo Station
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Nihonbashi Bridge
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Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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GratuitiesWe encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Food and drinkRefreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
This walk usually covers at least 3 miles overall at a moderate pace. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the bathroom, and get something to drink if needed.
The visit includes only the gardens, without any buildings. Furthermore, the gardens are generally closed twice a week, so the guide reserves the freedom to replace this stop with another venue or point of interest.
Context clients generally tip anywhere from 10-25% of the purchase price of a personal service such as this, depending on the quality of the experience and their tipping habits.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Wheelchair accessibility
- The Imperial Palace Gardens are partially wheelchair accessible - some paths are a little steep and some are covered in gravel, but most are usable.
Don’t just take our word for it
Fanny was amazing - only issue was we had requested to meet at the hotel - i had received confirmation from Context head office that we would have a car meet at hotel with Fanny - that information had not been conveyed to our wonderful guide - however we were happy to have the Context organised transport return us to the hotel afterwards
Stewart was a wonderful guide, and very helpful in answering the questions I had been mulling over for the two weeks I have been in Japan. I enjoyed our time very much! We even saw the Ambassador of India, as he was picked up in a royal carriage and transported to the palace - very interesting to see royal pageantry in action for this American.
Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey
Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.
Structured, never scripted
Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.
Crafted for conversation
With ten or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.
Experts, not guides
Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.
You May Also Be Interested In…
Unlock Tokyo's Hidden Treasures: An Immersive Tour of the Imperial Palace Gardens and Nihonbashi
Embark on a journey through Tokyo's rich history and vibrant culture with our Introduction to Tokyo Tour, with Imperial Palace Gardens and Nihonbashi. This tour offers an unparalleled experience, starting with exclusive access to the Tokyo Imperial Palace tickets, allowing you to explore the serene gardens and historic architecture that are usually off-limits to the public.
To make the most of your visit, we recommend reading our blog on navigating Tokyo's metro system, perfect for preparing your journey around the city.
For those keen on enriching their knowledge beforehand, our Introduction to Tokyo lecture provides an in-depth understanding of the city's history and culture.
Additionally, our audio guide on Tokyo's history and architecture is an excellent resource for enhancing your experience on the ground.
For those keen on enriching their knowledge beforehand, our Introduction to Tokyo lecture provides an in-depth understanding of the city's history and culture.
Additionally, our audio guide on Tokyo's history and architecture is an excellent resource for enhancing your experience on the ground.
Book your Tokyo Imperial Palace tickets with us today and uncover the stories behind Japan's capital in a truly engaging way!