Tokyo Ginza Deep Back Alley Walking Tour
Description
What comes to mind when you think of “Ginza”? Luxury brand shops? High‑end restaurants? Those are certainly part of its charm, but Ginza also has a fascinating side hidden in its backstreets. This is a two‑hour walking tour that takes you through six of Ginza’s back alleys. These narrow lanes are home to hidden shrines and long‑loved local shops. You will explore Ginza’s glamorous “front” streets and then step into its maze‑like backstreets to experience a completely different side of the district. *This tour involves about two hours of continuous walking, so it may not be suitable for guests who are not confident in their physical strength. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, and in summer, bring drinking water. Cooling towels will be provided. *Kabuki viewing is not included in the tour.
Tour Options
Itinerary
You will begin at the birthplace of Ginza, where your guide will talk about how this once simple silver mint area grew into one of Tokyo’s most iconic and fashionable districts.
You will visit Ginza’s famous symbols such as the Wako Building and the Mitsukoshi Lion statue. In this area, you can find hidden spots like small angel and monkey figures, as well as a shrine hidden in a narrow alley.
You will then move between Ginza’s busy main streets and its back alleys. Some of the small shops in these backstreets have been around since the wartime period, offering a rare look at Ginza’s older side.
You will learn how the former Kojun Building played an important role in Ginza’s development, and how it helped influence how Ginza looks and feels today.
You will walk past the Toyoiwa Inari Shrine. This shrine has stood here since the early Edo period and has long been cherished by locals, including famous Kabuki actors. You will then head back towards Ginza 5-chome where you can take photos of old‑fashioned alleys and visit small neighborhood shrines.
You will finish the tour at the Kabuki‑za Theater, the main stage for traditional Kabuki performances and one of Ginza’s most iconic landmarks.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(2)
We were fortunate to have Nori and Hide as our guides. They did a great job taking us through back alleys that we had literally walked past in the days prior, not realising the significance and the treasures to behold. We learnt a lot about Japanese history and culture and thoroughly enjoyed their company and commentary. Thank you!!
Thank you very much for your wonderful review. We’re glad to hear that you enjoyed Nori and Hide's tour!
I had the enjoyment of a private guided walking tour. Mikio Nambo from the Gotcha Group. It was 2 hours, and the time sped by. Mikio was a very knowledgeable and pleasant gentleman. The final stop was the Kabuki Theatre Museum and the gift shop area. We finished in this corridor, which had photos of past and present kabuki performers, which I found fascinating .
Thank you for your lovely comment! It is a great compliment for Mikio! He is glad that you like the tour! Thank you very much! Have a nice day!