Tokyo: Gotokuji Temple and Shimokitazawa Day Tour





View all photos









Duration
4 hours
Ticket type
Mobile Only
Languages
English, Mandarin Chinese, French, Spanish
Confirmation
Instant Then Manual
Pickup
Pickup details available
Time zone
Asia/Tokyo
Why Travelers Love This
Overview
Gotokuji & Shimokitazawa Day Tour – Tokyo’s Hidden Gems Discover the spiritual charm of Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of Japan’s Beckoning Cat, and explore the trendy streets of Shimokitazawa, known for vintage shops, cozy cafés, and live music. This relaxed day tour offers a perfect mix of culture, creativity, and local Tokyo vibes—ideal for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.
What's Included
Included
Public Transportation fee
National Licensed Guide.
Hotel Pickup
Not included
Lunch
Personal Expenses
Souvenirs
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup details
Itinerary
Pass by stop 1
Pass by stop 1
Gotokuji Station is a charming local train station on the Odakyu Line in Setagaya, Tokyo. Just a few stops from central Shinjuku, the station offers easy access to one of Tokyo’s most unique cultural sites—Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of the famous Maneki-neko (Lucky Cat). The station itself reflects the cozy atmosphere of the surrounding neighborhood, with quiet streets, small shops, and a laid-back vibe that contrasts with Tokyo’s bustling city center. From Gotokuji Station, it's a pleasant 10-minute walk to the temple, passing through a peaceful residential area that gives visitors a taste of everyday life in Tokyo. Whether you're on a cultural pilgrimage or simply curious about Japan’s beloved beckoning cat, Gotokuji Station is the perfect starting point for a memorable and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Stop 2
2 hours
Stop 2
Gotokuji Temple – The Birthplace of the Lucky Cat Nestled in a quiet residential area of Setagaya, Tokyo, Gotokuji Temple is a serene and historic site best known as the legendary birthplace of the “Maneki-neko” – the iconic beckoning cat believed to bring good fortune. Visitors are greeted by hundreds of white ceramic cats, each with a raised paw, placed as offerings of thanks for granted wishes. This charming and photogenic display has made Gotokuji a popular destination for both spiritual seekers and curious travelers. Beyond the famous cat figurines, the temple grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere with traditional architecture, stone lanterns, and seasonal beauty, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. A visit to Gotokuji Temple offers not only a unique cultural experience but also a delightful chance to explore one of Tokyo’s hidden gems filled with legend, luck, and quiet charm.
Pass by stop 3
Pass by stop 3
Gotokuji Station is a charming local train station on the Odakyu Line in Setagaya, Tokyo. Just a few stops from central Shinjuku, the station offers easy access to one of Tokyo’s most unique cultural sites—Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of the famous Maneki-neko (Lucky Cat). The station itself reflects the cozy atmosphere of the surrounding neighborhood, with quiet streets, small shops, and a laid-back vibe that contrasts with Tokyo’s bustling city center. From Gotokuji Station, it's a pleasant 10-minute walk to the temple, passing through a peaceful residential area that gives visitors a taste of everyday life in Tokyo. Whether you're on a cultural pilgrimage or simply curious about Japan’s beloved beckoning cat, Gotokuji Station is the perfect starting point for a memorable and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Pass by stop 4
Pass by stop 4
We get off at this station.
Stop 5
2 hours
Stop 5
Shimokitazawa Station, served by both the Odakyu and Keio Inokashira Lines, is the gateway to one of Tokyo’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods. Just minutes from Shinjuku and Shibuya, this station places travelers at the heart of Shimokitazawa—a district known for its laid-back charm, indie culture, and vintage appeal. Step outside the station and you'll find narrow alleyways filled with secondhand clothing stores, cozy cafés, live music venues, and unique boutique shops. The area is especially popular with young creatives and trendsetters, offering an alternative side of Tokyo that blends urban cool with a welcoming local feel. With its recent station renovations and improved accessibility, Shimokitazawa Station is now easier than ever to navigate—making it the perfect starting point for an unforgettable cultural exploration of Tokyo’s hipster haven.
Additional Info
Stroller Accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Pets Welcome
Service animals allowed
Public Transportation Nearby
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infant Seats Available
Specialized infant seats are available
Physical Medium
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Policy type
Standard
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Refund eligibility
100% refundable 1+ days before
Refund eligibility
0% refundable 0-1 days before
Similar Experiences
ViatorTokyo
Nakasendo Trail Day Trip to Historic Post Town Tsumago and Magome
Discover the enchanting post towns of Tsumago and Magome on this day trip along the historic Nakasendo Trail. Departing from Shinjuku, travel comfortably by Limited Express Azusa to experience the Edo period's charm. Explore Tsumago-juku, a beautifully preserved town, and enjoy free time to wander its atmospheric streets. Next, visit Magome-juku, renowned for its stone-paved pathways and scenic countryside views. Savor a delicious mini sauce katsu bento lunch, featuring breaded pork cutlet. This journey offers an immersive glimpse into Japan's rich heritage, perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Operated by Club Tourism, a leading Japanese travel company with over 70 years of experience, this high-quality tour is designed with care and attention to detail. Accompanied by a tour leader known for excellent hospitality, the experience has received high praise from travelers of many nationalities, allowing you to join with confidence.
13 hours
From JPY 19,900
ViatorSri Lanka
Nakasendo Samurai Trail Tour
Walk the historic Nakasendo trail, exploring post towns like Magome and Tsumago, experiencing the ambiance of Edo-period travelers. We will present a "tabikasa," a traditional traveler's hat, to those who walk the Nakasendo trail, just as the travelers of old used to wear. Nakasendo: The Nakasendo is a historic route in Japan connecting Tokyo and Kyoto, known for its scenic landscapes and historic post towns. It spans about 534 kilometers through central Japan and is popular for walking tours.
5.0 / 5 (1 review)
8 hours 30 minutes
From JPY 70,000
ViatorSri Lanka
Private Full Day Magome &Tsumago Walking Tour from Nagoya
Visit the best parts of Japan with a English speaking guide. You will be taken to the Magome-juku by local express bus, where you'll see a scene that very much resembles how the post town looked in the Edo period hundreds of years ago. Walk along a well preserved trail as a part of the historical Nakasendo Road between Kyoto and Edo (the old name for Tokyo) where Daimyo lords traveled about 200-300 years ago. Walking is about 3 hours. The tour will also go to Tsumago-juku which has row of historic buildings that should not be missed. Take a photos of the traditional Japanese scenary, then take a express train to Nagoya, walk or local train to your hotel.
5.0 / 5 (1 review)
9 hours 30 minutes
From JPY 39,782
ViatorSri Lanka
From Nagoya Magome and Tsumago Private Guided Tour with Vehicle
Step back in time and discover the charm of Japan's historic post towns on this private guided day tour from Nagoya. Travel comfortably by private vehicle to the beautifully preserved towns of Magome-juku and Tsumago-juku, two former post stations along the historic Nakasendo Trail, which once connected Kyoto and Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the samurai era. Begin your journey in Magome-juku, a picturesque hillside town known for its stone-paved streets, traditional wooden buildings, and scenic mountain views. Continue to Tsumago-juku, one of Japan's best-preserved post towns. Carefully restored to reflect its Edo-period appearance, it offers a rare glimpse into Japan's past. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the history and culture of the Nakasendo route, helping you gain a deeper appreciation of rural Japan's rich heritage.
7 hours
From JPY 140,050
ViatorSri Lanka
Nakasendo Magome & Tsumago in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way toexplore both of the ancient post towns! You can travel between Magome and Tsumago by infrequent direct bus. Nakasendo was one of the two highways during the Edo period connecting Tokyo with Kyoto, running through the Kiso Valley. Travelers at that time walked along the highway, stopping at "post towns" for rest. Some of those post towns have been well preserved and show tourists today exactly what Japan was like hundreds of years ago. Stunning forests, beautiful villages and traditions, we would love to recommend it to everyone interested in Japanese nature and history. This private tour is a walking day tour. A private vehicle is not included. Public transportation or local taxis may be used. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs.
5.0 / 5 (25 reviews)
6 hours
From JPY 23,500
ViatorSri Lanka
Magome to Tsumago Hiking Tour from Nagoya
From Nagoya take the train and then the bus to Magome, one of the post towns along the Nakasendo, the old merchant route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo Period. From there hike the 7.8-kilometer-long trail to the next post town Tsumago, an even older and more beautiful mountain village. The hike leads along old paths through forests and stunning nature all year round. At Tsumago you will try the local Hoba Miso for lunch as well as some delicious soft-serve ice cream for dessert. Finish your tour with a visit to the town's museum or an optional wood workshop (additional cost).
5.0 / 5 (7 reviews)
9 hours
From JPY 37,200
Similar Attractions
ViatorSenso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple)
4.9 (47185 reviews)
Available experiences
579
Free attractionShibuya
4.9 (31094 reviews)
Available experiences
470
ViatorShibuya Crossing
4.9 (30996 reviews)
Available experiences
447
ViatorMeiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)
4.9 (41419 reviews)
Available experiences
393
ViatorTokyo Imperial Palace
4.9 (44190 reviews)
Available experiences
353
ViatorTokyo Tower
4.9 (39887 reviews)
Available experiences
282
From
From USD 175