Excursion Ancient & modern tokyo with ginza shopping tour at Tokyo
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Experience a unique blend of old and new during this scenic, full-day sightseeing and shopping excursion in Tokyo.
Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise-Dori
Depart the pier for the approximate 40-minute drive to the Asakusa Senso-ji Temple. Founded in the early-7th century, it is the oldest extant temple in Tokyo. Enter through the Kaminarimon Gate, or 'Nitenmon', which is bedecked (weather-permitting) with a huge red paper lantern. Your guided tour includes a stroll down the Street of Inside Shops, or 'Nakamise-Dori', an alley lined with traditional vendors selling food, souvenirs and handmade crafts.
Imperial Palace
Next, re-board your coach and drive to the Imperial Palace plaza. The palace is located on the original site of Edo Castle, the seat of power for the Tokugawa Shoguns during the Edo Period (1604-1866). A stop is made at the Nijubashi Bridge, a picturesque two-tiered bridge, for a superb photo opportunity of your surroundings.
Meiji Shrine
Continue on to the Meiji Shrine. Dedicated to the Emperor Meiji, the father of modern Japan, this beautiful shrine stands in a dense forest glade in the very heart of Tokyo. The setting symbolises the separation of the spiritual from the worldly. Enter the shrine through twin, 40-foot-tall (12-metre-tall) Torii Gates, one of the largest in Japan. Following your visit, proceed for lunch at a local restaurant.
Ginza
Your tour concludes with a visit to the Ginza, one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world. The streets of the Ginza are lined with numerous department stores, boutiques, restaurants and bars. This is a great place for window-shopping.
Upon arrival, approximately one hour is made available for browsing the shops at your leisure before commencing the brief drive to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Imperial Palace Plaza, Meiji Shrine, Ginza
Note
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 2,240 yards (about 2,048 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 20 steps to negotiate at the Meiji Shrine, and approximately 15 steps to negotiate at the Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Street. Walking at the Ginza shopping area is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Casual clothing is recommended. The lunch served during this tour includes a Japanese style set menu. For dietary restrictions please contact the on board Shore Concierge Team upon embarkation. Menu substitutions may be not be possible to accommodate. Japanese Yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. Order of visit may vary. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.