Embark on a 3.5-hour walking tour of Gotokuji Temple and Shoinjinja Shrine in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. Explore a quiet residential area filled with lucky cats and discover the charm of this high-class neighborhood.
Embark on a 3.5-hour walking tour of Gotokuji Temple and Shoinjinja Shrine in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. Explore a quiet residential area filled with lucky cats and discover the charm of this high-class neighborhood.
- Setagaya Hachimangu - An autumn festival held at Setagaya Hachimangu, one of the prominent shrines in Setagaya Ward. Known for its dohyo (sumo ring) set up within the shrine grounds and the honosumo (奉納相撲) event.
- Gotokuji Temple - Gotokuji Temple originated as the Kotokuin hermitage, established by Kira Masatada, who built Setagaya Castle in…
- Setagaya Hachimangu - An autumn festival held at Setagaya Hachimangu, one of the prominent shrines in Setagaya Ward. Known for its dohyo (sumo ring) set up within the shrine grounds and the honosumo (奉納相撲) event.
- Gotokuji Temple - Gotokuji Temple originated as the Kotokuin hermitage, established by Kira Masatada, who built Setagaya Castle in 1480. Initially part of the Rinzai sect, it transitioned to the Soto sect in 1584. The temple grounds feature many notable sights, including the tomb of Ii Naosuke, a key figure in the Tokugawa shogunate during the mid-19th century, a three-story pagoda, and the revered invincible Kannon. However, its most famous attraction is the good fortune beckoning cat, or “manekineko,” believed to have originated here. The sight of over 1,000 of these lucky cats is now a symbolic image of Tokyo. The temple is considered the birthplace of the manekineko, a well-known symbol of good luck in Japan. The tour guide will explain the origins of the lucky cat during the visit.
- Shoin Shrine - Established in 1882, Shoinjinja Shrine centers around Yoshida Shoin. The shrine grounds include the tombs of Shoka Village school children, including Yoshida Shoin, and a replica of the Shoka Village school building. Born in Hagi City, Yamaguchi prefecture, in 1830, Yoshida Shoin was a spiritual leader of the Meiji Restoration and laid the foundation for modern Japan. He was executed by Ii Naosuke, ending his life at 30. His philosophy, known as “Yamato Damashi (Japanese spirit),” continues to influence contemporary Japanese thought, including that of Ito Hirofumi, Japan’s first Prime Minister. It is notable that Shoinjinja Shrine, dedicated to Yoshida Shoin, and Gotokuji Temple, where Ii Naosuke is buried, are within walking distance of each other, symbolizing the end and protection of the samurai era.
- Carrot Tower - A landmark in Sengenjacha, Setagaya.
- Tokyu Setagaya Line - Experience this local line filled with locals after the tour.
- OMAKASE - The tour provider for this activity.
- Professional guide
- Professional guide
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation to/from attractions
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation to/from attractions
Embark on a 3.5-hour exploration of the Gotokuji Temple and Shoinjinja Shrine areas located in the peaceful residential district of Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. Considered as one of the 23 special wards under the administration of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Setagaya Ward is a sprawling locality in the southeastern part of Tokyo which includes opulent…
Embark on a 3.5-hour exploration of the Gotokuji Temple and Shoinjinja Shrine areas located in the peaceful residential district of Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. Considered as one of the 23 special wards under the administration of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Setagaya Ward is a sprawling locality in the southeastern part of Tokyo which includes opulent residential zones such as Jiyugaoka and Seijo. Outfitted with natural landmarks like parks and green-filled valleys, this residential retreat is easily accessible for dwellers. The core city is also conveniently reachable, and, over the years, influential business leaders, leading sports personalities, and entertainers have turned this into a high-class avenue; hence, residents of Tokyo often aspire to be part of this area.
- Please join us wearing shoes that are easy to walk in because you will walk the mountain paths.
- Tour duration can be extended at a rate of 5,000 yen per group, per hour, payable in cash.
- Hotel pickup will incur an additional fee of ¥5,000 per group (for hotels in Tokyo & Yokohama area)
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.