Cultural Temple Tour with a Real Local in Monzennakacho

4.96/5.0 (176 reviews) on Airbnb since July 2022! You can see off-the-beaten-path Tokyo with a real local person, learning about Buddhism/Shinto as well as proper etiquettes.

Join us for an intimate small-group tour of Monzennakacho, a historic district in East Tokyo, known as "Shitamachi." Led by Manami, a local native with a Ph.D. in cultural heritage protection, this experience offers a deep dive into the spiritual and cultural backstory of the area.

Manami was born and raised in Monzennakacho, absorbed the local history from elementary school's education, and completed the Ph.D. study to protect and manage old cultural sites. Her tour tells you how Japanese people are involved in two religions, how Buddhism and Shinto are different, besides how properly to visit temples and shrines. She is the only guide who explains what's happening at the Naritasan Fukagawa Fudōdō temple's fire ceremony scene by scene.

**What to Expect**
1. Discover Shitamachi’s Rich History: Manami will reveal the unique geography and history of Shitamachi utilizing visual tools and story telling. She'll also explain how Buddhism and Shinto coexist in Japan, their distinctions, and their significance to the Japanese people.

2. Witness the Naritasan Fukagawa Fudōdō fire ceremony: Visit a local Buddhist temple where you'll witness a spectacle fire ritual accompanied by powerful drum beats. Manami will guide you through the etiquette and photography rules, and use explanation sheets to share what's going on as we observe the ritual in silence.

3. Explore the Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine: Experience the calm atmosphere of this Shinto shrine, and view the impressive "Sumo rocks" and grand festival floats. Manami will assist with the "omikuji" fortune-telling lottery or "goshuin" stamps if you wish.

As we end the tour, Manami will show you a food cafe map of Monzennakacho, which she created for her guests. Manami will be happy to guide you to a cafe or restaurant, talk to the staff to make sure you are comfortable there.

Come and experience the authentic charm of East Tokyo with a knowledgeable local guide!