Day Tour All Three EDOs: Nikko to Kawagoe & the Imperial Palace

Set out on a captivating journey through Japan’s enchanting EDOs. This day tour takes you from the historic town of Nikko, home to the stunning Toshogu Shrine, to the charming streets of Kawagoe, where Edo-period merchant houses line the way. The adventure culminates at the iconic Imperial Palace, where you’ll explore its exquisite East Gardens and marvel at the grandeur of Ninomaru Palace. With an expert guide by your side, uncover the hidden gems that make these destinations so captivating.

Key Points

Explores three renowned Edo-period destinations in Japan: Nikko, Kawagoe, and the Imperial Palace.
Highlights well-preserved Edo architecture, traditional crafts, and authentic Japanese cuisine.
Includes guided visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, iconic bridges, and stunning natural landscapes.
Provides immersive historical and cultural experience led by an expert guide.
Offers efficient transportation, ample storage, and complimentary refreshments throughout the day.

Tour Highlights

First, the tour explores the historical and cultural significance of three renowned EDOs (Edo-period towns) in Japan.

Visitors will discover the well-preserved Edo architecture and traditional crafts of Nikko, the nostalgic charm of Kawagoe’s "Little Edo", and the grandeur of the Imperial Palace in central Tokyo.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and learn about the rich history that shaped these iconic destinations.

With an expert guide leading the way, travelers can enjoy Japan’s captivating past and gain a deeper appreciation for its enduring traditions.

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Exploring the Historic Nikko

As the tour departs Shinjuku, the first stop takes visitors to the historic city of Nikko, renowned for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture and natural beauty. Guests will explore the iconic Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring intricate carvings and gilded architecture. After, they’ll wander through the serene Shinkyo Bridge and hike to the picturesque Kegon Falls. A traditional Japanese lunch is provided before continuing the journey.

Nikko Highlights	Description
Toshogu Shrine	Ornate Edo-period shrine
Shinkyo Bridge	Iconic vermilion bridge
Kegon Falls	Stunning 97-meter waterfall
Lunch	Traditional Japanese cuisine

Discovering the Charming Kawagoe

After exploring the historic Nikko, the tour heads to the charming town of Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo."

Guests wander down the quaint streets lined with well-preserved Edo-period merchant houses and shops, giving them a glimpse into Japan’s past.

Highlights include:

Visiting the iconic Toki no Kane (Time Bell) Tower, a symbol of Kawagoe
Browsing the traditional Candy Alley and sampling local sweets
Exploring the Warehouse District with its distinctive kurazukuri warehouses
Discovering the ancient Kitain Temple, home to impressive wooden architecture
Enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region.

Visiting the Imperial Palace

The final stop on the day tour is the Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan.

Visitors can’t enter the palace itself, but they can explore the expansive East Gardens. This peaceful oasis features lush landscaping, historic structures, and stunning views of the palace buildings.

Travelers will marvel at the stunning Ninomaru Palace and the Seimon Ishibashi Stone Bridge.

The tour includes admission fees and a knowledgeable guide to provide historical context.

After a full day of exploring Nikko and Kawagoe, the Imperial Palace offers a serene conclusion to this comprehensive tour of Japan’s EDO regions.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins at the Shinjuku Post Office, where you will meet their guide and board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi.

The journey includes:

Efficient transportation to the three EDOs (Nikko, Kawagoe, and the Imperial Palace)
Seamless navigation through Tokyo’s busy streets
Ample space for storing personal belongings
Complimentary refreshments and snacks on board
Knowledgeable guide to provide commentary and insights throughout the day.

The tour ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the cultural and historical highlights of the day.

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Dining Experiences

Throughout the day, participants enjoy a variety of delectable dining experiences.

For breakfast, they savor a traditional Japanese spread including miso soup, grilled fish, and steamed rice.

At lunchtime, the group indulges in a hearty bento box filled with tempura, sashimi, and pickled vegetables.

As the tour progresses, they snack on local treats like mochi and Japanese sweets.

The day culminates with a sumptuous dinner of shabu-shabu, a hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced meat and vegetables.

Dietary restrictions are accommodated, ensuring everyone can fully partake in the culinary delights.

Accessibility and Health Considerations

Accessibility and health considerations are important factors for this day tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. It’s located near public transportation, but infants must sit on laps.

Travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to join. A moderate physical fitness level is required:

Not wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps
Not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions

Group Size and Booking Information

Although the tour has a maximum of 8 travelers per group, travelers should book early to secure their spot. The tour’s pricing starts at $181.05 per person, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time.

Booking Information
Price	From $181.05 per person
Confirmation	Within 48 hours (subject to availability)
Cancellation	Free up to 24 hours before start
Payment	Reserve now, pay later

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Available on Weekends?

The tour is available on weekends. The tour overview indicates it is a daily tour with no mention of being limited to weekdays only.

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food on the tour. However, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, so it’s generally not necessary to bring additional food. The tour guides can provide recommendations for food options during the day.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Imperial Palace?

There’s no strict dress code for visiting the Imperial Palace, but visitors are expected to dress conservatively. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and ripped clothing. Smart casual attire like slacks and a collared shirt or blouse is appropriate.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

You can extend the tour duration if needed, but it’ll incur additional fees. The tour operator can help you coordinate any changes to the itinerary or duration. It’s best to discuss this with them before the tour starts.

Is There a Discount for Booking Multiple Tours?

Yes, there are discounts available for booking multiple tours. Customers can inquire about bundle pricing or special offers when making their reservation. The tour operator may provide a discount for booking several tours at once.

The Sum Up

This enriching day tour through Japan’s captivating EDOs offers a chance to take in the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. From the majestic Toshogu Shrine in Nikko to the charming Edo-period streets of Kawagoe and the grandeur of the Imperial Palace, this guided experience provides an in-depth exploration of some of Japan’s most iconic destinations.