Japanese Onigiri Tasting Tour in Asakusa with Local Expert

Asakusa , Japan

Japanese Onigiri Tasting Tour in Asakusa with Local Expert

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About this experience

Discover the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine on this engaging tour in Asakusa, led by a local onigiri expert and TV-featured actress. Wander the streets surrounding Senso-ji Temple and explore hidden food shops that showcase authentic Japanese ingredients like soy sauce and nori. Enjoy small tastings of various Japanese delicacies, including a stop at a beloved local onigiri shop to sample freshly made rice balls. Venture into Kappabashi, Tokyo’s renowned kitchen district, where culinary treasures await. Perfect for food enthusiasts eager to delve deeper into Japanese food culture, this tour accommodates vegan and gluten-free preferences with advance notice.
- Explore Asakusa while learning about Japanese onigiri and ingredients
- Taste various delicacies at hidden local food shops
- Visit Kappabashi, known for its cookware and knife shops
- Vegan, gluten-free options available upon request

Available options

Japanese Onigiri Tasting Tour in Asakusa with Local Expert

What's included

The plan also includes tastings atthe locations we will be visiting during the tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

On this tour, you'll explore Kappabashi—Tokyo’s legendary kitchen district where top chefs from around the world shop for professional tools. This area is packed with long-established specialty stores, and I’ll take you to the hidden gems that only locals and chefs usually know.
You’ll also taste a variety of uniquely Japanese seasonings and natural-style nori to experience the delicate differences in flavor. These products make perfect high-quality, unique souvenirs to take home.

Stop 2

The Asakusa and Kappabashi areas are known for having many excellent onigiri shops. During the tour, we’ll visit my top recommended spot—personally selected as an onigiri sommelier—where you can enjoy freshly made onigiri. I’ll help you order and guide you through the best fillings, so feel free to ask anything about onigiri or Japanese rice.
If you have dietary preferences such as gluten-free, vegan, or other restrictions, please let me know in advance. I’m happy to accommodate whenever possible.

What's not included

The meal at the onigiri shop is not included in the tour fee.Onigiri typically costs around ¥300 per piece, and lunch sets with multiple onigiri are usually between ¥700–¥1,000.

Any snacks or souvenirs you decide to buy at the shops we visit

Transportation to and from the meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please look for the guide wearing a kimono in front of the Don Quijote Asakusa shopping building.

About Asakusa

Asakusa is one of Tokyo's most colorful and traditional districts, famous for its historic temples, vibrant streets, and rich cultural heritage. This area offers a glimpse into old Edo-era Tokyo, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic Japanese experiences.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple complex includes the main hall, a five-story pagoda, and various shops and stalls.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture/Observation Deck 2-3 hours ¥2,100-¥3,100 (depending on the deck)

Sumida River Cruise

A relaxing cruise along the Sumida River offers stunning views of Tokyo's skyline, including the Tokyo Skytree and Rainbow Bridge.

Scenic/Boat Tour 1 hour ¥1,000-¥1,500 (depending on the route)

Edo-Tokyo Museum

This museum showcases the history and culture of Edo-era Tokyo through life-sized replicas, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥600 (adults), ¥300 (children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, often served with dipping sauce.

Main Dish Contains gluten (soy sauce in the dipping sauce).

Unagi (Grilled Eel)

Grilled eel glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, served over rice.

Main Dish Contains fish and soy.

Melon Pan

A sweet bread roll with a crispy cookie-like crust, resembling a melon.

Dessert Contains wheat and dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Sumo wrestling matches in Ryogoku Onsen (hot spring) visits Sumida River Cruise Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies Boat tours on Sumida River Swimming at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Asakusa is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing services.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km from Asakusa
Haneda Airport • 20 km from Asakusa

By train

Asakusa Station

By bus

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, Ueno Station

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and covers most of Tokyo. Asakusa Station is a major hub.

Taxis

Available • Apps: DiDi, JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Asakusa Sumida Ueno

Day trips

Nikko

120 km from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning shrines, temples, and natural beauty. The area offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities.

Kamakura

50 km from Tokyo • Full day

Kamakura is a historic city known for its temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities.

Hakone

80 km from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a popular onsen (hot spring) town known for its scenic views, hot springs, and cultural attractions. It offers a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Sanja Matsuri • Third weekend of May Asakusa Shinto Festival • Mid-June

Pro tips

Visit Senso-ji Temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Try traditional snacks and sweets at the stalls along Nakamise Shopping Street, such as senbei (rice crackers) and ningyo-yaki (sweet bean paste cakes).
Take a Sumida River Cruise for stunning views of Tokyo's skyline, including the Tokyo Skytree and Rainbow Bridge.
Explore the lesser-known temples and shrines in Asakusa, such as Asakusa Shrine and Tokyo Daijingu, for a more authentic and less crowded experience.
Experience a traditional tea ceremony to learn about the art and history of matcha (green tea) preparation.