Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 50 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen worth booking?
Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen is a 6-hour experience in Tokyo, Japan, from $25 per person. It scores 79 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 50 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 79 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (50)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $25 per person
Step back into the Tokyo of another era in Yanesen, the historic trio of the Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi neighborhoods. Among temples, shrines, and winding backstreets, you’ll discover a neighborhood where daily life still hums to an older rhythm. This full-day walk blends history and flavor: from handmade onigiri and fresh unagi to nostalgic sweets, retro kissaten coffee, and sake. Along the way, you’ll slip into century-old shops, sip drinks in a converted bathhouse, and meet the craftspeople keeping Tokyo’s culinary traditions alive.
What you get
About this experience
Step back into the Tokyo of another era in Yanesen, the historic trio of the Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi neighborhoods. Among temples, shrines, and winding backstreets, you’ll discover a neighborhood where daily life still hums to an older rhythm. This full-day walk blends history and flavor: from handmade onigiri and fresh unagi to nostalgic sweets, retro kissaten coffee, and sake. Along the way, you’ll slip into century-old shops, sip drinks in a converted bathhouse, and meet the craftspeople keeping Tokyo’s culinary traditions alive.
What's included
Included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Tea and coffee
- Meals
Not included
- Private transportation
What you'll see and do
Yanaka District
Step back into the Tokyo of another era in Yanesen, the historic trio of the Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi neighborhoods. Among temples, shrines, and winding backstreets, we’ll discover a neighborhood where daily life still hums to an older rhythm. This full-day walk blends history and flavor: from handmade onigiri and fresh unagi to nostalgic sweets, retro kissaten coffee, and sake. Along the way, we’ll slip into century-old shops, sip drinks in a converted bathhouse, and meet the craftspeople keeping Tokyo’s culinary traditions alive.
180 minutes here
Nezu Shrine
Nezu shrine is considered one of the oldest Shinto Shrines in Japan, and while it’s current main structures were built in the early 18th century the shrines' origins are said to date back 1900 years.
30 minutes here
Yanaka was built in the Edo period as a temple town. There are 117 temples in the Yanesen area 76 of these in Yanaka.
30 minutes here
Sendagi
Most of Tokyo transformed after WWII, but Yanesen preserved its atmosphere — temples and cemeteries, narrow alleys, wooden townhouses, and a pace of life that feels untouched by modernization. Since the Edo period, this district has drawn visitors seeking beauty, quiet, and a good meal, and its food culture evolved in ways lost elsewhere in the city.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Tokyo
The meeting point for the Yanesen tour is in front of St. Marc Café, located just outside Exit 1 of Sendagi Station on the Chiyoda subway line.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Near the starting point & Sendagi station.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Culinary Backstreets
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 50 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
9 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
50 verified traveler reviews for Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Exceptional food tour!
Exceptional food tour in Tokyo - this tour was the highlight of our time in Tokyo. Our guide, Kan, was wonderful - he not only gave us a food tour, it was also a history and cultural tour. If you have a chance to take this tour your won’t be disappointed. There is a fair bit of walking a a good pace to be able to fit in all the food experiences in all three districts in Yanasen. We are now motivated to do other culinary backstreets food tours in Tokyo as well as other major cities when we travel there. The small group size was great - just 6 of us on this tour, you could not fit any more into some of the very small and unique food establishments we visited. We never would have found all these places on our own.
via Tripadvisor
Another great Culinary Backstreets experience.
I have done many Culinary Backstreets tours in many cities around the world, and just added two tours here in Tokyo. My wife and I like the CB experience because the guides have been uniformly knowledgeable and they pick out interesting food items and places that complement the historical and social information they offer during the tour. In this case (Yanesen) our leader Kan had grown up in Tokyo and was very familiar with the culture and cuisine of the area. He could answer any of the questions we asked and often could draw parallels with his childhood or his family. The food items were really awesome. The grilled eel was just awesome and the various sweets were really interesting. I've noticed some complaints from people who have mismatched expectations about CB tours. You should take this tour if you are interested in a deep dive of the culture, history, and food of this specific area. While we had PLENTY to eat, if you are just interested in getting stuffed you might be bored with the cultural explanations and the sights.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the wonderful review and for joining us on so many of our walks around the world! We are thrilled that Kan could share his deep personal connection to Tokyo's history and culinary traditions with you. Your continued support truly helps us champion the unsung heroes of the kitchen and preserve these meaningful, everyday neighborhood stories.
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful way to experience Tokyo.
My guide Diana was wonderful. A great day. Can’t recommend highly enough.
Response from the operator: Thank you for this lovely review and for joining us to explore Tokyo's rich culinary traditions. We are so glad you had a wonderful day wandering the backstreets with us. Your participation champions our mission of Honest Tourism and helps support the incredible local families who keep these neighborhood stories alive.
via Tripadvisor
The Best Way to Experience Tokyo's Food Scene
We had an amazing time on this Tokyo food tour! Our guide, Michelle, was incredibly knowledgeable—not just about the food, but the neighborhoods, culture, and history behind what we were trying. One of our favorite parts was getting to try lots of different foods in small portions. It felt like the perfect way to experience a wide variety of Tokyo’s food scene without getting too full too quickly. Every stop felt thoughtfully chosen, and we left having discovered so many things we never would have found on our own. Highly recommend
Response from the operator: Thank you for the wonderful review and for taking the time to share your experience. We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed exploring the rich history, culture, and vibrant daily life of Tokyo's neighborhoods. By sharing meals at these family-run spots, you are directly supporting the unsung heroes of the kitchen and helping to preserve their incredible culinary traditions.
via Tripadvisor
A deep dive into Japanese food culture
Amazing. A highlight of my 2 week stay just in Toyko. Not only was the food experience so tasty, but the knowledge of the food, Japanese culture and history from my guide Kan was incredible. Loved.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We are thrilled that Kan could introduce you to the rich culture and history woven into Tokyo's local food scene. By joining our walk, you are directly supporting the unsung heroes and neighborhood artisans who work tirelessly to preserve these beautiful culinary traditions.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Price range
- $25 to $195
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 18
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Culinary Backstreets, who run 16 experiences we rank across 9 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 63.5.
See everything Culinary Backstreets runsWhy this scores 79
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tokyo.
How much does Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen cost?
+
Prices start at $25 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tokyo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen take?
+
Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tokyo is not rushed.
Is Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 79 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 50 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Tokyo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen?
+
Around 18 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tokyo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tokyo and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tokyo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Tokyo?
+
Tokyo is less a city than a stack of neighborhoods with completely different opening hours. A guided food crawl through Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho gets you past the no-tourist curtains, while the day trips west to Hakone and Fuji need an early start to be worth the fare. Our ranking weighs guide quality heavily here, because in Tokyo the guide is the product. On Outty we rank every Tokyo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Best of Shinjuku: Izakaya Food Tour (3-4 Stops, 14+ Tastings), Matcha Making Class in Tokyo with Authentic Japanese Sweets Set, Tokyo: Asakusa Senso-ji Temple & Old Town Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
+
Late March to May for blossom, October to November for clear Fuji views. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Tokyo?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen?
+
Included: Alcoholic beverages; Snacks; Lunch; Breakfast; and Tea and coffee. Not included: Private transportation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen?
+
The meeting point for the Yanesen tour is in front of St. Marc Café, located just outside Exit 1 of Sendagi Station on the Chiyoda subway line. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen?
+
Across 50 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, the guide, knowledge and storytelling. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Experience the Taste of Old Tokyo in Backstreet Yanesen.
Pick your date
