Explore the history of Edo, which developed as the seat of the Edo shogunate, and discover the foundation of modern Tokyo. By visiting historical sites deeply connected to the Tokugawa family such as Edo Castle, and learning about the shogunate's political vision and its planned urban development, you will gain a deeper appreciation for Tokyo.

History

Heart of the Edo Shogunate

Explore Edo Castle, the seat of the Edo shogunate where the shogun resided, and the surrounding historic sites.

Culture

Admire the Art and Gardens that Flourished in Edo

Stroll through a magnificent daimyo's garden and admire celebrated works of art from the Edo period.

Food

From Edo to Tokyo: The Enduring Taste of the Common People

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tsukiji Outer Market, the seafood market that has its origins in the Edo period.

Daily Itinerary

Day1

1.Otemachi Station
2.Imperial Palace (East Garden, Kitanomaru, Gaien) & Edo Castle Area
3.Zojoji Temple, Kyu-Shiba-rikyu Gardens & Tsukiji Area
4.Kan'ei-ji Temple & Ueno
5.Ueno Station

Day 1

The Shogun's Stronghold

Journey through the heart of Edo, from the Imperial Palace grounds where Edo Castle once stood, to the grand family temples of the Tokugawa's and served as the shoguns' final resting places.

8:50 a.m.

Otemachi Station

Approx. 10 minutes on foot

Google Route

9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Imperial Palace (East Garden, Kitanomaru, Gaien) & Edo Castle Area

Your journey through historical sites connected to the Edo Shogunate begins at Edo Castle, now the Imperial Palace. Explore famous spots like Sakuradamon Gate while admiring the massive stone walls and historic moats that symbolized the shogunate’s power. After relaxing in the expansive East Garden, venture to the nearby Tokyo Station area. There you’ll find an art museum displaying exquisite artworks from the Edo period.

An aerial-style view of the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, showing the wide plaza, manicured pine trees, and the Fushimi-yagura Watchtower over Nijubashi bridge, with Tokyo skyscrapers in the distance.

View This Spot

Approx. 15 minutes

by train

Google Route

11:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Zojoji Temple, Kyu-Shiba-rikyu Gardens & Tsukiji Area

The next stop is Zojoji Temple, the family temple of the Tokugawa family. Here you can marvel at a 1:10 scale model of a shogun’s mausoleum or pass through the temple’s iconic main gate, a structure that has survived since 1622. Afterwards, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the historic bay area, home to the stunning Kyu-Shiba-rikyu Gardens.

The Hondo (Main Hall) of Zojo-ji Temple, featuring traditional architecture, set against a bright blue sky with the modern Tokyo Tower rising dramatically in the background.

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Local Highlights

The Tsukiji Outer Market captures the vibrant spirit of the Edo-period fish markets, offering a perfect place to dive into Tokyo's culinary scene. Savor incredible fresh seafood right where it's sold, or make unforgettable memories by joining a hands-on sushi-making class.

Fresh seafood, including crabs and fish, displayed at Tsukiji fish market.

Approx. 45 minutes

by train

3:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Kan'ei-ji Temple & Ueno

Your journey through the shogun’s capital culminates at Kan’ei-ji Temple and Ueno Toshogu Shrine, both deeply connected to the Tokugawa family. Here, you can marvel at Ueno Toshogu Shrine’s stunning Golden Hall and its dragon carvings or Kan’ei-ji Temple’s rebuilt Main Hall. This entire historic area now forms Ueno Park, where you can also discover other locations to explore, including the rare collections of the Tokyo National Museum.