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Tokyo Skytree Area × Private Guide Tour

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Sumida River Fireworks Festival

Sumida River Fireworks Festival

◆ Event Introduction The Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai) is one of Tokyo's most iconic and beloved summer events, and one of the oldest fireworks festivals in Japan with historical records. Held annually along the banks of the Sumida River in the Asakusa and Mukojima areas, this spectacular fireworks display attracts nearly one million visitors each year. Approximately 20,000 fireworks illuminate the Tokyo night sky from two launch sites along the river, creating a breathtaking panorama that has captivated audiences for centuries. ◆ Historical Background The origins of the Sumida River Fireworks Festival trace back to 1733 (Kyoho 18) during the Edo period. In 1732, Japan was devastated by a severe famine that claimed countless lives, compounded by a widespread epidemic. To console the souls of the deceased and to ward off evil spirits, the eighth Tokugawa shogun, Yoshimune, held a water god festival (Suijinsai) along the banks of the Okawa (the historical name for the Sumida River). Restaurants near Ryogoku Bridge were granted permission to set off fireworks during the river-opening ceremony (Kawabiraki), and this became the origin of what was known as the "Ryogoku Kawabiraki" fireworks tradition. For over two centuries, the Ryogoku fireworks remained a cherished summer tradition, deeply intertwined with Edo culture. The famous rivalry between the two legendary fireworks makers, Kagiya and Tamaya, became a celebrated part of this history. However, the event was suspended due to worsening traffic conditions and other factors, leading to a hiatus from 1962 onward. In 1978, the festival was revived under its current name, "Sumida River Fireworks Festival." The launch sites were relocated further upstream, and a second venue was added, allowing even more spectators to enjoy the display. ◆ Event Details 📅 Date: Late July every year (typically the last Saturday of July) 🕖 Time: Approximately 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM 📍 Location: Along the Sumida River, in the Asakusa and Mukojima areas of Tokyo (Taito Ward and Sumida Ward) ◆ Launch Venues 🎆 First Venue (Dai-ichi Kaijo) Located between Sakurabashi Bridge and Kototoibashi Bridge on the Sumida River, the First Venue is famous for the fireworks competition (Hanabi Concours), where top pyrotechnicians from across Japan showcase their finest creations. This venue features artistic and innovative fireworks designs that draw particular attention from fireworks enthusiasts. 🎇 Second Venue (Dai-ni Kaijo) Located between Komagatabashi Bridge and Umayabashi Bridge, the Second Venue is known for its powerful and large-scale starmine displays (rapid-fire sequential fireworks). The continuous bursts of color and light from this venue create a dramatic and awe-inspiring spectacle. ◆ Viewing Areas and Access 🚃 For the First Venue The nearest stations include Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line), Oshiage Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Keisei Line, Tobu Skytree Line), Tokyo Skytree Station (Tobu Skytree Line), and Hikifune Station (Tobu Skytree Line). 🚃 For the Second Venue The nearest stations include Asakusa Station, Kuramae Station (Toei Asakusa Line, Toei Oedo Line), Ryogoku Station (JR Sobu Line, Toei Oedo Line), and Asakusabashi Station (JR Sobu Line, Toei Asakusa Line). ◆ What Makes This Festival Special 🏆 Fireworks Competition (Hanabi Concours) The First Venue hosts a prestigious fireworks competition where skilled pyrotechnicians from across Japan compete, showcasing innovative and artistic fireworks. This is a unique opportunity to see cutting-edge fireworks artistry. 🌃 Tokyo Skyline Backdrop The fireworks burst above the Sumida River with the illuminated Tokyo Skytree and the historic Asakusa cityscape as a stunning backdrop, creating a uniquely Tokyo experience. 🎎 Centuries of Tradition With roots stretching back to 1733, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival is one of Japan's oldest and most historically significant fireworks events, embodying the spirit of Edo-period summer culture. ◆ Important Notes ⚠️ This page is for event information only. For inquiries about the festival, please feel free to contact us directly. Please note that availability of nearby accommodation may be limited during the festival period. ⚠️ The festival is held in an urban area; visitors watch while walking along designated one-way routes. There are no seated viewing areas on the streets. Movement is slow due to extreme crowding. Plan your arrival and departure well in advance. ⚠️ Shops and restaurants in the area are extremely crowded, and securing rest areas or drinks may be difficult. Please prepare your own beverages and cooling supplies in advance. ⚠️ Late July in Tokyo is very hot and humid. Heat-related illness is common during the event, especially when wearing yukata or consuming alcohol. Please bring plenty of water, sun protection, and cooling supplies. ⚠️ The event may be postponed or canceled due to severe weather. Please check official announcements for the latest updates. ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/b4709cb1-3a92-40cd-a378-1a8ede3cdd05.jpg)

Asakusa, Kuramae, Oshiage Festivals & Events Fireworks Seasonal Experience
Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour in Asakusa, Kuramae & Oshiage
3 hours

Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour in Asakusa, Kuramae & Oshiage

◆ Introduction Slip from Asakusa's old-town alleys into Kuramae's craft-beer hub, then cap the night with skyline drinks by Tokyo Skytree. We'll weave past lantern-lit Hoppy Street for shōchū-and-Hoppy and the signature beef-tendon nikomi, sample Japanese microbrews in riverside Kuramae, and finish with Skytree views in Oshiage—your guide sharing bar etiquette and local history all along the way. ◆ Highlights Three contrasting stops: shitamachi izakaya → craft-beer lounge → view bar Short logistics: walk Asakusa → Kuramae (~10 min); Asakusa → Oshiage: 2 stops / ~3–6 min by rail (fare included) Photos at Sensoji area & Skytree; option to stroll the Sumida River Walk footbridge when time permits (closes 22:00). ◆ What's Included Drinks: 1 drink at stop #1, tasting flight at stop #2, 1 signature drink at stop #3 (or equivalent) Food: shared izakaya small plates at each stop (3–4 dishes total) Guide: bilingual host, etiquette tips, ordering/translation support Transport: subway ticket Asakusa ⇄ Oshiage (if used) Photos: delivered within 24 h Not included: hotel pick-up · extra drinks/food · gratuities · Skytree observatory tickets (only required if you choose the deck café option). ◆ Sample Itinerary* Asakusa — Traditional Izakaya on Hoppy Street (60 min) Kick off on the alley nicknamed "Nikomi-dori" for its beef-tendon stews—pair a hot bowl with Hoppy (the classic low-alcohol beer mixer with shōchū). (Typical stop: Shochan or similar.) Kuramae — Craft-Beer Bar/Lounge (60 min) Head to Nui. HOSTEL & BAR LOUNGE—a high-ceilinged warehouse conversion by the Sumida River— for a Japanese microbrew flight and a snack. (Alt. nearby: Asakusa Beer Kobo / former Campion Ale brewpub.) Oshiage — Sky-View Bar (60 min) Toast the illuminated Skytree area with sake or cocktails at a view spot without needing observatory tickets—e.g., Bar E.A.T Oshiage or Piccole Lampare & Rooftop Sky Bar (seasonal rooftop; stairs access). (Optional upgrade: SKYTREE Café on the Tembo Deck—ticket required.) *Order/venues may change due to crowding, private bookings, or weather. ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/11f3d931-7ee0-4fa1-aa1d-ef28ae077bc4.jpg) ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/2f56356d-5e24-4ba5-bc45-ebd603e9aaad.jpg)

Asakusa, Kuramae, Oshiage Bar Hopping Cultural Experience
¥17000~
Traditional Bar Hopping Tour Around Sensoji Temple
3 hours

Traditional Bar Hopping Tour Around Sensoji Temple

◆Introduction Step into old Tokyo's drinking culture on this authentic bar hopping tour around the historic Sensoji Temple. Explore the traditional shitamachi (old downtown) atmosphere where locals have been gathering for drinks since the Edo period. Visit legendary establishments and hidden izakayas that preserve the authentic spirit of Tokyo's past. ・Discover Japan's oldest Western-style bar (since 1880) ・Experience the famous Hoppy Street drinking culture ・Small-group tour with maximum 8 participants ・Includes traditional drinks and local snacks ・Learn about Japanese drinking etiquette and culture ◆Included ・Full set of traditional drinks: Hoppy, Denki Bran, and sake ・3-4 local dishes including beef tendon stew and yakitori ・English-speaking guide with cultural insights ・Visit to 3 traditional bars and izakayas ・Photos during the tour ◆Not Included ・Hotel pickup and drop-off ・Gratuities ・Transportation costs ・Additional drinks or food ◆Itinerary Immerse yourself in the authentic drinking culture of old Tokyo as we visit traditional establishments that have been serving locals for generations. ・Kamiya Bar - Japan's First Western Bar (45 minutes) Begin at the legendary Kamiya Bar, established in 1880. Try the famous "Denki Bran" (electric brandy) cocktail that has shocked and delighted customers for over 140 years. ・Hoppy Street Izakaya Crawl (1.5 hours) Explore the famous 80-meter lane filled with traditional izakayas. Experience Hoppy (low-alcohol beer substitute) mixed with shochu, paired with slow-cooked beef tendon stew. ・Traditional Sake Bar (45 minutes) End at a local sake bar where you'll sample different types of Japanese rice wine while learning about brewing traditions and proper tasting techniques. ◆Additional Info ・Not wheelchair accessible due to traditional low seating ・Minimum age is 20 years (legal drinking age in Japan) ・Children must be accompanied by an adult (non-drinking) ・Cash payment preferred at traditional venues ・This tour will have a maximum of 8 travelers ・Traditional etiquette lesson included ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/11f3d931-7ee0-4fa1-aa1d-ef28ae077bc4.jpg) ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/2f56356d-5e24-4ba5-bc45-ebd603e9aaad.jpg)

Asakusa, Kuramae, Oshiage Bar Hopping Cultural Experience
¥17000~
Tokyo Skytree Area Bar Hopping with Sky Views
3 hours

Tokyo Skytree Area Bar Hopping with Sky Views

◆Introduction Experience Tokyo's modern drinking scene with spectacular views on this guided bar hopping tour around Tokyo Skytree. Enjoy craft beers, premium sake, and innovative cocktails while taking in panoramic cityscapes from rooftop terraces and high-rise lounges. Perfect for those who want to combine great drinks with unforgettable Tokyo Tower views. ・Visit 3 unique bars with Tokyo Skytree views ・Small-group tour ensures personalized experience ・Includes craft beer, sake, and cocktail tastings ・Learn about modern Japanese drinking culture ・Perfect photo opportunities with illuminated Skytree ◆Included ・2 drinks at each of the 3 venues (6 drinks total) ・Premium sake and craft beer selections ・Rooftop terrace access and sky lounge experiences ・Professional photos with Skytree backdrop ・English-speaking guide with local insights ◆Not Included ・Hotel pickup and drop-off ・Gratuities ・Additional drinks or food ・Personal expenses ◆Itinerary Discover Tokyo's modern bar scene while enjoying breathtaking views of the world's tallest broadcasting tower and surrounding cityscape. ・World Beer Museum - Sky Mall Experience (1 hour) Start at the spacious 300-seat beer hall with 150+ international bottles and 15-20 taps. Enjoy German-style brews while watching the Skytree change colors outside. ・Piccole Lampare Rooftop Sky Bar (1 hour) Head to this open-air 6th-floor terrace with direct Skytree night views. Sip Italian-inspired cocktails and Japanese craft lagers under the stars. ・Japanese Sake Bar No.104 (1 hour) End at this intimate 12-seat specialist bar focusing on small-batch nihon-shu. Learn proper sake tasting techniques while enjoying premium selections. ◆Additional Info ・Wheelchair accessible (most venues) ・Minimum age is 20 years (legal drinking age in Japan) ・Smart casual dress code recommended for rooftop venues ・Weather contingency: covered terrace areas available ・This tour will have a maximum of 8 travelers ・Last venue closes at midnight ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/11f3d931-7ee0-4fa1-aa1d-ef28ae077bc4.jpg) ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/2f56356d-5e24-4ba5-bc45-ebd603e9aaad.jpg)

Tokyo Skytree Area Asakusa, Kuramae, Oshiage Bar Hopping Night Views
¥17000~
Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournaments

Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournaments

◆ Event Introduction The Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournaments (honbasho) are among Japan's most iconic and culturally significant sporting events. Of the six annual tournaments held across Japan, three take place at the legendary Ryogoku Kokugikan arena in Tokyo's Sumida ward, showcasing the ancient art of sumo wrestling at its highest level. Each tournament spans 15 consecutive days, featuring hundreds of bouts from the lower divisions in the morning through to the elite makuuchi division matches in the late afternoon. The atmosphere combines intense athletic competition with centuries-old Shinto rituals, making it a truly unique spectacle. ◆ Historical Background Sumo is believed to have a history of at least 1,500 years in Japan. Ancient chronicles such as the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki contain myths of wrestling bouts among the gods. During the Nara and Heian periods (8th to 12th centuries), sumo was held at the imperial court as part of official ceremonies. During the Edo period (1603 to 1868), sumo developed into a form of urban entertainment beloved by the common people in Edo (present-day Tokyo). Professional wrestlers began to organize, and many of the ritual elements recognizable today, including the ring-entering ceremonies, the referee's traditional costume, and the salt-throwing purification, were established during this era. The current system of six annual tournaments (each lasting 15 days) was established in the postwar era and is administered by the Japan Sumo Association. Three of these six tournaments are held in Tokyo, with the remaining three taking place in Osaka (March), Nagoya (July), and Fukuoka (November). ◆ Tokyo Tournament Schedule 📅 January Tournament (Hatsu Basho / New Year Tournament) Held over 15 days in mid-January, typically starting on the second Sunday of the month. This tournament marks the beginning of the sumo calendar year and is one of the most anticipated events. 📅 May Tournament (Natsu Basho / Summer Tournament) Held over 15 days in mid-May, typically starting on the second or third Sunday of the month. The summer tournament brings exciting competition as wrestlers aim to build momentum for the year. 📅 September Tournament (Aki Basho / Autumn Tournament) Held over 15 days in mid-September, typically starting on the second Sunday of the month. The autumn tournament is the final Tokyo honbasho of the year. ◆ Daily Schedule Matches begin in the late morning with bouts from the lower divisions (jonokuchi, jonidan, sandanme, and makushita). The juryo (second-highest division) matches take place in the mid-afternoon, followed by the highly anticipated makuuchi (top division) bouts in the late afternoon. The final match of the day, known as the musubi no ichiban, typically concludes around 6:00 PM. The final day of each tournament, called senshuraku, is the climactic conclusion where the tournament champion (yusho) is decided and awarded the prestigious Emperor's Cup along with numerous other prizes and trophies. ◆ Venue: Ryogoku Kokugikan 📍 Location: 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida, Tokyo 🚃 Access: 1-minute walk from JR Ryogoku Station (West Exit), or 5-minute walk from Toei Oedo Line Ryogoku Station (Exit A3) The Ryogoku Kokugikan, often simply called the Kokugikan ("National Sport Hall"), is the spiritual home of professional sumo. This iconic indoor arena seats over 10,000 spectators and features the sacred dohyo (clay ring) at its center, crowned by a suspended shrine-like roof (tsuriyane) that symbolizes sumo's deep connection to Shinto traditions. Seating options include traditional masu-seki (box seats) near the ring, where spectators sit on cushions in intimate tatami-style compartments, as well as chair seats in the upper levels offering panoramic views of the arena. ◆ What Makes Sumo Special 🎌 Sacred Rituals Every aspect of sumo is steeped in Shinto tradition. Wrestlers throw salt to purify the ring before each bout, perform ceremonial stomps (shiko) to drive away evil spirits, and participate in elaborate ring-entering ceremonies (dohyo-iri). The yokozuna (grand champion) ring-entering ceremony is a particularly awe-inspiring display of tradition and power. 💪 The Rankings Sumo wrestlers (rikishi) are ranked in a hierarchical system called the banzuke. The pinnacle of sumo is the rank of yokozuna, the grand champion, a title that carries immense prestige and responsibility. Wrestlers live and train in communal training stables (heya), many of which are located in the Ryogoku neighborhood. 🍲 Sumo Culture in Ryogoku The Ryogoku area surrounding the Kokugikan is rich with sumo heritage. Visitors can explore chanko-nabe restaurants serving the hearty hot pot stew that forms the staple diet of sumo wrestlers, visit the Sumo Museum inside the arena, and spot rikishi walking through the neighborhood streets in their traditional attire. ◆ Important Notes ⚠️ This page is for event information only. For inquiries about the tournaments, please feel free to contact us directly. ⚠️ The arena can become extremely crowded during tournaments, especially on weekends and the final days. Plan your visit well in advance. ⚠️ Photography rules may apply inside the arena. Please follow the venue's guidelines regarding cameras and recording devices. ⚠️ The Ryogoku area offers many dining options, but popular chanko-nabe restaurants can fill up quickly during tournament periods. ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/f779a839-425a-4641-97e6-1ea33b0bf7a3.jpg)

Asakusa, Kuramae, Oshiage Festivals & Events Japanese Culture
[Private Small Group] Tokyo Day Tour by Large Hire Car | Science Museum & Asakusa & Skytree | With Dedicated Guide
8.5 hours

[Private Small Group] Tokyo Day Tour by Large Hire Car | Science Museum & Asakusa & Skytree | With Dedicated Guide

🚐 Explore Tokyo in Complete Privacy! Luxury large hire car tour limited to maximum 8 guests Create special family memories in Tokyo. Our private large hire car and dedicated guide will provide you with an original Tokyo experience just for your group. Efficiently and comfortably visit the Science Museum where you can meet dinosaurs, traditional Asakusa with its Edo atmosphere, and Tokyo Skytree with panoramic city views. ## Detailed Schedule **09:00** Pick-up at your designated location (hotel, station, residence, etc.) **09:30-12:00** National Museum of Nature and Science - Visit dinosaur exhibits in Earth Gallery - Educational explanations by dedicated guide **12:00-13:00** Lunch time during transfer - Selected local gourmet lunch box **13:30-15:30** Sensoji Temple & Nakamise Street - Formal worship experience from Kaminarimon to main hall - Traditional crafts viewing dating back to Edo period **16:00-17:00** Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck - 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo **17:30** Drop-off at your designated location ## What's Included ✓ Large hire car charter for the day (7 hours) ✓ Experienced professional driver ✓ Dedicated guide service (full day) ✓ Admission fees (Science Museum, Skytree Tembo Deck) ✓ Selected lunch box ✓ Door-to-door transfer service ✓ Gasoline and parking fees ✓ Various insurance coverage ## Important Information - **Minimum participants:** 6 guests - **Maximum capacity:** 8 guests - **Booking deadline:** 5 days in advance - **Operating days:** Daily (except year-end/New Year holidays) - **Duration:** Approximately 8.5 hours - **Meeting point:** Your designated location (within Tokyo) ## Customer Reviews ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **"The children were absolutely delighted!"** "Being private, our children could enjoy themselves without worry. The guide's explanations were easy to understand and educational for adults too." *(Family of 4, Tokyo)* ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **"Efficient touring, completely satisfied"** "The large hire car made travel comfortable, and we could safely store our luggage. We made effective use of our time and had a fulfilling day." *(Family of 6, Kanagawa)*

Asakusa Temple Area Tokyo Skytree Area Area Around the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation Private Tours Family Friendly Cultural Experience Sightseeing Educational
¥18000~
1 Hour Private Photoshoot in Tokyo Skytree Area
1 hour

1 Hour Private Photoshoot in Tokyo Skytree Area

Experience the dramatic contrast of old and new Tokyo with this spectacular photography tour around Tokyo Skytree, where Japan's tallest structure rises majestically above the traditional shitamachi districts of Sumida and Asakusa. This iconic area offers unparalleled opportunities to capture the essence of Tokyo's evolution from ancient capital to futuristic metropolis. Discover breathtaking viewpoints along the Sumida River banks where you can frame the 634-meter tower rising behind Asakusa's famous red Kaminarimon gate and Senso-ji Temple's five-story pagoda. Capture perfect symmetrical reflections in the narrow Kitajukken Canal, especially magical at dawn when the water mirrors the tower's elegant silhouette. Explore the modern Skytree Town complex with its soaring glass architecture and geometric patterns, perfect for dramatic upward compositions with ultra-wide lenses. The tower's base transforms from a tripod into circular cross-section - an architectural homage to traditional pagodas that creates stunning geometric photography opportunities. Wander through the surrounding historic districts where narrow lanes, traditional bathhouses, and artisan workshops making incense and paper lanterns provide intimate street scenes contrasting beautifully with the futuristic tower backdrop. The nearby Sumida Hokusai Museum's metallic facade creates fascinating juxtapositions of contemporary architecture. Capture the tower's evening illuminations cycling through themes of 'Iki' (Edo-blue), 'Miyabi' (royal purple), and seasonal colors that transform the entire skyline. During cherry blossom season, frame the tower through pink sakura tunnels in Sumida Park for ethereal springtime compositions. This tour is perfect for architecture enthusiasts, lovers of old-meets-new Tokyo contrasts, and anyone seeking iconic skyline photography with cultural depth. The original 100+ photo files are delivered within a week, and you can select your favorite 10 photos for re-delivery. Corrections are made to evoke a specific atmosphere, and if desired, adjustments can be made to mood and color. Let us capture your special moments in Tokyo's most iconic district! ◆ Important information: ・If you arrive late for the scheduled meeting time, the shooting duration and the quantity of delivered photos may be reduced. ・If rain is forecasted for the shooting spot 3 days prior to the scheduled date or if it unexpectedly rains on the day of the shoot, three options are available: (1) reschedule the date and time, (2) change the location, or (3) cancel the shoot. ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/31c251c4-da4b-4575-bd00-a7e506f3e5ab.jpg) ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/05dba68a-c4bb-4ef9-8642-f432bc5200a9.jpg) ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/25c89fdc-4928-4d91-941f-8abc2858f0ea.png) ![](https://assets.hldycdn.com/66380c58-9fcc-4ac2-a0c5-c68698650bd6.jpg)

Tokyo Skytree Area Asakusa, Kuramae, Oshiage Photoshoot / Photo tour
¥17000~