Asakusa is an excellent destination for travelers seeking a taste of traditional Japanese culture. The area is overflowing with things to enjoy: kimono rentals, tea ceremonies, rickshaw rides and samurai, just to name a few. But trying to organize everything separately can quickly become overwhelming—that’s where Jidaiya comes in. Located right next to the iconic Kaminari-mon Gate and a 15-minute walk from HOTEL TAVINOS Asakusa, Jidaiya offers an impressive selection of more than twenty cultural experiences all in one place! Whether you’re staying in Asakusa for a few hours or a full day, Jidaiya makes it easy to enjoy authentic Japanese traditions without the hassle of moving from one location to another.Asakusa is an excellent destination for travelers seeking a taste of traditional Japanese culture. The area is overflowing with things to enjoy: kimono rentals, tea ceremonies, rickshaw rides and samurai, just to name a few. But trying to organize everything separately can quickly become overwhelming—that’s where Jidaiya comes in. Located right next to the iconic Kaminari-mon Gate and a 15-minute walk from HOTEL TAVINOS Asakusa, Jidaiya offers an impressive selection of more than twenty cultural experiences all in one place! Whether you’re staying in Asakusa for a few hours or a full day, Jidaiya makes it easy to enjoy authentic Japanese traditions without the hassle of moving from one location to another.

Asakusa Jidaiya: The All-in-One Cultural Attraction in Tokyo

When you arrive in Asakusa, one of the first things you’ll likely notice is the rickshaws weaving through the bustling streets. Jidaiya originally started as a rickshaw company in Yokohama in 1987. After relocating to Asakusa in 1996, they became the area’s first company to offer sightseeing rickshaw tours. In 2014, driven by a desire to preserve the heart of Japanese tradition in a fast-changing world, Jidaiya expanded its services to include cultural experiences. Since then, they’ve continued to grow, offering both international visitors and locals hands-on ways to connect with Japanese history and lifestyle.

From kimono and yukata rental, hands-on wagashi (Japanese sweets) making, and tea ceremony sessions, to guided rickshaw tours and workshops in traditional arts and crafts, Jidaiya provides accessible and enjoyable activities for individuals, families, and groups. With English support, convenient services, and a welcoming atmosphere, Jidaiya is the perfect place to discover and connect with Japanese culture in the heart of Asakusa.

To check in for your cultural experience, head to Meiji-kan office located right next to Tokyo Metro Asakusa Station and Kaminari-mon Gate. The interior and exterior are inspired by the Western-style architecture from Japan’s Meiji period. Inside, you’ll see many antique treasures curated by the owner. If you’re not sure if you’re at the right building, just keep an eye out for James, a mannequin wearing a Meiji-era police uniform.

💡Tip: Participants of cultural experiences can store luggage at the office free of charge during office hours. Non-participants can also use the luggage storage service for ¥500 per item until 5:30 pm on the same day. There are two additional buildings in which many of the cultural experiences take place: the Edo Kura Studio, the exterior of which resembles an Edo-era kura warehouse, and the Komagata-kan Studio, which has reproductions of a traditional Shoin-style Japanese study room.

Traditional Rickshaw Tours: Ride Through Asakusa’s History

One of Jidaiya’s signature offerings is their sightseeing rickshaw tour. Led by trained rickshaw pullers—known in Japanese as shafu—these tours are both informative and entertaining. The shafu not only guide you through the streets of Asakusa but also provide basic explanations in English, helping you understand the historical and cultural significance of each site. Some shafu at Jidaiya even speak a little bit of Chinese or Spanish!

There are several courses to choose from, each taking you to different parts of Asakusa. For example, the 30-minute Edo Jōcho Meguri (Edo Spirit Tour) covers many must-see Edo-era landmarks, including the Kaminari-mon Gate of Sensō‑ji Temple, Sumida Park, Asakusa-jinja Shrine, and more. Another option is the 30-minute Showa Retro route, which showcases the nostalgic charm of Showa-era Asakusa with visits to Asakusa Hanayashiki, the oldest amusement park in Japan, and historical landmarks along with entertainment venues such as the Asakusa Rokku district.You can also combine the two routes for Jidaiya’s recommended one-hour course.

Reservation is available for rides of more than 30 minutes. However, if you’re short on time or find yourself with a few extra minutes in Asakusa, you can enjoy a 10-minute ride without a reservation—though you may need to wait for a rickshaw to become available.

👉For details and prices on sightseeing rickshaw tours, visit:https://jidaiya.biz/kanko-j-eng.html

Kimono & Yukata Rentals: Dress in Traditional Japanese Style

To truly immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, consider renting a kimono or yukata. They offer a wide selection of patterns and various sizes, including up to 5L, and also have options for children. In summer, guests can opt for a yukata—a lighter, more breathable garment typically worn during festivals and warm weather. For women, Jidaiya also provides basic hairstyling services to complete the look.

The dressing process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes per group. Once you’re ready, you may take photos with your smartphone in the studio for up to 5 minutes before heading out to explore Asakusa in your kimono or yukata. Outfits must be returned by 5:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to take memorable photos and soak up the historic ambiance. Many guests choose to pair their kimono rental with other Jidaiya hands-on programs, such as a rickshaw ride or tea ceremony.

👉For details and prices on kimono rentals, visit: https://jidaiya.biz/kimono_rental_e.html

Tea Ceremony Experience: Make Your Own Matcha with Mindfulness

Among the most popular experiences at Jidaiya is the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, or sado. There are various schools of tea ceremony in Japan, such as Urasenke and Omotesenke. Rather than focusing on one specific style, Jidaiya’s tea ceremony invites guests to slow down and appreciate the elegance and mindfulness at the heart of this ancient tradition.

During the session, the instructor will share insights into the history and etiquette of the tea ceremony, and guests will experience making their own matcha under the guidance of the instructor. You’ll have the chance to sit in the traditional seiza kneeling position on tatami mats—but if that’s uncomfortable, alternative seating is available. Because the tatami mats are set on a raised platform, guests in wheelchairs can also participate with ease.

Individual guests and small groups are typically grouped together, while larger groups are accommodated separately.

👉For details and prices on Japanese culture experience programs, visit: https://jidaiya.biz/taikenmono_e.html

Why Choose Just One Experience When You Can Have Them All?

With so many cultural experiences in one convenient location, Jidaiya is the perfect place to dive into Japanese tradition—whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or as part of a group. To get the most out of your visit, consider starting with a kimono or yukata rental, experiencing the tea ceremony, and then enjoying a rickshaw ride around Asakusa before continuing your day. Of course, with so many wonderful options at Jidaiya, some guests choose to spend the entire day exploring everything they have to offer! Reservations for cultural experiences at Jidaiya can be made in English or Japanese via email or by phone.
●Email:info@jidaiya.biz
●Phone: +81 03-3843-0890 (between 09:00 a.m. and 05:30 p.m.)

How to Get to Jidaiya from HOTEL TAVINOS Asakusa

The easiest way to get from HOTEL TAVINOS Asakusa to Jidaiya is to walk about 15 minutes southwest toward Kaminari-mon Gate, where Jidaiya’s Meiji-kan Office is located. Alternatively, you can take a short 5-minute taxi ride for a quicker option.

Jidaiya (Meijikan Office)
Address: 2-3-5 Kaminari-mon, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 09:30 am – 05:30 pm
Closed: Open throughout the year
Access: about 1-minute from Tokyo Metro Asakusa Station
Website:https://jidaiya.biz/index-e.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asakusa_jidaiya/

Writer

Rachael Aoki
Originally from the East Coast of the United States, Rachael has called Japan home for over a decade. She enjoys discovering destinations that are popular with locals from quaint cafes to hole-in-the-wall eateries and sharing that information with visitors from overseas. She also loves taking trips to onsen and is always up for a trip to Hakone, Kanagawa.