Tokyo Layover 5 Hours Private Tour by Car

Senso-ji Temple is the oldest temple in Tokyo. The name Asakusa appeared for the first time in the history of Japan in 628, when a small statue of the Kannon was caught by two fishermen in Asakusa. The people in the village built a small temple for the statue not knowing anything about its origin. The statue has been kept hidden in a sealed wooden box since 645, when a Buddhist monk who had been invited from Nara to see the statue suggested doing so. The box was opened once in 1868 by officers sent by the government to execute orders regarding the separation of Shinto and Buddhism. The temple received constant support from powerful samurai and it became a family temple of the Tokugawa shogun in the early 17th century. Most of the temple buildings were lost during the Second World War. The main building was reconstructed in 1958, and the five-story pagoda in 1973.

However the main Tsukiji Market was replaced in 2018 by the Toyosu Market, the outer market at Tsukiji remains. There are still various restaurants and shops containing numerous interesting items. (Some shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays,Wednesdays, and national holidays)

Ginza has eclectic boutiques and galleries, the shops selling Japanese traditional crafts, and incredible selection of restaurants and cutting edge architecture.

The Imperial Palace used to be the Castle of Tokugawa shogun family from 1603 to 1868. It became The Imperial Palace when the political power returned to the Emperor Meiji. The Imperial Palace grounds have many of the perfectly manicured pine trees and lawns which can be enjoyed from a car. You can also take a short stroll to see the palace walls and bridges.

The National Diet (Parliament) building is one of only a few buildings in Tokyo that survived the air raids of 1945. The building was built in 1936.

There are various buildings designed by the world’s leading architechts in Omotesando. You can also find every famous brand neme in fashion.

Harajuku will give you some insight into the youth culture of Japan. You will see unique fashion trends and outrageous design in fashion and buildings.

Meiji shrine has a pleasant atmosphere and nice break from the busy streets. You might be able to see a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony on Saturdays and Sundays.

Shibuya crossing is the busiest intersection in the world. It makes Times Square seem like a sleepy village.