Online Tours of Tokyo in English! Discover the City with Osampo TOKYO

Online English Tours with Osampo TOKYO

Photo by Pixta

When thinking of Tokyo, many people may first remember Asakusa—the traditional area of the city—or the high-rise buildings of Shinjuku and Shibuya.

However, Tokyo’s true appeal often lies in areas outside of these famous locations.

If you wish to explore the deeper charm of this bustling metropolis, we recommend the online tours held by Osampo TOKYO. They offer walking tours around the city, as well as online tours in English. These tours can be enjoyed both by those currently overseas and those living in Japan.

The Unique Appeal to Osampo TOKYO’s Online English Tours

Photo is for illustrative purposes. Photo by Pixta

The Osampo TOKYO website features tours held by sightseeing associations located in Tokyo. This project is sponsored by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Knowledgeable staff and guides from the sightseeing associations will host the tours. Participants have a chance to learn how to thoroughly enjoy Tokyo in ways that even residents may be unaware of.

In particular, the online English tours will be unique experiences.

Osampo TOKYO’s Official Website

Tokyo Online Tours in English

In this article, we will introduce two online tours held by Osampo TOKYO in English.

Retracing the Steps of the 47 Ronin: Exploring the Retreat Route from the Kira Residence

Pictures courtesy of Sumida Tourism Association

“The Tale of the 47 Ronin” refers to a historical incident that happened at the beginning of the 18th century in Edo (present-day Tokyo). After the death of their lord, Asano Naganori, a group of 47 ronin (*1, masterless samurai) attacked the residence of lord Kira Yoshinaka, who had been responsible for lord Asano’s death.

This vengeance act was born out of the warriors’ loyalty toward their master and became known in history and popular culture as “Chushingura,” or “the Tale of the Loyal Retainers” (also known as the “The Tale of the 47 Ronin”). This story has inspired many kabuki plays and movies, and is still loved today in Japan.

This tour is a chance to learn more about the Chushingura incident and dive deeper into the mentality of samurai warriors.

The tour takes you to locations related to this famous vendetta: to Ryogoku in Tokyo’s Sumida ward, where the residence of Kira Yoshinaka used to be located, to the area in central Tokyo where the ruins of Asano Naganori’s residence (*2) can be seen, and to Sengakuji Temple, where the ronin warriors reported the vendetta before Asano’s grave.

*1 Ako ronin… Ako is the historical name of a province located in present-day Hyogo Prefecture. During the Edo period (1603-1868), the samurai working for the lord of the Ako domain were called “Ako samurai.” They became ronin (masterless samurai) when their lord died and are thus known as the “Ako ronin” (or as the “47 ronin”).
*2 In the Edo period, the feudal lords governing over the provinces were required to live for extended periods of time in Edo (present-day Tokyo) and report to the shogun in person whenever needed. That is why the lord of the Ako domain had a residence in Edo.

Virtual experience for the best running course in Tokyo, Imperial Palace, with passionate guide!!

The photo is for illustrative purposes. Photo by Pixta

There is a recent running boom around the world. Luckily, Japan has several popular running spots on its home turf.

In Tokyo, the Imperial Palace route is any runner’s dream! The easy five-kilometer lap is well-lit at night, attracting numerous runners who jog here on their way home from work.

This tour is hosted by a veteran Imperial Palace runner and navigator. They will introduce everything from the running station, which has lockers and showers, to a route around Chidorigafuchi Park, Sakurada Gate, and Tokyo Station—all while running. It’s a great chance to learn essential tips for those who wish to try the Imperial Palace running route in the future.

During the tour, participants will move their bodies with the navigator and experience the pleasant fatigue from a run. The tour will also introduce sightseeing spots in the area and is packed full of fun content!

Welcome to Tachikawa, a City of Wonder and Discovery! Explore Tokyo's Public Art

Official Faret Tachikawa Art Video

JR Tachikawa Station is accessible in less than one hour by special rapid train from JR Tokyo Station. An area filled with hotels and department stores called Faret Tachikawa is right around the corner. In fact, this spot is attracting global attention from art fans!

The reason? The area is home to a total of 109 public works of art by 92 artists from 39 countries. Renowned contemporary artists include Donald Judd and Niki de Saint Phalle.

What’s unique about these art pieces is their various functions in the city as bumper stops, benches, streetlights, vents, and more. This setting was conceptualized by Fram Kitagawa, whose credits include the direction of the Setouchi Triennale.

This tour will introduce the concept behind the artwork on public display at Faret Tachikawa and show a total of 30 art pieces. It is a chance to appreciate art in a different way than visiting an art museum.

Visit Osampo TOKYO for Tour Details and Applications

Things to Note for Online Tours

Photo by Pixta

As long as you have a smartphone or computer connected to the Internet, it isn’t difficult to participate in an online tour.

However, some situations may require you to download video conferencing apps like Zoom beforehand. If possible, connect to the tour in a place with a strong internet connection to ensure a pleasant tour experience.

For more information, please check the official website or the information sent to you by email after applying for a tour.

Online tours make it easy for anyone to participate, even if you’re overseas. For residents in Japan, consider taking part in an online tour from home, if you have a busy schedule, experience trouble walking, or face difficulty leaving the house. Get actively involved with an online tour today!

Various Osampo TOKYO Tours On and Offline

Osampo TOKYO offers English tours alongside a diverse selection of tours in Japanese. Participants can enjoy sightseeing on an actual walking tour in Tokyo or participate in an online tour.

Be sure to check out the official website for details!

Visit Osampo TOKYO for Tour Details and Application