Onsen Spa in Tokyo and Asakusa Bar Hopping with Local Guide

If you’re craving a slice of local Tokyo life that combines relaxing traditional baths with the vibrant street scene of Asakusa, this tour might just be your ideal half-day escape. Priced at $176.11 per person, it lasts around six hours and offers a taste of how everyday Tokyoites unwind—through hot baths, hearty Japanese street food, and a friendly guide to navigate it all. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit Edoyu, a well-maintained onsen within the city, and then stroll down Hoppy Street in Asakusa, sampling local food and drinks in a lively, authentic setting.

What we really love about this experience is the balance it strikes. First, the onsen visit offers a chance to relax like a local, with facilities that include multiple baths, saunas, and bedrock spas—plus all the essentials like towels and soap included. Second, the guided tour of Hoppy Street turns a casual food outing into an educational and fun experience, with your guide translating and helping you navigate local specialties. That said, one thing to consider is the onsen’s tattoo policy—heavy tattoos are prohibited, though there are ways to hide smaller tattoos if you communicate in advance.

This tour is perfect for travelers interested in a relaxing, authentic Japanese experience that combines wellness and local culture. It suits those who want a manageable, well-organized glimpse into Tokyo’s everyday leisure scene, especially if you’re new to onsens or want a guided safe way to enjoy local street food. If you enjoy learning about local customs and relaxing in spa-like environments, this tour is a good fit.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience combining onsen relaxation with street food exploration
• Expert guidance enhances understanding and comfort during the tour
• All-inclusive essentials for the onsen, with optional customization to suit individual needs
• Culturally respectful approach to onsen etiquette and local customs
• Vibrant Hoppy Street offers a lively, flavorful taste of Tokyo’s neighborhood drinking scene
• Small group size (up to 8 travelers) ensures personalized attention

The Itinerary in Detail

Visiting Edoyu Onsen: A Local Sanctuary

Right from the start, we loved the friendly, informative briefing on onsen manners—crucial for first-timers who might be unsure of the customs. The onsen itself, Edoyu, is a modern, clean facility with a distinctly local vibe. You’ll find six different baths, including bedrock spas and treatments, plus three saunas—all designed to relax tense muscles and refresh the mind.

What makes Edoyu stand out is its authenticity and spotless environment. The building is fairly new, so cleanliness and comfort are guaranteed. The inclusion of towels, gowns, and soap ensures you won’t need to scramble for supplies. The guide mentions that tattoos are prohibited, but provides options to get around this, especially if your tattoos are small—something to consider if you’re inked.

The three-hour duration allows enough time to soak in multiple baths, enjoy the saunas, and experience the relaxing lounges. We appreciated that all entry fees are included, making for a hassle-free experience. The quiet, contemplative atmosphere offers a genuine break from the busy city streets—an ideal way to recharge after sightseeing or busy travel days.

Strolling Down Hoppy Street in Asakusa

Post-bathing, we headed to Hoppy Street, a quintessential neighborhood hub packed with small eateries serving yakitori, okonomiyaki, and other beloved Japanese snacks. The street buzzes with locals rather than travelers, giving you that genuine neighborhood feel. Your guide will help you navigate the menu and translate the ordering process—no need to worry about language barriers.

You’ll have about three hours to explore, snack, and experience the convivial atmosphere. The food quality is high, and the prices are reasonable considering the quality and quantity—definitely good value for a casual, hearty meal. If you have specific preferences, the guide is happy to customize the experience, ensuring you get exactly what you’re craving, whether that’s more street food or a drink at a local bar.

Asakusa’s lively streets are perfect for wandering around, spotting traditional shops, and soaking in the neighborhood’s historic charm. The tour ends conveniently at Asakusa Station, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your Time

We found this tour to be an excellent blend of relaxation and cultural insight. The guided aspect is particularly valuable; your guide isn’t just a translator but a storyteller who enriches your understanding of Japanese customs and local life. The onset of relaxation—with all the baths and lounges included—is a highlight, especially for travelers seeking a genuine, low-pressure experience.

The street food segment adds a lively, authentic flavor to the day, far removed from the polished, tourist-heavy restaurants. Sampling local dishes and drinks on Hoppy Street is both delicious and culturally enlightening, giving you a taste of everyday Tokyo life.

In terms of value, the tour’s all-inclusive nature—covering onsen entry, towels, and a guided walk—means less worry about hidden costs. The only additional expenses are your onset and restaurant fees, which you can control based on your appetite and preferences.

A real strength of this tour is its small group size—max eight travelers—ensuring plenty of personal attention and room for questions. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, you’ll find it easy to connect and enjoy the experience fully.

The Experience Provider and Booking Info

Operated by Matenro Tours, this tour is available from 1 pm to 9 pm, Tuesday through Thursday, from June 2024 through June 2026. It’s booked on average 39 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re traveling during peak seasons. The tour begins at Ryogoku Station’s West Exit and concludes at Asakusa Station, making it convenient to continue exploring or return to your hotel.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxing, authentic taste of Tokyo, this tour offers a unique glimpse into local leisure routines. The onsen experience is genuine and stress-free, thanks to the guide’s thorough briefing and the facility’s cleanliness. The street food exploration on Hoppy Street is lively and informal, perfect for those wanting to see how locals unwind after work.

This experience suits travelers curious about Japanese bathing culture, looking for well-organized guided tours, or wanting a cultural snack along with their relaxation. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate small group atmospheres, authentic experiences, and the chance to connect with local customs in a friendly, approachable setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners to onsen bathing?
Yes, the guide provides a briefing on onsen manners, making it accessible for first-timers. The facilities are modern and clean, and all essentials like towels are included.

Are tattoos allowed at Edoyu onsen?
Heavy tattoos are prohibited, but the guide can suggest ways to hide small tattoos, making it possible for some inked visitors to enjoy the baths with prior communication.

How long do we spend at the onsen?
You’ll have about three hours to enjoy the baths, saunas, and lounges. This allows plenty of time to relax and try different baths.

What is included in the tour price?
All fees for the onsen entry, towels, gowns, soap, and the guide’s services are included. Food and drink costs at the restaurant are separate.

Can I customize the experience?
Absolutely, the tour can be tailored to your preferences, whether that’s more time at the baths or choosing specific food options during the street walk.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ryogoku Station’s West Exit and ends at Asakusa Station, making it easy to continue exploring Tokyo afterward.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
With a maximum of eight travelers, it’s perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers wanting a comfortable, intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Just wear comfortable clothing suitable for bathing and walking. All bathing essentials are provided, but bring your own toiletries if you prefer.

Is there a particular time of year best for this tour?
The tour runs year-round, but visiting in milder weather might enhance outdoor walks and street experience. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

In the end, this tour offers a lovely balance: a chance to relax in a traditional onsen and enjoy authentic Tokyo street food, guided by someone who truly knows the neighborhood. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a busy sightseeing schedule or simply want to see Tokyo from a different angle, it’s a memorable way to spend half a day.