A Unique Way to Explore Tokyo: The Sailor Moon Manhole Cover Search Tour

If you’re a fan of Sailor Moon or just enjoy uncovering hidden corners of a city, this $34 tour in Tokyo’s Minato Ward offers a playful way to see the neighborhood. Led by Kumi, a guide with experience as an embassy interpreter who speaks multiple languages, the tour takes you on a leisurely walk around five special locations where Sailor Moon-themed manhole covers have been installed. Along the way, you’ll visit spots like Tokyo Tower, Azabu Juban shopping street, and Shiba Park, blending pop culture with authentic Tokyo life.
What we love most about this experience is how it combines urban exploration with a fun quest—searching for those secret manhole covers hidden in plain sight. Plus, the chance to learn about the local neighborhoods from a knowledgeable guide makes it a more meaningful adventure. The fact that transportation costs are included helps keep things straightforward and stress-free.
A possible consideration is that the tour is geared towards families with children over 6 and is not wheelchair accessible, so if you’re traveling with very young kids or require mobility assistance, you might need to think about alternatives. Still, for those who enjoy light walking, cultural insights, and pop-culture charm, this tour will suit fans, curious travelers, and anyone looking for a casual Tokyo adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Themed Exploration: Focused on Sailor Moon and her friends, making it perfect for anime fans.
- Authentic Neighborhoods: Combines cultural sights with hidden pop culture gems.
- Multilingual Guide: Led by an experienced guide fluent in several languages.
- Includes Transportation: Bus and cab costs are covered, making logistics easier.
- Flexible & Budget-Friendly: Price at $34 with options to reserve and pay later.
- Limited for Young Children & Wheelchairs: Not suitable for kids under 6 or those needing mobility assistance.
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An In-Depth Look at the Sailor Moon Manhole Cover Search Tour
Starting Out at Tamachi Station
The tour kicks off at Tamachi Station, a bustling hub well connected across Tokyo. Meeting here gives you easy access, especially if you’re staying nearby or coming from another part of the city. From the outset, the atmosphere is relaxed, and your guide—Kumi—sets the tone with her friendly approach and multilingual skills. She’s known for her kindness and her knack for making the neighborhood come alive with stories and insights.
The Quest Begins: Finding the Sailor Moon Manhole Covers
The main highlight of the tour is, of course, locating the five Sailor Moon manhole covers placed around Minato Ward. These decorative covers are cleverly integrated into the urban landscape, often blending seamlessly with the surrounding pavement or street furniture. For fans, spotting them is a thrill—each one a little piece of pop culture art embedded into everyday life.
The covers are spread across varied locations, giving you a sense of the neighborhood’s diversity. The Azabu Juban Shopping Street is a lively, charming area filled with small shops and local eateries, making it an enjoyable backdrop for your search. You’ll also visit Azabu Juban Shrine, which is notable as Sailor Mars’s family home—a delightful detail that adds a layer of storytelling to your walk.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering Iconic Spots: Tokyo Tower and Minato Library
After the hunt, the tour continues to Toyo Eiwa Elementary School, where you might appreciate the contrast between playful pop culture and the serious, everyday lives of Tokyo residents. Next, a cab ride (about 30 minutes) takes you to Azabudai Hills, the tallest building in Japan, offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s modern skyline.
One of the most scenic stops is Shiba Park, home to the Minato Library and just a short walk from Tokyo Tower. From here, you’ll get stunning views of Tokyo Tower, an iconic symbol that everyone should see at least once. As your guide points out the sights, you’ll understand why this area is considered the heart of Tokyo.
Practical Details: Transport and Flexibility
Your bus and cab transportation costs are included, which helps simplify planning. You won’t need to worry about navigating Tokyo’s public transport or paying out of pocket. The tour is structured to be comfortably paced, allowing time to appreciate each spot without feeling hurried.
While the tour does not include tickets to Tokyo Tower’s observation decks, you’re free to purchase a ticket and ascend if that interests you. The main deck (¥1,200) or top deck (¥3,000) options are available, but you’ll want to do that on your own if you decide to go up.
Authentic Local Flavor & Personal Touches
Kumi’s guiding style earns glowing reviews. As one participant noted, “This was a great walk with Kumi. She was amazing and very kind and showed us all the neighborhood. We really enjoyed the moment and the goodies.” Her local knowledge and multilingual skills make the experience approachable for international travelers, and her enthusiasm helps turn a simple street walk into a memorable journey.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for anime fans, families with children over 6, and travelers looking for a relaxed way to see Tokyo’s neighborhoods. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a small group setting with personalized attention. If you’re keen on combining pop culture, local sights, and scenic views, this tour hits all the right notes.
Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability
At just $34, this tour offers exceptional value—especially considering that transportation is included, and the guide enriches the walk with insights and stories. You’ll leave with a better sense of Tokyo’s neighborhoods and a few fun souvenirs—like spotting those elusive manhole covers—along the way.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of pop culture with authentic city life. It’s a playful, laid-back way to engage with Tokyo beyond the typical tourist spots. The local guide’s expertise and scenic stops make it more than just a scavenger hunt; it’s a small adventure that gives you a fresh perspective on the city.
If you’re a fan of Sailor Moon, or if you enjoy light walking tours with a cultural twist, this experience will be right up your alley. It’s especially fitting for those wanting a fun, inexpensive way to explore Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods with a knowledgeable guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the tour cost?
The tour is priced at $34 per person, which includes bus and cab transportation costs, making it an affordable way to see several key spots in Minato Ward.
What languages does the guide speak?
The guide, Kumi, speaks English, French, Spanish, and Japanese. This multilingual approach helps ensure you understand the sights and stories, regardless of your language background.
How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the itinerary involves walking around several neighborhoods and visiting multiple photo spots, likely making it a half-day activity.
Are tickets to Tokyo Tower included?
No, the tour does not include Tokyo Tower observation deck tickets. You can purchase these separately if you wish to go up and take in the panoramic views.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, due to walking and activity levels. Also, it’s not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility concerns should consider alternative options.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring different neighborhoods on foot. Bringing a camera or smartphone for photos of the manhole covers and scenery is a good idea.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility if your plans change.
This Sailor Moon-themed tour offers a charming mix of urban exploration, cultural insights, and pop-culture fun. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed, affordable, and engaging way to see Tokyo through a unique lens—literally, with those hidden manhole covers!
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Tokyo
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