Tokyo, 29 Historic Walks in the World's Most Exciting City

Explore the rich history and culture behind Tokyo's most interesting districts and iconic sites--on foot! This is the first comprehensive walking guide to Tokyo, presenting 29 easy-to-follow tours through the city's most historic and lively precincts. Experience the true spirit and culture of Tokyo--the feudal capital of the Shogun in the era of samurais and geishas--as you wander historic back streets where remnants of the past survive in the shadow of shiny skyscrapers, a fascinating contrast of old and new! You will learn about the founding of Tokyo, the celebrated geisha quarters of the "floating world" and the city's ancient samurai culture. Visit the sublime Imperial Palace Gardens and the glitzy shopping districts of Ginza and Shibuya. Then explore the traditional craft districts and temples of Asakusa--the beating heart of the old city. This book is a labor of love by John and Phyllis Martin, historians and museum curators who taught courses in Japanese history and culture. They highlight unique temples, museums, gardens and shrines for quiet meditation, as well as meccas for lovers of Japanese art and popular culture. Each step of the way, the Martins recount interesting stories from Tokyo's past. Among the many exciting places you'll visit are: Famous sites like the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine and Tsukiji Fish Market Unusual museums like the Sword Museum, Hokusai Museum and the Kite, Tobacco and Salt Museum Spooky cemeteries where the famous 47 Ronin warriors are buried and the controversial Yasukuni Shrine to Japan's war dead Trendy Harajuku, Omotesando and Akihabara where you can buy the latest fashions and geeky gear Serene Japanese gardens nestling amidst the sleek skyscrapers in Tokyo's bustling business districts Sacred shrines like the Hill of Masakado's Head, the Statue of Kiyomaro and the Yushima Tenjin Shrine Scenic daytrips to nearby Yokohama, Kamakura, Hakone, Mt. Fuji, Nikko and Kawagoe ("Little Edo") This book is packed with invaluable information and illustrated with over 100 color photos and 50 full-color maps. Each walk has a QR code that loads it automatically into Google Maps on your phone!