Gourmet Tour - Japan's Royal History And Skiyaki Set Meal

OVERVIEW

Gain insight into Japan’s imperial past and dine on sukiyaki, a dish that wasn’t popular until the late 19th century, when the Japanese began eating meat again. The Imperial Palace was built on the site of the former Edo Castle, and Japan’s emperor and empress still reside there, so you will only view the exterior. Another stunning panorama awaits you from the palace’s Niju-bashi bridge. You may also see royal artifacts while browsing the Tokyo National Museum, whose fascinating collection totals more than 110,000 objects. The story behind sukiyaki is just as interesting as it is a one-pot beef dish, and eating beef was prohibited in Japan when Buddhism was introduced. You will have a choice of the beef version or a chirashi rice bowl topped with a variety of fresh sashimi. To round out the experience, you will be served dessert infused with matcha, a finely ground green tea.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a traditional beef sukiyaki for lunch or opt for a seafood dish that is equally flavorful.
• Behold the exterior of the 19th-century Imperial Palace, where the royal family still resides.
• Browse the Tokyo National Museum, whose collection includes royal artifacts and much more.
• Walk through the Marunouchi financial district and on to the bustling Tokyo railway station.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.