Setagaya City in 1 Day for Friends - Private, fully inclusive and customizable evening in Sangenjaya
In Collaboration with Tokyo Memories. Updated on February 26, 2026.
Private 4-hour guided izakaya tour through the lantern-lit back alleys of Sangenjaya. Visit three small, local izakayas selected by your guide, try at least 10 Japanese dishes, cook your own okonomiyaki or monjayaki in a neighbourhood institution, and sample traditional drinks including beer, sake, shochu, hoppy and umeshu. Flexible start time (standard start 18:30).
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Tokyo Memories, inspired by the tour Sangenjaya Back Alleys Private Food and Drink Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private, fully inclusive and customizable evening in Sangenjaya
- Visit three off-the-beaten-track izakayas in narrow back alleys
- Cook your own okonomiyaki/monjayaki in a local institution
- Taste a minimum of 10 Japanese dishes and traditional drinks
Itinerary
Day 1
Evening private izakaya walking tour of Sangenjaya. The group meets at Sangenjaya Station and moves through a sequence of three small izakayas and an okonomiyaki experience. Expect narrow streets and standing bars; not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.
Meet at Sangenjaya Station (Taishido area)
Meet your guide outside Sangenjaya Station. Quick introductions, safety notes, confirm dietary needs, and a short orientation before heading into the back alleys.
Tips from local experts:
- Meet outside the main station exits; look for your guide holding a visible tour card—arrive 5 minutes early to avoid delays.
- Most trains in the area run frequently in the evening; if you arrive by taxi ask to be dropped near the station entrance on Taishidō.
- Carry some small change and an IC card (Suica/Pasmo) for station barriers or incidental transport on the way.
First izakaya — local selection (first stop)
Walk into the lantern-lit back alleys and visit the first small izakaya chosen by your guide. Sample a selection of small plates to start your tasting (part of the inclusive menu).
Tips from local experts:
- Many small izakayas prefer cash or small-group orders—follow the guide’s recommendation for shared plates.
- Expect tight seating and a lively atmosphere; keep personal belongings close in narrow alley seating.
- If you have dietary restrictions, remind the guide at the start so they can request suitable dishes here.
Second izakaya — seasonal and charcoal-grilled dishes
Move to a second off-the-beaten-track izakaya where you’ll try charcoal-grilled items, sashimi, and other regional small plates recommended by your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Many izakayas serve dishes meant for sharing—sample small portions and pass dishes family-style as the guide demonstrates.
- Smoking is often permitted in smaller bars; if this is a concern, let the guide choose a smoke-free corner where possible.
- Ask the guide about local drinks like shochu or Hoppy if you want to try lighter or lower-alcohol options between sips of sake or beer.
Okonomiyaki / Monjayaki experience (cook your own)
Visit a local institution where you’ll cook your own okonomiyaki or monjayaki at the table with guidance from your host. This hands-on meal is included and a highlight of the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little oil on—there’s often hot griddle cooking at the table.
- If you prefer not to cook, the guide or staff will demonstrate and can cook for you—tell them beforehand.
- Okonomiyaki includes shared toppings and sauces; if you have allergies, notify the guide before ordering to adjust ingredients.
Final stop — kushikatsu standing bar (small, raucous local bar)
End the evening in a tiny kushikatsu standing bar popular with locals. Try deep-fried skewers, taste umeshu or Hoppy, and experience lively Tokyo nightlife away from tourists.
Tips from local experts:
- Standing bars can be crowded and compact—light luggage is easier to manage and keeps the group mobile.
- Kushikatsu is often dipped into a shared sauce—follow local etiquette and avoid double-dipping with used food.
- If someone in the group is under 20, they will be offered soft drinks only; staff may ask for ID if unsure of age.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Restaurant, Meal, Nightlife |