Toshima City in 1 Day for Couples - Hands-on Edo Komon / Edo Sarasa stencil dyeing workshop (make your own tote)
In Collaboration with Wise Guides / Wise-Infinity inc.. Updated on February 20, 2026.
Hands-on Edo-style stencil dyeing at a historic dyer’s workshop, followed by a relaxed stroll through Higo Hosokawa Garden and a short ride on the Tokyo Sakura Tram. Meet in the Waseda / Zoshigaya area and return to Waseda station at the end. Total duration 2 hours 30 minutes. Comfortable clothes recommended; no prior dyeing experience required.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Wise Guides / Wise-Infinity inc., inspired by the tour Waseda: Dyeing Workshop and Japanese Garden. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hands-on Edo Komon / Edo Sarasa stencil dyeing workshop (make your own tote)
- Stroll and photo moment at Higo Hosokawa Garden
- Short nostalgic ride on the Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line)
Itinerary
Day 1
Meeting point in Waseda / Zoshigaya area. Check-in, quick orientation and confirmation of names and any allergies or mobility needs.
Meet at Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Zoshigaya Station, Exit 1
Group check-in and brief orientation. Please arrive at Exit 1 on time so the group can depart promptly.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5 minutes early: Exit 1 can be narrow during weekday afternoons.
- If using a Suica/Pasmo card, keep it ready for station exits to speed up meet-up.
- Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a small dye speck on; aprons are provided for the workshop.
Day 1
Walk to the historic dyeing workshop for the hands-on tote-bag dyeing experience. The workshop includes a brief demonstration followed by guided stencil dyeing.
Walk to Tokyo Somemonogatari Museum (Tomita dyer art)
Short walk from the meeting point to the dyer’s workshop/museum. Light transfer on foot (flat, paved streets).
Tips from local experts:
- The walk is about 8–12 minutes on flat pavement; comfortable shoes recommended.
- Watch for narrow sidewalks and occasional bicycles during the walk.
- If you need to wait, there are small convenience stores nearby for water or a quick restroom stop.
Dyeing workshop at Tokyo Somemonogatari Museum (Tomita dyer art)
Hands-on Edo stencil dyeing session: demonstration of Edo Komon / Edo Sarasa patterns, stencil placement, and guided dyeing to create your own tote bag. Includes a short workshop orientation and drying time handled by staff.
Tips from local experts:
- The dyeing process uses traditional pigments — avoid touching dyed surfaces until staff indicate they are dry.
- There is a provided snack during the session (as noted in the activity inclusions); if you have allergies, inform staff at check-in.
- Place personal items in the provided cubby or on a nearby shelf; large bags may be best left at the meeting point if space is limited.
Day 1
Short walk to the nearby Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line) stop to experience one of Tokyo’s last streetcar lines.
Walk to Kishibojimmae Station (Tokyo Sakura Tram)
5–12 minute walk from the workshop to the Kishibojimmae tram stop; prepare exact change or use IC card on the tram.
Tips from local experts:
- The walk is short but may involve crossing small streets — follow pedestrian signals.
- Tram boarding requires stepping up a small height; step-free access is limited.
- Have your IC card ready or coins for exact fare; drivers accept IC cards on board.
Ride Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line) to Waseda Station
Board the Tokyo Sakura Tram for a short nostalgic ride to Waseda. Enjoy the retro streetcar atmosphere; this is one of Tokyo’s last tram lines.
Tips from local experts:
- Board at the front door and pay the fare on exit if using cash; IC cards are accepted for easier boarding.
- Keep your handcrafted tote bag secure during the ride; the tram can be busy during peak times.
- If you prefer photos, stand near the front carriage for a clearer view through the driver’s window (when safe and allowed).
Day 1
Visit Higo Hosokawa Garden for a relaxed stroll and photo opportunity with your handcrafted tote bag. Garden visit timed to allow comfortable walking and photo-taking.
Higo Hosokawa Garden — stroll and photo moment
Peaceful Japanese garden walk around ponds and landscaped paths. Ideal spot for couples to take photos with your finished tote bag. Staff will reconvene the group before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- The garden paths can be uneven or have stone steps; wear stable footwear and take your time.
- Peak cherry blossom (sakura) or autumn leaf times are busy — position yourselves early for photos at the north pond.
- There are benches and sheltered areas for a short rest; if either partner prefers minimal walking, nominate one meeting bench near the entrance.
Day 1
Short walk back to Waseda tram stop / station to close the activity. Final check and farewells.
End at Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line), Waseda Station
Activity ends at Waseda tram station / nearby street-level area. Participants are free to continue exploring Waseda or return to central Tokyo on their own.
Tips from local experts:
- Waseda Station area has several cafés and small restaurants if you’d like a quiet post-tour drink.
- If you plan to continue by subway, the nearest major subway connections are a short walk — check your route on your transit app.
- Keep your tote bag protected while boarding elevators or stairs; some station exits have steps without ramps.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Transfer, Experience, Attraction |