Tokyo is one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the world, offering a vast array of delicious food to try. Tokyo is also a city where culture and tradition are deeply ingrained, as evident in its diverse cuisine. One of the best ways to explore Tokyo’s culinary landscape is through a Tokyo food tour. These tours delve into the city’s vibrant food scene, showcasing both popular dishes and hidden gems known only to locals.

If you are a fan of food, culture, and tradition, let me share my experience with the Super Sugamo Local Foodie Adventure, hosted by Arigato Travel.

Who is Arigato Travel? 

Arigato Travel is a culinary tourism company in Japan dedicated to helping visitors create delicious memories during their trip. They offer more than 30 food tours across Japan’s top destinations, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and near Mt. Fuji. Additionally, they provide online experiences such as a Green Tea Experience, a DIY Japan-inspired Cocktail Experience, and a Virtual Tokyo Food Tour. All Arigato Travel tours are hosted by local experts who share valuable insights, tips, and information.

What is Sugamo?

Sugamo, also known as “Grandma’s Harajuku,” is a famous destination for the elderly. However, with the University of Tokyo’s dormitory located here, the area also caters to students, featuring numerous restaurants and gourmet eateries. In recent years, young people have been drawn to Sugamo for its vintage ambiance and charming old-fashioned stores.

What is Sugamo Foodie Adventure? 

The Super Sugamo Foodie Adventure is one of Arigato Travel’s many Tokyo food tours. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore a hidden gem neighbourhood with a rich 100-year history. Participants can taste a variety of dishes, from sweet to savoury, and enjoy snacks to full meals. The tour also provides a glimpse into local customs and practices, as well as a chance to meet friendly shopkeepers.

My Experience in the Super Sugamo Local Foodie Adventure

Let me give you a sneak peek into my Tokyo food tour experience with Arigato Travel. Spoilers ahead! If you want to experience this tour for yourself, click on this link.

One of the highlights for me was trying the dorayaki. This shop, originally known for its “monaka,” now excels in making moist, fluffy, and fragrant dorayaki. Made with a blend of eggs, flour, and a secret ingredient of soy sauce and sake, these pancakes have a savoury, full-bodied flavour. Our host, Lauren, recommended trying the dorayaki with red bean paste from Hokkaido, topped with special butter, salt, and a hint of black pepper. The combination of sweet bean paste, creamy butter, and salt was simply out of this world.

Along the tour, we visited various shops to buy souvenirs and groceries. Whether you’re a local or a traveller, Sugamo offers plenty of shopping options. Beyond the food, the tour also highlighted the area’s rich history and culture. We visited two unique temples, each with its own fascinating history and customs, practised for centuries. The local hospitality and lifestyle were evident, with shop owners displaying warmth, drive, and passion. Walking through Sugamo felt like stepping back in time.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this Tokyo food tour was learning about Japan from multiple perspectives. The Arigato Travel team is knowledgeable and makes it easy to understand and discover every aspect of Sugamo and Japan as a whole. You can delve into Tokyo’s history through its structures, learn about its culture through customs, and experience local delicacies and hospitality through your palate. The team’s strong relationships with local shops and restaurants ensure a warm welcome wherever you go.

Why I Recommend the Super Sugamo Local Foodie Adventure

One of the most enjoyable aspects of this Tokyo food tour was learning about Japan from multiple perspectives. The Arigato Travel team is knowledgeable and makes it easy to understand and discover every aspect of Sugamo and Japan as a whole. You can delve into Tokyo’s history through its structures, learn about its culture through customs, and experience local delicacies and hospitality through your palate. The team’s strong relationships with local shops and restaurants ensure a warm welcome wherever you go

Booking Super Sugamo Local Foodie Adventure 

This Tokyo food tour lasts roughly three hours and starts at Sugamo Station, accessible via the JR Yamanote line or the Toei Mita Line. If you’re interested in this tour, you can check availability and book through the provided link. The friendly Arigato Travel team is available to answer any questions via email or social media.

Discover New Flavours and Hidden Gems With a Tokyo Food Tour

Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist visiting for the first time, the Super Sugamo Local Foodie Adventure offers a unique and enriching experience. This Tokyo food tour is more than just a culinary journey; it’s an exploration of the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Even if you’ve visited Sugamo before, you’ll likely uncover new places and experiences, as I did during my tour.

The diversity of food, from traditional sweets to savoury snacks, provides a comprehensive taste of Tokyo’s culinary offerings. The tour also offers a rare glimpse into the everyday lives of the local community, allowing you to appreciate the traditions and customs that have shaped this area over the years. The knowledgeable and friendly guides from Arigato Travel make the experience even more enjoyable, providing context and stories that bring each stop on the tour to life.

If you’re into healthy eating, also consider Flip Japan Guide’s Vegan and Gluten Free Walking Tour in Tokyo!