Sara M.
“More Tokyo!”
After the ½ day tour with our guide Kahoko, we took a full day tour. Kahoko met us in our hotel lobby and then we were off to more subway riding! Thank goodness we had Kahoko to tell us what to do on the subways. Went to the Fish Market (Tsukiji outer market) - David thought it was too much shopping… lol. Saw another shrine close to the fish market where they were performing a ceremony. Then we made our way to a lovey park with a tea house (Hamarikyu garden). At the tea house, Kahoko got us cool matcha tea and showed us how to drink it properly. Also had a very cute dessert. In the park I saw a manhole cover with a ginko tree design. (Who would of thought that manhole covers were beautiful!) Then it was off to a Japanese lunch way up high in one of the buildings adjacent to the park. We could look down and see the tea house that we were just at. After lunch, we went to the Meiji Jingu Shrine. It was right beside the subway, but felt like you were isolated from the world. Lots of trees! We saw the end of a big ceremony when we arrived. After we left, we went to Shibuya Crossing and saw the statue of Hachiko (loyal dog). Then we did the scrambled crossing. Lots of people!!! Afterwards Kahoko took use to the Japanese equivalent to a Lowes home improvement store. It was called “Hands”. (We were looking for a roll of painters tape… not a normal thing for a tour - lol). Also saw the close by Jinnan shopping district before heading back to the subway for the ride back to our hotel. Thanks, Kahoko – it was a great day. And David is still using his parasol!
Michael C.
“Amazing Tour”
This was our first tour/experience on the first day of our vacation. What an amazing day with Akira-san! Not only did Akira-san ensure we saw everything on the list but he just added so much to the experience with history, details and little added touches like visiting a family owned fruit stand. Can’t recommend Akira-san enough!
Maki K.
“On time and Reliable ”
Great communication, on time/arrived earlier as requested, and smooth and comfortable ride. Highly recommend this stress free ride and avoid the crowded trains!
Uncover Japan’s secrets and gain travel knowledge with a local private tour guide. Unlock hidden gems, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable journey.
With a tour guide, you can get to the good stuff, like the ethereal Tottori Sand Dunes and quaint Kinosaki Onsen. From enjoying bespoke traditional ryokans, to navigating the busy streets of Osaka, a tailored journey through Japan’s wonders only gets better with a local expert leading the way.
Beyond the big ticket destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, getting a personalized itinerary transforms a simple tour into lifelong memories. Customized by a local guide, your itinerary can feature lesser known sites like the Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields, where stunning panoramic views of colorful flowers await.
Yes. Local private tour guides in Japan provide comfort, convenience, information, and organization, especially in a culturally and geographically diverse country.
A Japan tour guide enhances your trip by;
Still undecided? This article might interest you: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros & Cons.
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Japan because the weather is warm but not blazing and cool but not freezing.
Of course, March to May is Sakura season, so tourism is high during this time. To escape the crowds, try traveling from December to February. June to August is hot and moist, and May to June is rainy.
Need a full weather breakdown? Check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023.
Depending on your destination, Japan tour guides can be hired from 98 USD per group for a Kyoto Highlights Tour to upwards of 397 USD per group for a Customized Tokyo Experience. GoWithGuide's prices vary according to perks, venues, experiences, and included services. Head to the Japan Private Tours page to see our range of private tour costs.
Tokyo is the number one choice for first-time travelers to Japan. It combines the best elements from the 4 major islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) into one melting pot of culture and creativity. With so much variety, you'll find The Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Ginza Shopping District, and Yomiuriland all in one city.
Tokyo also serves as a base for those who want to travel to nearby destinations like;
Helpful Article: 5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Japan Tourism Statistics for a full breakdown of dos & don'ts, potential destinations, travel trends, weather statistics, and much more.
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