Tokyo Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Tokyo, Japan with a Local Guide
Popular Tokyo Tour Guides
Toru I.
Hello to all of you on the screen. My name is Toru Ishii and I am a licensed national interpretater of English language. I have been guiding scrolling around a Japanese landscape garden designated as Scenic Beauty in Yokohama city for the last 2 years. I would like to explain about time-honored Japanese architectures, transfered from Kyoto and Kamakura, designated as Important Cultural Property. I am also interested in Tea Ceremony and in the ritual of serving powdered green tea in the garden. Yokohama opened its door to overseas comers in 1859 after the Meiji Restoration. The port of Yokohama shared about 70 percents of overseas trading in Japan. The main export was raw silk thread. Now the beautiful city of Yokohama has become historically exotic and ranks as one of the most fascinating internationally trading city that attracts many foreign tourists. I am always happy to guide tourists around this historical region and Introduce the delights of Japanese cuisine and Chinese cuisine in China town according to the visitor's requests. Stepping further out from Yokohama, I would recommend Kamakura city, a 20 minutes train ride on the JR Line, where the visitor can feel the fresh ocean breeze. The nearby Zen Buddhist temples and the Great Buddha are main attractions and souvenir shopping adds the excitement. Kamakura was established by the first Shogun, Yoritomo Minamoto, in 1192 and the shogunate government lasted till 1333. He established his Samurai government which ruled over Japan. After arriving at Kamakura or Kita-Kamakura station, the visitor can easily walk around the city. This city is easily accesable by train from Yokohama (less than 30 minutes) and Tokyo (less than 1 hour). As for my background, I have experienced staying in Louisiana in the United States and studied at the university there. Now I am 60 years old and I am still working for a company, while at the same time, I work as a volunteer guide a few days a month in Yokohama city. I like traveling in foreign countries, and have experienced short time staying at several European countries, North America as well as some Asian countries. Last January, I travelled San Fransico and Merced city, California. I would be delighted to exchange cultural experience with many visitors from all over the world. If you happen to be visiting my country and if you are interested , please feel free to contact me. Toru Ishii
Yoko I.
Hello, I'm Yoko. I was born and brought up in Ashikaga, Tochigi prefecture (80 km north from Tokyo) and I've lived in Tokyo for more than 20 years. I love traveling, both overseas and inside Japan. After I visited other countries and saw many local cultures there, I realized that Japan has a variety of unique cultures with a lot of tourist attractions. I hope you enjoy your stay in Japan. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!
Kent I.
Hello! I'm Kent. I'm a master of Tea Ceremony and Ikebana, as well as a software developer. With over 10 years of experience, I've assisted with tea ceremonies at Zen temples and participated in Ikebana exhibitions for tourists, gaining deep insights into Japanese culture. While I studied these cultural traditions privately, I majored in engineering and earned a degree in the field from Kyoto University. My days in Kyoto has made me familier with local lives and cultural activities. After graduating, I worked in robot software development, collaborating remotely with colleagues in Michigan and engaging with clients and sales teams in Germany, India, and China. Their strong interest in Japanese culture and my background deepened my appreciation for Japan’s heritage, inspiring me to guide tours and practice cultural activities. I currently live in Shinjuku, Tokyo, with my wife, enjoying life here. I’ve joined a robot startup and am working flexibly while continuing to guide tours. My aim is to share the rich history and culture of Japan through my tours and offer creative, immersive experiences.
Ritsuko K.
Hi, I'm Ritsuko, a national licensed tour guide. I was born and raised in Tokyo. As Tokyo is a city of many faces, I hope you will discover your hidden gems during the tour. I love to wander around the shops and places downtown and one of my hobbies is to find daily-use products made in Japan. So I can select unique souvenirs for you within your budget! I am football-mad and have been to every FIFA World Cup except one tournament since 1998. I also love to go island hopping in Asia. That's why I have been to over 30 countries. Wherever I went, people were so kind to me. So, it's my turn. I will do my best to make your tour a memorable one! Hope to hear from you soon.
New Tokyo Tour Guides
Kenta M.
Hi! I'm Kenta from Japan. Just call me ‘Ken’ It’s easy. I was born in Tokyo and raised in Ibaraki pref. After graduating from a high school in Ibaraki, I went to a university in Tokyo to study music. After that, I worked part-time jobs related to music, and finally became a resident DJ in Shibuya, organizing various events and also working in lighting and sound. I have also performed alongside world-famous artists that everyone knows. After working as a DJ for several years, I started a company that imports plants. Our products are mainly rare plants from around the world. I import them and wholesale them to businesses. I have traveled to many countries around the world since my DJ days. I have performed in Asian countries, studied English in South Africa, and even went to Canada to see the Aurora. I really love traveling abroad. I believe that experiencing different cultures and embracing new things is very important. I’m excited to see you guys ! Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. !!! I ALSO OFFER FULLY CUSTOMIZED TOURS FROM TOKYO !!!
Hiromi S.
Hello my name is Hiromi. I am Japanese and local around Tokyo,Kanagawa area. I used to work in the bank for more than 20 years.Now I enjoy to be a private guide for the tourists from America,France,Germany,Canada,Norway,Greece..so on. I have many options that you are going to love it!! I also have a stroller and experiences to raise 2sons so I can make you feel comfortable here in Japan without any worries with me. I am so excited to meet you and support you to make the precious memories in Japan .
Peter C.
Hi! I’m Peter. Born in Taiwan and raised in Costa Rica, I speak Chinese, English, Japanese, and Spanish fluently. With more than 17 years of experience living in Japan, I’ve built a thriving community of over 35,000 members, organizing cultural exchange events, local tours, and business support services. My passion is bringing people together, helping expats, tourists, and locals experience the best of Japan’s culture, history, and hospitality. I have guided/hosted more than 500 tours/events every year in Tokyo. My tours can be very flexible and I always do my best to customize it for your schedule.
Lynn K.
Hi! I'm Lynn I've been living in Japan for over 20 years but was born in the Philippines. I am a former banker based in Tokyo and a part time English Teacher. My School Days in both Japan and Singapore allowed me to meet and interact with people from different environments and cultures. I would say I enjoy travelling and became a traveler myself. Of all the places I've have been to, Japan is the place that I love the most- the fresh food, unique culture, breath taking scenery and warm people make it very special. Message me if you like a customized tour and I would be happy to create 100% customized tour for you in Tokyo and Shizuoka, Contact me now!
Popular Tokyo Private Tours
One day Tokyo tour- customized for you
There are a lot of attractive sites in Tokyo, the biggest city in Japan. I'll arrange the tour based on your preference and thoughts. If you come to Tokyo for the first time, I'd recommend you to visit highlights, such as Sensoji temple and Meiji Jingu shrine and modern area like Shibuya or Harajuku. If you're interested in hidden gems, please feel free to ask me. I'm happy to arrange the tour for you. Let's enjoy exploring Tokyo on the tour!
One day Tokyo tour- customized for you
Culture, History, and Spirit - Discover Japan
This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Tokyo’s history and culture. - Tokyo Station The Imperial Palace - Asaksua Senso-ji Temple - Tea ceremony - Rikugien a Daimyo garden from the days of Shogun. - Harajuku Meiji Jingu shrine
Culture, History, and Spirit - Discover Japan
A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit
My tours are essentially tailor-made, but I have listed a model tour due to this site's rules. It is designed for first-time visitors who want to explore Tokyo’s must-see spots. If you’d like to visit other places, feel free to send me a message—I’d be happy to create a personalized tour just for you!
A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit
Tokyo One Day Customized Tour
What would you like to do in Tokyo ? Traditional culture ? Japanese food ? Special experience ? Or all of the above ? If yes, I'd like to arrange a tour specially for you. For your traveling pleasure, I've selected must-see places in Tokyo for you to explore. If you choose three places from the highlighted list below, I will arrange a package for you. Please feel free to let me know if you have any other places in mind and I'd be more than happy to assist you.
Tokyo One Day Customized Tour
New Tokyo Private Tours
Tokyo’s Old-town Tour: Asakusa & Taiyaki Making
You might get overwhelmed by the busy main streets and the huge Sensoji-temple. This tour offers you an in-depth journey through the charming small shops and scenes in Asakusa that are often missed by first-time visitors along with a fun workshop, “hands-on taiyaki-making experience”at a local shop. Learn the secrets of this beloved fish-shaped pancake, from preparing the sweet filling to pouring the batter. Join us to see the Asakusa and the authentic culinary workshop!!
Tokyo’s Old-town Tour: Asakusa & Taiyaki Making
Night in Shinjuku: Lights, Alleys, and Magic in Tokyo
Discover Shinjuku on an evening walking tour! - Explore Omoide Yokocho, retro alleys lit by lanterns. - Admire the 3D Cat Billboard, a digital cat that dominates the neighborhood. - Immerse yourself in Kabukicho, the beating heart of nightlife. - Stroll through Golden Gai, with its unique micro-bars. - Finish at Hanazono Jinja, an oasis of peace among the skyscrapers. A 2-hour trip between tradition and modernity: experience the magic of Tokyo!
Night in Shinjuku: Lights, Alleys, and Magic in Tokyo
Notte a Shinjuku: Luci, Vicoli e Magia di Tokyo
Scopri Shinjuku con un tour serale a piedi! - Esplora Omoide Yokocho, vicoli retrò illuminati da lanterne. - Ammira il 3D Cat Billboard, un gatto digitale che domina il quartiere. - Tuffati in Kabukicho, cuore pulsante della nightlife. - Passeggia nel Golden Gai, con i suoi micro-bar unici. - Concludi al Hanazono Jinja, oasi di pace tra i grattacieli. Un viaggio di 2 ore tra tradizione e modernità: vivi la magia di Tokyo!
Notte a Shinjuku: Luci, Vicoli e Magia di Tokyo
Tokyo Personalized Half-day Tour
This tour will be the highlights of Tokyo to visit the Meiji Shrine and Harajuku area for local experience. We will also go the famous Shibuya crossing. This is a fully customizable tour only for you! Before you book my tour, let me know about you, your age, things you would like to try, your interests etc... Let's make your journey special one together.
Tokyo Personalized Half-day Tour
Popular Tokyo Private Cars
Tokyo Private & Custom Local Guide Tour – 1-Day Luxury Experience
I offer fully customized tours to suit each guest's preferences and interests. Our goal is to provide an enjoyable and comfortable experience of Japan at your own pace, whether you seek sightseeing, local cuisine, cultural activities, or nature exploration.
Tokyo Private & Custom Local Guide Tour – 1-Day Luxury Experience
Tokyo Night tour by car
This night tour is guided by car. You can enjoy the fantastic night view of the Tokyo Bay Area that can only be seen from a car, as well as the night view of Shibuya, Shinjuku, etc. from the car. In Shinjuku, we will also take you to Golden Gai, where many small old Japanese bars are located. Enjoy the unique look of Golden Gai.
Tokyo Night tour by car
From Tokyo to Wonderful Izu "Off-The-Beaten-Path" 1-Day Car Tour from with a licensed guide
Discover Izu! Visit the West Gateway of the Izu Peninsula by car with a licensed guide 4 Attractions: 1) Suruga Bay Boat Cruise Feed the seagulls that fly toward you for snacks 2) Izu Panorama Park Take a ropeway to the peak of a mountain 3) Izu Gateway Kannami (rest area) Lunch and Shopping, Wasabi Museum 4) Strawberry Picking All-you-can-eat strawberry picking in the greenhouse
From Tokyo to Wonderful Izu "Off-The-Beaten-Path" 1-Day Car Tour from with a licensed guide
Tokyo Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving
Discover Tokyo's vibrant heart on a 4-hour guided tour, fully customizable to your interests, with a private car, driver, and guide. Start at Hongan-ji Temple and Tsukiji Market, savoring local delicacies, then enjoy city views from Tokyo Tower. With private transport, move quickly between spots, saving time and energy by avoiding parking and walking. This tour offers a seamless experience of Tokyo's history, culture, and modern sights—perfect for an unforgettable journey
Tokyo Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving
Day Trips from Tokyo
Tokyo Tour Reviews
Rian W.
“Unforgettable Introduction to Tokyo”
We had a fantastic start to our Tokyo adventure thanks to our amazing guide, Tim. Despite the intense heat, we managed to see and experience so much of the city. Thank you, Tim, for making it such a memorable and enjoyable day!
Craig S.
“Two days in Tokyo with Toshihiro is a great start!”
After spending the better part of two days with Toshihiro-san, I can definitely say that he knows his way around the city and is efficient with your time. We saw so much but left me wanting to see more! Given my short time frame, Toshihiro-san provided a great mix of Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, beautiful gardens, world famous attractions, and modern trends in Japan.And the food was amazing too! I highly recommend Toshihiro-san if you're coming to Tokyo.
Toshihiro Y.
Thank you for the excellent tour review, Craig-san. You are a very busy person. You had only two days for sightseeing in Japan. This was your first visit to Japan. But you are familiar with Japanese culture. You had challenging spirit to experience unique life style. I enjoyed walking with you. It was also important experience for me. You have great insight on society. I know that you are now back to your country. Next time, please come to Japan with your family at least two weeks for sightseeing. I recommend end of March or early April to see cherry blossoms.
Alison herman H.
“A great day”
A great day, is how my daughter described our time with Carol. She taught us so many interesting things, and gave me great information how to navigate the city and train system. We enjoyed having dim sum lunch with her!! Thanks Carol!
Tokyo Private Tour Guide
Welcome to Tokyo! Take on this megacity with a local private tour guide by your side, giving insights and in-depth experiences from Asakusa to Ginza.
Head towards the overlooked gems of this global wonder with a Tokyoite, and embark on a private guided tour curated and tailored to your interests. Tucked away in the Yanaka district, your tour guide can lead you through layered alleys adorned with traditional houses, as you savor the nostalgic atmosphere and discover hidden temples like Tenno-ji.
Flexibility is the hallmark of a personalized tour, ensuring that your preferences take center stage. Have a love for subcultures? A private tour guide can lead you to Shimokitazawa, a Bohemian enclave known for its niche boutiques, old-school shops, and live music venues. It’s all up to you!
Tokyo Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting a tour guide in Tokyo, Japan?
Yes, especially if it's your first time traveling to Tokyo. The capital city is fast-paced, from the crowded streets of Shibuya and Akihabara to the fashion-conscious Harajuku district. Guides help you understand the layers of Japanese and Tokyo culture that you'd otherwise miss out on. They also break the heavy language barrier as our guides are multilingual. Most importantly, guides take away the hassle of planning every detailed step of your tour. Are you ready to get started? These Tokyo Tours are waiting.
Yes, especially if it's your first time traveling to Tokyo. The capital city is fast-paced, from the crowded streets of Shibuya and Akihabara to the fashion-conscious Harajuku district. Guides help you understand the layers of Japanese and Tokyo culture that you'd otherwise miss out on. They also break the heavy language barrier as our guides are multilingual. Most importantly, guides take away the hassle of planning every detailed step of your tour. Are you ready to get started? These Tokyo Tours are waiting.
Can I hire a personal tour guide in Tokyo?
Yes, hiring a private personal guide in Tokyo is simple, and you don't need to be in a tour group to enjoy the comfort, convenience, and knowledge that tour guides provide. To get a GoWithGuide Tokyo experience, head to our Tokyo local guides page and start planning your Tokyo takeover.
Yes, hiring a private personal guide in Tokyo is simple, and you don't need to be in a tour group to enjoy the comfort, convenience, and knowledge that tour guides provide. To get a GoWithGuide Tokyo experience, head to our Tokyo local guides page and start planning your Tokyo takeover.
How many days do you need to tour Tokyo?
On average, 3–4 days in Tokyo is perfect, so you can see all the major attractions and still discover the city's many hidden gems and local hotspots. If you're in a time crunch, these Tokyo Day Tours give the best of Tokyo in 8–10 hours.
- Custom Tokyo Must-See Tour: Tour Tokyo Your Way! Gives you an overview of the city's highlights
- A City Of The Past & Present: Culture, History & Arts Tour
- Fantastic Cuisine: Half & Full Day Food Tours In Tokyo
On average, 3–4 days in Tokyo is perfect, so you can see all the major attractions and still discover the city's many hidden gems and local hotspots. If you're in a time crunch, these Tokyo Day Tours give the best of Tokyo in 8–10 hours.
- Custom Tokyo Must-See Tour: Tour Tokyo Your Way! Gives you an overview of the city's highlights
- A City Of The Past & Present: Culture, History & Arts Tour
- Fantastic Cuisine: Half & Full Day Food Tours In Tokyo
Can you tour Japan without a guide?
Yes, you can, but it can become overwhelming quite quickly. To get the most out of your trip, it's best to go on a few guided tours before solo-touring the country. This way, you can familiarize yourself with local customs, practices, culture, transportation, and language.
To weigh the pros and cons, check out this article: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros and Cons.
Yes, you can, but it can become overwhelming quite quickly. To get the most out of your trip, it's best to go on a few guided tours before solo-touring the country. This way, you can familiarize yourself with local customs, practices, culture, transportation, and language.
To weigh the pros and cons, check out this article: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros and Cons.
How much does it cost to tour Tokyo Japan?
Most Tokyo tours run from 100-600 USD per group, depending on where you're going, what the tour includes (drinks, lunch, tickets) or excludes, and whether private transportation is available. For a rough guide of what a GoWithGuide day tour of Tokyo would cost you, check out the Tokyo Private Tours page. GWG tours are customizable, so you decide what your tour package will look like.
Most Tokyo tours run from 100-600 USD per group, depending on where you're going, what the tour includes (drinks, lunch, tickets) or excludes, and whether private transportation is available. For a rough guide of what a GoWithGuide day tour of Tokyo would cost you, check out the Tokyo Private Tours page. GWG tours are customizable, so you decide what your tour package will look like.
Latest Tokyo Articles
All Tours Customizable
Start By Messaging Your Guide
100% Private Tours
Just You and Your Local Tour Guide
Quality Assured Guides
Screened and Verified via Interviews
Connect with a Tour Guide in Tokyo
Chat with the best tour guides in Tokyo. Get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today.
Book a Customizable Tokyo Private Tour
Browse Tokyo tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite Tokyo tour.
Book a Tokyo Private Car Tour
Tour Tokyo by car or van, or hire a private guide / driver. See reviews and all car tour details.
