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
Sumita Y.
I have been involved in international affairs in my career, and I got qualified as a national guided interpreter in 2016. Since then, I have guided tourists from various countries such as US, Holland, Canada, France, Spain, Singapore, Mexico, China and Australia. Places I have guided are major tourist spots such as Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka, Imperial Palace, Meiji-Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Harajuku, Shibuya, Ginza and more. I will do my best to make your trip be more impressive and memorable.
Shunta N.
Hello everyone! I was born and raised in Kawagoe, a charming historic city located just next to Tokyo in Saitama Prefecture. Two years ago, I graduated from university here in Japan, and I now work as both a tour guide and a study abroad support advisor. Three years ago, I had the life-changing opportunity to study abroad in Vancouver, Canada. The warmth and hospitality of the locals left a deep impression on me. I discovered the joy of immersing myself in a new culture and way of life, and I truly came to appreciate the beauty of connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Now, I want to be the one offering that kind of experience to others. As your guide, my goal is to make your journey in Japan truly special. Through GoWithGuide, I strive to go beyond typical sightseeing—I want to create meaningful opportunities for you to engage with Japan’s rich culture and traditions on a deeper level. I’m committed to providing a safe, thoughtful, and unforgettable experience for every guest. Let’s not just visit Japan—let’s feel Japan. Join me on this unique journey, and together, let’s discover the heart and soul of this incredible country. I look forward to meeting you soon!
Kaori S.
Kon-ni-chi-wa. Hello! I'm Kaori, having lived in Tokyo for more than 20 years since I got married to a photographer who lives here. Originally from Shizuoka prefecture which has Mt.Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. I took 2 working-holiday-visa stays in my younger days. One is in Toronto, Canada, and another is Australia touring by motorcycle. One year respectively. I love travel both international and domestic. That's why I love helping individual travelers rather than group tours, because I myself love travel freely. Love nature, gardens, trekking, greenery, also anime. My favorite is taking you to the off-the-beaten tracks where I love. As a national government licensed guide, I've got deep knowledge of Japanese culture and history. I really enjoy talking about the way of life with people from different cultures. We see what you like and talk what you are interested in. That's my style. If you don't know what to want, I can help you with that. I'm happy to make tailor-made tours only for you (up to 4 people) upon your request. ・Half Day as you like (up to 4 hours) : 40,000 JPY ・Full Day as you like (up to 8 hours) : 64,000 JPY ・Extra hour over 8hours : 6,000 JPY/hour I'm quite an outgoing person, ( but organized well! ), easy to get along with anybody, including small kids to teenagers. Can't wait to see you soon!
New Tokyo Tour Guides
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.
Kent I.
Hello! My name is Kent and I live in Shinjuku, Tokyo. I am a master of Tea ceremony and Ikebana(Flower arrangement). I have been learning these cultural activities for more than 10 years. I have assisted with tea ceremonies at a Zen temple and participated in Ikebana shows for tourists. These experiences have provided me with extensive knowledge and deep insights into Japanese culture developed under the influence of Zen. 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. Thanks to the connections from that time, I can host a tea ceremony there. After graduating, I worked in robot software development, collaborating remotely with our American colleagues in Michigan. I also engaged with clients and local sales teams in Germany, India, and China. They showed strong interests in Japanese culture and my background. This exposure deepened my appreciation for Japan’s rich cultural heritage, inspiring me to guide tours as well as practicing cultural activities. Now, I live in Shinjuku, Tokyo with my wife, enjoying life here. I will guide tours to convey the history and culture of Japan and provide creative experiences. I am also available to offer tours of Kyoto or other places than Tokyo for an additional transportation fee.
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!
Yuki I.
Hallo, ich bin Yuki. Geboren und aufgewachsen in Japan, später nach Deutschland gezogen. Zwischen 1998 und 2021 habe ich in Deutschland gelebt und dort die beste Zeit meines Lebens verbracht. Deutschland ist für mich sozusagen meine zweite Heimat mit vielen schönen Erinnerungen. Als erfahrene Simultandolmetscherin für Deutsch und Japanisch (seit 16 Jahren) bewege ich mich ständig zwischen zwei Kulturen. Deshalb freue ich mich umso mehr, Ihnen nun mein Heimatland in Ihrer Sprache näherbringen zu können. Das Schöne an einer persönlichen Guide-Tour ist, dass sie ganz nach Ihren Wünschen gestaltet werden kann. Zögern Sie also nicht, mir Ihre Wünsche mitzuteilen! Und noch etwas: Entschuldigen Sie, wenn ich manchmal ein wenig Schwäbisch spreche – den Grund erfahren Sie während meiner Tour! -------------------------------------------------------------- I was born and raised in Japan and later moved to Germany. From 1998 to 2021, I lived in Germany. For me, Germany is like a second home, full of wonderful memories. As an experienced simultaneous interpreter for German/Japanese (for 16 years) and English/Japanese (for 5 years) , I am constantly moving between cultures. That’s why I’m even more excited to introduce you to my home country—in your language! The great thing about a private guided tour is that it can be tailored to your preferences. So please don’t hesitate to let me know what you’d like to see and experience! I’m looking forward to guiding you on my tour!
Popular Tokyo Private Tours
Visiting the must-see spots in attractive Tokyo
Visiting the must-see spots in attractive Tokyo
Tokyo Highlights Private Tour : For Any Group Size with a Friendly Local Guide!
Tokyo Highlights Private Tour : For Any Group Size with a Friendly Local Guide!
Tokyo One-day As You Like with Kaori
Tokyo One-day As You Like with Kaori
One-Day Historic Tokyo and Sky Adventure (Tsukiji, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Boat Cruise)
One-Day Historic Tokyo and Sky Adventure (Tsukiji, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Boat Cruise)
New Tokyo Private Tours
Tokyo Day trip
Tokyo Day trip
Tokyo Anime Paradise Tour: Akihabara, Ikebukuro & Nakano Adventure
Tokyo Anime Paradise Tour: Akihabara, Ikebukuro & Nakano Adventure
Old Tokyo Treasures: Museum & Sugamo Discovery Tour
Old Tokyo Treasures: Museum & Sugamo Discovery Tour
Culture, History, and Spirit - Discover Japan
Culture, History, and Spirit - Discover Japan
Popular Tokyo Private Cars
Tokyo Private & Custom Local Guide Tour – 1-Day Luxury Experience
Tokyo Private & Custom Local Guide Tour – 1-Day Luxury Experience
Tokyo Night tour by car
Tokyo Night tour by car
From Tokyo to Wonderful Izu "Off-The-Beaten-Path" 1-Day Car Tour from with a licensed guide
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
Tokyo Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving
Day Trips from Tokyo
Tokyo Tour Reviews
Juliette M.
“Don’t miss the opportunity to meet Ken!”
Having met Ken on our first day in Tokyo following a long flight, we were so grateful for his care and attention, interesting stories and genuine passion for his country. He expertly curated a private tour for us including an incredible and authentic sushi lunch. Highly recommended.
Ken T.
Dear Juliette, Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a true pleasure meeting you on your first day in Tokyo. I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour and the sushi lunch — I always try to make the experience both authentic and comfortable, especially after a long flight. Your warm feedback means a lot to me. I hope the rest of your trip in Japan was just as memorable. Please do visit again someday — I’d love to guide you once more! Warmest regards, Ken
Lynn H.
“Rain didn't stop us. ”
Had a great time exploring Tokyo with Ritsuko despite the rain. She was flexible and so accommodating of our needs. She showed us how to navigate the city with confidence. Thankyou Rutsuko.
Ritsuko K.
Hi Lynn and Mike, Thank you so much for your kind review! Despite the heavier rain than expected, I’m delighted you enjoyed the tour from the National Museum to the Godzilla Head. There are still many more places I’d love to show you, so please come back someday. All the best!
Elizabeth M.
“Seeing Tokyo in 2 days!”
My two days with Lily were truly incredible! I was in Tokyo for the first time with my husband, but he had business meetings, which left me on my own. Having Lily guide me throughout Tokyo made it fun and stress free. Lily customized an itinerary for me, which enabled me to visit shops and areas that were of interest to me, yet made sure I saw the most important sights. We navigated the city via the subway and on foot, which made me feel more comfortable in the city. Lily was able to share her insider's view of the city and its nuances, which was like a living history lesson. We had a memorable lunch at an authentic tea house, which I would not have found without her. I feel like I would have missed so much with her guidance and highly recommend her as a guide!
Lily I.
Dear Elizabeth, Thank you so much for your thoughtful and great review! It was my pleasure to meet you and spend a wonderful time together exploring beautiful places in Tokyo! Your interests made me discover different features of the city. I couldn’t be more grateful if you had a deeper understanding of Japan. And I will be more than happy if you would revisit here in the future! All the best, Lily
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
Hiring A Guide In Tokyo: Pros & Cons
Tourism In Tokyo Statistics 2024: The Ultimate Tour Guide
5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
Enjoying The World’s Natural Beauty With A Private Guide
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.
