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
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.
Seigo U.
Hi, I’m Seigo. Thank you for visiting my page. I'm a friendly guy who loves traveling, music, and sports, especially baseball. I enjoy trying my best to take you wherever you want in Japan as much as possible. Key Skills Certified National Licensed Guide Interpreter in English (2018) and Chinese (2020) Domestic Travel Service Supervisor license (2019) Strengths • Extensive travel experience both domestically and internationally. Fluent in English and Chinese, and currently learning Spanish to broaden my global communication skills. • Proven expertise in managing schedules for bus tours, including multi-day and day trips, ensuring smooth and enjoyable experiences. • A commitment to tailoring tours to individual preferences, creating relaxing, memorable, and joyful journeys. Guiding Experience Since 2019, I have guided a variety of tours, including: • Private tours • Day-trip, long tour • Cruise ship excursions I have extensive knowledge of and experience guiding popular destinations across Japan, such as Tokyo, Kamakura, Hakone, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Sendai, Kagoshima, and Okinawa. Background and Education After earning a degree in English, I devoted over 35 years to teaching English at high schools and special education schools, while also working with the Prefectural Board of Education. My passion for education extends to online language teaching, where I help students master Japanese, Chinese, and English. Since I have lived in Kanagawa my whole life, I can offer satisfying private customized tours to each guest group. My recommended destinations in Kanagawa are Kamakura, the seat of Japan's first Shogunate, and Hakone, a popular resort area with mountains and Lake Ashinoko. I can also drive you around some nice places in Japan that foreign tourists don't usually visit. Please feel free to contact me anytime. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!
Kahoko K.
Hello , my future guests . My name is Kahoko . I live in Tokyo over 30 years with my family , one husband and two kids . I used to work in an airline as a cabin attendant . Naturally , I may have visited your countries myself as you do now . I chose the job because I like traveling and meeting new people . Now I'm so glad to be able to work for foreign visitors as a licensed guide . When I have foreign guests . I'd like to treat them as if they were my home stay guests , and I were their host mother in Tokyo . I do hope their stay in Japan enjoyable and unforgettable . So it's a great pleasure to assist you in some way . So click me if you like . I'm looking forward to meeting you soon .
Grant A.
Hello! My name is Grant, and I’ve spent over a decade living and exploring Japan. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, I first came to Japan as a high school exchange student in Inuyama, a historic castle town in Aichi. My love for Japan began early—sparked by childhood games like Pokémon that were released in Japanese before English. This passion led me to pass the N2 Japanese Language Proficiency Test in 2018, study at language schools across Japan, and graduate from the Japan Visual Media Translation Academy. I’ve traveled to every prefecture in Japan, often using unlimited rail passes to explore castles, historic sites, and regional specialties. I hold a degree in Asian Studies from a Tokyo university, and my extensive experience living in Tokyo has made me an expert on the city’s transportation system, hidden gems, and affordable eats. With over 30 visits to Kyoto, I have deep knowledge of its historical sites and the broader cultural landscape of Japan. I studied at Japanese language school in Kyoto. I visited all the world heritage sites in Kyoto and have a lot of knowledge on the history of Japan. I can provide tours of Kyoto or places outside of Tokyo for an additional transportation fee. Tour options: Half-Day Tour: 20,000 yen (4 hours) Full-Day Tour: 40,000 yen (8 hours) Full-Day Tour Outside of Tokyo: 40,000 yen plus transportation expense
New Tokyo Tour Guides
Simone M.
Hello! Ciao! My name is Simone, I’m Italian, and I’ve been living in Japan for many years. I know the culture of this wonderful country well, thanks to my Japanese wife, and I love sharing this passion with those who visit Tokyo. I organize personalized tours to help you discover not only the main attractions but also the most authentic places, far from typical tourist paths. We can explore fascinating neighborhoods like Yanaka, with its ancient streets, or visit traditional markets to taste delicious Japanese street food. We can also discover the historic Asakusa with its famous Senso-ji Temple or wander through the vibrant streets of Shibuya, known for its iconic crossing. If you love food, I can take you to hidden restaurants to try sushi, ramen, or kaiseki meals, sharing everything about the ingredients and traditions. Each tour is tailored to offer a unique and unforgettable experience in real Tokyo. Let’s create the best memories of your trip together! ---- Ciao! Mi chiamo Simone, sono italiano e vivo in Giappone da molti anni. Conosco bene la cultura di questo meraviglioso paese, grazie a mia moglie giapponese, e amo condividere questa passione con chi visita Tokyo. Organizzo tour personalizzati per aiutarti a scoprire non solo le principali attrazioni, ma anche i luoghi più autentici, lontani dai percorsi turistici tradizionali. Possiamo esplorare quartieri affascinanti come Yanaka, con le sue stradine antiche, o visitare mercati tradizionali per assaporare delizioso street food giapponese. Possiamo anche scoprire la storica Asakusa con il suo famoso tempio Senso-ji o passeggiare per le vivaci strade di Shibuya, conosciute per il suo incrocio iconico. Se ami la cucina, posso portarti in ristoranti nascosti dove provare sushi, ramen o pasti kaiseki, raccontandoti tutto sugli ingredienti e le tradizioni. Ogni tour è personalizzato per offrirti un'esperienza unica e indimenticabile nella vera Tokyo. Creiamo insieme i migliori ricordi del tuo viaggio!
Beto D.
I am from Venezuela, with roots in the US and Sweden. I have lived in Tokyo now almost 10 years! I am a musician and very social by nature. Because I've been in Tokyo so long I know Japanese fluently, and I have had time to discover many places only locals would find. If you choose me I'm sure you will have a time you won't soon forget!
Etsu I.
Hi, I'm Etsumi, but feel free to call me Etsu! I’d be thrilled to guide you on a memorable tour of Japan. Whether you're interested in indulging in Japan’s vibrant food scene with a sake or wine tasting, experiencing the excitement of bar-hopping in local neighborhoods, or savoring the best street food, I’ve got the perfect itinerary for you. With years of experience as a translator and English teacher, I’ve developed a deep understanding of both Japanese culture and how to communicate it effectively. Since the pandemic, I’ve also launched an English coaching business, helping clients enhance their English skills. If you want to make unforgettable memories in Japan, I’m the guide you need! I look forward to exploring Japan with you soon!
Ken T.
Hello! My name is Ken (Kenichi), and I’m a professional tour guide with experience guiding over 1,200 foreign tourists as of September 2024. I have worked for both Japanese and international companies in Tokyo for over 30 years, giving me deep insight into the city and its unique charm. I also love traveling and have explored many famous destinations in Japan as well as in 40+ countries worldwide. I fully understand the challenges that many first-time travelers face when visiting Japan, especially in a busy city like Tokyo. My goal is to provide you with a fully customized, time-efficient tour that meets your needs and preferences. Since most travelers have limited time and want to visit as many places as possible, I carefully plan tours that highlight the best spots and the most efficient routes, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. For added comfort and luxury, I offer the option of using a car with an experienced driver (my wife), making your tour even more convenient and stress-free. I look forward to guiding you and helping make your visit to Japan truly memorable.
Popular Tokyo Private Tours
Kahoko's Tokyo "As you like"Half Day Tour
What would you like to go in 4 hours? We can visit popular 2~3 places . Here, I will show you 3 recommended tours. Plan A : Tsukiji market / Ginza / Asakusa Plan B : Meiji jingu shrine / Omotesando and Harajuku area / Shibuya Plan C : Akihabara / Ueno / Yanaka residential area You can change the destinations or totally customize.
Ginza Line Tour
Explore Tokyo’s top sights on this adaptable Ginza Line tour with the 600 yen Metro day pass. Visit Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate, then enjoy Ueno’s street food scene. Discover Ginza’s luxury vibe, including a whiskey experience, and dive into Shibuya with its famous Crossing, anime shops, and Nintendo Store. The tour blends highlights like Ueno food, Ginza whiskey, and Shibuya anime tours, offering flexibility to match your interests.
Tokyo Backstreets Walk & Eat Night Tour
A trip to Tokyo would not be complete without a visit to Shinjuku and Shibuya, two of Japan's most unique places. See and experience the big city and walk backstreet lantern-lit hidden gem alleyways of Tokyo. Enjoy Japanese soul food, have a chat, and share a drink with a local. Customization of eating and drinking locations is possible on this tour, as well as exploring other areas. Put your smartphone map away. I'll be your guide.
Tokyo Must-See tour
You don't have much time in Tokyo? I will show you in 6 hours the Must-See attractions of the city. I will pick you up at your hotel and we will move around on foot using public transport. We will visit Tokyo Must-See places : Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, the outer garden of the Imperial Palace, Meji-jingu shrine and Takeshita street and we will end with the famous Shibuya district.
New Tokyo Private Tours
8 Hours Tokyo Highlights: Tsukiji, Asakusa, Shibuya and more
Let's explore all of Tokyo's MUST-SEE places on a full day tour! The tour will visit Tsukiji Outer Market and Asakusa in the traditional eastern part of Tokyo, and Harajuku, Omotesando and Shibuya in the modern western part. In Harajuku, we will also visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, which is built in a vast man-made forest. The following itinerary is an example. -The meeting time -Duration of stay can be changed flexibly according to your interests.
4 Hours MUST-SEE Tsukiji outer market and Asakusa
This 4-hour tour will take you to two must-see places in Tokyo. Tsukiji is said to be the kitchen of Tokyo, where restaurant owners also come to buy fresh seafood and vegetables. Then we visit historic Asakusa and Sensoji Temple. If you get hungry, have lunch at a local restaurant in Asakusa while chatting travel tips. Of course, you can also fill your stomach with street food. The following itinerary is an example. -The meeting time -Duration of stay can be changed flexibly.
4 Hours Asakusa and River Cruise to Odaiba area
At Asakusa we will visit Sensoji temple and Kaminarimon Gate. You can also enjoy shopping at an arcade selling typical Japanese gifts. Odaiba area, which is reached after river cruise, is a relatively new city built on reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay. From the boat, you can enjoy a view of the Rainbow Bridge. The following itinerary is an example. -The meeting time -Duration of stay is flexible and can be changed according to your interests. But we need to be mindful of boat schedules.
History Focused Tour
Tour for history lovers! Embark on a history-focused tour in Tokyo, where ancient temples, historic districts, and fascinating stories of the samurai, shogun, and Edo-era culture await. Discover the hidden treasures of Japan’s vibrant past in the heart of its bustling capital!
Popular Tokyo Private Cars
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 Tower/ Fish Market with Car & Driver
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
Private Transfer from/to Haneda Airport（1-4pax.）
Arrange charter cars to pick up VIPs from or to Haneda airports When picking you up from or to Haneda airport, your exclusive driver will wait for you at the arrival gate or a designated place.
Private Mount Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo by Car
On this Mount Fuji day trip from Tokyo, we’ll start with a serene morning stroll along Lake Kawaguchi at 9:00 AM, followed by a visit to Oishi Park’s vibrant gardens and scenic views of Mount Fuji. Afterward, we’ll explore Chureito Pagoda for panoramic views, then enjoy a hearty local lunch at Houtou Futo near Kawaguchiko Station. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the traditional village of Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nemba and finish the day at Oshino Hakkai’s clear ponds before heading back to Tokyo.
Tokyo Tour Reviews
“Our first day in Japan with Mimi”
My friend and I hired Mimi for our first day in Japan. She was very accommodating to our requests and was a great communicator before we arrived in Japan. She led us through the train system flawlessly and we packed a lot in that first day. Mimi was like a friend showing us around her city, very easy to be with and very keen to make sure we had a great experience. Her English is excellent and we learned a lot about Japanese customs and culture throughout the day. Mimi is highly recommended by us!
William B.
Visit Kamakura, the 13th century capital of Japan!
“Great Guide Atsushi, Great Day in Kamakura!”
Atsushi met us at our hotel in the morning and arranged all transportation and communications. He is very professional, kind, knowledgeable, accommodating, and can appease any request. The sights in Kamakura were amazing and the weather was a beautiful day. He took us to an excellent restaurant for Soba and our stomachs were very happy! Given that we were on a tight timeframe that day, Atsushi ensured that we made our train back to the airport on time and escorted us along the way. When our train stopped due to an issue, he assured us that we would make our later flight and provided alternative solutions. Fortunately the train resumed and all went according to plan. Atsushi is a man of great character and we recommend him for your tour.
Atsushi K.
I am very thrilled that you two enjoyed a tour in Kamakura. Although I had limited time and could take you to only a few places, I believe you will be back in Japan soon, and I hope to see you again!
“Toshihiro’s THE BEST!”
Toshihiro gave us an amazing first day impression of Tokyo. His present day and historical knowledge of Tokyo is phenomenal. He showed us the most essential sites, gave us the background history and knew exactly where to take the best photos! I will call upon him again the next time I am in Tokyo. He is an asset to go with guide.
Toshihiro Y.
Thank you for the marvelous tour review with excellent photos, Dana-san. I am glad to hear that you have an amazing impression of Tokyo on the first day. You must have got the terrible jet lag, but you were cheerful. I was surprised as you walked around Shibuya by yourselves after the regular tour. I am sure that you recover from jet lag now. Please enjoy the rest of days in Japan.
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.
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Tokyo, Japan
When travelling either domestically or internationally, almost any destination will be able to offer the discerning wanderer a nature experience of some kind. Even when visiting an urban metropolis such as Tokyo or New York City, a piece of pristine natur...
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