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Tokyo Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Tokyo, Japan with a Local Guide

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Popular Tokyo Tour Guides

Japan

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!

Japan

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. That early curiosity grew into a lifelong passion for Japanese language, culture, and history. I hold an N2 on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, a degree in Asian Studies from a Tokyo university, and I graduated from the Japan Visual Media Translation Academy. I’ve visited all 47 prefectures and explored a wide range of historical sites, shrines, and castles throughout the country. My background in Japanese history helps me provide context that brings depth and meaning to the places we visit—whether it's understanding a centuries-old temple in Kyoto, the story behind a castle ruin, or uncovering the historical layers of a Tokyo neighborhood. If you’re planning to explore Tokyo, here are some tour options to consider: One day in Tokyo? The Ginza Line Tour offers a great introduction to the city’s highlights. Two days? Pair the East Tokyo Tour and West Tokyo Tour to get a well-rounded experience. Interested in anime? The Anime Tour is flexible and can be tailored to match your specific interests. For those looking to go beyond the city, I also offer day trips to Nikko, Kamakura, and other nearby destinations. While most guests book Tokyo-based tours, I also guide in other regions—especially Kyoto, where I’ve visited every World Heritage Site. I regularly lead tours in Osaka, Nara, Nagoya, Hikone, and other locations easily reached by rail. Multi-day and custom tours are available on request. Full-Day Tour: 40,000 yen (8 hours) Full-Day Tour Outside of Tokyo: 40,000 yen + transportation Feel free to get in touch to plan a tour that fits your interests and travel plans.

Japan

Kota A.

Hello everyone! My name is Kota. After graduation from a university in Japan I spent a year in Vancouver, Canada, on a working holiday. While working as a server at a sushi restaurant, I had many opportunities to interact with guests who loved Japan, while also learning about Canadian culture from them. Those experiences became truly meaningful to me, and now I would like to take on that role here in Japan—sharing the beauty of my country with visitors and creating unforgettable memories together. Tokyo is a world-famous metropolis, but beyond its well-known landmarks, it is full of hidden gems that are less crowded and waiting to be discovered. I would be delighted to explore such places with you and do my very best to make your trip to Japan a wonderful experience. Since I am originally from Hiroshima, I am also very familiar with Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. I would be happy to give you helpful advice if you plan to visit those areas. And if our schedules align, I would love to guide you around my hometown Hiroshima, as well as Shiga where I spent my student years, or even Kyoto and Osaka. Please feel free to reach out anytime! I enjoy watching soccer (especially Manchester United!), and I also like beer and whisky. I’m really looking forward to meeting you all :)

Japan

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

Japan

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!

Japan

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. That early curiosity grew into a lifelong passion for Japanese language, culture, and history. I hold an N2 on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, a degree in Asian Studies from a Tokyo university, and I graduated from the Japan Visual Media Translation Academy. I’ve visited all 47 prefectures and explored a wide range of historical sites, shrines, and castles throughout the country. My background in Japanese history helps me provide context that brings depth and meaning to the places we visit—whether it's understanding a centuries-old temple in Kyoto, the story behind a castle ruin, or uncovering the historical layers of a Tokyo neighborhood. If you’re planning to explore Tokyo, here are some tour options to consider: One day in Tokyo? The Ginza Line Tour offers a great introduction to the city’s highlights. Two days? Pair the East Tokyo Tour and West Tokyo Tour to get a well-rounded experience. Interested in anime? The Anime Tour is flexible and can be tailored to match your specific interests. For those looking to go beyond the city, I also offer day trips to Nikko, Kamakura, and other nearby destinations. While most guests book Tokyo-based tours, I also guide in other regions—especially Kyoto, where I’ve visited every World Heritage Site. I regularly lead tours in Osaka, Nara, Nagoya, Hikone, and other locations easily reached by rail. Multi-day and custom tours are available on request. Full-Day Tour: 40,000 yen (8 hours) Full-Day Tour Outside of Tokyo: 40,000 yen + transportation Feel free to get in touch to plan a tour that fits your interests and travel plans.

Japan

Kota A.

Hello everyone! My name is Kota. After graduation from a university in Japan I spent a year in Vancouver, Canada, on a working holiday. While working as a server at a sushi restaurant, I had many opportunities to interact with guests who loved Japan, while also learning about Canadian culture from them. Those experiences became truly meaningful to me, and now I would like to take on that role here in Japan—sharing the beauty of my country with visitors and creating unforgettable memories together. Tokyo is a world-famous metropolis, but beyond its well-known landmarks, it is full of hidden gems that are less crowded and waiting to be discovered. I would be delighted to explore such places with you and do my very best to make your trip to Japan a wonderful experience. Since I am originally from Hiroshima, I am also very familiar with Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. I would be happy to give you helpful advice if you plan to visit those areas. And if our schedules align, I would love to guide you around my hometown Hiroshima, as well as Shiga where I spent my student years, or even Kyoto and Osaka. Please feel free to reach out anytime! I enjoy watching soccer (especially Manchester United!), and I also like beer and whisky. I’m really looking forward to meeting you all :)

Japan

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

View All Tokyo Tour Guides

New Tokyo Tour Guides

Japan

Camille L.

Bonjour et enchantée, je suis Camille ! (« Kamiiyu », en japonais) Passionnée par l'histoire, l'art et la culture japonaise depuis ma plus tendre enfance, j'ai décidé de franchir le cap et de vivre un an au Japon. Je vis et sillonne le pays depuis le mois de décembre 2024, aujourd'hui, de retour à Tokyo, j'accompagne des groupes de visiteurs francophones dans cette capitale pour les guider à travers les buildings et leur conter la fabuleuse histoire du pays du soleil levant. « Vous avez peut-être de nombreuses questions : C'est quoi un yukata ? Temple bouddhiste et sanctuaire shintoïste, quelle est la différence ? On dit "Geiko" ou "Geisha" ? C'est quoi du "Kabuki" ? Quels sont les spécialités culinaires ici ? JE VEUX TOUT GOÛTER !!! Un samouraï, un shogun, un empereur, ... quesaco ?! Et si je suis un vrai "Otaku", passionnée de manga ou d'anime, je vais où ? Que faire ou ne pas faire au Japon ? Etc. Je vous dis TOUT ! Entre lieux incontournables de la vie tokyoïte moderne et quartiers traditionnels emblématiques, j'espère vous partager un bout de cette passion et vous aider à mieux appréhender votre séjour dans ce pays merveilleux mais, aux mœurs si différentes. » Si vous êtes intéressez n'hésitez pas à me contacter, à me partager vos envies, et je préparerais votre visite en fonction. Et si vous n'avez pas d'idées, aucun problème, je prendrais les devants ! Je propose plusieurs types de visites guidées : 1 seul lieu précis (durée 2h environ) 1 demi journée à travers plusieurs endroits (durée 3h30) 1 journée à travers plusieurs endroits (durée 7h) Je vous dis donc à très bientôt, ou plutôt : "Matane" !

Japan

Dmitrijs B.

Hi! I have lived in Japan for more than 10 years so far, including 4 last years in beautiful Kamakura. I know all corners of the town and I would be glad to share my knowledge with my guests. I speak five languages and love meeting new people! Please do not hesitate to contact me know, should you have any question or requests!

Japan

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 !!!

Japan

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 .

Japan

Camille L.

Bonjour et enchantée, je suis Camille ! (« Kamiiyu », en japonais) Passionnée par l'histoire, l'art et la culture japonaise depuis ma plus tendre enfance, j'ai décidé de franchir le cap et de vivre un an au Japon. Je vis et sillonne le pays depuis le mois de décembre 2024, aujourd'hui, de retour à Tokyo, j'accompagne des groupes de visiteurs francophones dans cette capitale pour les guider à travers les buildings et leur conter la fabuleuse histoire du pays du soleil levant. « Vous avez peut-être de nombreuses questions : C'est quoi un yukata ? Temple bouddhiste et sanctuaire shintoïste, quelle est la différence ? On dit "Geiko" ou "Geisha" ? C'est quoi du "Kabuki" ? Quels sont les spécialités culinaires ici ? JE VEUX TOUT GOÛTER !!! Un samouraï, un shogun, un empereur, ... quesaco ?! Et si je suis un vrai "Otaku", passionnée de manga ou d'anime, je vais où ? Que faire ou ne pas faire au Japon ? Etc. Je vous dis TOUT ! Entre lieux incontournables de la vie tokyoïte moderne et quartiers traditionnels emblématiques, j'espère vous partager un bout de cette passion et vous aider à mieux appréhender votre séjour dans ce pays merveilleux mais, aux mœurs si différentes. » Si vous êtes intéressez n'hésitez pas à me contacter, à me partager vos envies, et je préparerais votre visite en fonction. Et si vous n'avez pas d'idées, aucun problème, je prendrais les devants ! Je propose plusieurs types de visites guidées : 1 seul lieu précis (durée 2h environ) 1 demi journée à travers plusieurs endroits (durée 3h30) 1 journée à travers plusieurs endroits (durée 7h) Je vous dis donc à très bientôt, ou plutôt : "Matane" !

Japan

Dmitrijs B.

Hi! I have lived in Japan for more than 10 years so far, including 4 last years in beautiful Kamakura. I know all corners of the town and I would be glad to share my knowledge with my guests. I speak five languages and love meeting new people! Please do not hesitate to contact me know, should you have any question or requests!

Japan

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 !!!

Japan

Hiromi S.

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

Yoko I.

Grant A.

Kota A.

Toru I.

Yoko I.

Grant A.

Kota A.

Toru I.

New Tokyo Tour Guides

Camille L.

Dmitrijs B.

Kenta M.

Hiromi S.

Camille L.

Dmitrijs B.

Kenta M.

Hiromi S.

Popular Tokyo Private Tours

One day Tokyo tour- customized for you

One day Tokyo tour- customized for you

Ginza Line Tour

Ginza Line Tour

Escape the City: Traditional Japanese Homes & Jindaiji Temple Day Tour

Escape the City: Traditional Japanese Homes & Jindaiji Temple Day Tour

Tokyo, One day Customized Private Tour by Yoshi

Yoshi will customize a full day tour in Tokyo, as you wish. He can make a recommendation according to your preference by discussion.Transportation is basically public trains and foot. We may use taxies.

Tokyo, One day Customized Private Tour by Yoshi

One day Tokyo tour- customized for you

One day Tokyo tour- customized for you

Ginza Line Tour

Ginza Line Tour

Escape the City: Traditional Japanese Homes & Jindaiji Temple Day Tour

Escape the City: Traditional Japanese Homes & Jindaiji Temple Day Tour

Tokyo, One day Customized Private Tour by Yoshi

Yoshi will customize a full day tour in Tokyo, as you wish. He can make a recommendation according to your preference by discussion.Transportation is basically public trains and foot. We may use taxies.

Tokyo, One day Customized Private Tour by Yoshi

New Tokyo Private Tours

Tokyo Icons & Cultural Treasures Private Tour with local guide

Discover Tokyo’s essence in just 6 hours — from the historic charm of Asakusa and the vibrant flavors of Tsukiji Market, to the spiritual calm of Meiji Shrine and the buzzing energy of Shibuya, before ending with breathtaking city views from Azabudai Hills.

Tokyo Icons & Cultural Treasures Private Tour with local guide

Papier Washi et calligraphie...

Le Japon est connu pour ses qualités en artisanat traditionnel encore pratiqué de nos jours. Je vous propose un tour-expérience centré sur la fabrication du papier Washi et sur l'art de la calligraphie.

Papier Washi et calligraphie...

Half Day Trip in Tokyo

Half Day Trip in Tokyo

Lost in Old Tokyo Downtown: Explore Yanaka & Nezu

Lost in Old Tokyo Downtown: Explore Yanaka & Nezu

Tokyo Icons & Cultural Treasures Private Tour with local guide

Discover Tokyo’s essence in just 6 hours — from the historic charm of Asakusa and the vibrant flavors of Tsukiji Market, to the spiritual calm of Meiji Shrine and the buzzing energy of Shibuya, before ending with breathtaking city views from Azabudai Hills.

Tokyo Icons & Cultural Treasures Private Tour with local guide

Papier Washi et calligraphie...

Le Japon est connu pour ses qualités en artisanat traditionnel encore pratiqué de nos jours. Je vous propose un tour-expérience centré sur la fabrication du papier Washi et sur l'art de la calligraphie.

Papier Washi et calligraphie...

Half Day Trip in Tokyo

Half Day Trip in Tokyo

Lost in Old Tokyo Downtown: Explore Yanaka & Nezu

Lost in Old Tokyo Downtown: Explore Yanaka & Nezu

Popular Tokyo Private Cars

Tokyo Luxury Private Car Tour – An Exquisite Experience from Iconic Landmarks to Hidden Gems

Tokyo Luxury Private Car Tour – An Exquisite Experience from Iconic Landmarks to Hidden Gems

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

Tokyo Luxury Private Car Tour – An Exquisite Experience from Iconic Landmarks to Hidden Gems

Tokyo Luxury Private Car Tour – An Exquisite Experience from Iconic Landmarks to Hidden Gems

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

Hakone

Kamakura