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
Yoshi S.
Hello, I'm Yoshi!! I started my second career as a tour guide after retiring from the Japanese computer company I had worked for about 40 years. I was born in Asakusa and grew up in down town in Tokyo. I’m married with two daughters and three grandchildren, two girls and a boy. I've experienced guiding international visitors in Tokyo and other famous sightseeing spots as a guide for several years. I will be so happy to help you enjoy your stay in Japan. Look forward to joining my tour!!
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! Depending on your tour and needs, my teammates Kei and Ethan may also join to help ensure the best experience.
Lily I.
Hello! I’m Lily. I am a government certified tour guide. I have experienced more than 90 customized tours starting from March 2024 and have been receiving 5-star reviews on popular travel booking sites from over 80% of my guests. I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I love exploring towns small or big to look for hidden gems and can't wait to share them with you! I was born and raised in Tokyo for over 40 years with a few childhood years in the US. I am a mom of two boys and have work experience in the Japanese Education industry as a teacher and a public relations professional. I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities. I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option. I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!
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 .
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.
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!
Nicholas B.
Distant flowers bloom, Swaying gently in the breeze, Bringing memories. Licensed Guide Interpreter Certified Hello! I’m Nicholas, an Australian who’s had the privilege of living in Japan since 1992. Fluent in both English and Japanese, I believe a local guide can make all the difference in creating a truly unforgettable travel experience. I’m here to ensure you don’t just visit Japan – you experience it, fully immersed in its rich culture, history, and hidden gems. Tailored Journeys, whether you’d like to follow a preplanned itinerary or create a unique one together, the choice is yours. I’m here to offer flexibility, allowing us to curate a tour that perfectly suits your interests and pace. A personalized itinerary not only takes away the stress but ensures that your memories will be as unique as your journey. Some of the benefits of having a local guide include: In-depth local knowledge: Discover the rich history and culture of Japan, with insights you won’t find in guidebooks. Customized experiences: From food to nature, your journey will reflect what excites you most. No stress, just enjoyment: Forget about language barriers and unfamiliar customs; I’ll take care of everything, allowing you to relax and enjoy. Personalized pace: Whether you want a leisurely day or an active itinerary, your comfort comes first. Safety and ease: I’ll make sure all the logistics run smoothly, leaving you to focus on the experience. With 30+ years in tourism and hospitality across Japan, the USA, and Australia, I bring a wealth of experience to each tour I guide. From corporate delegations to the Japanese Olympic soccer team in 2000, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding people from all walks of life. Whether you're elderly or have specific needs, I am more than happy to tailor the experience to ensure you feel comfortable and well taken care of. Together, we’ll make sure your time in Japan is truly special. Create a memorable journey that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Satoshi W.
J'ai travaillé dans des agences de voyage au Japon pendant plus de 20 ans. Je suis titulaire d'un permis de guide touristique en français, agréé par l'État japonais.
Popular Tokyo Private Tours
How about an enjoyable walking in Tokyo?
There are lots of sightseeing spots in Tokyo. I will arrange a customized one-day tour based upon your requirements so that you could enjoy your stay in Tokyo. We can discuss and decide places to visit effectively for a limited amount of time. One example is shown here as follows, but I'm sure I will take you to some of my best selections so that you could enjoy both of traditional and modern culture. I can arrange an appropriate lunch restaurant based upon your requirement.
Tokyo Highlights Private Tour : For Any Group Size with a Friendly Local Guide!
Enjoy a fully customized private tour of Tokyo with a friendly local guide. Whether you're interested in historical sites, modern attractions, or hidden local gems, this tour is tailored to your preferences. Perfect for couples, families, and even large groups, you'll travel comfortably with a private guide, making the most of your time in Japan’s vibrant capital.
Tokyo Tailored: Your Perfect 7-Hour Adventure with Lily
I am happy to tailor an original plan OR to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option! A 7-hour tour allows for 4 or more visits depending where we visit and finish the tour. Send me a message with your preferences or requests! *This tour will be presented in ENGLISH.
Kahoko's Tokyo "As you like" One Day Tour
What would you like to see and try in a one day tour? Here ,I will show you three recommended tours . You can try one or two of them. Or, if you you have enough time to try these three , you can cover most of the places in Tokyo. Of course you can change some parts of contents freely or a total customized one along with your requests or interests is also available. Tokyo is such a versatile city. You could definitely enjoy enchanting time in Tokyo with ME !
New Tokyo Private Tours
Imperial Palace Jogging 5KM Experience
The 5-kilometer loop around Tokyo’s Imperial Palace is Japan’s most famous running route—where locals, Olympians, and visitors all jog alongside history. With its smooth pavement, lush greenery, and postcard views of moats and castle walls, it’s the perfect blend of fitness and sightseeing.
Karaoke Experience
No trip to Tokyo is complete without belting out your favorite tunes in a private karaoke room! Unlike Western-style bar karaoke, Japan’s karaoke culture is all about uninhibited fun with friends (or solo!) in a cozy, high-tech booth—complete with disco lights, tambourines, and an endless song library. It’s where shy locals transform into rockstars after a few drinks.
Tokyo Expedition: Traditional Alleys & Sky-High Views 【Choose your Tower】
Experience the vibrant heart of Japan with my flexible and customizableTokyo City Tour! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, I will show you the hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and authentic culture that make Tokyo unforgettable.
Kamakura Day Trip – Explore Historic Temples & Scenic Beauty (from Tokyo)
Join me for an unforgettable day trip to Kamakura, a charming coastal town known for its rich history, stunning temples, and serene beaches. Just an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura offers a perfect escape into Japan’s cultural heritage.
Popular Tokyo Private Cars
Japan Private & Custom Local Guide Tour – 1-Day Luxury Experience
We 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. An English-speaking guide is available upon request for a smooth and informative journey.
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
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
Day Trips from Tokyo
Tokyo Tour Reviews
Xavier C.
“Gret yours of Tokyo and Fuji”
Caro was a great guide. She was knowledgeable and communicative. I would recommend her to friends and family.
Kumiyo I.
“Learning more about Tokyo”
With a half day free in Tokyo, I decided to take a half day tour with Yuki and I am glad I did. I was keen to see more of the district around the Imperial Palace. We went for walk through the beautiful Imperial Palace East Garden. The plum trees were coming into flower. Yuki proved to have a wealth of information about the current and past history of the Imperial family. After that, Yuki recommended we have lunch at a local Udon noodle bar. I confessed to him that I am a very clumsy Udon noodle eater and that at least some of the noodles will end up on the front of my shirt. As quick as a flash, Yuki had a brief word with the staff and returned with two disposable paper aprons. Crisis averted, we finished our noodles and ended the day with a leisurely walk around the Ueno Toshogu Shrine. I highly recommend, that if you are visiting Tokyo, Yuki is a knowledgeable and friendly guide to the city and speaks near perfect English.
Chris S.
“Backstreet walk and eat tour after a full day tour”
I previously rated my experience but it deserves another mention. The weather in Tokyo was terrible so Tim suggested we wait 24 hrs and combine our tours. After a full day my wife was tired but Tim was still excited to show me the backstreets of Tokyo. After a brief rest the two of us headed out to his favorite bars and he really showed me a great time. I had my first eel, sake, and shaved fish on bamboo shoots and it was delicious. We wandered through the neon lights and backstreets of Tokyo as Tim described the culture and took me places I probably would have missed on my own. It was a fascinating look beyond the typical tourist areas as we saw hundreds of small, intimate bars and gathering places with no more than 5-6 seats. I felt privileged to be able to experience this and I can’t say enough about Tim’s knowledge and experience. Since we both spoke English as our native language he was able to explain everything in great detail. It was truly a memorable night and at the end we swapped coins to remember our journey. I think Tim went above and beyond what I would have expected from a regular guide.
Tim D.
Thanks so much for the awesome review! I’m glad we could make the most of your time in Tokyo and explore the backstreets. It was a lot of fun chatting along the way, and the coin swap was a perfect way to end the night. Hope to see you both in Japan again!
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
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If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, and it feels as hectic as solo navigating Shibuya crossing (the busiest intersection in the world), we feel you. The world’s largest metropolis (37 million people, and counting) is a complex symphony. At one end, ancien...
5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
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When you think about Tokyo, what comes to mind? The vibrant energy? The buzzing streets? Perhaps the inviting nightlife? With 12.9 million international visitors, Tokyo is one of the most visited cities globally and Japan's number one tourist destination....
Enjoying The World’s Natural Beauty With A Private Guide
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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