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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

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.

Japan

Yoshi K.

Hi! I'm Yoshi. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. Since I was born in Tokyo, near Asakusa, the famous tourist spot, and I now live in Yokohama, I am very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions of Tokyo and Kanagawa area. I used to live in California in the states, as a graduate student at UCLA and Stanford University, so I speak natural American English. I used be a CEO of an internet company, dealing business with many foreign companies of the US, European countries and Asian countries. Therefore, I know your culture! I can explain Japanese culture, by comparing them with yours. Of course, I can guide you to the popular spots, like Asakusa, the Imperial palace, Meiji shrine, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. But also I can take you to some secret places, which nobody knows, like a hidden temple in a dungeon. Interested? Please contact me. See you soon! Yoshi

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

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.

Japan

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.

Japan

Yoshi K.

Hi! I'm Yoshi. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. Since I was born in Tokyo, near Asakusa, the famous tourist spot, and I now live in Yokohama, I am very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions of Tokyo and Kanagawa area. I used to live in California in the states, as a graduate student at UCLA and Stanford University, so I speak natural American English. I used be a CEO of an internet company, dealing business with many foreign companies of the US, European countries and Asian countries. Therefore, I know your culture! I can explain Japanese culture, by comparing them with yours. Of course, I can guide you to the popular spots, like Asakusa, the Imperial palace, Meiji shrine, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. But also I can take you to some secret places, which nobody knows, like a hidden temple in a dungeon. Interested? Please contact me. See you soon! Yoshi

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Kenta M.

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

Kent I.

Yoshi K.

Grant A.

Ritsuko K.

Kent I.

Yoshi K.

Grant A.

Ritsuko K.

New Tokyo Tour Guides

Camille L.

Dmitrijs B.

Kota A.

Kenta M.

Camille L.

Dmitrijs B.

Kota A.

Kenta M.

Popular Tokyo Private Tours

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

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

Ginza Line Tour

Ginza Line Tour

A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit

A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit

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

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

Ginza Line Tour

Ginza Line Tour

A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit

A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit

New Tokyo Private Tours

Retro Izakaya Night Walk: Ginza to Shimbashi

Join me for a 3-hour izakaya hopping tour to experience the night life. From Yurakucho’s izakaya under the tracks to Shimbashi, we’ll walk, eat, drink, and enjoy Tokyo’s local nightlife together.

Retro Izakaya Night Walk: Ginza to Shimbashi

L'histoire, la culture et l'art de Tokyo

L'histoire, la culture et l'art de Tokyo

Visite d'une journée complète de Tokyo

Visite d'une journée complète de Tokyo

Promenade autour du Palais impérial et des vestiges du château d'Edo

Promenade autour du Palais impérial et des vestiges du château d'Edo

Retro Izakaya Night Walk: Ginza to Shimbashi

Join me for a 3-hour izakaya hopping tour to experience the night life. From Yurakucho’s izakaya under the tracks to Shimbashi, we’ll walk, eat, drink, and enjoy Tokyo’s local nightlife together.

Retro Izakaya Night Walk: Ginza to Shimbashi

L'histoire, la culture et l'art de Tokyo

L'histoire, la culture et l'art de Tokyo

Visite d'une journée complète de Tokyo

Visite d'une journée complète de Tokyo

Promenade autour du Palais impérial et des vestiges du château d'Edo

Promenade autour du Palais impérial et des vestiges du château d'Edo

Popular Tokyo Private Cars

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 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 Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving

Tokyo Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving

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 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 Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving

Tokyo Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving

Day Trips from Tokyo

Hakone

Kamakura