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!!
Yuko O.
Hello, potential tourists! I'm Yuko, Yokohama local tour guide with English government license. I have been living in Yokohama for 40 years, and have been working in Tokyo for 35 years; 20 years as a business person,10 years as a teacher, then I became a tour guide in 2015. Yokohama is a major port city, and the 2nd largest city in Japan. It is one of the most popular sightseeing spots for Japanese tourists as well. However, for non-Japanese guests who are to experience things unique to Japan, without a tour guide, it could not be so stimulating, - a beautiful harbor, traditional garden, fashionable shopping mall, which could be likely to appear not so different from Tokyo, or other Western or Asian port cities. Actually, Yokohama is very special for Japan ! Without Yokohama, Japan would not have been developed into what it is now! Would you find real attraction of Yokohama with me ? Also I'm familiar with Tokyo, an urban city and Kamakura, an ancient city. See you in Yokohama, Japan!
Hiroshi S.
Hello, I'm Hiroshi. I am a National Government Licensed Tour Guide Interpreter in English. I have got a master's degree in Computer Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the U.S. I have been living in a city of Fujisawa, which is the city next to Kamakura, for more than 20 years, and also lived in Kamakura for more than 10 years. So far, I have visited almost all the temples and shrines in Kamakura. So I am sure I can offer you a pleasant trip to the historical city, Kamakura. In addition to Kamakura, I can also guide Tokyo, Yokohama, Hakone, Nikko, etc. because I have visited many places in Kanto area. For example, in Tokyo I can show you around the sightseeing spots such as Asakusa, Tsukiji, Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Skytree, etc. I like baseball and used to play baseball, but now enjoy watching professional baseball games. And I like watching Rakugo, Japanese traditional story-telling performance. Of course, I also like travelling very much, and am interested in Japanese culture and history. So I would like to show you Japanese tradition and culture. Let’s enjoy a trip in Japan together. I am looking forward to seeing you soon.
Grant A.
I am a independent guide—do not contact me for to resell or subcontract my work or for driving services. 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: Full-Day Tour: 40,000 yen (8 hours) Full-Day Tour Outside of Tokyo: 40,000 yen plus transportation expense
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.
Lynn K.
Hi! I'm Lynn I've been living in Japan for over 20 years but was born in the Philippines. I am a former banker based in Tokyo and a part time English Teacher. My School Days in both Japan and Singapore allowed me to meet and interact with people from different environments and cultures. I would say I enjoy travelling and became a traveler myself. Of all the places I've have been to, Japan is the place that I love the most- the fresh food, unique culture, breath taking scenery and warm people make it very special. Message me if you like a customized tour and I would be happy to create 100% customized tour for you in Tokyo and Shizuoka, Contact me now!
Yuki I.
Hallo, ich bin Yuki. Geboren und aufgewachsen in Japan, später nach Deutschland gezogen. Zwischen 1998 und 2021 habe ich in Deutschland gelebt und dort die beste Zeit meines Lebens verbracht. Deutschland ist für mich sozusagen meine zweite Heimat mit vielen schönen Erinnerungen. Als erfahrene Simultandolmetscherin für Deutsch und Japanisch (seit 16 Jahren) bewege ich mich ständig zwischen zwei Kulturen. Deshalb freue ich mich umso mehr, Ihnen nun mein Heimatland in Ihrer Sprache näherbringen zu können. Das Schöne an einer persönlichen Guide-Tour ist, dass sie ganz nach Ihren Wünschen gestaltet werden kann. Zögern Sie also nicht, mir Ihre Wünsche mitzuteilen! Und noch etwas: Entschuldigen Sie, wenn ich manchmal ein wenig Schwäbisch spreche – den Grund erfahren Sie während meiner Tour! -------------------------------------------------------------- I was born and raised in Japan and later moved to Germany. From 1998 to 2021, I lived in Germany. For me, Germany is like a second home, full of wonderful memories. As an experienced simultaneous interpreter for German/Japanese (for 16 years) and English/Japanese (for 5 years) , I am constantly moving between cultures. That’s why I’m even more excited to introduce you to my home country—in your language! The great thing about a private guided tour is that it can be tailored to your preferences. So please don’t hesitate to let me know what you’d like to see and experience! I’m looking forward to guiding you on my tour!
Lily I.
Hello! I’m Lily. I am a government certified tour guide. I have experienced more than 100 customized tours starting from March 2024 and have been receiving 5-star reviews on popular travel booking sites from over 90% 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!!
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 City Walk(2) - Highlight of Western Tokyo (7 hours)
This tour covers main and major highlights in Western Tokyo, which is rather modern and urban places, including high rise commercial buildings, contemporary art places, subculture sites and entertainments.
One-Day Historic Tokyo and Sky Adventure (Tsukiji, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Boat Cruise)
Enjoy shopping and spectacular view, and feel the atmosphere of Buddhism and Shinto! We will visit Tsukiji outer market and enjoy shopping and delicious sushi lunch. We also visit Namiyoke Shrine and Tsukiji Honganji Temple, which are the heart of Tsukiji people. From Hinode pier near Tsukiji we will take a boat to Asakusa. You can enjoy the view of Tokyo from a river. In Asakusa we will visit Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and Tokyo Skytree.
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.
New Tokyo Private Tours
＊Romy's Tokyo＊ 4 hours Omakase Tour
＊Discover Tokyo's most popular and memorable sites with Romy＊ Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street and Shibuya Crossing Our carefully curated tour takes you to the city's most iconic destinations, where tradition meets modernity! Your guide, Romy, worked at the Imperial Household Agency, and an expert on Meiji Jingu Shrine will showcase Tokyo's must-see attractions. ＊This tour is perfect as an orientation for first-time visitors to Japan, especially on your first day＊
Tokyo Highlights Half-Day Tour: Asakusa,Akihabara
Discover Tokyo’s vibrant daytime charm in just 4 hours! This half-day tour takes you from Asakusa, a historic district showcasing traditional Japan. Explore the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, and stroll through Nakamise Street, lined with shops selling authentic crafts and snacks. Immerse in the serene ambiance of old Edo. Next, journey to Akihabara, the heart of Japan’s anime, and tech culture. Dive into bustling streets filled with electronics shops, themed cafes
Hakone in a Day : Guided Trip from Tokyo to the Best Spots
[Weekend only] Discover the natural wonders of Hakone on a captivating day trip from Tokyo! Marvel at iconic Mt. Fuji views, take a picturesque cruise on Lake Ashi, and ride the famous Hakone Ropeway and charming Hakone Tozan Railway. Ascend over volcanic valleys and be rewarded with stunning panoramic scenery. For a more personalized experience, choose our private car Hakone day trip option. Plan your perfect Hakone tour and reconnect with nature today!
Tokyo Izakaya Night Tour: Experience Japanese Local Food & Culture
Dive deep into Japan's lively nightlife by exploring authentic local izakayas (Japanese pubs). Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, local drinks, and the unique atmosphere of each venue while learning about Japanese drinking culture with a friendly local guide. Perfect for food lovers, first-time visitors, and anyone wanting a real Tokyo night out!
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 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.
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
Tokyo Highlights (Car+Driver+Guide) Luxury & Time Saving
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
Day Trips from Tokyo
Tokyo Tour Reviews
Elaine C.
“Customized tour with Yoko-San”
Sorry for the late entry, but my aunt Maggie and I had a wonderful time with Yoko-san guiding us through Senso-ji and Asakusa area. Then we had a very lovely lunch at Mochizuki, over at the Asahi Group Headquarter Building. From the restaurant we had a view of the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree. Afterwards, Yoko-san got us to where we needed to be next, on the way we were able to see cherry blossoms which was great! So happy to connect with Yoko-san again for a tour, it was perfect for my aunt’s very first visit to Tokyo (too bad the weather wasn’t ideal). Thank you so much for everything, hope to see you again next time.
Allison C.
“One Day Tokyo Tour with Taka”
Taka was a great guide and customized our day! thanks Taka!
Taka M.
You are welcome, Allison. I'm glad that your stay in Japan has become a wonderful memory for you!
Wally T.
“Day Trip to Kawagoe”
Our day trip to Kawagoe was well-organized, smooth, and a lot of fun. Yuki expertly guided us through the train system, making both arrival and departure stress-free. We visited a fascinating temple and ancient cemetery, but chose to spend most of our time exploring the charming, craft-filled streets. Yuki shared rich insights into Kawagoe’s history, which made the experience even more meaningful. We also enjoyed a traditional udon lunch and sampled a variety of delicious local treats. A truly memorable outing!
Yuki K.
Dear Betty, Thank you very much for the third review. It's been a while since I visited there last time. I'm surprised that there were so many Japanese tourists visiting the Kuratsukuri street. It was a big different from the authentic Buddhist Temple of Naka-inn. Thank you for taking my tours for three days. Yuki
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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Enjoying The World’s Natural Beauty With A Private Guide
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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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