This exclusive 8-hour tour is crafted to match your personal interests. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant pulse of Tokyo or the peaceful beauty of nearby areas, I’ll design a tailor-made itinerary just for you. As your guide, I’ll handle all the logistics—transport, reservations, and any special requests—so you can simply enjoy your time. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to its serene hidden gems, your perfect day in Japan awaits. Let’s make this day unforgettable! Sample tour below:
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
To be advised by guest.
- The meeting point will be at your hotel or another predetermined location, based on your preference. I’ll confirm the details with you ahead of time to ensure a smooth start to your tour.
Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park
Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)
Start your day at Meiji Shrine, a tranquil Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Nestled within a vast 170-acre forest, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Walk through towering torii gates, symbolizing the entrance to sacred ground. Inside, admire the traditional architecture, write wishes on ema plaques, and observe Shinto rituals. A highlight is the sake barrel display, donated by breweries across Japan, alongside wine barrels gifted from France, reflecting Japan’s cultural ties. If lucky, you may witness a traditional Shinto wedding in the courtyard.
Yoyogi Park
Just a short walk away, Yoyogi Park is one of Tokyo’s largest green spaces, perfect for a refreshing break. The park transforms with the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, golden ginkgo trees in autumn, and lively gatherings year-round.
Relax under the trees, watch street performers, or spot Rockabilly dancers in retro outfits near the entrance. Whether seeking spiritual tranquility or vibrant local culture, this stop perfectly blends history and nature to start your day.
Harajuku & Omotesando
Takeshita Street – Tokyo’s Trendiest Spot
Dive into the lively energy of Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku’s pop culture. This narrow pedestrian street is packed with quirky fashion boutiques, themed cafés, and colorful street food stalls. Discover unique styles, from Lolita and gothic fashion to cosplay and vintage streetwear.
Try Harajuku’s famous crepes, filled with fruit and cream, or grab rainbow cotton candy. For souvenirs, browse shops selling kawaii (cute) accessories, anime merchandise, and playful trinkets.
Omotesando – Tokyo’s Elegant Side
A short walk away, Omotesando offers a refined contrast. Often called Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées, this tree-lined boulevard is home to luxury boutiques, designer stores, and stunning modern architecture. Stroll past flagship stores like Louis Vuitton and Prada, or explore Omotesando Hills, a stylish shopping complex with cafés and galleries.
Optional: Nezu Museum – Art & Serenity
For a peaceful escape, visit Nezu Museum, featuring a stunning collection of Japanese and East Asian art. Its highlight is a beautiful Japanese garden, with stone lanterns, a teahouse, and tranquil paths.
This stop blends Harajuku’s playful charm with Omotesando’s sophistication, making it a must-visit area in Tokyo
Lunch Break
After a morning of exploring, it’s time to indulge in a delicious lunch! Tokyo’s dining scene offers something for every craving, from local specialties to international favorites.
For a Japanese classic, enjoy a steaming bowl of ramen, rich with umami flavors, or savor freshly prepared sushi at a cozy counter-style restaurant. If you prefer something hearty, try tonkatsu (crispy pork cutlet), a sizzling teppanyaki steak, or a beautifully arranged kaisendon (seafood rice bowl).
Prefer Western flavors? Tokyo has fantastic gourmet burgers, authentic Italian pasta, and French-inspired bakeries serving buttery croissants and quiche. Indulge in a juicy wagyu burger, wood-fired pizza, or a classic steak frites at a stylish bistro. For a lighter option, enjoy a fresh salad or avocado toast at one of Tokyo’s trendy cafés.
For dessert, treat yourself to a matcha parfait, Japanese cheesecake, or a flaky apple pie. Whether craving local flavors or international comfort food, there’s a perfect meal waiting for you before the next adventure begins!
Yokohama – Minato Mirai & Sakuragicho
Welcome to Sakuragicho, the gateway to Yokohama’s breathtaking waterfront! As you step off the train, you're greeted by a refreshing sea breeze and a skyline blending modern architecture with historic charm. This area, once a bustling port town, has transformed into a stylish seaside destination filled with scenic promenades, open plazas, and cultural attractions.
Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where you’ll see boats gliding across the bay, musicians performing, and locals enjoying the seaside atmosphere. The gentle sound of waves and the sight of the iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel in the distance create a relaxing yet vibrant setting.
Soaring Views from Landmark Tower
For a spectacular bird’s-eye view, head to Landmark Tower’s Sky Garden, located on the 69th floor. In just 40 seconds, the high-speed elevator whisks you to one of Japan’s highest observation decks, where panoramic views of Yokohama, Tokyo Bay, and even Mt. Fuji (on clear days) await. It’s the perfect photo spot to capture the beauty of the city from above!
Minato Mirai 21 – The Future by the Sea
A short walk away, Minato Mirai is a sleek, modern district blending nature and urban design. Explore its wide, open parks, stylish cafés, and boutique shops, or simply relax along the harbor promenade while watching the sunset paint the sky in soft hues of pink and gold. Whether you’re drawn to skyline views, seaside charm, or futuristic cityscapes, this area offers a truly enchanting experience.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Step into a piece of history as you explore Yokohama’s iconic Red Brick Warehouse (Akarenga Soko). Originally built in the early 1900s as a customs warehouse for Japan’s bustling international trade, these striking red-brick buildings have been beautifully restored into a lively shopping, dining, and cultural hub.
Wander through its charming interior, where old-world architecture meets modern creativity. The wooden beams and iron fixtures whisper tales of Yokohama’s past as one of Japan’s first ports to welcome foreign influence. Now, the warehouse is home to artisan boutiques, handmade crafts, and stylish local brands—perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
A Taste of Yokohama’s Sweet Side
Indulge in local treats like shimmering fruit jellies, delicate Japanese pastries, or creamy Yokohama cheesecake. For something special, try Navy Curry, inspired by meals once served to Yokohama’s sailors. In winter, the square transforms into a romantic Christmas market, while in summer, the harbor breeze carries the scent of festival food and live music.
A Sunset Stroll to Osanbashi Pier
If time allows, take a short walk to Osanbashi Pier, a beautifully curved wooden structure extending into the bay. With its rolling deck and rooftop garden, it feels like standing on the bow of a ship. As the sun sets, the skyline glows in golds and deep blues, reflecting on the gentle waters. The romance of Yokohama’s maritime past lingers in the air, making this the perfect place to end a magical day.
A Walk Back Through the Twilight Glow
Between 4:30 and 5:00 PM, begin your relaxed walk back toward Sakuragicho Station, passing through the vibrant Minato Mirai district one last time. The setting sun casts a warm, golden light over the bay, creating perfect photo opportunities of the waterfront and illuminated cityscape. It’s a beautiful farewell to a day filled with history, charm, and unforgettable sights.
A Perfect Tour for Everyone
Whether you're a history lover, foodie, photographer, or just looking for a relaxing day by the sea, this tour is a fantastic experience for all ages—couples, families, friends, and solo travelers alike. Let’s make your visit to Yokohama truly special!
Ending Point
5:00 pm. Return to Tokyo or conclude the tour in Yokohama, depending on your preference.
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
A personalized itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences
Expert guidance throughout the day
Reservations for dining based on your tastes, whether you crave sushi, ramen, or a cozy café experience
Flexible exploration at both famous and hidden spots around Tokyo or nearby areas, depending on your preferences
Meals, snacks, and drinks for yourselves and the guide, if you wish the guide to join you.
Entrance fees to attractions, where applicable.
Personal expenses such as souvenirs or additional services.
Transportation costs are not included in the tour price, and any travel required by the guide during the tour, as well as any entry fees, will be covered by the client.
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour is wheelchair accessible.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Departure times are flexible and can be adjusted to allow for nighttime experiences, should you desire.
Thank you for considering my tours! I believe in creating a truly personalized experience, so every tour I offer can be tailored to fit your interests and needs. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure in a specific area or a multi-day itinerary, I can arrange that for you. If you're dreaming of destinations a bit further away, I’m more than happy to make that happen as well!
In addition, if you need private transportation, accommodation reservations, or dining arrangements, I can help with those too! Whatever makes your journey more comfortable and seamless, I’m here to assist.
I am always available unless my schedule on the site indicates otherwise, so feel free to reach out and let’s get the ball rolling. Almost anything is possible, and I’m excited to help you create a memorable and unique experience. I look forward to hearing from you!
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.
$429/ per group