Explore Eastern Tokyo with our tour, beginning at Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, leading to Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori. Stroll along the Sumida River to admire the Asahi Beer Building. Relax in Ueno Park, delve into Akihabara’s tech scene, and visit Tsukiji Outer Market. Experience traditional Japan at Hamarikyu Park and Zojoji Temple, where you can see Tokyo Tower in the distance. The tour is optimized by proximity, ensuring a smooth and efficient exploration of this vibrant part of Tokyo.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your Hotel
- Free pick up and drop off within Tokyo 23wards
Kaminarimon: Thunder Gate
Kaminarimon, or "Thunder Gate," is the iconic entrance to Tokyo's historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Adorned with a massive red lantern and guardian statues, it symbolizes the fusion of history and spirituality. The vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street, leading from the gate to the temple, is lined with traditional shops and eateries. Visiting Kaminarimon is like stepping back in time, offering a captivating glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Nakamise-dori
Nakamise-dori is a historic shopping street in Asakusa, Tokyo, leading up to Sensoji Temple. It is lined with traditional Japanese stalls known as "omiyageya," selling a variety of souvenirs, crafts, snacks, and local specialties. The vibrant atmosphere and the charming architecture of the shops make it a must-visit for tourists.
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest, is a major cultural icon. Founded in 628, it's dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. The Kaminarimon gate leads to the bustling Nakamise-dori, a vibrant marketplace. At the temple's heart lies the magnificent Hondo main hall. Visitors purify themselves at chozuya, make offerings, burn incense, and pray. Don't miss the five-story pagoda, exquisite gardens, and stunning cultural displays.
Along the Sumida River: Asahi Beer Building
Explore Tokyo's Sumida River, flanked by historic sites and modern marvels. See the famous Asahi Beer Building, resembling a frothy pint. Admire the innovative architecture of the "Golden Flame" atop its roof. A memorable sight along this iconic waterway.
Ueno Park Stroll
Take a leisurely walk through Ueno Park's picturesque landscapes, dotted with cherry blossoms, serene ponds, and lush greenery, providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation and contemplation amidst Tokyo's urban oasis.
Toshogu & Inari Shrines Mini Shrines: Immerse yourself in serenity as you visit the historic Toshogu and Inari Shrines, where you can admire the intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
Akihabara Electric Town
Akihabara, Tokyo's electric town, is a haven for tech enthusiasts, anime lovers, and gamers. Dive into retro gaming at Super Potato, a famed store filled with classic consoles and games. Explore Radio Kaikan, a multi-floor shopping complex offering everything from electronics to anime merchandise. The area is also known for its maid cafes and otaku culture, making it a unique blend of modern technology and pop culture. Akihabara's vibrant energy and specialty shops create an unforgettable experience.
Tsukiji Fish Market
Tsukiji Outer Market, adjacent to the former Tsukiji Fish Market, buzzes with vibrant energy and gastronomic wonders. Amidst the seafood stalls and culinary delights, discover Namiyoke Inari Shrine, guardian of Tsukiji's fishermen. Explore the intersection of tradition and modernity in this bustling district, a testament to Japan's rich cultural tapestry.
Hamarikyu Park and Japanese Tea House
Hamarikyu Park, a historic oasis in Tokyo, boasts lush gardens and a traditional Japanese tea house. Originally a feudal lord's residence, it offers a serene escape from the city's hustle. Immerse yourself in the art of tea ceremony, savoring matcha amid picturesque scenery, a delightful blend of nature and culture.
Admission is 300 yen and there is a small fee for green tea at the tea house.
Zojoji Temple near Tokyo Tower
Zojoji, near Tokyo Tower, is a tranquil haven dating back to the 7th century. As one of Japan's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples, it offers a spiritual refuge amidst Tokyo's bustling urban landscape. Discover its rich history, intricate architecture, and serene ambiance, reflecting centuries of Japanese religious tradition and cultural heritage.
Ending Point
Your Hotel
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Tour Guiding
Japanese/English Interpreting
Hotel Pick up/Drop off within Tokyo 23wards
Guide's Rail fare
Your rail fare
Hamarikyu Park admission at 300yen
I can meet you at your hotel to begin our journey or at another convenient location.
My tours focus on the Tokyo subway and rail-accessible locations. I am not able to provide a driver on this site.
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:
Half-Day Tour: 20,000 yen (4 hours)
Full-Day Tour: 40,000 yen (8 hours)
Full-Day Tour Outside of Tokyo: 40,000 yen plus transportation expense
“Outstanding ”
Not only is Grant great guy, but he is also a living, walking encyclopedia. very impressed by his knowledge of Japan!! would recomend 1000%
“great tour”
Grant was able to adapt his Ginza Line tour to fit our curiosities and interests, he also took us off the beaten path vs taking us to generic spots e.g. into the interesting parts/exhibits of a department store rather than street/ground floor view. I really like that the tour lasted 8 or so hours because it gave us time to get to know each other. Grant has a lot to offer -- ask lots of questions!
“Shibuya Anime Half-Day Tour Shibuya Anime Half-Day Tour”
Grant was great! He was able to pivot easily with a schedule change on our side and the uncertain hours of the New Year's holiday schedule of various places. It was fun to explore the anime/manga history and culture of Tokyo with someone so knowledgeable and personable. He was able to tailor the afternoon to our personal interests. We had an enjoyable visit. Thanks Grant!
$254/ per group