Ginza Line Tour
Joined 2024
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.
Itinerary
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/drop at your hotel within Tokyo 23wards.
Asakusa Station Area
We begin at the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, the grand entrance to Nakamise Street. Marvel at the massive red lantern and statues of Fujin (Wind God) and Raijin (Thunder God) that protect this historic gateway. I’ll share its fascinating history and capture the perfect photos of you here.
Nakamise Shopping Street
Stroll through Nakamise Street, a lively path lined with traditional snacks, souvenirs, and artisan crafts. Learn about its cultural significance and enjoy the bustling atmosphere as we explore together.
Sensoji Temple
Visit Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple. Admire its vibrant red architecture, the impressive Hozomon Gate, and the incense burner where you can purify yourself and make a wish for good fortune. I’ll share the rich history of this sacred site and guide you through its traditions.
Five-Story Pagoda
Discover the elegance of Sensoji’s Five-Story Pagoda, a symbol of Asakusa’s cultural and spiritual legacy. Learn about its architectural design and significance as we admire its timeless beauty and take stunning photos.
Tokyo Skytree Views
From the temple grounds, enjoy distant views of Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure. I’ll point out the best vantage points and share how this modern marvel connects to the area’s history.
Throughout the tour, I’ll provide fascinating stories, help you capture memorable photos, and ensure you leave with a deeper appreciation of Asakusa’s rich heritage.
Ueno Station Area
1. Ameyoko Food Tour: Delight your taste buds with a culinary adventure through Ameyoko's vibrant market, where you can sample a variety of local street foods and traditional snacks, immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this iconic shopping district.
2. 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, offering a peaceful escape from the city hustle.
3. 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.
Ginza Station Area
Explore the heart of Tokyo’s luxury and style in the Ginza area, where modern sophistication meets timeless elegance.
Our journey continues at Ginza SIX, Tokyo’s premier destination for luxury shopping and cultural experiences. This architectural masterpiece features flagship stores for top international and Japanese brands. Discover stunning art installations throughout the building, relax at the rooftop garden with panoramic city views, and enjoy a range of dining options to suit every taste.
M’s Whisky Museum (Optional)
Dive into Japan’s rich whisky heritage at M’s Whisky Museum. Explore their impressive collection of rare and vintage bottles, learn about Japan’s whisky-making traditions, and, if you’d like, enjoy a tasting experience. It’s a hidden gem for connoisseurs and curious beginners alike.
Uniqlo Ginza (Optional)
Visit the flagship Uniqlo store, a multi-level paradise of affordable, stylish clothing. Browse their innovative designs and Japan-exclusive collections while marveling at the sleek, modern interiors.
Fashion Flagships and Boutique Shopping (Optional)
Ginza is home to iconic flagship stores, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior, alongside unique Japanese boutiques. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or just browsing, I’ll guide you to the best spots for your interests.
Throughout the tour, I’ll provide insights into Ginza’s history as Tokyo’s luxury hub.
Shibuya Station Area
Hachiko Dog Memorial
Start at the beloved Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and one of Shibuya’s most famous meeting spots. Learn the heartwarming story of Hachiko, the faithful Akita who waited for his owner every day, and take memorable photos with this historic statue.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Witness the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where thousands of pedestrians move in perfect harmony at this bustling intersection. I’ll guide you to the best spots to view and photograph this incredible scene, an iconic symbol of Tokyo’s urban energy.
Parco’s Nintendo Store
Next, head to Parco’s Nintendo Store, a paradise for gamers. Discover exclusive Nintendo merchandise, nostalgic collectibles, and interactive displays celebrating the legendary gaming company.
Optional: Torahebi Scientific Coffee Shop
Take a break at Torahebi Coffee Shop, known for its scientifically brewed coffee and unique aged bean flavors like strawberry and banana. It’s the perfect place to recharge.
Optional: Yoyogi Park
Explore the peaceful greenery of Yoyogi Park. On weekends, enjoy live performances or food stalls in this spacious urban oasis.
Optional: Meiji Jingu Shrine
Conclude your tour at Meiji Jingu Shrine, a serene Shinto sanctuary. Walk through towering torii gates, admire traditional architecture, and experience the tranquil forest setting.
This customizable tour balances Shibuya’s urban buzz with moments of relaxation and cultural exploration.
Ending Point
Your Hotel
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guiding Fee
Interpreting Fee
Guide's Rail fare
Guide's Admissions
Pick up and Drop off at your hotel within Tokyo 23 wards
Your Rail fare (600yen for Tokyo metro 24hour pass)
Your admissions
Your personal purchases
Tour Important Information
This tour follows the Ginza Line, with each stop covered by the 24-hour Tokyo Metro pass, available for 600 yen. Although Meiji Jingu Shrine is included in the tour, it is located near the Chiyoda Line, which is also covered by the 600 yen metro pass. Meiji Jingu closes early in winter at about 4:10pm.
Important message from the supplier
DO NOT CONTACT ME FOR DRIVING SERVICES.
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Important Information – Please Read Before Inquiring
Please read before reaching out. Inquiries should be made with the intent to book a tour.
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Are the tours rail-based?
Yes—tours are primarily rail-based, especially within Tokyo. On the first day, I’ll help you learn the Tokyo rail system, assist with IC card setup, and explain how to navigate confidently.
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Can you book tickets for us?
I don’t handle advance reservations. Most people want to visit places like teamLab, Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Sky, Studio Ghibli, or the Sumo Lunch in Tokyo. These must be booked separately on your own. I can include these as part of the tour day or drop you off there, but I can’t make bookings on your behalf due to liability issues and platform commission policies. Thanks for understanding.
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What about Mt. Fuji?
I don’t generally offer Mt. Fuji tours. Due to visibility issues and common misunderstandings about access and logistics, inquiries about Mt. Fuji often don’t lead to bookings. If you're interested, a group bus tour is usually the better option.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2024
About Tour Guide 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.
Reviews
Javier M.
“A MUST have guide.”
With the limited time I've spent with Grant it sure was a blast! Having Grant as a guide for a day taking me to the most popular technological and otaku filled place in Tokyo was wide opening. While Grant may look a bit intimidatingly awkward, hes quite professional in his touring and guiding skills. He taught me how to properly use Japan's shinkansen and train stations when traveling to other places besides Tokyo. If you are in the fence on having Grant as a guide in japan ill say go for it! Hes been living in japan as a foreign exchange student since high-school, as well as having traveled to all of Japan's prefectures! As a side note he taught me the history and manufacturing process of making Japanese whiskey and scotch, in which he is quite knowledgeable on.
Sofiabennie V.
“Custom Tour in Tokyo”
We had a great day with Grant. When we came to Tokyo we had already been in Japan for more than 2 weeks and and were out of firm plans and tired of all the planning. We wanted to let someone else take the wheel and a less crowded experience. We contacted Grant who asked about our interests and then built a custom itinerary for us. He took us to the Lucky Cat temple, Showa Kinen park, for som great fried chicken and to Nakano Broadway. What's more we also had som great discussions on living abroad, languages, history and much more. He has a great knowledge of Japanese history and culture which gave a depth and perspective to our discussions. We warmly recommend Grant as a tour guide.
Simon R.
“Thank you Grant!”
We booked Grant for 2x days in Tokyo and had a wonderful time with Grant who was able to show us around easily and provided a good balance of fun and information for both us and our two young children; including the challenges of where to eat! Thank you Grant, you made our holiday in Japan a highlight and would definitely recommend anyone to book Grant.
$278/ per group
More tours by Grant A.
Eastern Tokyo Tour: Taito, Chuo, and Minato
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.
Western Tokyo Tour: Shibuya and Shinjuku
Start in Shinjuku's Kabukicho, known for its vibrant nightlife and New Kabukicho Tower. Head to Harajuku's Takeshita Street for trendy shopping. Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine for a serene cultural experience. In Shibuya, explore Shibuya Parco's Nintendo Store and Pokemon Center, and visit the Parco Rooftop for city views. End with a stroll through Miyashita Park, enjoying its recreational facilities and green spaces.
Tokyo Anime Full-day Tour
The Tokyo anime tour covers anime across four iconic districts! Start in Akihabara, the electric heart of otaku culture, then head to Ikebukuro's Sunshine City for an array of anime shops. Discover rare gems at Nakano Broadway, a treasure trove of vintage collectibles. Finally, unleash your inner otaku in Shibuya with must-visit stops like the One Piece Store, Nintendo Store, Mandarake, and Animate. Experience the best anime attractions Tokyo has to offer on this unforgettable journey!
Kanagawa Full Day Tour
The Kamakura Course covers the Great Buddha and major historical sites in the Kamakura area. Additionally, you can choose one of three side trips to Enoshima, Yokohama, or Odawara.
Other Popular Shopping Tours in Tokyo
One-day tour in Tokyo with a focus on your preferred shopping and entertainment.
After the hotel meetup, in the original plan, the tour starts from visiting Ueno Park, walking around the big pond, checking out Toshogu Shrine and Saigo Statue. Afterwards, depending on the preference, visiting the Ueno Zoo or National Museum (or not). Grabbing lunch nearby, then heading out to Ameyoko Shotengai closeby, potentially trying karaoke & game centers as well. Last, heading to Shibuya to check out the famous Shibuya Crossing, wrapping up shopping/dining/entertainment you like.
Tokyo Vintage Fashion Tour
You love fashion, and you love the planet, so this tour will help you to rock your amazing style without hurting the environment thanks to Vintage or resale shops in Shimokitazawa or Harajuku, I will customize your tour based on your preference and interests. This walking tour is particularly suitable for any fashion and style lover who wants to meet vintage shops. Let's get this one! :)
Vintage Fashion Tour
This tour is for vintage fashion lover. On this tour, you can experience shopping for vintage clothing in Harajuku and Shibuya. I will customize your tour according to your preferences.
Tokyo - Hidden Gems and Local Delights
Tokyo is known for its neon lights and bustling streets, but beyond the tourist hotspots, there’s a quieter, deeper side to the city. I’ll take you to three unique locations that showcase Tokyo’s hidden charm—starting with the nostalgic backstreets of Yanaka, moving to the artistic heart of Nakameguro, and ending in the vibrant local scene of Shimokitazawa. This tour is all about slow exploration, unexpected discoveries, and experiencing Tokyo like a local.
