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Ginza Whiskey Half-Day Tour
Explore Ginza & Shimbashi with a certified bourbon steward. Enjoy whisky tastings, allocated bourbon hunting, and Blanton's sale insights. Discover luxury Yamazaki bottles and sample Suntory's finest. Let me guide your palate and purchasing decisions. Book now for a whisky adventure in Japan!
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your Hotel
Shinanoya Ginza
We will check the Shinanoya Liquor Store for bourbons and whiskys. Shinanoya has the best selection of Heaven Hill's bourbon in Japan. We have a good chance to find the Evan WIlliams 12year at these stores. Sometimes they stock wild turkey 12year and other good bourbons as well.
Liquor Mountain Ginza 777
Here we can try mini samples of a wide variety of bourbons, scotches and Japanese whiskys. Samples are roughly 200yen for a small 10ml pour. Of course, I can help you find your perfect whisky or bourbon - and find something that suits your taste. There are other Japanese whisky experts here that I can interpret for you.
Ginza 6 Shopping Mall
We will check the JWC whisky collection to see some of the rarest and most expensive Japanese whiskies ever made. After we can enjoy a shot or two of high end Suntory or Nikka whiskys. A 15ml pour starts around 500yen and goes up for highly aged whiskys. I can give recommendations based on your personal preferences. Furthermore, I can ask staff any questions you might have in Japanese.
M Whisky Shop Ginza
Welcome to M Whisky Shop Ginza, a premium destination for whisky enthusiasts located in the heart of Tokyo's vibrant Ginza district. This sophisticated boutique offers an extensive selection of rare and fine whiskies from around the world, perfect for both collectors and casual sippers. The knowledgeable staff provide expert guidance to help you find the ideal bottle to suit your taste and occasion. Immerse yourself in a refined atmosphere where you can explore and appreciate the art of whisky making.
Yamaya
Here we can check the local Yamaya store, this store is likely to Buffalo Trace distillery products, sometimes they have the elusive Japan exclusive Blanton's Black or Blanton's Red label. Other than that Yamaya also has one of the widest whisky selections in Japan.
Rare Yamazaki and More: Discover Ginza's Whiskey Oasis
Nestled in the heart of Ginza, Rare Whiskey Ginza offers a unique whiskey experience. Explore an extensive selection of premium Japanese whiskeys, from the iconic Yamazaki to the Hakushu and beyond. The rare Mizunara barrel whiskeys are particularly noteworthy. Though prices aren't low, the store offers a price match guarantee. My visit was unforgettable; I even saw the legendary Yamazaki 50 Years Old. If you're a whiskey enthusiast, this is a must-visit spot.
Liquor Express: Home to Japan's Elusive Whiskey Finds
For seekers of Japan's rarest whiskeys, Liquor Express is a haven. Here, you'll find all the elusive Japanese whiskey bottles you've been hunting for. Prices are comparable to standard retail, often more affordable than major retailers, even without tax-free options. A must-visit destination for whiskey enthusiasts!
Optional: Exclusive Private Whiskey Tasting Experience
Indulge in a personalized whiskey tasting at a private bar near your hotel. Enjoy an unlimited sampling of a curated mix of 5-6 standard and premium bourbons in an intimate and comfortable setting. This unique experience, designed for up to four people, offers a delightful journey through the rich flavors of fine whiskey. Additional guests are welcome for just 5000 yen per person. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts and those looking for a memorable evening, this private tasting replaces the traditional whiskey tour with elegance and convenience.
To ensure everything is perfectly arranged, I need advanced notice, along with your hotel information, the number of people attending, and your preferred time.
Ending Point
Your Hotel
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Bourbon and whisky knowledge and recommendations
Japanese/English Interpreting
Hotel Pick up/Drop off within Tokyo 23wards
Guide's Rail fare
With the Optional Whiskey tasting course and bar rental you will get unlimited whiskey from the bottles I provide for the price of 20,000yen for a maximum of 4 people with an additional 5000yen for each additional person.
Your Rail fare
The standard Ginza whiskey course has a one tasting at Liquor Mountain 777, and one stop at the JWC Library for drinking Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki. These drinks are not included in tour.
Tour Important Information
Must be a minimum of 20 years old to join the tour.
Important message from the supplier
DO NOT CONTACT ME FOR DRIVING SERVICES.
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Important Information – Please Read Before Inquiring
Inquiries should be made with the intent to book a tour.
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1.Do not ask me about Mt. Fuji. The mountain is usually not visible, meaning you can not see it; if you don't understand what that means you need to google "Mt. Fuji visibility". You probably want to join a group bus tour which is not what I am offering.
2. Tours are rail based, full day tours are roughly 20,000 steps.
3. I do not make bookings on behalf of customers, the tours cover areas that not require advanced reservations.*
*I can take you to places you booked in advance or as a drop-off point to end as well.
4. I am no longer accommodating vegans/vegetarians.
5. Only contact me if you are the participant in the tour. Do not resell my services.
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
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
James S.
“Ginza line”
Had a fun day with Grant. He was able to give us a fantastic history lesson through out our tour. Enjoyed the lunch we had with him on the grill. Bonus Grant gave me a lot of information on bourbon in Japan.
Les B.
“Custom Shopping Tour”
Grant was an excellent guide. Very flexible and helpful on a custom shopping tour of Tokyo. I would very much recommend him as a guide. Thanks Grant!
Heather S.
“Ginza Line Tour Fun”
Grant was a great guide and full of a lot of knowledge! He was able to teach more than we anticipated. He had some great lunch spots, match lattes, melon bread and other hidden gems. We definitely went back to some after we departed with him. He also took us to a spot not on our tour and helped show us how to get back. This was very helpful to learn how to get around using public transportation!
$192/ per group
More tours by Grant A.
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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.
Ginza Line Tour
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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.
Eastern Tokyo Tour: Taito, Chuo, and Minato
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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.
Western Tokyo Tour: Shibuya and Shinjuku
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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!
Tokyo Anime Full-day Tour
Other Popular Food & Drink Tours in Tokyo
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Tsukiji Market morning tour for food lovers
This is an invitation to a tasty and lively food experience at the No. 1 market, Tsukiji. The place is a treasure trove of delicious seafood, so let's sample some of the ’catch of the day’, sold fresh or skewered and grilled at the store front!
Tsukiji Market morning tour for food lovers
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Enjoy Japanese Dinner at Kagurazaka
Let's walk around Kagurazaka where you find nice restaurants and traditional shops, and enjoy nice dinner at a cozy Japanese restaurant :) I'll book a restaurant of your favorite Japanese food such as Yakitori, Soba, Yakiniku/Shabushabu, or some local cuisine from different regions (Okinawa, Kumamoto, Niigata, etc). You can explore Kagurazaka including small alleys, and enjoy both traditional and modern atmosphere of the area as well.
Enjoy Japanese Dinner at Kagurazaka
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Taste Tokyo with Romy – Discover Tsukiji Like a Local Friend
The Tsukiji Fish Market feels like a second home to me. I'd love to show you around and help you experience my neighborhood like a local. I’ve led over 200 tours of the market and formed lasting friendships with reliable local vendors! It's about more than just tasting — it's a chance to discover the hidden gems and stories that most visitors never get to see. Would you like to try some bluefin tuna or Wagyu beef? I'll show you the best of both! Book your tour today!
Taste Tokyo with Romy – Discover Tsukiji Like a Local Friend
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Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour in Shinjyuku(Location can be changed)
I will take you to 3 izakayas (Japanes Bars) that Japanese usually go in Shinjyuku. Some places like Memory Lane(Omoide Yokocho), Kabukicho, Golden Gai etc. You can save time researching and planning your trip because I will show you places that are usually difficult for tourists to find. I can recommend you delicious foods & drinks and order it for you, so you can take the stress out of language barriers. Also during the bar hopping, I can show you nice places in Shinjyuku.
Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour in Shinjyuku(Location can be changed)
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