Ginza Whiskey Half-Day Tour
Joined 2024
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?
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
My tours focus on the Tokyo subway and rail-accessible locations. I am not able to provide a driver on this site.
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.
*Bookings for cherry blossom season are full; if the date on the calendar is greyed out I am not available*
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
Reviews
Daniel G.
“First Full Day in Tokyo”
A truly magical day for my wife Elizabeth & I for our first full day in Tokyo and what a day it was. We began the day heading out to Suka City, for a wonderful course in origami with a lovely woman. After that, we had a (words cannot describe) tea ceremony w/ a Sensai Tea Master. It was so wonderful. After a nice stop making rice crackers covered in sweet soy sauce, we made our way to an incredible lunch w/ conveyor belt sushi! I may have left my jacket there so we *had* to return, hoping we could have more! lol Then we made our way Ueno Park. All this time while peppering Grant w/ a barrage of all things historic Japan and he was a wealth of information in his replies. When it comes to Japanese history & culture, navigating the language & subway, Grant is the man! We hit the lottery having had Grant as our guide! Our first day in Tokyo would not have been made possible without his kindness, disposition, knowledge and guidance… for my Elizabeth & I, it’s GowithGrant!
Helen T.
“Half Day Tour ”
Grant adjusted his tour a bit to include Akhibara for us and also took us through Ueno Park. He is extremely knowledgeable and was able to provide very interesting details during our tour. Highly recommend!
Jessica C.
“Was able to experience so much more with Grant!”
If you're looking for a tour guide who goes above and beyond, look no further than Grant! From the very start, he took the time to understand exactly what we wanted to do and see during our trip, tailoring a personalized itinerary that truly exceeded our expectations. Thanks to his expert knowledge of the trains and routes, we were able to see three times as much as we ever could have on our own. He knew exactly where to go, saving us precious time and making every part of our journey smooth and enjoyable. What really sets Grant apart, though, is his deep knowledge of Japan. There wasn’t a single question we had—whether about history, food, travel tips, or even other cities—he knew the answer. It was like having a walking encyclopedia of Japan right by our side! On top of his incredible expertise, Grant is just a joy to spend time with. He's fun, approachable, and incredibly helpful. Every moment spent with him was a delight, and we truly can't wait to return for another adventure. If you're lucky enough to have Grant as your guide, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
$133/ per group
More tours by Grant A.
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.
Asakusa and Ueno, Taito Ward Half-Day Tour
Experience Tokyo's highlights in my half-day tour. Begin at Kaminarimon, the gate to Sensoji Temple. Wander Nakamise-dori's historic stalls. Marvel at Sensoji and its towering pagoda. Next, ascend the Tokyo Skytree, offering stunning city views. Conclude at Tokyo Skytree Town, where you can explore shops, dine, and visit the Pokémon Center.
Shinjuku Half-Day Tour
See the highlights of Shinjuku in half a day—Meiji Jingu Shrine near Harajuku station, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and finally Kabukicho with a large Godzilla behind the Toho cinema.
Shibuya Anime Half-Day Tour
Embark on an anime lover's adventure through Shibuya! Start at the One Piece Straw Hat Store to find exclusive treasures from the Grand Line. Recharge at Torahebi with a cup of their premium roast coffee. Head to Parco's 6th floor, where you'll explore the Nintendo Store and Pokémon Center, alongside the Jump Store and more. After a delicious lunch, dive into Mandarake's underground anime cave for rare collectibles and finish the tour at Animate for the latest in anime and manga.
Other Popular Food & Drink Tours in Tokyo
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.
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.
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!
4. Enjoy Japanese casual meals
It should be one of the real trills to enjoy the local foods. This tour offers you an experience of Japanese casual breakfast, lunch, and dinner. To know local foods is to understand the local culture. I, the certificated national tour guide, bring you to three casual restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner respectively. You can enjoy the tour at a reasonable price.
