/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/ceb274fc-4ce8-4ca2-a897-663a615fea1b.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/8eb1080c-c276-4dab-b660-f71b4560a23b.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/0cc9d5b3-de6b-4a33-ab8a-dd0c16c972f8.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/74a06bf5-f1a6-4cb7-9190-78334f7e77d6.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/7d05133d-00a3-4111-9fc7-1d7023304bb0.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/80a89d97-ad31-4042-9c1d-548987f8e4fd.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/dcf3eb0b-3804-48b7-b091-3442dee6aa5c.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/d7b86a7e-08c8-447c-ac33-619bd5fa9a21.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/ce68c160-6b5e-4acf-9a18-fe9dfd910544.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/5dfb089f-33c3-4f30-b53c-b0fdabac1389.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22684/5bccfb69-e9e7-4293-bec2-7a75014d5d84.jpg)
Harajuku: Between a frantic street & tranquil forest!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/84466/9761a57a-7390-4df1-a97f-96a17a0dcfcf.png)
Joined 2025
Harajuku is like Japan; a place where ancestral traditions meet with modern society!
On one side, Meiji Jingu, a tranquil century-old forest home of a majestic Imperial temple.
On the other side, Takeshita Street, a vibrant and frantic place to be for young Japanese, known for its cosplay & Gothic shops.
But also Omotesando, equivalent to Paris "Champs-Élysées", large avenue full of the most famous luxury brands shops.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
- Upon request, we can arrange another meeting point in Tokyo.
Harajuku - Takeshita Street
We will take a stroll down one of the most popular street among young people in Japan.
Lunch Break
We'll take a short detour to have lunch in a less crowded location.
But it's entirely up to you to decide on the restaurant.
Omotesando - Luxury Brands Avenue
We can also walk a little through Ometetsando if you are interested.
Meiji Jingu - Imperial Temple hidden in a century-old forest.
Meiji Jingu is a large sacred forest surrounding a temple in honor of the late emperor Meiji. An authentic outdoor excursion, situated in the heart of Tokyo.
An ideal place to recharge during your trip.
On the way to Shinjuku
We will go to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, whose design was inspired by the Paris "Notre-Dame" cathedral.
Metropolitan Tower - A 360° view of Tokyo !
Let's take the elevator to the 45th floor of the tower. From there, all of Tokyo can be seen, and even far beyond when the weather is good.
We can adjust the time accordingly to suit your preference for seeing Tokyo during the day or at night. In truth, both perspectives are fantastic !
Shinjuku at Night & Restaurants
If you're still feeling energetic, we can also explore Shinjuku at night together and have dinner at a fine restaurant before returning to your hotel.
Ending Point
At your hotel or Anywhere in Tokyo
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
English/French/Japanese speaking guide
Various anecdotes about the history of the places visited
Help you in your seach for a souvenir
Pick up and Drop off at your hotel
Train fee for you and the guide, 150JPY ≈ 1USD/EUR p.p.
Lunch and drinks for you and the guide 1000JPY ≈ 7USD/EUR p.p.
(Opt.) Diner and drinks for you and the guide 1500JPY ≈ 10USD/EUR p.p.
Tour Important Information
Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies
Important message from the supplier
I am unable to make bookings for customers (e.g. chartered taxi / accommodation....), but I can provide guidance and end my tour at a specific location upon request.
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 2025
About Tour Guide Hardy M.
Being a former student and staff member of the University of Tokyo,
I have a natural ability to communicate with people from all corners of the world.
Regardless of whether you prefer to speak English, French, or Globish with me !
I have practiced Aikido, Iaido (Katana), and Kyudo (Bow) martial arts, and I have also worked on the restoration of Japanese armor. Therefore, I am well-versed in the art of war in ancient Japan.
But my passion for history goes further, and during my guided tours, I will share various anecdotes that will bring ancient Japan to life for you !
I'm also a huge fan of old Japanese video games, especially RPGs, so if you want a true otaku experience, follow me to Nakano Broadway and Akihabara!
If you're interested in arranging a tour that's tailored to your preferences, feel free to send me a message !
Reviews
Janet C.
“Temples, Samurai and Anime - a day of wonder in Tokyo with Hardy”
Hardy was the perfect tour guide! He is friendly and extremely knowledgeable. In addition to taking us on a fantastic walking tour of Asakusa and Akihabara, Hardy introduced us to some local cuisine and gave us some pointers for using the trains. We could not more highly recommend Hardy as your walking tour guide. We loved spending the day with you Harry. From Andrew, Janet and Charlotte.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/84466/9761a57a-7390-4df1-a97f-96a17a0dcfcf.png)
Hardy M.
Thank you very much for the photos ! I also had a wonderful day in your company :D I wish you all the best for the rest of your stay in Japan, and a bit of luck in catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji from the bullet train. And I’m still jealous of Charlotte’s seal bag, it’s just too cute! I also want one now ;)
Nick B.
“Excellent, interesting and informative guide that made our trip exceptional.”
Hardy was the perfect guide for our time in Narita and Tokyo. His suggestions were great and made our trip memorable. He was extremely helpful when the ATM at the 7-11 didn’t give the Japanese Yen purchased. He solved this issue quickly and we carried on. He asked about our interests and individualized the itinerary. He’s easy going and his English is excellent. We highly recommend for a stress free holiday in Tokyo.
Hardy M.
Thank you very much; I also really enjoyed the time we spent together. I hope you won't run into any more issues with an ATM; to be honest, it was the first time I’d ever used an ATM’s emergency phone, and I was just as relieved as you were to be able to resolve the situation quickly :) I wish you all the best for the rest of your journey in Japan !
Todor Z.
“Fantastic first day in Japan ”
We had an incredible time on the Special Harajuku & Lucky Cat Temple Tour with Hardy M. The 9-hour tour was well-paced, engaging, and packed with wonderful sights in Tokyo. Hardy was a fantastic guide—knowledgeable, friendly, and very attentive to our group. Everything ran smoothly from start to finish. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a unique and memorable tour experience!
Hardy M.
Thank you for those kind words, It was a pleasure to show you the Lucky Cat Temple! Unfortunately, people tend to avoid it because it’s off the beaten path, I would really love to be able to bring more people there ! So, if anyone wishes to see the "lucky cat temple", please message me ◝(ᵔᗜᵔ)◜
$203/ per group
More tours by Hardy M.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22536/a7f03e88-0dc6-46c1-aaba-a207dfb8d431.jpg)
Once upon a time in Asakusa: Handicraft & Samurai
The Edo period, when Tokyo became the capital, is often seen as the peak of Japanese art and culture! Temple architecture, woodworking, woodblock prints, porcelain... I will use traditional handicrafts to illustrate the history and lifestyle of the people of Tokyo. Who were the samurai? What difference with a Ninja? How were armors crafted? I am also going to teach you all you need to know about those fierce warriors in front of a large collection of authentic weapons & armors.
Once upon a time in Asakusa: Handicraft & Samurai
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22573/bb93683b-7ea1-436c-88ca-7bbeb7a16119.png)
Nakano & Koenji: Otaku & Punk Culture !
Dive into Japanese Otaku and Punk subcultures only 10 minutes away from Tokyo. Nakano Broadway is a cheaper and easier alternative to Akihabara for Anime, Manga, Figurine, and Video Games lovers. Thus, I highly recommend visiting Nakano Broadway first and then heading to Akihabara. Koenji is the hub of Punk, alternative rock, and Gothic subculture in Tokyo, and it has a lot of vintage clothing stores. Also, there are a lot of barbecue bars in the vicinity of the station.
Nakano & Koenji: Otaku & Punk Culture !
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22468/a4e322b0-2bfc-4488-852f-b51d115a28ac.jpg)
Mt. Takao: temples, monkeys & waterfall
Get the Tengu's protection with an easy forest trail just 1h from Tokyo! The temple devoted to those deities, is surrounded by centuries-old trees, home of flying squirrels and monkeys. With along the way waterfalls still in use by monks for meditation. Mt. Takao hiking is relatively easy and only requires comfortable shoes, and if the weather is favorable, Mt. Fuji can be seen at the submit! And in the old town, restaurants and snacks offer a different taste than the capital.
Mt. Takao: temples, monkeys & waterfall
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22853/d1fc6415-a67b-4703-af9e-a52acfde3253.jpg)
History of Tokyo Bay: Battleships & Industrialization of Japan
Take a day to discover how the destiny of Tokyo & Japan was shaped by the Tokyo Bay! From Yokohama, the first industrial port, to boarding the Mikasa, once the flagship of the imperial Navy. Let me tell you the complex love story between the Japanese & the sea, with centuries-old and modern ships of the Japanese & American navies as a backdrop. Traveling along the Miura Peninsula coast, you will discover what most of Japan is really like: small towns nestled between mountains and rivers / sea.
History of Tokyo Bay: Battleships & Industrialization of Japan
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15774/3518ab99-eeab-4495-8fae-d0632f7ebd95.jpg)
Traditional and Modern One-day Tour in Tokyo
Best recommended tour for the first-time visitor to Tokyo. Tokyo is a unique city with various traditional and contemporary attractions. Let’s create your personalized time in Tokyo by discussing the places you want to visit. You should plan a tour of different sites, such as Kamakura and Hakone, along with my other plan. I am based in Tokyo, but I would happily arrange your tour.
Traditional and Modern One-day Tour in Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/57838/e1b7787b-1c2b-43d5-8a07-90b3087647a0.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/48/467.jpg)
Alte Japanische Kulturgüter besuchen
Besuchen wir alte Japanische Kulturgüter, um die Geschichte und Kultur Japans kennenzulernen. Zu den Kulturgütern gehören Meiji-Schrein, dem Kaiser Meiji gewidmet wird und den kaiseriche Garten umgeben von Wassergraben, und den Tempel der Altstadt-Asakusa, mit der Andenkenläden gesäumten Gasse. Außerdem besuchen wir Yanaka, eine Gasse mit alten Geschäften und den Ueno Park mit der Statue vom "Last Samurai", einem Buddhistischen Tempel, und dem Tosyogu Schrein, wo drei Schoguns gewidmet werden.
Alte Japanische Kulturgüter besuchen
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/58/452.jpg)
Once upon a time in Asakusa: Handicraft & Samurai
The Edo period, when Tokyo became the capital, is often seen as the peak of Japanese art and culture! Temple architecture, woodworking, woodblock prints, porcelain... I will use traditional handicrafts to illustrate the history and lifestyle of the people of Tokyo. Who were the samurai? What difference with a Ninja? How were armors crafted? I am also going to teach you all you need to know about those fierce warriors in front of a large collection of authentic weapons & armors.
Once upon a time in Asakusa: Handicraft & Samurai
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17537/493d42da-1215-4c11-9798-0edeae5e2897.jpg)
Timeless Tokyo: One-Day Walking Tour Through Ueno & Yanaka’s Hidden Gems
Step into Tokyo's timeless allure on our exclusive Ueno and Yanaka tour, where vibrant culture and nostalgic charm intertwine to reveal the city's hidden treasures. On this tour, you can catch a glimpse of real life in Tokyo. We'll head into the neighborhoods with more calm and less hustle and bustle.
Timeless Tokyo: One-Day Walking Tour Through Ueno & Yanaka’s Hidden Gems
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/65161/028b3873-f9bc-4bec-8ae9-6947335b06e9.png)