Hidden Gems of Tokyo: Unveiling Central Tokyo and Shitamachi
Joined 2023
Embark on our "Tokyo Time Traveler Tour," exploring Shimbashi, Tokyo Station, Ochanomizu, Ueno, and Yanaka. Discover Tokyo's evolution, from its humble beginnings to the bustling metropolis it is today. Dive into history, culture, and tradition, uncovering the secrets behind Tokyo's captivating transformation.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Hotel Pick Up/Shimbashi station
- Let's rendezvous at your hotel lobby, then hop on a train to Shimbashi station. Alternatively, we can meet directly at Shimbashi station.
Tokyo Station
Step into Tokyo Station, a fusion of Western and Japanese architecture. Discover its hidden treasures and delve into its rich history, from its inauguration in 1914 to its survival through wars and disasters. Experience Japan's cutting-edge train system, connecting millions daily.
Ochanomizu
Explore Japan's unique approach to spirituality through Ochanomizu, where ancient shrines offer solace amidst the city bustle. Begin at Kanda Myojin, steeped in Tokyo's history and vibrant festivals. Then, explore Yushima Tenjin, a serene sanctuary of learning and reflection. Join us to uncover the spiritual essence of Tokyo's soulful oasis.
Ueno
Explore Ueno, a district steeped in history and culture, on our immersive tour. Learn about its pivotal role in the Boshin War, a defining moment in Japan's modernization. Walk through the bustling streets of Ameyoko, once a black market bustling with activity, now a vibrant shopping district. Then, step into the tranquil oasis of Ueno Park, home to iconic temples and shrines. Delve into the stories behind these ancient landmarks, from the majestic Ueno Toshogu Shrine to the serene Bentendo Hall. Join us as we unravel the layers of Ueno's rich tapestry, where the past meets the present in a captivating journey through time.
After exploring Ueno, we'll take a break for lunch. Ueno's culinary scene offers an array of options, from cozy cafes to bustling izakayas, ensuring everyone finds something to savor. Indulge in a delicious meal amidst our exploration, adding a delightful culinary dimension to our journey through this fascinating district.
Yanaka
Discover the timeless charm of Yanaka, a district brimming with history and character. Wander through its narrow lanes lined with preserved wooden houses, evoking a sense of old-world Japan. Explore Yanaka Ginza, a traditional shopping street offering a glimpse into local life. Visit the serene temples and shrines scattered throughout the area, each with its own fascinating story to tell. From the iconic Tennoji Temple to the tranquil Yanaka Cemetery, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Yanaka. Join us on a journey through this hidden gem of Tokyo, where the spirit of the past lives on in every cobblestone street.
Ending Point
Yanaka
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
Lunch is included
Transportation fees are not included (5-7USD per person)
Tour Important Information
This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
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 2023
About Tour Guide Leandra I.
I’ve called Japan home for seven years, embracing everything from Tokyo’s vibrant urban energy to the tranquillity of the countryside. Before becoming a guide, I explored Tokyo like a curious long-term traveller, uncovering unusual temples, quirky landmarks, hidden backstreets, local live music venues, rural mountain villages, and one-of-a-kind cultural gems. My passion lies in crafting immersive journeys that dive deep into Japan’s heart, sparking a sense of wonder and escape that makes travellers feel worlds away from home.
I’m excited to guide you through the Tokyo labyrinth. This city is endlessly fascinating—so layered and dynamic that even with a lifetime here, you’d only scratch the surface. I’ll show you how to navigate it like a local, as mastering the transport system isn’t as tricky as it seems, and I’ll help you gain the confidence to explore Tokyo on your own while we focus on the city’s hidden treasures.
Together, we can visit parts of Tokyo most travellers overlook—the nostalgic charm of the Shitamachi, the hustle of salaryman districts, the neon-lit buzz of cyber Tokyo, and tranquil local power spots. Let’s discover the city’s hidden depths and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Reviews
Jerry M.
“Two great days with Leandra!”
Excellent guide, personable, prompt and organized. Leandra took us to the out of the way neighborhoods we were interested in seeing.
Quinton M.
“My first day in Tokyo ”
She was amazing punctual and just so informative and helpful with all the questions I had can’t wait to go on another tour !!
Ali I.
“Two full days exploring Tokyo ”
Leandra was a wonderful guide for our family of four. She planned two full days exploring the west and east side of Tokyo, teaching us how to use subway, showing us major attractions and shrines as well as customizing the tour to some of our interests in cooking and wood block prints. She even helped us navigate Tokyo station in advance of our journey on the bullet train. We had a great time getting to know Leandra and definitely recommend her to anyone looking for an energetic guide who is flexible, responsive, great with kids and of course knowledgeable about this great city. Thanks!
$170/ per group
More tours by Leandra I.
Private One Day Tour with Customized Itinerary
We'll explore the best of Tokyo, tailored to your personal interests. If you don't have any specific requests, here's a sample itinerary we can follow to ensure a memorable experience.
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Other Popular Off the Beaten Path Tours in Tokyo
Excursion off the Beaten Track in the Suburbs of Tokyo
We will explore the western suburbs of Tokyo in this tour. If you are looking for something different from the crowded tourist attractions in the central part of Tokyo, you will enjoy exploring the western suburbs of Tokyo. I recommend this tour not to first timers but to repeaters who have been to famous places in Tokyo. You will discover traditional spots in the beautiful environment of the suburbs. Weather permitting, lunch in a local restaurant can be replaced by a picnic lunch in a park.
The unbeaten tracks of Sumida and Koto Wards (5 hour excursion)
Sumida and Koto area was part of the eastern peripheral of old Edo with many second houses of feudal lords which typically had splendid Japanese gardens. Visit and stroll two gardens that have been retained to this day. Also included are visits to a memorial park related to the Kanto Earthquake of 1923, a historic Buddhist temple related to Sumo and the Fukagawa Edo Museum.
Ueno and Yanaka
Ueno is a popular district of Tokyo. The open market of Ameyayokocho, a black market that appeared at the end of the war that sold candy and American products. The first public park in Japan, there are seven museums, a zoo and many temples and shrines. Yanaka is a residential district of Tokyo that escaped the bombs, known for its Machiya-style wooden houses, a large cemetery where the last shogun is buried, Buddhist temples and the Yanaka Ginza shopping street.
Japanese Gardens and Tokyo Life: Bunkyo City Customized Tour
Bunkyo City is in the heart of central Tokyo, just north of Chiyoda City where the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station are. The city is Tokyo’s typical residential and academic area where I was born, grew up, and live now. We'll move around the city with a Bunkyo City Community Bus, B-guru ( “beagle”, the mascot character of the bus), and visit Edo-Tokyo Japanese gardens and other calm and pleasant sites. You'll also catch a glimpse of Tokyo citizens’ life during the tour.
