Nostalgic Yanaka Stroll (half day)
This tour is recommended for those who love strolling and look for a less touristy travel experience. Yanaka is one of the few areas in Tokyo where you can enjoy relaxing, retro atmosphere. If you like taking photos, Japanese daily lifestyle and architecture, or even cats, this is your choice.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
at JR Ueno or Nippori station (details can be discussed)
1. Temple town
2. Yanaka Cemetery
3. Yanaka Ginza & Yomise-dori (local shopping streets)
4. Asakura Museum of Sculpture (closed on Mondays and Thursdays)
Ending Point
at the nearest station or our last visiting spot
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/10819/65393.jpg)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- guide fee
- transportation fee (you and guide)
- admission fee (Asakura Museum of Sculpture 500 yen/adult, 250 yen/child)
- food and drink if needed000
Tour Important Information
■ wear comfortable shoes and clothes
■ Asakura Museum of Sculpture is closed on Mondays and Thursdays. Wear or bring socks to enter. *admission: 500 yen/adult
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 Tomoko H.
Hi everyone! Hearty welcome to Japan.
I’m Tomoko.
I am an English-speaking licensed tour guide, and a registered nurse as well.
“Fun Discovering Experience Walking like a Local!” – F-D-E-W-L!
That’s what I suggest.
【Experiences】
My work history is as follows.
1) high school teacher ---12 years
2) nurse--8 years + 2 years as operational manager for Kamakura city vaccination team (during COVID period)
3) tourism related jobs such as tour conducting, guiding, and backyard supporting---10 years
As a tour conductor, I’ve visited about 20 foreign countries (possibly yours?) as well as countless number of towns and villages in Japan.
I’ve enjoyed these jobs while being a mother.
Through these experiences with lots of people from different backgrounds, I've found it a great pleasure to share the joy of learning and experiencing something new!
【Guiding Areas】
<Basic> Tokyo, Kamakura, Hakone, Fuji, Yokohama, Nikko, and other neighboring areas from Tokyo
I’m a specialist in Tokyo and Kamakura as I have lived and enjoyed walking a lot in those cities for decades. To be honest, even after all my years here, I still enjoy exploring like a tourist as Tokyo is such an enormous city with great diversity and is constantly changing.
Kamakura is a historical small city with nice beaches and hills and lots of hidden spots of beauty. Almost every time I go out, I feel I’m still making new discoveries. That’s why I cannot stop exploring.
I would take you to some neighboring areas like Hakone, Yokohama, Nikko, and Mt. Fuji area (Lake Kawaguchiko), etc.
<Based on Requests > *if my transportation & accommodation are covered
Nagoya, Kyoto, Nagano(Nagano city, Snow Monkey park, Kisoji trail, etc.), Hida (Takayama, Shirakawa-go), Kanazawa, Oita, Yamagata, Akita, etc.
My original family is from Nagoya, so I know their culture and even their language(dialect) well. Later in my life, I have lived in Oita, Kyushu(far south west of Tokyo) for nearly 10 years and traveled a lot in Kyushu. I love traveling Tohoku, the northern Japan area, too. I’ve planned and enjoyed visiting many of those local areas in the north, too. So, I could share those experiences with you even while having tours in Tokyo or online.
【Personality and others】
- I love meeting people, listening and talking to them.
- I'm friendly and caring, I hope:)
- I love nature and enjoy hiking and skiing.
- I love seasonal flowers and good local food.
- You will see a lot about Japanese culture, nature, and lifestyle with me.
What has made you decide to come to Japan, by the way? Is it its scenic beauties, exotic culture, history, food, anime, or what else? Is it your business that has brought (or will bring) you here? Let me have a clue and customize your tour. I will make the best tour suggestion for you.
Why don’t you contact me now? I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!
Thank you! Arigato-gozaimas!
Reviews
Carlos B.
“Tokyo highlights full day ”
Tomoko was amazing, very professional and knowledjable Guide. Very good english . Took us in public transportation ( subway ) but in a very efficient way we could not have done without get. Took us also to a very local restaurant- really what we were looking for !
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/10819/65393.jpg)
Tomoko H.
Thank you for the wonderful day we spent together and for your kind review. It was a very hot day, but I’m glad we were able to energetically visit all the highlights you requested—starting with the Imperial Palace, where there’s almost nowhere to escape from the sun, and then moving on to the Skytree, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine. The “monjayaki” might not have looked very appealing, but I was so happy that you enjoyed it and said, “It’s delicious!” Your children, who are so curious, asked me lots of questions about culture, history, people’s ways of thinking, and even Japanese foods popular among young people—things I don’t know much about (or don’t usually eat)—so while there were many times I couldn’t give them a proper answer, it was still a stimulating experience for me. Muito obrigado, Carlos, Margarida, Madalena, João, and António!!!
Haejin B.
“Hakone Highlights with Tomoko”
Tomoko is an excellent guide. Not only did she know how the navigate the buses, trains, cable cars, and ferniculars in Hakone so that our one after there was not wasted waiting for transportation, she helped us fix a major issue. We had bought the Hakone Free Pass, but for the wrong dates, so she got on the phone with the company and came to a solution which we would never have imagined. At the same time while was ushering us onto various forms of transportation. She was very knowledgeable about the museums and the history of Hakone. OVERALL EXCELLENT.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/10819/65393.jpg)
Tomoko H.
Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Haejin. There were a few unexpected happenings, but it was a very fun and enjoyable day. In Hakone, depending on the weather, cable cars and sightseeing boats may be suspended, or unexpected crowds can make it take a long time to board cable cars or buses—there are always unexpected things happening , so I try to stay attentive. Hower, this time, things got a little more complicated due to a mistake by the staff at Shinjuku Station, but I’m glad it was resolved in the end, and I learned a valuable lesson from the experience:) Thank you again for your patience and your spirit to have fun.- Tomoko
Scott C.
“Personalized Full Day Tokyo Tour ”
Tomoko was an exceptional guide and truly made our day in Tokyo unforgettable. Even with steady rain, she transformed the day into one of the highlights of our trip. From peaceful shrines and beautiful architecture to bustling food stalls, fascinating history, and delicious local treats, every stop felt thoughtfully chosen. Her warmth, knowledge, and sense of fun made every moment enjoyable, and she showed us a side of Tokyo we never would have discovered on our own. We left with full stomachs, great memories, and a deep appreciation for the city. Getting to know her better over a wonderful meal at the end of the day was truly a special way to end the tour. We wholeheartedly recommend Tomoko to anyone looking for an authentic and memorable Tokyo experience. You’ll have a lovely time! Haiku for Tomoko: Clouds came for the show, Tomoko outshined the rain— Tokyo smiled back.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/10819/65393.jpg)
Tomoko H.
Hi Scott, Thank you for the heartwarming review—and for the lovely 'Haiku', too. Reading it brings back memories of the fun day I spent with you and Jose. When we got out of the taxi at Sakuradamon Gate near the Imperial Palace, it suddenly started pouring, and I wasn’t sure what to do, but seeing Jose enjoying the rain even without an umbrella really cheered me up :) You carefully shared with me your preferences and schedule in advance, and we planned the day together. Even though it rained, we were able to improvise where to go and how to get there on the spot, based on your interests and how much time we had, so it turned out to be a really fun day. It was also a memorable experience to enjoy fried pufferfish and sushi while sipping sake at a spot beloved by locals. I look forward to seeing you again. Tomoko
$208/ per group
More tours by Tomoko H.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/2918/85893.jpg)
One Day Customized Tour in Tokyo
Recommended for those who want to make the best of your limited days in Tokyo! First, choose 1 or 2 places from the selection list in ‘Highlights,’ and let me know your requests. Then I will suggest the best itinerary especially for you. If you are thinking of touring around other areas starting from Tokyo or ending at Tokyo, I could assist your planning as a tour guide+consultant. Feel free to contact me.
One Day Customized Tour in Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3505/88456.jpg)
Hakone Highlights - One Day Excursion from Tokyo
One-day fun excursion to Hakone from Tokyo. Hakone is a part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, less than one hundred kilometers from Tokyo. This tour covers the highlights of Hakone. You will enjoy its natural beauties, spectacular views of volcanic activity, a lovely museum with great masterpieces, historical sites, and fun vehicle rides. If weather permits, the view of Mt. Fuji is gorgeous! Fun excursion for both adults and children.
Hakone Highlights - One Day Excursion from Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3501/85854.jpg)
Kamakura Highlights with Local Expert - from Tokyo
One day fun excursion to Kamakura, a small, coastal city just one hour south of Tokyo. Sometimes called the Kyoto of Eastern Japan, Kamakura offers numerous temples, shrines and other historical monuments as well as beautiful beach and forestry hills. Refer to this model plan, and I will customize your tour based on your tastes and requests. Count on me, Kamakura specialist!
Kamakura Highlights with Local Expert - from Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5163/88486.jpg)
Nikko Highlights - One Day Excursion from Tokyo
One day fun excursion to Nikko from Tokyo. Nikko is the perfect destination for those who want to escape busy Tokyo and enjoy great nature and historical beauty. Nikko is designated as Japan’s National Park as well as UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. 2 hours north-east of Tokyo by train. Toshogu, Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine is what you cannot miss. Your tour can be customized depending on your interests. Do not miss tasting local food, too. Let’s enjoy the beauties of Nikko together!
Nikko Highlights - One Day Excursion from Tokyo
Other Popular Off the Beaten Path Tours in Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/5162/97125.jpg)
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.
Japanese Gardens and Tokyo Life: Bunkyo City Customized Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/27755/88495.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/4926/84195.jpg)
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.
Excursion off the Beaten Track in the Suburbs of Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/21340/85622.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20694/8a8e0c7a-46f5-46da-8894-d00bded075a1.jpg)
Explore Tokyo Hidden Gems Walking Tour by Trains
Explore hidden gems unknown to tourists and even Japanese who do not live in Tokyo. Old town areas since Edo period such as Sendagi (Nezu shrine) & Ningyocho are hidden jewels,beside the ordinary must see Tokyo site-seeing spots such as Tokyo Tower, Asakusa Senzoji Temple. This tour combines old nostalgic charms with succulent local foods at Ningyocho & Tsukij Outer Market.
Explore Tokyo Hidden Gems Walking Tour by Trains
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/56464/e9c74b53-e6f6-4baf-9c33-10c0aace5453.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/14598/9340d8e4-1424-4b75-a183-389ba7e966ca.jpg)
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.
The unbeaten tracks of Sumida and Koto Wards (5 hour excursion)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/25468/81964.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88414.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88416.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88432.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88418.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88419.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88429.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88423.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88424.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88430.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3066/88413.jpg)