Shinjuku Half-Day Tour
Joined 2024
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.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your Hotel
Meiji Jingu
Meiji Jingu, located in Tokyo's Shibuya district, is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Established in 1920, its grand wooden architecture and serene forest setting provide a tranquil escape from the city. Visitors engage in traditional rituals like purification and prayer, while seasonal festivals and cultural events showcase Japan's rich heritage. This sacred site symbolizes Japan's deep reverence for its imperial history and spiritual traditions.
Oedo Subway Line Yoyogi station to Tochomae station
We will go just one stop by train to save time walking.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is a prominent landmark in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Comprising twin towers with observation decks offering panoramic city views, it's a hub of government administration. Designed by Kenzo Tange, its modernist architecture features soaring structures and a central plaza. Free to enter, it's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering an unparalleled vista of Tokyo's sprawling metropolis.
Kabukicho
Kabukicho is Tokyo's vibrant entertainment district, nestled in Shinjuku. Known for its neon lights, theaters, and nightlife, it pulsates with energy day and night. Home to diverse establishments like host clubs, karaoke bars, and restaurants, it caters to various tastes. While famed for its lively atmosphere, Kabukicho also harbors quieter corners with traditional izakayas and quaint alleyways. Despite its bustling nature, it maintains an intriguing blend of modernity and old-world charm.
New Kabukicho Tower
Kabukicho Tower, a sleek skyscraper in Tokyo's Kabukicho district, stands as a modern icon amidst the bustling nightlife. Housing an array of entertainment venues, hotels, and restaurants, it epitomizes the area's vibrant spirit. With its illuminated facade dominating the skyline, the tower offers a panoramic view of Kabukicho's neon-lit streets. It serves as a focal point for visitors exploring the dynamic blend of entertainment and culture in this iconic Tokyo neighborhood.
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
Tour Guiding
Japanese/English Interpreting
Hotel Pick up/Drop off within Tokyo 23wards
Guide's Rail fare
Your Rail fare
Your Lunch and/or dinner
Tour Important Information
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 for not following Japanese etiquette. When visiting a restaurant you must order 1 item per person, don't bring in your own food, non-meat options typically contain dashi (a fish based product) and substitutions are not an option.
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.
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
Emily O.
“Awesome Anime Tour! ”
Our group of 6 (ages 8-47) had Grant for a full day tour and had an absolute wonderful time! He took our interests and incorporated them into the agenda, offering advice on what places to return to, or make reservations at. I am so glad we booked him on our first day in Tokyo because he gave us a great overview of the city.
Tom H.
“Tokyo Tour”
Grant was great. We moved around the city with ease. He led us through the complicated subway and train system to quickly get us to our sites we had picked to visit. He took us to a wonderful restaurant in the famous fish market. His knowledge about the city and its many sacred sites was astounding. We all learned a lot about this amazing city. He was also incredibly helpful getting us on the express train to the airport. This was hugely important. We couldn't have done it without his help. Grant is your guy if you need a guide for Tokyo!!!!!!!!
Tom H.
“Tokyo Bay tour”
Grant was fabulous. He is so knowledgeable about so many topics. He also helped us immensely with train scheduling like getting to the airport from the hotel to traveling around on taxis and trains and subways. He even helped my friend with buying Japangese liquor and went out of the way and after the tour to help them. I highly recommend Grant as a tour guide. We had a great time with him for 2 days.
$135/ 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.
Ginza Line Tour
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
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
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 Highlights Tours in Tokyo
Tokyo One Day Customized Tour
What would you like to do in Tokyo ? Traditional culture ? Japanese food ? Special experience ? Or all of the above ? If yes, I'd like to arrange a tour specially for you. For your traveling pleasure, I've selected must-see places in Tokyo for you to explore. If you choose three places from the highlighted list below, I will arrange a package for you. Please feel free to let me know if you have any other places in mind and I'd be more than happy to assist you.
Tokyo One Day Customized Tour
A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit
My tours are essentially tailor-made, but I have listed a model tour due to this site's rules. It is designed for first-time visitors who want to explore Tokyo’s must-see spots. If you’d like to visit other places, feel free to send me a message—I’d be happy to create a personalized tour just for you!
A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit
Tokyo One-day As You Like with Kaori
This tour fits all, from first timers to repeaters who love local experiences. You can choose what you like from spots listed, or I can pick up for you if you don't have clue. Just let me know your preferences. I can make a good combination of old and modern, major and local. Tokyo has a lot more besides the list. As full day tour (up to 8h), please pick up 3 or 4 spots. Or you can request specific spot not on the list. "Enjoy together with fun learning" is what you can expect with me.
Tokyo One-day As You Like with Kaori
One day Tokyo tour- customized for you
There are a lot of attractive sites in Tokyo, the biggest city in Japan. I'll arrange the tour based on your preference and thoughts. If you come to Tokyo for the first time, I'd recommend you to visit highlights, such as Sensoji temple and Meiji Jingu shrine and modern area like Shibuya or Harajuku. If you're interested in hidden gems, please feel free to ask me. I'm happy to arrange the tour for you. Let's enjoy exploring Tokyo on the tour!
One day Tokyo tour- customized for you
