Tokyo in a Day: Modern and Traditional Gems Tour
Joined 2023
Experience the perfect blend of Tokyo's modern energy and traditional charm on this one-day tour. From serene shrines and beautiful gardens to bustling shopping streets and entertainment districts, this itinerary is designed to showcase the diverse facets of Japan's vibrant capital city.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Harajuku Station
- Meet at JR Harajuku Station in front of the Omote-Sando exit.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Start your day with a visit to the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
Highlights: Walk through the lush forested area, pass through the massive Torii gate, and cleanse yourself at the purification fountain.
Takeshita Street, Harajuku
Head to Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku's vibrant youth culture and fashion scene.
Highlights: Explore trendy shops, enjoy quirky street food like crepes and cotton candy, and experience the unique fashion boutiques.
Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue
Move to Shibuya to witness the world-famous Shibuya Crossing and visit the Hachiko Statue.
Highlights: Cross the bustling intersection, take photos, and visit the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog. Enjoy the many shops selling everything imaginable.
Suggestions: Try local favorites like yakitori skewers, ramen, sushi, or tempura.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Continue to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful parks.
Highlights: Stroll through the French Formal, English Landscape, and traditional Japanese gardens. Enjoy the serene ponds and seasonal flowers.
Shinjuku
Explore some of what Shinjuku has to offer like the 3D cat billboard, the retro izakaya-style dining area, Omoide Yokocho, and Kabukicho's Godzilla!
Ending Point
JR Shinjuku Station
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
Guide fee
Food, drinks, and other purchases
Transportation costs (about 1,000 yen/ person)
Admission to Shinjuku Gyoen (500 yen/ person)
Tour Important Information
Please wear comfortable walking shoes and travel light.
Bring cash (not only credit) for food, drink, and other purchases.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off are possible depending on location.
Please inquire about dates and times that are not presently available.
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 Tim D.
I came to Japan in 1998, intending to stay a few months, but enjoying Japan, I never left. I was intrigued by the history, culture, language, and food. And the fascination and excitement of exploring and learning new things about Japan still exists with me today. The variety and choices of things to do and places to go can be overwhelming. I can offer you suggestions and a unique perspective on Japan. I can share local knowledge about things often missed. Fluent in Japanese with a master's degree in Japanese Studies and living in Japan for over 20 years, I can be your guide.
Reviews
Aida A.
“A cherry blossom filled day in Tokyo”
Tim has been a wonderful guide. This is our first time in Tokyo—our first time in Asia, in fact—and it was the perfect introduction. We saw and learned so much on our first day, yet the pace was relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable. Tim’s ease and fluency in both languages made it effortless to navigate the city and connect with the local culture.
Tim D.
Thanks so much, Aida. I’m really glad I could be part of your first Tokyo (and Asia) experience. I loved showing you around and helping you connect with the local culture. Hope the rest of your trip is just as enjoyable!
Chris S.
“Backstreet walk and eat tour after a full day tour”
I previously rated my experience but it deserves another mention. The weather in Tokyo was terrible so Tim suggested we wait 24 hrs and combine our tours. After a full day my wife was tired but Tim was still excited to show me the backstreets of Tokyo. After a brief rest the two of us headed out to his favorite bars and he really showed me a great time. I had my first eel, sake, and shaved fish on bamboo shoots and it was delicious. We wandered through the neon lights and backstreets of Tokyo as Tim described the culture and took me places I probably would have missed on my own. It was a fascinating look beyond the typical tourist areas as we saw hundreds of small, intimate bars and gathering places with no more than 5-6 seats. I felt privileged to be able to experience this and I can’t say enough about Tim’s knowledge and experience. Since we both spoke English as our native language he was able to explain everything in great detail. It was truly a memorable night and at the end we swapped coins to remember our journey. I think Tim went above and beyond what I would have expected from a regular guide.
Tim D.
Thanks so much for the awesome review! I’m glad we could make the most of your time in Tokyo and explore the backstreets. It was a lot of fun chatting along the way, and the coin swap was a perfect way to end the night. Hope to see you both in Japan again!
Daniel G.
“Tokyo Station Narita Airport”
Meeting Tim at the requested time & place was all I need to have to make the final leg of my journey complete. He had corresponded earlier, that he had already arrived and was waiting for me, which can make a long travel day a pleasure. We went to Narita Express platform, took the train to terminal 1 and Tim came in to make sure I arrived at the proper entrance for my flight. All the while chatting my wife and I up about all things Japan, Tokyo, family & sports. Couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing trip to the airport in a land where English is not widely spoken, but w/ Tim’s guidance I was homeward bound.
Tim D.
Thank you for your kind words! I’m glad I could help make your trip to the airport smooth and enjoyable. It was great chatting with you both—safe travels, and I hope to see you in Japan again!
$339/ per group
More tours by Tim D.
Tokyo Backstreets Walk & Eat Night Tour
A trip to Tokyo would not be complete without a visit to Shinjuku and Shibuya, two of Japan's most unique places. See and experience the big city and walk backstreet lantern-lit hidden gem alleyways of Tokyo. Enjoy Japanese soul food, have a chat, and share a drink with a local. Customization of eating and drinking locations is possible on this tour, as well as exploring other areas. Put your smartphone map away. I'll be your guide.
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