Western Tokyo Tour: Shibuya and Shinjuku
Joined 2024
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.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Your Hotel
Shibuya
Discover Shibuya, starting with the iconic Hachiko dog statue, a beloved meeting spot. Witness the bustling Shibuya Scramble, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. Relax at Miyashita Park, a multi-level urban oasis with green spaces and trendy shops. Visit Shibuya 109, a fashion hub with the latest trends and vibrant boutiques. Immerse yourself in the energetic vibe and dynamic blend of culture, shopping, and urban beauty that defines Shibuya.
Optional: Shibuya Anime Course
One Piece Store: Embark on a voyage to the One Piece Store in Shibuya, where fans can indulge in exclusive merchandise and immersive experiences inspired by the beloved pirate adventure.
Nintendo Store: Enter the world of Nintendo at the Nintendo Store in Shibuya, where gamers and anime enthusiasts alike can explore a treasure trove of games, consoles, and character merchandise.
Mandarake: Discover hidden treasures at Mandarake in Shibuya, a paradise for anime and manga enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of rare collectibles and vintage memorabilia.
Animate: Immerse yourself in the world of anime at Animate in Shibuya, the go-to destination for the latest manga, DVDs, figures, and exclusive merchandise that cater to every otaku's passion.
Takeshita Street Harajuku
Takeshita Street in Harajuku is a bustling hub of youth culture and fashion, lined with quirky shops selling trendy clothes, accessories, and unique snacks like rainbow cotton candy and crepes.
Optional: Omotesando Street
Welcome to Omotesando, Tokyo's chic and vibrant avenue lined with upscale boutiques, modern architecture, and stylish cafes, offering a perfect blend of high fashion and urban culture. As you stroll through this fashionable district, immerse yourself in the unique blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese aesthetics.
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park, located in Shibuya, is a spacious urban oasis known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse activities. Once the site of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, the park is now a popular spot for jogging, picnicking, and various outdoor events. The park often hosts cultural festivals, performances, and flea markets, reflecting Tokyo's dynamic community life. A visit to Yoyogi Park provides a refreshing blend of relaxation and local culture.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, honors their pivotal roles in modernizing Japan. Established in 1920, it commemorates their contributions to Japan's transition into a modern era. Set in a serene forested area in Shibuya, the shrine offers a tranquil retreat from Tokyo’s hustle. Its grand Torii gates and peaceful surroundings make it a significant cultural and spiritual landmark. Visiting Meiji Jingu provides a deep connection to Japan’s rich history and heritage.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Oedo Subway Line Yoyogi station to Tochomae station
We will go just one stop by train to save time walking.
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.
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.
Optional: Shinokubo Korea Town
Explore Shinokubo Korea Town, Tokyo's vibrant Korean cultural hub. Stroll through bustling streets lined with Korean shops, eateries, and markets. Savor delicious Cheese Dak Galbi, a spicy stir-fried chicken dish with melted cheese, perfect for sharing. Treat yourself to refreshing Bingsu, a Korean shaved ice dessert topped with sweet toppings. Immerse yourself in K-pop culture, trendy fashion boutiques, and unique beauty stores, capturing the lively essence of Korea right in Tokyo.
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 within Tokyo 23wards
Guide's Rail fare
Your rail fare
Your food
Your purchases
Your admissions
Tour Important Information
Important message from the supplier
Important Information – Please Read Before Inquiring
Before submitting an inquiry, please review the FAQs. Inquiries should be made with the intention to book a tour.
Do you provide a driver?
No. I’m a rail-based guide, which is faster, more convenient, and more cost-effective for getting around Tokyo. If you require a private driver, you’ll need to arrange that separately. Please note traffic and parking limitations in the city.
Can you make bookings on my behalf?
No. My tours focus on locations that don’t need reservations. Some popular attractions like Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Sky, and teamLab require advance booking. If you want to visit one, I recommend making it your final stop and reserving tickets in advance.
Can you take me to Mt. Fuji?
I generally don’t offer Mt. Fuji tours. The mountain is often not visible, and travel time is about 3 hours each way. Many guests feel let down when visibility is poor. A group bus tour is usually a better option for Mt. Fuji visits.
Can we see sumo?
Tokyo hosts sumo tournaments in January, May, and September. Tickets sell out fast—like trying to get NFL seats. Outside these months, options are limited.
Recommendation: Look into sumo lunch experiences or VIP sumo exhibitions tailored to international visitors. These are more accessible and still offer great cultural insight.
Can we get Studio Ghibli tickets?
Studio Ghibli Museum tickets sell out within minutes and are hard to secure, especially for tourists. The same applies to many themed cafés, which book out quickly. Check official websites and book early if these are must-visits.
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.
I am a independent guide—do not contact me for to resell or subcontract my work or for driving services.
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. This passion led me to pass the N2 Japanese Language Proficiency Test in 2018, study at language schools across Japan, and graduate from the Japan Visual Media Translation Academy.
I’ve traveled to every prefecture in Japan, often using unlimited rail passes to explore castles, historic sites, and regional specialties.
I hold a degree in Asian Studies from a Tokyo university, and my extensive experience living in Tokyo has made me an expert on the city’s transportation system, hidden gems, and affordable eats. With over 30 visits to Kyoto, I have deep knowledge of its historical sites and the broader cultural landscape of Japan. I studied at Japanese language school in Kyoto. I visited all the world heritage sites in Kyoto and have a lot of knowledge on the history of Japan. I can provide tours of Kyoto or places outside of Tokyo for an additional transportation fee.
Tour options:
Full-Day Tour: 40,000 yen (8 hours)
Full-Day Tour Outside of Tokyo: 40,000 yen plus transportation expense
Reviews
Joshua C.
“Good times ahead”
Grant was very kind and catered to all needs when they arose. Adapted schedule accordingly to time and had many good tips and advice.
Dan C.
“The best tour guide we ever had!”
So I’m a 69-year-old guy and my wife and I went out with Grant today. We met in the lobby, I told him my likes and dislikes such as not liking temples, not loving crowds, etc. So I think initially he was perplexed as to what we were going to do For the eight hours. But he figured it out and we just had a fabulous time —walked 8.2 miles and. almost 23,000 steps and that was a plus. But the best thing about Grant is he is an absolute treasure trove of information. My wife called him an encyclopedia. He is an historian, and if you want to know anything about Japan history, he pretty much knows it. And if you want to find out about Japan in the 1400s or whenever and the wars that they were in and the politics he is your man. There was one question that he could not answer (which I don’t remember what that was about, but I don’t think it had anything to do with history). We had gone out with a Japanese native guide two days ago. And to that guides detriment, the weather was bad we couldn’t do a lot. But that other guy, even though that guy sounded good on his video, he wasn’t remotely as good. We had a very enjoyable time. The first guide on a 1 to 5 (With one being the lowest and five being the highest) scale. And I would give that other guy a 2 ascompared to Grant who is a 5 for sure. If you’re lucky enough to get hom, you’re very lucky and don’t be shy about asking him questions, particularly about history, or anything about Japan. He loves both and he knows a ton about both.
Jay R.
“What an incredible time with Grant!”
We couldn't reccomend Grant A. higher as a knowledgeable, entertaining and engaging guide. He and our son Grant hit it off on subjects like Pokemon and Anime but I enjoyed learning about the language and culture. He had increidble reccomendations for eating during and outside of our day with him, even for other cities we were visiting. Don't limit him to just Tokyo but consider him for other cities on your trip as he has lived in country so long, is beyond fluent in language and culture and has led many tours around the beautiful country. He books up quick and is often booked every day so reach out to him and don't delay as you won't be dissapointed. Look forward to booking again on our next trip.
$278/ 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.
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.
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!
Kamakura and Yokohama Day Trip
Start with Kamakura's awe-inspiring Daibutsu and the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Then, explore the natural beauty of Enoshima Island. Finish the day with the modern allure of Yokohama's Minato Mirai waterfront district and the flavors of Chinatown. A perfect blend of tradition and modernity awaits!
Other Popular Highlights Tours in Tokyo
How about an enjoyable walking in Tokyo?
There are lots of sightseeing spots in Tokyo. I will arrange a customized one-day tour based upon your requirements so that you could enjoy your stay in Tokyo. We can discuss and decide places to visit effectively for a limited amount of time. One example is shown here as follows, but I'm sure I will take you to some of my best selections so that you could enjoy both of traditional and modern culture. I can arrange an appropriate lunch restaurant based upon your requirement.
TOKYO Tour of your choices
If this is your first trip to Tokyo or your first time to have free time in Tokyo, I recommend visiting "three" major spots of your choice, I will show you the brief history of Japan from the Edo Period to the Meiji Period by explaining these spots. You can also enjoy shopping in this trip if you want, I want you to know two sides of Tokyo; historical side and modern side.
Tokyo City Walk(2) - Highlight of Western Tokyo (7 hours)
This tour covers main and major highlights in Western Tokyo, which is rather modern and urban places, including high rise commercial buildings, contemporary art places, subculture sites and entertainments.
One-Day Historic Tokyo and Sky Adventure (Tsukiji, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Boat Cruise)
Enjoy shopping and spectacular view, and feel the atmosphere of Buddhism and Shinto! We will visit Tsukiji outer market and enjoy shopping and delicious sushi lunch. We also visit Namiyoke Shrine and Tsukiji Honganji Temple, which are the heart of Tsukiji people. From Hinode pier near Tsukiji we will take a boat to Asakusa. You can enjoy the view of Tokyo from a river. In Asakusa we will visit Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and Tokyo Skytree.
