/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/1fb00028-88ae-4a1f-959b-bf99fb0d3194.png)
Joined 2023
Tim D.
Available Areas
Tokyo (Living)
Languages
English (Native), Japanese (Native)
Response Time
3 hours on average
Availability Updated
4 days ago
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.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13986/c5814b88-b352-4185-8d62-28ec07117e33.jpeg)
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.
Tokyo Backstreets Walk & Eat Night Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12850/d4964ca2-0c44-460e-aa64-77285060ca81.jpeg)
Shinjuku Kabukicho & Golden Gai Night Tour
A trip to Tokyo would not be complete without a visit to Shinjuku, home to Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and the Golden Gai, some of Japan's most unique places. Enjoy Japanese soul food and soak in the atmosphere and neon lights in Japan's liveliest district! See and experience hidden gems that otherwise would not have been known without a guide. Customization of eating and drinking locations is possible on this tour, as well as exploring other areas.
Shinjuku Kabukicho & Golden Gai Night Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15177/43d29f4d-c174-4e1c-877c-7a15a1a0e9a2.jpg)
Tokyo in a Day: Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Gems Tour
Experience the best of Tokyo in a single day with this comprehensive tour, blending tradition and modernity. Start at the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood, then explore upscale shopping in Ginza. Visit historic Asakusa and the iconic Senso-ji Temple. After a traditional lunch, dive into the lively Ameyokocho market. Conclude in Akihabara, the famous electronics and anime district. This tour provides a perfect snapshot of Tokyo's diverse attractions.
Tokyo in a Day: Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Gems Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15172/2d4e23fe-d709-4998-a1c4-605500ffb3db.jpg)
Tokyo in a Day: Modern and Traditional Gems Tour
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.
Tokyo in a Day: Modern and Traditional Gems Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/15307/159f1278-2957-4a08-90bd-0c85709c5e7c.jpg)
Tokyo Welcome Package: Airport Pick-Up, Hotel Drop-Off, Guided Neighborhood Tour, and Dining
Your adventure in Japan begins the moment you arrive. I’ll meet you at the airport and help you move seamlessly from arrival to your hotel, followed by a personalized tour of Tokyo’s highlights and a local dining experience. You can choose: Public Transport Tour – No limit on group size, and all luggage is welcome. or BMW 118i M Sport Tour – Limited to 3 guests with minimal luggage space (small bags only). I’ll make sure your first day in Tokyo is smooth, enjoyable, and tailored just for you.
Tokyo Welcome Package: Airport Pick-Up, Hotel Drop-Off, Guided Neighborhood Tour, and Dining
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/14561/e0710ceb-92f2-4f7a-ac4f-b66345fb2499.jpg)
Tokyo Local Adventure: Hidden Streets, Sushi, and Culture
Escape the crowds and step off the beaten path to explore Tokyo like a local! This immersive walking tour takes you through charming backstreets, where history, culture, and cuisine come together. Savor expertly crafted sushi at a hidden gem, experience the tranquility of a local Buddhist temple, and enjoy the warm hospitality of a traditional Japanese coffee shop. Along the way, discover unique shops and soak in the authentic atmosphere of a neighborhood untouched by the usual tourist crowds.
Tokyo Local Adventure: Hidden Streets, Sushi, and Culture
Reviews
Kristine P.
“Things I would never have known on my own”
Tim D. is a fantastic guide. My friend and I walked around Shinjuku before meeting Tim. We saw and enjoyed the people, the buildings, the many tiny restaurants. BUT WITH TIM - we understood the history, understood more about the culture, ordered more interesting dishes in the restaurants, and generally had a great time. He knows what the guide books leave out. Terrific tour!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/1fb00028-88ae-4a1f-959b-bf99fb0d3194.png)
Tim D.
Thank you, Kristine! I’m glad I could add some extra context and help bring Shinjuku to life for you both. It was a lot of fun exploring together and sharing stories and spots you won’t find in the guidebooks. Hope to see you back in Tokyo someday!
Thomas F.
“Tim showed us not only the tourists highlights but also parts of the daily life in Japan. Which was great. ”
Tim is a very enthusiastic guide and as he is a native speaker we appreciate to understand everything easy. He knows Tokyo like a local and it was like touring the city with a friend. Thank you Tim!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/1fb00028-88ae-4a1f-959b-bf99fb0d3194.png)
Tim D.
Thanks so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed seeing both the famous sights and a bit of everyday Tokyo life. It was a pleasure showing you around and spending the day together. It really did feel like exploring the city with friends!
Alexander K.
“Great Experience”
We adjusted the tour a bit, stayed in Shinjuku and used the whole time to discover everything there including three different bars in golden gai. Tim showed us arround and gave lots of historical and cultural insides witch made the evening a great experience.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/1fb00028-88ae-4a1f-959b-bf99fb0d3194.png)
Tim D.
Thanks so much, Alexander! Staying in Shinjuku and exploring Golden Gai with you and your friends was a great call. Such a fun night! And thanks again for the chocolates from your home country, that was such a nice surprise!
Other Popular Tour Guides in Tokyo
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/7030/291e1e6c-72f0-488b-90d5-64bb8c0ce291.png)
Kaneo U.
I’m so excited to have a chance to show you around my favorite spots in Kanagawa prefecture. I was born in Kanagawa. I spent my whole school life, including university, here in Kanagawa. I worked as a high school English teacher here for more than 40 years. I love Kanagawa so much. We have many interesting tourist spots, like Hakone, Kamakura, Enoshima and Yokohama. I got my tour guide license in English in 2009. I am still an English teacher. To give an interesting and impressive lesson to young high school students, I’ve learnt and gathered many kinds of information. I also have a license to teach social studies, so I have a wide range of knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I’m sure to provide you an interesting tour.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/51380/14260cbf-b369-4242-ae3f-723aad3c5cf0.png)
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.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/19513/e5cd2fa2-5be0-4259-a996-b6d3f0561b83.png)
Chiaki K.
Welcome to Japan! My name is Chiaki. I’m a government licensed guide interpreter, a wife and mother of two grown-up children. I’ve been living in Tokyo for 30 years so I know the area well. If you don’t want to miss popular “must see” places, wish to eat a variety of Japanese popular and delicious food, have particular interest in Japanese theatrical arts, architectures, gardens, tea ceremony and “kawaii” characters, or are tired of tourist spots and like to see the real life of people in Japan, I can help you. My goal is to help you to make your stay in Japan as memorable and fulfilling as possible. If I can serve you to make your special trip more special, it will be my pleasure.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/4925/588f7d91-fff1-4c6e-99ba-86db2ad17997.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/afa8eaca-313e-4fd7-b35f-70dd56438296.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/fe466317-c8ee-496a-8af9-5be5e4c5aba5.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/bf44e04b-a107-4242-bc82-f405952d60d7.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/2c042bb1-a4f8-45c0-9cf8-75a7062101d1.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/723e50d4-cab2-4021-a1d0-53732ca37cbe.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/800ed596-ad75-4e5a-9fda-b9f439011c3e.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/cfe3b736-ace7-40be-b2e1-af184112934a.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/7cbc71ba-b6ec-42ea-87c0-84ae209b18c1.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/d75f012c-3890-474e-ac47-8d858f0aef20.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/4c9c1bb3-47cd-473b-8f90-8cd7394a5ff8.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/c83c4779-347a-47d5-b12d-977790dfafc4.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/473f7522-7204-42c8-ba09-a3dc27025ec2.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/d51ce708-54ff-49aa-b418-6b3250c91269.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/295fc09e-88f8-4ed6-9eba-c399e945160d.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/10e73a08-57e7-4142-8227-6732929e23b7.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/456e0f3c-e6ab-4257-b275-94e17928130e.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/96466f21-e02b-4c03-83dd-8d8fcf748d01.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/1643ce80-f239-494f-89de-052d44ed1b44.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/14a402cb-957c-42bb-9ce3-33b5d980c823.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/f716017c-eca4-4dba-a639-59bc6e32d863.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/45daa13e-f97c-410b-9943-043e1b988765.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/25fe36bb-8cfb-4a0a-8ae5-55cf82f9cf04.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/4bc936cc-bf5d-474d-95c0-7c41a55e665c.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/698ed848-61b6-4f72-b58e-a58e7165ea4d.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/50185/1baa6865-6b7a-40bf-a6e0-487037928567.jpeg)