This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

Tour Itinerary

  • 1. 8:30 Meet at Conrad Tokyo
  • 2. 9:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
  • 3. 10:30 Meiji Shrine
  • 4. 11:30 Takeshita Street
  • 5. 12:15 Shibuya Crossing
  • 6. 13:00 Lunch at Asakusa Udon Sato Yosuke
  • 7. 13:45 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
  • 8. 14:30 Disband at Asakusa Station

Under the extreme summer heat, I tried to walk underground as much as possible while moving around. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we entered through the Hirakawa Gate and exited through the Otemon Gate to avoid retracing our steps within the gardens under the scorching heat. At Meiji Shrine, we could pay our respects in the shade of the trees, which is always helpful. Even so, we escaped the heat at an air-conditioned souvenir shop. After exploring the subculture on Takeshita Street, we passed briefly through Omotesando and ducked into the subway. As it was a Sunday, we could observe the lively crowds at the Shibuya crossing very well. After a short break aboard the Ginza Line train, the guests decided that cold udon would be better than hot ramen for lunch, so we waited in a short line but managed to get seats at a long-established udon restaurant. After enjoying Senso-ji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa, I gave directions on how to return to the Hotel, and we parted ways.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1Free PassShiodome~Monzen-nakacho900JPY
Section 2Free PassMonzen-nakacho~Takebashi0JPY
Section 3Free PassOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
Section 4Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya0JPY
Section 5Free PassShibuya~Asakusa0JPY
Total900JPY

Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

Oct 22, 2025
I5562SWphilipk
Great intro to Tokyo
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Oct 12, 2025
Gary H
Great tour of Tokyo!
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Oct 5, 2025
C
Cindy_S
Had one day in Tokyo and…
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Sep 15, 2025
chrishN2970OC
A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
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We had…