Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day — Guide Tachi

What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like for Guests with Limited Mobility? A Licensed Guide's Report

[Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour for guests visiting from North America. Although the pre-tour communication had indicated "no particular requests," at the meeting point it turned out that one of the guests had an injured right ankle. In addition, they made a request: "Last night, on the way to the hotel by taxi, we saw a Ferrari dealership. We'd like to stop by there first." Checking the map, it was a 12-minute walk from the hotel. I confirmed with the guests, and since it was fine with them, we first walked at a slow pace to the Ferrari showroom (Cornes Shiba Showroom). One of the guests, a Ferrari owner, wanted to take photos of the Ferraris in the first-floor showroom, but since those were all on display as items entrusted by their owners, photography was not permitted. The guest looked very disappointed. Then the dealer, Mr. T, said, "Since you own a Ferrari yourself, please feel free — you can take photos of the Ferrari in the third-floor showroom." He kindly included me, though I have no connection at all to imported cars, and out of his kindness we all took photos together. The guests were beaming.

Still riding that excitement, we went on to Shibuya Crossing and then Meiji Shrine. However, since pain also developed in the right hip in addition to the right ankle, we walked slowly with frequent rests. By the time we finished at Meiji Shrine, the guests were asking things like "How long is it on foot to the station?" and "Is Tsukiji close from the nearest station?", so I explained each time. The daytime temperature was not that high, but Japan's humidity seemed a little uncomfortable for them. Even using elevators and escalators, subway transfers and walking distances were considerable, so on the trains I encouraged them to sit down whenever possible.

The guests are very familiar with Japan and the whole group loves Japanese food; they often visit places like Little Tokyo near their home and are knowledgeable about ingredients and seasonings (one of the guests likes Kikkoman teriyaki sauce). They seemed to appreciate the differences by comparing the Japanese food back home with the sushi and tempura of Tsukiji.

Midway through the tour, one of the guests said they were tired, and I judged that walking for more than 30 minutes would be too much. I said we would give up on the East Gardens and head straight to Asakusa, and the guests agreed. At the Meiji Shrine souvenir shop, when one of the guests was browsing, I had mentioned "Shopping is more fun in Asakusa!" So when I announced "Asakusa is shopping time!", they became delighted and started buying senbei crackers, T-shirts, and more, one after another. Perhaps the foot pain eased a bit — they looked lively. The guests had particular tastes in souvenirs and wanted a "call bell within 2,000 yen." They found one at the first shop near Kaminarimon but didn't like it, and searched all along Nakamise Street without much luck (an orin singing bowl was rejected as too expensive). At a second shop near Hozomon Gate, they finally found a call bell with a maiko design and purchased it. Looking very satisfied, they took photos in front of Hozomon Gate, and that was where we ran out of time. I guided them to the taxi stand and we parted ways. Starting tomorrow they will set sail on a cruise ship, visiting places like Fukuoka, Osaka, Aomori, and Hakodate, so with their easygoing and cheerful spirit, I hope they take care and enjoy their trip.

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Tour Report by Tachi

Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!