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
- 9:30 Meet at the hotel
- 10:00-11:30 Explore Tsukiji
- 12:00-13:00 Meiji Shrine
- 13:15 Disband
Tour Itinerary in Detail
Meeting at hotel at 9:30, the group explored Tokyo until the tour ended at 13:15. The day ran to 3 hours and 45 minutes from start to finish.
The itinerary covered Explore Tsukiji at 10:00 and Meiji Shrine at 12:00.
What Is a Private Walking and Culture Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji and Meiji Shrine
[Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. This report covers a private Tokyo tour that began by walking from a hotel in Ginza to the Tsukiji Outer Market. On the way, I explained the single-act ticket option at the Kabukiza Theatre, and the guests became so interested that they wanted to see a performance that same day, saying they would end the tour a little early to go on their own. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed sashimi, tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), and daifuku, and seemed to have a great time. After that, we took a taxi to Meiji Shrine. The guests showed a strong interest in Japan and asked many questions, such as the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. It was a lucky day, as they were also able to see a doll festival and a traditional Japanese dance performance. At the guests' request, we finished the tour slightly earlier than planned.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Hello , my name is Isao.
I like cooking and eating while drinking wine and listening to the rock music sometime classical music, too.
I am a tour guide mainly around Tokyo. I have experience as an E-bike tour guide( Imperial palace, Tokyo station, Asakusa, Sumida river, Ningyocho, Odaiba area, Tsukishima Monja street ) and a food tour. I like to eat local Japanese food and drink many kind of alcohol.
Besides Tokyo, I also recommend Kamakura and Kawagoe where I was borne.
I will do my best to help you make good memories of Japan.
I am looking forward to meeting you soon.
May 21, 2026
Anne_A
Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Enjoyable tour of the local markets and…
May 21, 2026
Anne_A
Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Enjoyable tour of the local markets and fish auction
We had a great time touring the local markets and fish auction. We were lucky enough to
get the lottery tickets so we were able to view in the first floor. Either experience is
fascinating and the coordination and communication was easy and flexible.
May 18, 2026
Olivia_H
Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
An unforgettable Tokyo food and culture experience…
May 18, 2026
Olivia_H
Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
An unforgettable Tokyo food and culture experience with an incredibly knowledgeable guide.
Mr. Isao Kito was a wonderful guide. He picked us up directly from our hotel, and together we took a taxi to the Toyosu Tuna Market. He encouraged us to apply for the lottery to watch the tuna auction from the second-floor viewing area, which we were lucky enough to experience. It was absolutely incredible.
Mr. Kito was highly knowledgeable and explained everything in a way that made the experience even more meaningful. After the auction, we enjoyed an amazing omakase sushi breakfast with some of the freshest fish we’ve ever had. The owner and head sushi chef prepared delicious sushi paired with sake, making it even more special.
Afterward, we explored the Tsukiji Market together, and Mr. Kito also shared great recommendations for restaurants and places to visit during our stay. I truly cannot say enough good things about this experience.
Beyond being an excellent guide, we genuinely felt like we gained a friend. The experience was warm, personal, and unforgettable. The next time we visit Japan, we absolutely plan to meet up with him again.
I highly recommend this tour and would definitely book with him again.
May 7, 2026
Susan C
Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Highly recommended tuna auction tour
Iseo…
May 7, 2026
Susan C
Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Highly recommended tuna auction tour
Iseo did a great job! We really appreciated his efforts (and success) in getting us lottery tickets for best viewing of the tuna auction. His recommendation that we go afterwards to the old site of the market/auction for a walking and shopping experience was excellent. he also helped us find the right subway to get back to our hotel. All and all, a most excellent experience.
Oct 25, 2025
TravelYes8
Highly recommended the Toyosu Tuna Auction tour with Isao!
Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with…
Oct 25, 2025
TravelYes8
Highly recommended the Toyosu Tuna Auction tour with Isao!
Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
A friend highly recommended that we sign up for the Toyosu Tuna Auction tour and we are so glad we did. Our tour guide, Isao, met us at our hotel at 5:00 am and accompanied us on the taxi ride to the market. He was very friendly and knowledgeable, explaining the history of the market and providing insights of the auction itself. The auction was an amazing experience, which was followed by a delicious sushi breakfast at one of Isao’s favorite restaurants at the market. Then Isao led us on a tour of the many shops at the market. The auction and market tour with Isao has been a highlight of our Japan vacation. Don’t miss it!