Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day — Guide Tachi

Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, the Imperial Palace, Nezu, Yanaka, and Asakusa

The guests were visitors from North America. In advance, they had requested Shinjuku Gyoen and the Imperial Palace. After confirming the itinerary at our meeting point, we started the tour. Since they had friends with experience visiting Japan, they asked about simple Japanese greetings, which I answered as we went along. Rather unusually these days, they also asked many questions about Japanese history. At Shinjuku Gyoen, we took our time exploring the Japanese garden and other areas. At Hanazono Shrine, I explained Shinto and we offered a prayer. While guiding them through Golden Gai, a young local resident of the metropolitan area who said they rarely had a chance to use English struck up a conversation, so we chatted together for a few minutes on the spot.

At the Imperial Palace, after guiding them to the main gate, we had time to spare, so I gave them a quick tour of the East Gardens as well — though it ended up running about 40 minutes over. We made it to lunch in Nezu just in time. Although it was not Japanese cuisine, the guests were very pleased with the restaurant's special menu of the day, after which we strolled through Yanaka. At a bamboo craft shop in the shopping street, the guests purchased a souvenir. They mentioned that they each enjoy their own training routines. Finally, I guided them through the main hall of Senso-ji Temple, and they tried drawing omikuji fortunes (both of them drew wonderful results). We took photos and videos in front of Kaminarimon Gate.

For their dinner that evening, I made a reservation at a shabu-shabu restaurant in Ginza, confirmed the reservation details with the guests by email, and we parted ways. They were light on their feet, cheerful, and full of curiosity, so I am sure they will be welcomed wherever they go.

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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!