Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day — Guide Tachi

Title: What's a Private Tour of Tokyo Like from Asakusa to Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report

Body:

[Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Tokyo for a group visiting from North America. Before the tour, they had requested places where they could "feel Tokyo," specifically mentioning Harajuku and Akihabara.

At the start of the tour, I reconfirmed the itinerary. Some of the guests had already downloaded the Suica app. One of the guests is a big fan of the anime "Sailor Moon" and had spent two months learning Japanese through a social media app! For those who could not complete the download, I suggested purchasing the "Tokyo Free Ticket" (1,600 yen for adults) for convenience, which they agreed to (after I also explained that it cannot be used on the Yurikamome Line).

From the pre-tour communication, I got the impression that the guests were not particularly interested in the history of Tokyo. However, since we were visiting Asakusa, I gave a brief explanation of the origins of Senso-ji Temple and Buddhism, as well as the many lanterns displayed in preparation for the Sanja Matsuri festival being held this weekend. When they showed interest in Asakusa Shrine as well, I guided them to the torii gate. They were pleased to be guided from Nitenmon Gate to Umamichi-dori, then Denbo-in-dori, Kannon-dori, and on to Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line.

In Akihabara, I guided them from Chuo-dori to the Radio Kaikan building. In Harajuku, one of the guests wanted to buy shoes at a shoe store on Takeshita Street, but unfortunately the desired size was sold out. Throughout the tour, one of the guests quietly and warmly watched over the others, letting their preferences take priority. After a light meal at a crepe shop, I guided the group through Ura-Harajuku and Cat Street. However, there was a line at THE MATCHA TOKYO even on a weekday, so we gave up and I guided them to Harakado instead. After a tour of the fifth and sixth floors, they decided on a ramen shop on the fifth floor and took a lunch break.

When I mentioned Washington Heights (now Yoyogi Park), one of the guests said, "My grandfather was formerly in the U.S. military. I've heard that he was assigned to Japan right after the end of the war and lived there with his family." It was the first time I had met someone with a family connection to Washington Heights, and I found it quite moving.

Our final stop was Shibuya. After guiding them to the famous crossing, I suggested a walk to the Don Quijote Shibuya store, and at the request of one of the guests who wanted to look at T-shirts and other items, we went inside. Along the way, I accompanied another guest who wanted to look at FINO hair care products, and after they finished their shopping and we regrouped, the rest of the group completed their shopping as well. They said they wanted to stop by a Starbucks before heading back to the hotel, so I guided them there, confirmed the route back to the hotel, and we parted ways with smiles.

Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

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!