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
- 9:55 AM: Meet at the main lobby of Hotel Premier Grand. Two guests, Mr. Timothy and his wife Ms. Sonia. They arrived in Japan from Perth yesterday afternoon.
- Discussed the day's itinerary. Asked about their lunch preferences, and since they wanted to spend more time on purchasing a sword (not a real one) and shopping, we decided to cut the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and the Tsukiji Outer Market, and go with Nihonbashi/Ginza ⇒⇒ Omotesando/Harajuku ⇒ Shinjuku.
- 10:15 AM: From Shinjuku Station, took the Marunouchi Line and Ginza Line to Nihonbashi Mitsukoshimae.
- 10:40 AM–12:40 PM: Shopping from Nihonbashi to Ginza. They made purchases at Kiya, Kyukyodo, and DIOR respectively.
- 12:45 PM–1:50 PM: Teppanyaki lunch at "Kaika" on the 4th floor of the Kojun Building.
- At dessert time, they said they didn't need to do shopping in Omotesando today, and after buying the sword they wished to return to Shinjuku.
- After that, we walked to Shimbashi and took the subway to Toranomon. Along the way, at the Mister Minute inside Shimbashi Station, we repaired the heel of the wife's sandal (which she had in her backpack) that broke at the airport yesterday.
- 2:40 PM: Arrived at "Nihon Token" in Toranomon. After consulting with his wife, he purchased one short sword (a replica sword) and took it home himself.
- Hibiya Line: Toranomon Hills ⇒ Ebisu ⇒ Shinjuku, back to the hotel.
- 3:50 PM: When we reached the passage heading from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station toward the Metropolitan Government Building (near Kogakuin University), they said, "Once we've come this far, we know the way, so we'll be fine."
- Since they also mentioned that they had strolled around the West Exit last night and eaten ramen, I politely thanked them and ended the tour.
What Is a Private Shopping and Dining Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were visitors from Oceania. They spoke proudly of their family, and it was clear they were very fond of them.
At a knife shop in Nihonbashi, the guests realized they had forgotten to bring their passport. For the purchase of an iron kettle and a small blade, they decided they were fine without the 10% tax exemption. On the other hand, at a designer boutique, they arranged to bring the passport again the next day and receive the items at the tax-free price. Since one of the guests was wearing that brand's clothing that day, I believe the staff escorting them and the shop made this accommodation out of consideration.
At the lunch venue, the guests were full of praise, saying it was wonderful again and again. They had a flood of questions not only about the food but even about the chef's career. That said, a couple of pieces were left uneaten. They had mentioned they usually skip breakfast and have a salad-centered lunch, so the portion may have been a little large. Some of the pickled daikon remained, but the miso soup bowl was empty.
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Discover the Heart of Japan: A Journey Through Culture, History, and Flavor.
Hello, I am Taichi, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
Having explored the depth and diversity of Japan’s culture, history, and cuisine-particularly in the vibrant regions of Tokyo and Kansai-I’m excited to share my experiences with you.
With its dynamic seasonal changes and centuries-old traditions, with its ever-changing seasons and profound history, Japan invites you to create moments that stir your imagination and awaken a deeper connection to its beauty.
And Japan is more than just a destination-its travel experience engages your all five senses.
From breathtaking landscapes to tantalizing culinary, every corner holds something to delight and inspire.
Let’s embark journey of discovery, where you’ll sharpen your sense, create unforgettable memory, and embrace the true essence of Japan.
I look forward to helping your wonderful trip.
Apr 7, 2026
Karistan_S
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Taichi was wonderful. He…
Taichi was wonderful. He…
Apr 7, 2026
Karistan_S
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Taichi was wonderful. He…
Taichi was wonderful. He spoke excellent English and knew a lot of history. We really enjoyed
the tour and are glad we splurged on it. It was really nice to have the taxi and guide on a
cold day. He had excellent suggestions and chose a quick fun restaurant for us for lunch!
May 15, 2025
TJP1967
Perfect Guide…..Taichi-sun
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Hello. Taichi-sun was absolutely amazing. There was nothing he wouldn’t…
May 15, 2025
TJP1967
Perfect Guide…..Taichi-sun
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Hello. Taichi-sun was absolutely amazing. There was nothing he wouldn’t do to make our
day even more perfect. We can’t recommend him enough.
Apr 14, 2025
rgp728
Wonderful Tour of Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We used Japan Guide Agency for a private…
Apr 14, 2025
rgp728
Wonderful Tour of Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We used Japan Guide Agency for a private tour of Kyoto. They were amazing! Our guide, Taichi, reached out to us ahead of our time and helped us create the perfect itinerary. We are vegetarian so he arranged a vegan lunch where we were able to try many different types of Japanese food. We had a perfect day and would highly recommend Japan Guide Agency and Taichi!
Apr 8, 2025
Sherif_A
Taichi-san is an amazing guide!
Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
This was our 1 day trip to…
Apr 8, 2025
Sherif_A
Taichi-san is an amazing guide!
Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
This was our 1 day trip to Kyoto. We wanted to see as much as possible but also get a good sense of the city. Taichi is a great guide, knowledge and communicates well. He was very caring to make sure we are able to take the best routes and avoid crowds where possible. Definitely recommend!