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
- 1. 09:45 Meet up @sequence MIYASHITA PARK
- 2. 09:50 Travel: Subway
- 3. 10:25 Stay @Imperial Palace East Gardens
- 4. 11:50 Travel: Subway
- 5. 12:20 Lunch @Tsukiji Uogashi Shokudo
- 6. 13:00 Stay @Tsukiji Outer Market
- 7. 13:40 Travel: Subway
- 8. 14:00 Stay @Asakusa
- 9. 15:40 Travel: Subway
- 10. 16:30 Disband @sequence MIYASHITA PARK

What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
There was a slight delay in reaching the guests via messaging app because the country code for the phone number was unclear, but once contact was made, communication went smoothly, and thanks to the sociable personality within the group, it turned into an enjoyable tour.
The guests were a group visiting from North America. At the East Gardens, our first stop, it was quite hot, so the whole group took a break at the Honmaru rest area while enjoying ice cream. I truly realized how important it is to take frequent breaks during tours in the coming season. We spent a longer time than usual at the East Gardens.
At Tsukiji, lately more guests choose to have lunch at the food court rather than at a sushi restaurant. It is convenient because there are many options, and even those who are not fond of raw fish can enjoy vegetable tempura or chicken. After Asakusa, I had planned to guide the group to Nezu Shrine as the final stop, but since we stayed longer in Asakusa and everyone seemed tired, I saw them off at the Hotel and we parted ways.
Also, it seems the guests kindly wrote a highly positive review addressed to a booking platform. Although it may be difficult to read it on Tripadvisor, I sent a thank-you message via the messaging app.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Free Pass | Shibuya Station~Otemachi Station | 900JPY |
| Section 2 | Free Pass | Otemachi Station~Tsukiji Station | 0JPY |
| Section 3 | Free Pass | Tsukiji Station~Asakusa Station | 0JPY |
| Section 4 | Free Pass | Asakusa Station~Shibuya Station | 0JPY |
| Total | 900JPY | ||
Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.
Jul 21, 2026
G848SWmaribelm
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
The tour experience…
Jul 21, 2026
G848SWmaribelm
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
The tour experience with Sam was awesome! He is knowledgeable and accommodating. We would recommend this tour.
Jul 16, 2026
Cezary P
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour of Tokyo!
Sam, was outstanding! Showed…
Jul 16, 2026
Cezary P
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour of Tokyo!
Sam, was outstanding! Showed us how and what to look for. Explained the IC cards, subway and way around them. Took us to all places we asked for and explained all about them. Excellent tour! Highly recommend!
Jul 9, 2026
Michael_C
Tokyo tour
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…
Jul 9, 2026
Michael_C
Tokyo tour
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour with a wonderful guide – Sam. Sam was professional and personable and helped us tailor the experience y including a tour of the fish market and lunch at his favorite sushi restaurant. Tour was great – good pace and Sam is extremely knowledgeable and willing to answer all our questions- overall a 5 star experience!!
Jun 18, 2026
David_W
Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Fish Market Tour
Great tour. Got to see…
Jun 18, 2026
David_W
Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Fish Market Tour
Great tour. Got to see both markets (old
and new). Great food options are available at both market locations
