Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day — Guide Noripy

What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace and Nihonbashi

The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from North America, stopping over in Japan on the way to another destination out of a longstanding interest in the country. The tour was originally booked for the group, but because urgent work came up for one member of the party, the guest joined the tour on their own. At Kobikicho, located in the basement of the Kabukiza Theatre, the first stop, the guest showed interest in finding souvenirs for family members, though no purchases were made there. During the visit to the Imperial Palace, we saw not only the Nijubashi Bridge and the Main Gate, but were also able to walk along the Imperial Palace Inui Street, which was open to the public from November for a special walk-through. This allowed us to stroll through areas of the Imperial Palace grounds not normally accessible while admiring the autumn foliage. The guest was enchanted by the vividly red autumn leaves and the four-season cherry blossoms that were in full bloom at this time of year. After the walk-through, rather than exiting via the Kitahanebashi Gate, we crossed the bridge from the Hirakawa Gate to enter the East Gardens, climbed up to the former castle keep foundation, and the guest listened attentively to explanations of Japanese history. We were also able to go inside the Fujimi-tamon, viewed from the Inui Street side, and it was fascinating to look down onto Inui Street from its windows. Recalling the Kabukiza Theatre we had seen earlier, I explained the kabuki play "Chushingura" at the site of the Matsu-no-Oroka corridor in the Imperial Palace, and the guest listened intently, saying they would share it with a family member interested in samurai culture. At the ticket counter of Tokyo Station, I helped with purchasing shinkansen tickets to Kyoto and Narita Express tickets for onward travel. At Nihonbashi Takashimaya, the guest was moved by the enormous Christmas tree displayed at the main entrance and shared a photo of the Christmas tree at their own home. I was amazed by the magnificent tree and the large house surrounding it. At an adjacent shop, the guest purchased many gnome figurines as souvenirs. After completing tax-free procedures, the guest showed interest in the basement food hall, and when I guided them there, they were surprised by the large Japanese apples and made a purchase. As time passed, it became clear that there would not be enough time to visit Asakusa as originally planned, so by mutual agreement, instead of Asakusa, we decided to see the Godzilla Head in Shinjuku before returning to the hotel. I introduced Omoide Yokocho along the way and walked the guest back to the hotel. (As for the photos, I unfortunately only managed to take ones in portrait orientation. My apologies.)

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Tour Report by Noripy

Hello, I’m Noripy.
I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!