What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report

Today I guided a group of visitors from North America. The entire group had just arrived in Japan the day before, so this was sightseeing during the early part of their stay.

After leaving the Hotel, we walked to the Sakashitamon Gate of the Imperial Palace and viewed the limited-time public opening of the Inui Street of the Imperial Palace. The cherry blossoms were at their peak, and the guests appeared deeply moved by their beauty. As this was a special opportunity to see inside the Imperial Palace, an area normally closed to the public, it seemed to be a memorable experience for everyone.

Next, we took the subway to Meiji-jingumae Station and visited Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. The guests showed strong interest and surprise at the contrast between the quiet and solemn atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and the lively Takeshita Street bustling with young people, separated only by the Yamanote Line tracks.

We then took the Yamanote Line to Shibuya to see the Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue. They were fascinated by the sheer number of people and the dynamic movement at the crossing, and upon hearing the story of Hachiko, they commented that he was "a wonderful dog." Everyone appeared to be enjoying themselves.

After that, we rode the entire Ginza subway line to Asakusa. Although our time there was limited, they were able to experience temple culture and the lively atmosphere of the Nakamise shopping street.

Finally, rather than returning to the Hotel, we parted ways near the Hibiya intersection. After the tour, the guests planned to split up and continue separately.

At each destination, the guests showed strong interest, and overall it was a highly satisfying tour. In particular, the visit to the Inui Street of the Imperial Palace seemed to be highly appreciated as a special experience in a place that is normally inaccessible.

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

Tour Report by Toshi

Self-Background

During my university years, I lived in a dormitory for four years and had the opportunity to live with many international students.
Of course, we spoke English.
After graduating from university, I started working as an English teacher at a junior high school.
I was able to have a fun teaching life while interacting with many students. During that time, I continued to study English on my own and obtained the pre-1st grade English proficiency test.
After that, I worked for the Board of Education as a supervisor in charge of English education, and then managed a school as a vice principal, and later principal.
After retiring from teaching, I took the TOEIC (L&R) and achieved my highest score of 945.
I also obtained a license as a national guide-interpreter, and began working as a guide for overseas visitors in English.
Currently, I guide tourists to several places around the country.
Many customers have told me that I am a good guide, saying that my guidance is easy to understand and that I have a lot of knowledge about sightseeing spots and history.
Furthermore, I will continue to improve my skills and make efforts to give you a better experience in Japan, so please come and enjoy your trip in Japan with me.