Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour — Guide Kei
October, 2024
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. 9:00 Meet at Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower
- 2. 9:30 Meiji Jingu Shrine
- 3. 11:00 Hamarikyu Gardens
- 4. 12:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
- 5. 13:00 Dismissal, Lunch at Sushisei
Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? Meiji Shrine, Hamarikyu Gardens, and Sushi — A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests, visiting Japan for the first time from Europe, were first guided to Meiji Shrine to introduce them to the world of Shinto. They were freshly moved to find such a forest and a shrine standing quietly in the very heart of the city. Passing through the north torii gate, we traveled from Yoyogi to Shiodome and visited Hamarikyu Gardens. There, they were again amazed to see an ancient-style house reconstructed among the cluster of high-rise buildings. It was here that a great discovery was made — the answer to the question, "Why do old and new coexist in Tokyo?" Through conversation with the guests, a fitting answer took shape, something that also resonated with me. It was a wonderful discovery.
At the end, I took them to a sushi restaurant and helped them place their order before we parted ways. It seems they found it very delicious.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Train | Shinjuku-sanchome～Meiji-jingumae | 180JPY |
| Section 2 | Train | Yoyogi～Shiodome | 220JPY |
| Total | 400JPY | ||
Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.
Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.
Oct 22, 2025
I5562SWphilipk
Great intro to Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…
Oct 22, 2025
I5562SWphilipk
Great intro to Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who gave us really interesting insights into Japanese society and culture as well as explaining and interpreting what we were seeing. Our tour was relaxed and enjoyable, and he adapted it to our needs and interests both before and during the tour. I would highly recommend.
Oct 12, 2025
Gary H
Great tour of Tokyo!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We loved our tour! Our guide was…
Oct 12, 2025
Gary H
Great tour of Tokyo!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We loved our tour! Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable & professional. He provided in
depth knowledge of every location we visited.
Oct 5, 2025
C
Cindy_S
Had one day in Tokyo and…
Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Had one day in Tokyo…
Oct 5, 2025
C
Cindy_S
Had one day in Tokyo and…
Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Had one day in Tokyo and Kei provided a great experience for us! His knowledge of history
and the city was so valuable. Would highly recc this tour with him.
Sep 15, 2025
chrishN2970OC
A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had…
Sep 15, 2025
chrishN2970OC
A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a wonderful day with Kei. He was most helpful all day with his local practical knowledge of using subways etc, and his extensive knowledge of Tokyo. We saw a variety of streets, temples and gardens and he patiently explained the significance of these, as well as features of their architecture. We also had a lovely ramen lunch and at the end he directed us to some suggested places for dinner. He was very friendly and his English was very good. All in all a great introduction to Tokyo