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

  • 10:00 Meet at Hotel B Ochanomizu
  • Shin-Ochanomizu → Meiji-jingumae
  • 10:30 Meiji Shrine, from the main hall to the west approach
  • Sangubashi Station → Shinjuku
  • Shinjuku → Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No. 1
  • 12:00 Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Building No. 1 Observation Deck
  • Tochomae → Tsukiji Market
  • 13:30 Tsukiji Market, guide to lunch (Shutoku Branch No. 2) and disband

What's a First Day in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report (Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Metropolitan Building, Tsukiji)

The guests were visitors from Europe on their first day in Tokyo, so I explained an overview of the city and how to use the subway. They had already obtained a mobile PASMO, which made getting around easy. They planned to join a cycling tour and a Nakasendo walking tour starting the next day, so they were an active group. After visiting Meiji Shrine, we took a leisurely walk along the West Approach. Even in the intense heat, the greenery of the trees was beautiful and it felt a little cooler. We took the Odakyu Line to Shinjuku and then used a bus to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a cool, comfortable ride. The building was not crowded, and we rested while enjoying the view. At Tsukiji, since they requested authentic sushi, I took them to Shutoku before parting ways. The lunch was 6,500 yen, but they said it would cost much more back home. I believe they were very pleased.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1SubwayShin-Ochanomizu~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
Section 2TrainSangubashi~Shinjuku136JPY
Section 3SubwayTochomae~Tsukiji Market272JPY
Section 4BusShinjuku~Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No. 1190JPY
Total807JPY

I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

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Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
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