Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour — Guide Danda

Title: What's a Private Asakusa and Ueno Walking Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

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The guests came from Oceania and had only replied that they wanted to visit Asakusa and Ueno. At the meeting point I could not find the group at first, but when I called out to a couple of visitors they confirmed it was them, which was a relief. When one of the guests returned from outside, I was told that one member who had been corresponding with me by email was resting in the room due to a headache, so we started the tour with the rest of the group.

Since the email address included the words "gluten free," I asked about it, and learned that some of the guests followed a gluten-free and vegetarian diet, so I introduced a fully vegan restaurant in Asakusa and T's Kitchen in Ueno, which were much appreciated. As the accommodation was in Asakusa, I tried to show them as much as possible, and regarding strawberry daifuku and melon bread they said, "We'll come back here on our own."

Some of the guests were quite reserved and would only speak when I addressed them, but since one of them was studying architecture at university, I brought up Kenzo Tange and Kengo Kuma, and they knew of Tange. It was a little surprising that they were not especially drawn to traditional Japanese houses. They were interested in the unique objects displayed outdoors at Tokyo University of the Arts (probably used for a school festival or similar), and everyone took photos.

After finishing Ueno, I suggested T's Kitchen via either Yanaka, Akihabara, or Ameyoko, and they chose Yanaka, so we walked my usual route. Along the way I mostly talked with one of the guests about earthquakes, graves, and tattoos. As for Nezu Shrine, it was on the way to Nezu Station, so we only passed through the red torii gate, but perhaps thanks to the explanation given at Hanazono Shrine in Ueno, one of them laughed and said, "So here your wishes come true more than in Ueno, but less than in Fushimi," and we took a commemorative photo together. Being quite tall, they carefully watched their heads as they passed through the red torii (everyone was about the same height, so I always had to look up while speaking, which was a little difficult).

On the way back inside JR Ueno Station, I explained the platform for the Shinkansen bound for Kanazawa, taught them how to charge a Welcome Suica, and we parted at the hotel in Asakusa. If the member who was resting recovered, they planned to head out to Ameyoko together afterward. Apart from finding one guest's pronunciation a little difficult to catch, everyone was very kind and friendly, asking and sharing all sorts of things, and I was able to spend a wonderful day. I hope the member who was unwell recovers so that the whole group can go sightseeing together.

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Tour Report by Danda

Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.