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.
Tour Itinerary
- 9:00 Meet up with the guest at the hotel
- 9:50 Meiji Shrine
- 11:30 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Main Hall
- 12:50 Ueno Park
- 13:00 Tour ends
What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Ueno Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were a group from North America. They contacted me the day before the tour, and we pushed back the start time by one hour. At Meiji Shrine, I began with an overview of Japanese history, the difference between Buddhism and Shinto, and the history of Meiji Shrine, and while walking I explained the torii gate, the sake barrels, and the masugata layout, before we offered prayers at the main hall. The guests showed great interest in the customs and rituals observed at shrines. In Asakusa, from the rooftop of the culture and tourism center, I explained the townscape and the history of Asakusa. Afterward, walking from Kaminarimon Gate through the Nakamise shopping street, the guests enjoyed eating Japanese sweets such as kinako dango and arare, and drew omikuji fortunes. After praying at the main hall, we moved to Ueno Park, viewed the cherry blossoms, and concluded the tour.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Subway | Hibiya～Meiji-jingumae | 180JPY |
| Section 2 | Subway | Meiji-jingumae～Asakusa | 260JPY |
| Section 3 | Train | Asakusa～Ueno | 180JPY |
| Total | 620JPY | ||
I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.
Sep 29, 2026
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We were fortunate to have had Shigeru to guide us from Yokohama to Tokyo. He gave a lot of historical information about Japan, brought us to the places we wanted, and ensured that we were always within reach. He also broughr us to his favourite ramen restsurant in Tokyo. Excellent lunch. He is well versed on the intricacies of customs and modern societal influences, culture.
A very kind and patient man.
Sep 28, 2026
G3219WFjoshp
A great day with Shigeru!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shigeru is a fantastic…
Sep 28, 2026
G3219WFjoshp
A great day with Shigeru!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shigeru is a fantastic guide, very knowledgeable, an excellent guide with great recommendations. I highly recommend this tour!
Sep 28, 2026
E8957WUnathanb
Great day in Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shingeru was great and very…
Sep 28, 2026
E8957WUnathanb
Great day in Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shingeru was great and very knowledgable. 10/10 would book again
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We had an excellent time being…
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Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
We had an excellent time being guided by Shigeru. He was gracious and full of interesting information. Would definitely recommend. 😁