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. 9:50 Meet up @ Grand Hyatt Tokyo
  • 2. 10:10 @ Meiji Shrine
  • 3. 11:20 @ Cat Street
  • 4. 12:10 @ Harajuku (Kiddy Land, Takeshita Street)
  • 5. 13:00 Lunch @ Harakado
  • 6. 13:40 @ Shinjuku Gyoen
  • 7. 14:00 @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing (from the car window)
  • 8. 14:20 @ Pokemon Center (inside Shibuya PARCO)
  • 9. 15:00 @ Tokyu Hands
  • 10. 15:45 Disband @ Grand Hyatt Tokyo

What Is a Private Shopping and Sightseeing Day Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya

The guests were visiting Japan for sightseeing for the first time, having previously come to Japan many times before. The group arrived about 20 minutes late for our meeting after taking their time over breakfast, but since they preferred a relaxed pace, we proceeded with the tour at the guests' own pace. They enjoyed shopping in line with the interests of one of the guests. After visiting Meiji Shrine, we first walked along Cat Street from the Shibuya side, but did not find anything particular to buy there. Passing through to the Omotesando side in Harajuku, we arrived at Kiddy Land, where they found many of the items they were looking for, purchasing several plush toys ranging from Hello Kitty to Snoopy. For lunch, on the 6th floor of Harakado, the guests each enjoyed dishes of their choice — one had an omusubi set, another a roast beef bowl, and another a hamburger. By around this time, the rain was beginning to fall more heavily, so after lunch we changed our original plans, made a brief visit to Shinjuku Gyoen, and then spent the rest of our time on indoor shopping. Leaving one of the guests in the car, the rest of the group and I entered Shinjuku Gyoen, where the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and we were overwhelmed by their beauty. Many photos were taken, including some of one of the guests posing in front of the cherry blossoms. A handheld umbrella got in the way of taking smartphone photos, but the rain-soaked cherry blossoms seemed all the more beautiful for it. It was a short visit, but we fully enjoyed the cherry blossoms, and then headed to the Pokémon Center, which was one of the main goals for the group. At the Pokémon Center inside Shibuya PARCO, they purchased plush toys and more. Finally, they wanted to look at stationery, and since Tokyu Hands happened to be right next to PARCO, I guided them there, where one of the guests selected and purchased nearly 30 pens. In this way, they were able to buy everything they wanted and returned to the hotel full of satisfaction.

Hello, I’m Noripy.
I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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