Tokyo in One Day: Ueno Park & Inui-dori Public Opening — Guide Yoko

What Is a Rainy-Day Private Walking Tour of Ueno, Yanaka, and the Imperial Palace in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The guests were a group from North America. Before the tour, there had been some concern following an inquiry, but when I actually met them, they turned out to be perfectly pleasant guests. At the guests' request, we visited Ueno Park, Yanaka, and the Imperial Palace. Even though it was cold and rainy and we got thoroughly soaked, the guests remained in good spirits throughout without any complaints. Since the guests did not have IC transit cards, I considered purchasing them along the way, but after discussing it with them, we decided to buy individual tickets each time.

The thing that puzzled me most was lunch. The guests said they wanted to do a lot of sightseeing and did not want to spend much time at a restaurant, preferring to grab something quickly from a place like a department store food hall and eat it somewhere. So I was thinking of the shops inside Tokyo Station. However, once we arrived at Tokyo Station, the guests said they wanted to eat at a restaurant after all, so I checked several times to make sure I had not misheard. I suggested ramen as something quick to eat, and we had it near Tokyo Station. Since it was cold, the guests were happy to warm up, and they even wrote a review for the restaurant. (I would love for them to write a review for me as well.)

The guests had requested the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, but they mentioned they wanted to visit the special public opening of the Inui Street, so I guided them there. After the Inui Street, I took them to the East Gardens, and the plan was for them to take a taxi back on their own from there. However, one of the guests developed leg pain and wanted to return to the Hotel, so I hailed a taxi, told the driver the destination, and said goodbye in front of the Mainichi Newspaper building.

There had been various issues before the tour, so I was relieved that it ended without a hitch. With some guests, the itinerary is not finalized until the day before, and I realized that the sense of what counts as a fast or slow response varies from person to person, which makes it difficult. At the same time, I reflected that, being in a busy period myself, my explanations to the guests may have been insufficient.

To [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) Thank you for your support from the stage when the initial concern arose. Guiding can be a lonely job, so it was very reassuring to have someone I could consult with.

Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

Tour Report by Yoko

I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

I live with my husband and one teenage son.
I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.