Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa — Guide Yoko

What's a Private Tokyo Tour of Meiji Shrine, Nezu, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The guests were visitors from North America. They had arrived in Japan a few days before the tour and had already explored many places on their own. During our prior communication, I had introduced the Welcome Suica, and by the time we met they were already using it with ease. While I privately wondered whether a guide was even necessary, I showed them Meiji Shrine, Nezu, and Asakusa, which the guests had requested.

At Nezu Shrine, the azaleas were at their best, and the guests, who love flowers, were very delighted. When I did a preliminary visit the day before the tour, no one was lining up to enter the azalea garden, but on the day of the tour the line had stretched all the way to near the torii gate. When I asked a staff member, they said the wait would be about 15 minutes, so after discussing it with the guests we decided to join the line. It moved along surprisingly quickly, and while chatting with the guests we were able to enter before we knew it.

We walked from Nezu Shrine to Sendagi, and the guests said it was nice to see everyday Japanese life, which made me happy. We also stopped by Suto Park and took commemorative photos in front of the koinobori carp streamers.

For lunch, the guests wanted a sushi restaurant that was not omakase, so we went to Kijo Sushi, which has an English menu. They were able to dine at the counter while chatting with the sushi chef, and were delighted with how delicious it was. It is close to Yanaka Ginza and accepts reservations, so I recommend it.

After lunch, the guests said they wanted to make a reservation for the Shinkansen the next day, so we took a taxi to Ueno Station and completed the process at the travel concierge. When the staff member said that the Shinkansen departs every 10 minutes, the guests were both very surprised.

After showing them around Asakusa, it was time to part ways. The guests said they would enjoy Asakusa a little longer before heading to Shibuya, so I explained how to get there.

They were very pleasant guests and very considerate and kind — at one point in Asakusa they helped carry the suitcase of another traveler who was carrying it up the stairs.

They were very interested in Japan, asked many questions, and listened attentively to what I had to say, so I was able to spend a very enjoyable time with them. With the guests' permission, I took many photos and sent them via a messaging app after the tour. I hope their trip to Japan becomes a wonderful memory.

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.