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. 09:40 Meet @ Hotel Gracery Tokyo Ginza
- 2. 09:45 Travel: Subway
- 3. 10:35 Visit @ Rikugien Garden
- 4. 11:10 Travel: Subway
- 5. 11:30 Visit @ Nezu Shrine
- 6. 12:05 Travel: Subway
- 7. 12:30 Lunch @ Sansada
- 8. 13:15 Visit @ Asakusa
- 9. 14:20 Travel: Subway
- 10. 15:05 Visit @ Meiji Shrine
- 11. 16:00 Travel: Subway
- 12. 16:30 Disband @ Kabukiza Tower
What Does a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Rikugien, Nezu Shrine, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine
When I arrived at the meeting point at the Hotel, the guests had just finished breakfast in the dining area on the first floor, so we were able to meet quite early.
The guests were visiting from North America. After they purchased a one-day subway pass at the nearest station, Higashi-Ginza, we set off.
I chose four destinations: Rikugien, Nezu Shrine, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine. They had originally hoped to visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, but since it was a Monday, I took them to Rikugien first instead. Unfortunately, it was rainy, so I made the course a little shorter than usual. The weather improved in the afternoon, and from around Asakusa onward I believe the guests were able to enjoy the tour while taking photos. Although we moved a little ahead of schedule in the morning, we spent some extra time shopping in Asakusa, and since Meiji Shrine was somewhat far from the other spots, we ended up finishing almost exactly on time. As the guests were familiar with the way back from Higashi-Ginza Station, we parted ways in front of the Kabukiza Tower.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.
Jul 21, 2026
G848SWmaribelm
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
The tour experience…
Jul 21, 2026
G848SWmaribelm
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
The tour experience with Sam was awesome! He is knowledgeable and accommodating. We would recommend this tour.
Jul 16, 2026
Cezary P
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour of Tokyo!
Sam, was outstanding! Showed…
Jul 16, 2026
Cezary P
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour of Tokyo!
Sam, was outstanding! Showed us how and what to look for. Explained the IC cards, subway and way around them. Took us to all places we asked for and explained all about them. Excellent tour! Highly recommend!
Jul 9, 2026
Michael_C
Tokyo tour
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…
Jul 9, 2026
Michael_C
Tokyo tour
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour with a wonderful guide – Sam. Sam was professional and personable and helped us tailor the experience y including a tour of the fish market and lunch at his favorite sushi restaurant. Tour was great – good pace and Sam is extremely knowledgeable and willing to answer all our questions- overall a 5 star experience!!
Jun 18, 2026
David_W
Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Fish Market Tour
Great tour. Got to see…
Jun 18, 2026
David_W
Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Fish Market Tour
Great tour. Got to see both markets (old
and new). Great food options are available at both market locations