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 the guests at the hotel
  • 9:40 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, lunch
  • 12:10 Imperial Palace East Gardens
  • 14:00 Tokyo Station
  • 14:30 Yurakucho
  • 15:00 Tour ends at the hotel

What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa and the Imperial Palace

The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan the day before. They seemed a little tired, but as they were strong walkers, we ended up touring without taking many breaks. First, I assisted with purchasing a Suica card at Shimbashi Station. In Asakusa, I explained the origins of the area and its main buildings at the tourist information center, and from Kaminarimon Gate to Nakamise, we talked about the shops and food. The guests seemed to enjoy themselves, buying ningyo-yaki among other things. After praying at the main hall, they drew an omikuji fortune, and we walked through several shopping streets before having lunch starting at 11:00. After taking the subway to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we entered through the Otemon Gate and walked while I explained Japanese history, the shoguns, daimyo, emperors, the buildings, plants, and the Japanese garden. After taking photos at Tokyo Station, I helped with purchasing Shinkansen tickets. We then took the train to Yurakucho, strolled around the area, and the tour ended at the Hotel.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1TrainShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
Section 2TrainAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
Section 3TrainTokyo~Yurakucho150JPY
Total540JPY

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.

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