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. 8:00 Meet up @ the b asakusa
  • 2. 8:10 @ Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Azumabashi Bridge
  • 3. 9:30 @ Ginza (4-chome intersection, Chuo-dori)
  • 4. 10:00 @ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
  • 5. 10:30 @ Tokyo Station (station plaza, station building)
  • 6. 11:15 @ Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
  • 7.13:10 @ Meiji Jingu Shrine
  • 8. 14:15 Disband @ in front of Shinjuku LUMINE2

A Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Koishikawa Korakuen and Meiji Shrine: A Licensed Guide's Report

The guests were retired visitors from North America who now live in Europe, returning to North America seasonally and traveling around the world. It was their first visit to Japan, but they had long been interested in the country after hearing stories from a friend who had exchanged letters with a pen pal in Japan. This tour was the final part of their Japan trip, spent sightseeing in Tokyo after they had already traveled to many parts of the country. They had specifically wished to visit Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, and they were very satisfied strolling through it. Unfortunately, the Tsutenkyo Bridge was covered for restoration, so only the picture painted on the cover could be seen, but the guests marveled at the Engetsukyo Bridge, the Seiko Embankment, the large pond, Horaijima Island, the Tokudaiji Stone, the pine trees, the Karamon Gate, and the Shiraito Waterfall, taking many photographs. In particular, one of the guests had brought a fine camera in addition to a smartphone and photographed enthusiastically, while the other took selfies of the two of them with a smartphone. The guests also listened intently to explanations about the story of Mito Komon, the meaning behind Korakuen, and the background story of Tokujindo, and were impressed by the philosophy behind them. Since the guests planned to visit Shinjuku after this tour and we had a little extra time, I additionally guided them to Meiji Shrine, where they thoroughly enjoyed the solemn forest surrounding the shrine. Afterward, I saw them off to Shinjuku and said goodbye.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Ginza Station700JPY
Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Tokyo Station~Korakuen Station0JPY
Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Korakuen Station~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Shinjuku-sanchome Station0JPY
Total700JPY

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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