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
- 9:00 Meet the guest at the hotel
- 9:15 Shinjuku Gyoen
- 10:40 Meiji Shrine
- 11:40 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, main hall, lunch
- 14:40 Shinjuku Golden Gai, Omoide Yokocho
- 15:00 Tour ends
What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were visitors from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before the tour.
During this season, entry to Shinjuku Gyoen on Saturdays requires a reservation, but since we entered before 10:00 no reservation was needed. The garden was relatively uncrowded, there was no rain, and we were able to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, which the guests found deeply moving. When it began to rain, we took a break at a tea house and enjoyed some Japanese tea.
We took the JR line to Harajuku, and while walking along the approach I explained the difference between shrines and temples, the history of Meiji Shrine, and the balcony of the building.
After paying our respects at the main hall, we took the subway to Asakusa. At the culture and tourism center I explained the surrounding buildings, and then, while walking through the Kaminarimon gate and Nakamise shopping street, the guests enjoyed ningyo-yaki and kinako dango. For lunch they had okonomiyaki and yakisoba.
After taking the subway to Shinjuku, I gave a brief introduction to Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho, and then concluded the tour. Although it rained during the day, we were able to visit all of the planned locations.
Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Train | Sendagaya～Harajuku | 160JPY |
| Section 2 | Subway | Meiji-jingumae～Asakusa | 260JPY |
| Section 3 | Subway | Asakusa～Shinjuku-sanchome | 260JPY |
| Total | 680JPY | ||
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.
Jul 8, 2026
Maria H
Tokyo an amazing city
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
First time in this…
Jul 8, 2026
Maria H
Tokyo an amazing city
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
First time in this amazing city of Tokyo, our guide Shigeru was more than excellent in providing a wealth knowledge on so many fronts from history, culture, food and more. Went to some touristy places but well worth it. We walked and caught subway/trains was great. Highly recommend this tour.
Jul 4, 2026
davidsM6670MT
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Excellent professional and attentive Tokyo Tour
Shigeru was extremely professional, knowledgeable and…
Jul 4, 2026
davidsM6670MT
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Excellent professional and attentive Tokyo Tour
Shigeru was extremely professional, knowledgeable and attentive. We had a great tour of Tokyo with a local touch. Enjoyed our cultural and historical exchange. Would 100 recommend him!…
Jun 14, 2026
Q3961PBsaraf
History, Culture and Local Insight
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a wonderful half-day tour of…
Jun 14, 2026
Q3961PBsaraf
History, Culture and Local Insight
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a wonderful half-day tour of Tokyo with Shigeru and would thoroughly recommend him.
From our first communication, Shigeru was friendly, approachable and helpful. He listened carefully to our interests and suggested an itinerary that suited us perfectly, including Asakusa, Yanaka and Nezu. Rather than simply showing us the sights, he helped us understand the history, culture and atmosphere of each area, and was able to answer the many questions we had throughout the day.
What we particularly appreciated was that Shigeru was happy to talk not only about the places we visited, but also about everyday life in Japan, which was exactly what we were interested in learning more about. His knowledge added so much to the experience.
We were travelling to Japan partly to research our family history and to learn more about my great-grandfather, who was born in Tokyo. Shigeru took a genuine interest in our search and was very helpful in suggesting places and ideas that might assist our research, which we greatly appreciated.
His English was excellent and communication was easy throughout. He was patient, professional, knowledgeable and very good company.
The tour was one of the highlights of our time in Tokyo and we would not hesitate to recommend Shigeru to anyone looking for a guide who is both informative and personable.
Jun 7, 2026
abhinavg948
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Shigeru is an outstanding guide for an outstanding Tokyo tour
Shigeru is…
Jun 7, 2026
abhinavg948
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Shigeru is an outstanding guide for an outstanding Tokyo tour
Shigeru is an outstanding guide. We did a private tour as a couple. He was in touch a few days before our tour, and he customized our Tokyo tour according to our prior visit and our interests. He was knowledgeable, patient, and flexible. Would highly recommend. Arigato gozaimasu, Shigeru-San! Sincerely, Shilpa and Abhi