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
- 10:30 Meet the guest at the hotel
- 11:20 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Main Hall, lunch
- 13:50 Imperial Palace East Gardens
- 15:20 Meiji Shrine
- 16:30 Shinjuku Station, tour ends
What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine
The guests were an elderly group from Europe. After traveling by subway to Asakusa, I explained Japanese history, the difference between temples and shrines, the origins of Senso-ji Temple, and the surrounding buildings at the Culture and Tourism Center. Afterward, the guests seemed to enjoy shopping as we walked through the Kaminarimon Gate and along the Nakamise shopping street. After praying at the main hall, we had lunch. We then moved by subway to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, entering from Otemachi, and strolled while talking about the shogun, feudal lords, and Edo Castle. In the Japanese garden at the end, the guests were deeply impressed by the beautifully maintained pines and azaleas. We traveled by subway to Meiji Shrine, and after explaining Emperor Meiji and the shrine, we walked along the approach and prayed at the main hall. We then returned to Shinjuku Station by JR, where the tour concluded.
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 | Subway | Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)～Asakusa | 280JPY |
| Section 2 | Subway | Asakusa～Otemachi (Tokyo) | 180JPY |
| Section 3 | Subway | Otemachi (Tokyo)～Meiji-jingumae | 210JPY |
| Section 4 | Train | Harajuku～Shinjuku | 160JPY |
| Total | 830JPY | ||
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.
Sep 29, 2026
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Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
We were fortunate to have had Shigeru to guide us from Yokohama to Tokyo. He gave a lot of historical information about Japan, brought us to the places we wanted, and ensured that we were always within reach. He also broughr us to his favourite ramen restsurant in Tokyo. Excellent lunch. He is well versed on the intricacies of customs and modern societal influences, culture.
A very kind and patient man.
Sep 28, 2026
G3219WFjoshp
A great day with Shigeru!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shigeru is a fantastic…
Sep 28, 2026
G3219WFjoshp
A great day with Shigeru!
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shigeru is a fantastic guide, very knowledgeable, an excellent guide with great recommendations. I highly recommend this tour!
Sep 28, 2026
E8957WUnathanb
Great day in Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shingeru was great and very…
Sep 28, 2026
E8957WUnathanb
Great day in Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Shingeru was great and very knowledgable. 10/10 would book again
Sep 23, 2026
scottmR2068WG
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Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
We had an excellent time being…
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Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
We had an excellent time being guided by Shigeru. He was gracious and full of interesting information. Would definitely recommend. 😁