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. 09:00 Meet at Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai
  • 2. 10:00 Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Gardens)
  • 3. 13:00 Asakusa (Nakamise-dori, Senso-ji Temple)
  • 4. 15:00 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
  • 5. 15:20 Harajuku (Takeshita-dori, Meiji Shrine)
  • 6. 15:50 Disband at Harajuku Station

Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report

Although the start was delayed by more than 30 minutes because breakfast and getting ready took longer than expected, the guests were visiting Japan on a special trip, so I focused on helping them enjoy Tokyo without any frustration.

The itinerary had been provided in advance by the agency, but since I was told it could be adjusted to match the guests' wishes, I made several changes along the way.

I had been concerned about the heat and humidity, but the guests currently live in the Middle East and did not find the heat to be a problem at all.

The guests were interested in Japanese history and culture, and they asked many quite detailed questions about the era of samurai rule.

Because of the delayed start, the tour ended later than planned, but overall I believe the guests were able to fully enjoy the day.

[Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1SubwayOnarimon~Hibiya178JPY
Section 2SubwayOtemachi~Asakusa178JPY
Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya252JPY
Section 4SubwayShibuya~Meiji-jingumae178JPY
Total786JPY

Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
Nobu

Jun 2, 2026
amandavW9846AW
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Great Tokyo day trip!
We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

May 25, 2026
Matthew_C
Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Nobu was an excellent and…
Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

May 24, 2026
Diane D
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

Apr 28, 2026
GrandTour57165664797
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Awesome!
It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…