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
- Hotel (Asakusa) to Senso-ji Temple ~ Meiji Shrine ~ Harajuku, Omotesando ~ Shibuya Crossing ~ Don Quijote ~ Shibuya PARCO Pokemon Center

Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo's Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were a group visiting from North America and Asia. Since the meeting time was 8:00, we started from a hotel about a 10-minute walk from Asakusa and visited Senso-ji Temple. As the shops were not yet open, I guided them from Kaminarimon Gate through Nakamise, then to Hozomon Gate and the Five-Story Pagoda. After that, I showed them the main hall and we strolled around the Senso-ji area, but only a few shops were open, so we moved on to our next destination, Meiji Shrine.
At Meiji Shrine, I explained the origins of the shrine, the man-made forest, the achievements of Emperor Meiji, how to pass through the torii gate, how to walk along the approach, and the sake barrels and wine barrels. After explaining the second torii gate, I demonstrated the etiquette at the purification fountain and the Shinto way of worship at the main hall. There also happened to be a wedding taking place, so I explained about it (including the white bridal kimono and the traditional headdress). After taking photos, we had a coffee break in the rest area, and then headed to Harajuku, where they did some shopping. They also shopped at a character goods store on Omotesando before heading to Shibuya.
I explained about the Hachiko statue and the scramble crossing, and after that
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 | Asakusa~Meiji-jingumae | 252JPY |
| Section 2 | Train | Omotesando~Shibuya | 178JPY |
| Total | 430JPY | ||
Hello, my name is Hajime Shimizu. Please call me Jim.
I was born in Kobe and spent my university years in Kyoto, a city steeped in history and tradition.
With a passion for marathon running and photography, I’ve traveled the world capturing its beauty through my lens. What I truly enjoy, however, is welcoming distinguished guests like yourself to Japan, ensuring that your experience is both luxurious and unforgettable.
I look forward to offering you a curated and bespoke journey through the wonders of Japan.
See you soon.
Hajime (Jim) Shimizu
Jun 27, 2024
50pdd
Great experience
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Jim is great tour guide.Explains history,culture and helps to buy…
Jun 27, 2024
50pdd
Great experience
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Jim is great tour guide.Explains history,culture and helps to buy metro tickets….
We chose cultural sights and there is much to see
Jun 24, 2024
Venture39971560424
Our guide Jim created an itinerary around our interests
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
It was a…
Jun 24, 2024
Venture39971560424
Our guide Jim created an itinerary around our interests
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
It was a rainy day, so I guide Jim created an itinerary that suited the weather and our
interests. We went to a small museum that displayed the life of 18th and 19th century
Japanese people as well as number of other sites and plenty of room for shopping
May 27, 2024
JohnnyBravo777
Unforgettable Japanese Journey with Jim: A Tour Worth Taking
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Jim proved to…
May 27, 2024
JohnnyBravo777
Unforgettable Japanese Journey with Jim: A Tour Worth Taking
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Jim proved to be an exceptional guide, elevating the entire tour experience. His profound understanding of Japanese history and culture added depth to our exploration, making it truly remarkable. The six-hour journey flew by as we traversed through various captivating destinations. I wholeheartedly endorse embarking on this tour.
