Tokyo in One Day: Gotokuji Temple — Guide Shigeru

Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Gotokuji, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku Gyoen

The guests were visitors from North America. Despite having arrived in Japan only the previous afternoon, they showed no signs of fatigue and enthusiastically enjoyed the tour. First, on the subway heading to Shibuya Station, I explained the origins of the Hachiko story. At the Hachiko statue and the Scramble Crossing, they took many photos. At Gotokuji Temple, after I explained the origins of the beckoning cat (maneki-neko), they were amazed by the many beckoning cat figurines at Shofuku-den and took a great number of photos. We had lunch at a soba restaurant in the shopping street leading to the station, where they enjoyed tempura soba and katsudon, both of which were very well received. At Meiji Shrine, after explaining the differences between shrines and temples and the history of Meiji Shrine, I added explanations at various points along the approach, such as the sake barrels, the great torii gate, and the masugata, and we offered prayers at the main hall. At Shinjuku Gyoen, we took a coffee break at the rest area and leisurely strolled through the Japanese garden, and they were delighted with the magnificent garden. After leaving the garden, we ended the tour near the New South Exit of Shinjuku Station.

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Tour Report by Shigeru

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.