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

  • ①8:30 Meet at the hotel, visit Zojoji Temple while traveling from Onarimon Station to Hibiya Station on the Mita Line.
  • ②9:10-9:40 Shopping for jewelry at the Tokyo International Forum Edo Antique Market.
  • ③10:00 Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge
  • ④10:15-10:50 Walk through the Imperial Palace Inui Street.
  • ⑤11:00-11:20 Travel to Asakusa by subway, take photos at Kaminarimon Gate.
  • ⑥11:20-11:50 Stroll to Kappabashi, shopping for chopsticks.
  • ⑦11:50-13:10 Transfer subways and travel to the pottery class venue in Shirokanetakanawa.
  • ⑧13:20 Disband upon completion of reception procedures and other necessary matters (as a vegetarian, the guest will eat the sandwich purchased for lunch alone before the experience starts at 13:30, so we disband here).

Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, an Antique Market, and Cherry Blossoms

The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from North America (a companion who had originally planned to join could not participate on the day due to fatigue and chose to rest at the hotel instead, so I had already notified that only one person would attend the Shirokane pottery class). Just before we met, an email came in requesting a stop at an antique market, and I found information that the Edo Antique Market was being held at the Tokyo International Forum. We stopped there before visiting the Imperial Palace, where the guest happily purchased a treasured, high-quality piece of jewelry and was very pleased. After that, the guest seemed truly moved by the fine weather and the cherry blossoms in full bloom, and we were able to spend an enjoyable day together.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1OtherOnarimon~Hibiya180JPY
Section 2OtherTakebashi~Asakusa290JPY
Section 3OtherAsakusa~Shirokanetakanawa460JPY
Total930JPY

Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

Certification
Certified Travel Services Manager
Authorized Tour Conductor
Kyoto Expert Certification

Jul 23, 2026
svendulrikr
Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
Best of Nara
Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

Jul 10, 2026
valerianos862
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
Private tour of Tokyo.
Our guide Sam is very…

Jun 20, 2026
Sarah B
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

Apr 14, 2026
MDMallory
Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…