Tokyo Customized Tour & Tea Ceremony — Guide Sam

Title: What's a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like from Asakusa to Nezu Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report

The accommodation was a little far from the station. Kayabacho Station also seemed to be within walking distance, but considering the possibility that the guests might want to return from Kuramae Station to the Hotel without transferring, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) began the tour from Monzen-Nakacho Station.

In addition to Senso-ji Temple, I chose the East Gardens and Nezu Shrine as places to visit. If there had been time, I had also thought of guiding the group briefly around Yanaka, but since the guests liked to take their time and explore each spot leisurely, we headed to Asakusa right after visiting Nezu Shrine. Lunch in Asakusa also took more time than expected, so at Senso-ji Temple I limited the tour to the area around Nakamise Street.

Since the tea house could not have a guide present unless it was a private booking, we arranged to meet again at the same place one hour later, at 16:00. As some of the guests were big fans of Japanese culture, including matcha, the tea experience was very well received.

For the guests who wished to continue exploring Asakusa after the tour, I took them to the entrance of Asakusa Station and had them confirm the location before we parted ways.

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Tour Report by Sam

Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.