Tokyo is a fascinating city with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. However, with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. That’s where private tours come in. Private tours allow you to explore Tokyo’s hidden gems and experience the city like a local. In this post, we will introduce you to the 5 best private tours in Tokyo that will take you off the beaten path and show you a side of the city you never knew existed. From exploring historic neighborhoods to experiencing Tokyo’s food culture, these tours will leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in Japan’s capital city.

The 5 Best Private Tours in Tokyo

1. 3-Day Private Tokyo and Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Tsukiji Market and Bullet Train
2. Tokyo’s Unique & Unusual Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private
3. Private Tokyo Food Tour – A Journey Through Time Through Food
4. Private 4-Day Tokyo and Kyoto: Tsukiji Market, Gion
5. Private Tokyo Food Tour – Retro Akabane Izakaya Experience

The 5 Best Private Tours in Tokyo

1. 3-Day Private Tokyo and Nagano: Snow Monkeys, Tsukiji Market and Bullet Train

Experience the best of Tokyo and Nagano in just three days with this private tour that takes you on a thrilling journey to see some of the city’s amazing attractions. You’ll get to explore the bustling Tsukiji Market, where you can sample some of the freshest seafood in the world. Then, take a bullet train to Nagano and view the famous Snow Monkeys. Your English-speaking guide will meet you at the hotel and will accompany you throughout the tour, which includes a two-night stay and entrance fees to the monkey park. Please note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and we will be walking the elevated area for at least 40 minutes one way to see the Snow Monkeys. End the tour at Tokyo Station, where your guide will help you with any directions you may need. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

2. Tokyo’s Unique & Unusual Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private

Discover the quirky and unusual side of Tokyo on this private and personalized tour. With a local guide, explore unique spots like the Museum of Parasites, the cosplay district of Akihabara, a snake café, and Piss Alley. This customizable tour allows you to tailor the itinerary to match your interests, ensuring a personalized experience. During the 4-hour tour, learn about Japanese culture from your informative guide, who will show you aspects of the city you’d never find alone. The tour also includes a drink and a snack in a quirky café or izakaya. Transportation costs, additional food and drinks, and gratuities are not included. The meeting point is at Shinjuku 3-chōme−24−３, but pickup can also be arranged upon request. Don’t miss out on this unique and unforgettable way to experience Tokyo.

3. Private Tokyo Food Tour – A Journey Through Time Through Food

Immerse yourself in Japan’s unique culinary heritage with this private Tokyo food tour that takes you through three different districts. From traditional to fusion cuisine, indulge in 14 tastings while journeying through time from the Edo period to today. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights into Japanese cooking, key ingredients, and flavors. This personalized experience includes hassle-free pickup from your Tokyo accommodations. The tour cost includes snacks, lunch, and alcoholic beverages, but the transportation costs for two short subway rides are payable by you. You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point is the Nihonbashi Subway S, located in the Nihonbashi 1-chome Mitsui Building. Come hungry and let your taste buds be your guide for this unforgettable culinary journey.

4. Private 4-Day Tokyo and Kyoto: Tsukiji Market, Gion

Make the most of your stay in Japan with this private 4-day tour of Tokyo and Kyoto, where you’ll experience the classic and contemporary sides of each city. You’ll have the chance to visit the outer Tsukiji Fish Market, ride past Zozoji Temple and Kabuki Theatre on a bike tour of Tokyo, and view the red gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine and Zen garden of Tofukuji Temple in Kyoto. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore both cities by foot and bullet train while experiencing typical Japanese activities such as karaoke, sake tasting, and a calligraphy lesson. This tour includes select meals, all activities, and accommodation.

5. Private Tokyo Food Tour – Retro Akabane Izakaya Experience

Explore the retro charm of Akabane, a popular evening destination for locals with a private Tokyo food tour. Your English-speaking guide takes you on a journey through the narrow alleys glowing with red paper lanterns as you visit three traditional izakayas. Savor at least 10 Japanese delicacies and 3 drinks, including sake, shochu, and hoppy, and immerse yourself in the local Japanese food culture. Visit Akabane’s Ichibangai Street and discover the izakayas that are favorites of Tokyo’s workers. Your expert guide recommends the best dishes to try based on your palate. The tour includes round trip transport to and from Akabane, and gratuities are appreciated but optional. Don’t miss out on this must-try food tour on your next trip to Tokyo.

Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions about Tokyo

Tokyo is a bustling metropolis that’s a top travel destination in Japan. As with any popular destination, there are many questions that visitors have before visiting. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Tokyo.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Tokyo?

Tokyo is a year-round destination, but the most popular times to visit are in the spring and fall. The cherry blossoms bloom in late March, early April, which is a magical time of year to visit. The fall foliage is also stunning in Tokyo’s parks and gardens, especially in November. The summer months of June to August can be hot and humid, but it’s also when many festivals, such as the famous Tanabata festival, take place. Winter, from December to February, is the low season with fewer tourists, but it can also be cold and gloomy.

2. How do I get to Tokyo?

There are two main airports in Tokyo – Narita and Haneda. Narita Airport is the main international gateway to Tokyo, while Haneda Airport mostly handles domestic flights. From Narita Airport, there are several ways to reach Tokyo city center, including the Narita Express train, Limousine Bus, and taxis. The Narita Express is the fastest and most convenient option, taking around an hour to reach Tokyo Station. From Haneda Airport, the easiest way to get to the city center is by taking the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line train. Both take around 20-30 minutes to reach central Tokyo.

3. Is Tokyo safe to visit?

Yes, Tokyo is safe for tourists. It’s one of the safest cities in the world with low crime rates. However, as with any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in crowded areas such as trains and popular tourist spots.

4. Do I need a visa to visit Tokyo?

It depends on your nationality. Japan has a visa exemption agreement with many countries, allowing visitors to stay up to 90 days without a visa. Check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country to see if you need a visa to visit Tokyo.

5. What is the best way to get around Tokyo?

The best way to get around Tokyo is by using the excellent public transportation system. The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway cover most areas of central Tokyo and are easy to navigate with English signage. Another popular mode of transportation in Tokyo is the JR Yamanote Line, which circles central Tokyo and stops at many major stations. Taxis are also widely available, but they can be expensive during peak hours.

6. What are some must-visit tourist attractions in Tokyo?

There are many things to see and do in Tokyo. Some of the must-visit tourist attractions include: – Tokyo Tower

– Sensoji Temple in Asakusa

– Shibuya Crossing

– Meiji Shrine

– Tsukiji Fish Market

– Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

– Harajuku for shopping and people-watching

– Tokyo Disney Resort

7. What is the currency used in Tokyo?

The currency used in Tokyo and throughout Japan is the Japanese yen. ATMs are widely available in Tokyo, and most major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops.

8. What should I eat in Tokyo?

Tokyo is known for its incredible food scene, from sushi to ramen to street food snacks. Some must-try foods include: – Sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market

– Ramen at Ichiran or Ippudo

– Yakitori at Torikizoku

– Okonomiyaki at Kiji

– Takoyaki at Gindaco

– Matcha desserts at Suzukien Asakusa

Conclusion

Tokyo is a vibrant and exciting city that’s a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its variety of attractions, excellent public transportation, and safe streets, it’s easy to see why Tokyo is so popular. By answering some of the most frequently asked questions about Tokyo, we hope we’ve helped you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this fantastic city.

The 5 Best Private Tours in Tokyo: FAQs Answered

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo and looking for top-rated private tours that let you explore the best of the city, you’ll find a host of options to choose from. Private guided tours in Tokyo offer you the flexibility to create your custom itinerary, a dedicated guide to show you around, and an immersive cultural experience. To help you plan better, we’ve put together some frequently asked questions about the 5 best private tours in Tokyo:

1. What Are the Best Private Tours in Tokyo?

Tokyo is a fascinating city with diverse attractions that cater to different interests. Some of the best private tours in Tokyo are:

a. Tokyo Highlights Private Tour

If you’re short on time and want to cover Tokyo’s quintessential attractions, the Tokyo Highlights Private tour is perfect for you. It covers the famous Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Asakusa, Senso-Ji Temple, and Ginza. The tour includes a private guide and transportation to make the best of your time in the city.

b. Private Custom Tokyo Tour

If you have a specific interest, the Private Custom Tokyo Tour lets you design a custom itinerary with the help of an experienced guide. You can choose to explore the food scene, shop in local markets, visit offbeat museums or galleries, and experience authentic Japanese culture.

c. Tsukiji Fish Market Private Tour

For seafood lovers, the Tsukiji Fish Market Private Tour is a must-do. You can witness the world’s most massive fish market auction and savor fresh sushi from the surrounding eateries. The tour includes a private guide and transportation for a hassle-free experience.

d. Mount Fuji Private Tour

The iconic Mount Fuji lies just outside of Tokyo and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A private Mount Fuji tour lets you enjoy the scenic splendors of the mountain and explore the nearby lakes and forests. You can also visit a traditional Japanese village and hot springs or opt for a cable car ride.

e. Tokyo Night Private Tour

Tokyo’s neon-lit streets come alive at night, and a private Tokyo Night Tour lets you experience the city’s nightlife like a local. You can enjoy the panoramic skyline views from the Tokyo Tower, stroll through the buzzing Ginza district or visit a traditional izakaya or bar.

2. How Long Do the Private Tours Typically Last?

The duration of private tours in Tokyo can vary based on the type of tour you choose. Tokyo Highlights and Custom Tokyo Tours typically last for about 8 hours, while the Tsukiji Fish Market and Mount Fuji Tours can last up to 11 hours. The Tokyo Night Tour is relatively shorter and lasts for about 4 hours. You can also opt for shorter tour durations based on your preferences.

3. How Many People Can Join a Private Tour?

Most private tours in Tokyo cater to small groups of up to 6 people, but group size can vary based on the tour company and tour type. If you’re traveling alone or in a couple, you can opt for a solo private tour, where you’ll have a dedicated guide to show you around.

4. Do Private Tours Include Transportation and Admission Fees?

Most private tours in Tokyo include transportation and admission fees for the attractions listed in the tour itinerary. However, it’s essential to confirm the inclusions and exclusions before booking the tour. Some tours may charge extra for additional services like additional attractions and meals.

5. Can I Customize the Itinerary of a Private Tour?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary of a private tour based on your interests and preferences. Some private tour companies offer pre-planned itineraries, while others allow you to create your itinerary with the help of an experienced guide.

6. How Do I Book the Best Private Tours in Tokyo?

You can book private tours in Tokyo online or through a local travel agent. Before selecting a tour, ensure that you read the reviews and ratings from past travelers, check the company’s cancellation policy, and ensure that you receive confirmation and contact details.

In conclusion, Tokyo’s private tours offer a brilliant opportunity to explore the city’s top attractions, taste the best food, and experience the culture in the company of experienced guides. A little research and planning can help you select the best private tour that caters to your interests and preferences.