Tokyo tours

Things to do in Tokyo

Welcome to Tokyo, a city that effortlessly blends the ultramodern with the ancient. Picture this: neon lights illuminating bustling streets while centuries-old temples offer a quiet escape. Each district here has its own unique vibe—Shibuya pulses with energy, while Ueno Park offers a breath of tranquility. With a local guide at your side, exploring Tokyo becomes more than just sightseeing; it's an unforgettable experience. Roam through hidden alleyways, savour sushi prepared by expert chefs, and enjoy seamless access to landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree. Private tours reveal Tokyo's intricate layers of culture and innovation, tailored just for you. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Tokyo. Explore Tokyo your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Tokyo tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Tokyo for every interest, including: History tours: Trace Edo-era life in Asakusa as you cross the Sumida River, step into the Fukagawa Edo Museum’s re-created streets, and hear how the city rebuilt after fires and quakes. Add a quiet walk through the Imperial Palace East Gardens to see castle foundations. Shopping tours: Compare depachika food halls in Ginza and pick up seasonal treats, then browse kitchenware along Kappabashi or retro finds in Shimokitazawa. Your guide can also help you navigate Akihabara’s multi-storey electronics shops without the guesswork. Religious Sites tours: Visit Senso-ji’s main hall and quieter side temples at dawn, then follow tree-lined paths to Meiji Jingu for a simple purification ritual. You can also stop at Zojo-ji for a classic view of Tokyo Tower beside a historic Buddhist complex. Transit: Tokyo’s JR and subway network makes it easy to link neighbourhoods, and many areas are walkable once you’re there. If you want to cover more ground with fewer transfers, ask about a private car or a chauffeured tour. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Tokyo inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Discover the vibrant heart of Tokyo on a private walking tour, guided by a local who knows the city like the back of their hand. Explore some of the most popular neighborhoods that should definitely make it onto your itinerary. There's truly no better way to immerse yourself in a neighborhood than with someone who lives there. - Shibuya: Known for its iconic crossing, Shibuya is a bustling hub perfect for families and those keen on experiencing Tokyo’s energetic street culture. Dive into trendy shops, enjoy diverse dining options, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. - Asakusa: Step into the more traditional side of Tokyo. Ideal for cultural tourists, this area offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s past with historic temples like Senso-ji, charming streets lined with traditional shops, and the promise of meaningful connections with local culture. - Harajuku: Famous for its quirky fashion scene, Harajuku is a must-visit for those interested in youth culture and unique shopping experiences. Multi-generational groups will find joy in exploring its eclectic mix of boutiques and themed cafes. - Akihabara: The ultimate destination for tech enthusiasts and anime fans. Akihabara brims with electronics stores, themed cafes, and countless shops dedicated to the latest in pop culture. A perfect spot for families looking for a fun-filled day. - Ginza: This upscale neighborhood is perfect for those looking to indulge in luxury shopping and fine dining. With its wide avenues and stylish architecture, Ginza caters to those with a taste for the finer things in life. Day trip ideas from Tokyo From Tokyo, it’s easy to hop out to nearby cities and nature spots for day trips that add temples, seaside views, and mountain air to your time in the capital, and with flexible tours you can zero in on food, history, or scenery without changing hotels. - Nikko: For ornate shrines set in cedar forests, Nikko makes sense, since you can take in Toshogu’s carvings, the red Shinkyo Bridge, and, if time allows, Lake Chuzenji or Kegon Falls; your tour can lean into architecture and local history, or shift to short forest walks and quieter temple corners if you prefer more nature. - Hakone: Hot springs, lake views, and a good chance of seeing Mount Fuji on clear days give Hakone a relaxed feel, with options like a lakeside cruise, the open-air art park, and Owakudani’s volcanic valley; your tour can balance an onsen town stroll with art stops and scenic viewpoints at a pace that suits you. - Kamakura and Enoshima: Zen temples, the Great Buddha, and coastal paths make this an easy mix of culture and sea breeze, plus street snacks near Komachi-dori and a bamboo grove add variety; your tour can focus on temple gardens and a light hike, then wrap with beach views and the lighthouse area on Enoshima. - Yokohama: Close to Tokyo and simple by train, this port city offers bayside promenades, the Red Brick Warehouses, and a huge Chinatown for dumplings and sweets, along with city viewpoints over the harbour; your tour can weave in waterfront walks, neighbourhood history, and a tasting crawl through Chinatown. - Kawagoe: Nicknamed Little Edo, Kawagoe’s warehouse streets, the bell tower, and Candy Alley give you classic low-rise streetscapes and easy snacking, with kimono shops and sweet potato treats adding local flavour; your tour can centre on Edo-era stories, photography spots, and casual food stops in the old town core. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Tokyo most travellers miss.