Hello!
My name is Makayla. For me, being a tour guide combines two things that I enjoy: travel and connecting with people. I love meeting new people and exploring places with my clients. I offer tours both in Tokyo and its country-side that will give you an opportunity to see Japan from a new angle.

Japan has been my home for 40 years. To me my host country is a unique place of contrasts, where the traditional and modern walk hand in hand. It's a country of ancient temples and sky reaching high-rises, of tranquil gardens and busy city streets. It is my pleasure to help others experience the charm of Japan through the unique perspective of a local, who also happens to be a westerner.

I was one of the first Tokyo guides of ToursByLocals - I worked for the company until 2010. In that year I left for Santa Fe, New Mexico to pursue a degree in education. While there, I continued to work as a guide with a local tour company. Coming back to Japan, I resumed guiding foreign visitors here. My intention as a guide is to assist you have the most enjoyable and authentic Japan experience. The tours I offer are flexible and can be customized to meet your particular needs so don't hesitate to contact me with special requirements.

I am looking forward to hear from you!

- I have a Master's Degree in Science and a degree in early Childhood Education.
- I am also licensed teacher and a passionate potter

I am not a driver, and cannot offer driving tours.

Spring is the time when Japan's most beloved tree, the sakura blooms and for a brief time transforms its cities into fairytale pictures of fluffy pink clouds lining up the streets and pale pink 'snow' covering the sidewalks. It is the time for celebration and HANAMI (lit. "flower viewing"), the Japanese traditional custom of enjoying the beauty of the sakura blossoms. People have parties under the blooming trees, they eat and drink , and admire the pretty flowers. .

The sakura trees are not ordinary cherry trees - they are trees bred for their beauty, each type with a different color and shape of its blossoms. On this tour we will go to one of Tokyo's most famous parks to enjoy its beautiful walks and old sakura trees. There we will have a HANAMI party of our own with traditional sweets and green tea under the sakuras' pretty blossoms!

This is a seasonal tour available only during the sakura season - approx. March 20 to April 10. Please, contact me before booking to make sure the trees are in bloom

Hanami - Beautiful Traditional Cherry Blossom Viewing in Tokyo

Tokyo is a unique city. In a fascinating way it incorporates elements from both old and modern Japan. This tour is perfect for those who have only a short stay in the city but want to experience it as much as they can. It will take you to some of Tokyo's most attractive tourists destinations and will allow you to experience both the top notch 21 century and the traditional faces this beautiful city has.
What to see and enjoy:
- the Tsukiji Fish Market, enjoy the freshest seafood
- the high-rises of ultra modern Shiodome area
- a boat trip up the Sumida river - enjoy the views of the city as we move up river
- Asakusa and Sensoji Temple, enjoy souvenir shopping and street food
- the Imperial Palace gardens and Tokyo station area - enjoy the contrast between the traditional and modern face of the city
It is possible to substitute the visit to the Imperial Palace with a visit to Tokyo Sky Tree - if that is what you want to do please, let me know in advance so we can discuss it.

Tokyo in a Day - A First Time Visitor Tour

Tokyo is the shoppers heaven - fashion, electronics, toys, souvenirs and gadgets and trinkets you would never even imagine existed. Enjoy a day with your shopping loving guide browsing the kind of stores you prefer. And the same time exploring this beautiful city!

If your thing is trendy fashion brands then Shibuya may be the place to go. If you like electronics Akihabara and Shinjuku have many stores to browse. Once I know your preferences I will tailor the tour in a way that meets your interests the best. I will also assist you when making inquiries, choosing the right item to purchase, making payments and your other shopping needs.

Tour guide in Tokyo Makayla S.

English, Bulgarian, Japanese

Contact the Guide

Delivers tours starting at

Tours by Makayla S.

Customize your tour

Traveller reviews for private tours