Private tour in Tokyo Yoko T

(7 hours) Tokyo’s most popular Asakusa and Yanaka Tour

5.0

(6) reviews

-
Hours icon 7 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 7 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Yoko T.

4.9

Guide rating

85

Reviews

Tours delivered

8 hrs

Avg. response time

Hi, I am Yoko. I've been with ToursByLocals since June 2018. I had a few years off from guiding during and a little while after Covid-19 until December 2023. So, about one and a half years, I garnered 59 five star reviews (hurray!) on ToursByLocals which I highly appreciate to all of my customers for that! And in January 2024, I am finally back to the marketplace which I missed so much! Before the pandemic battered the travel industry globally, I had many customers from around the world from ToursByLocals. I was lucky enough to have had wonderful customers and each tour was memorable and enjoyable. The Rugby World Cup 2019 held in Japan was phenomenal. I did tours almost every day and all of my customers shared their excitements with me. Let me talk about what you can expect from my tours. Art, design, craftwork, architecture, fashion, tea ceremony. . . if these keywords ring bell, I may be the right one. As a former art college student in London, England, I am still pretty keen on the arts. Architecture in particular, is one of my expertise that I've guided pretty often even during my hiatus period. Tokyo can offer some architectural gems, and it's heading to a more environmentally friendly direction such as increasing number of wooden high-rise buildings being planned. About anime or manga, though I respect sub-culture, I'm sorry I'm not the best guide, if these are your interests. Having been a tea ceremony practitioner for 15 years, it is also my passion. It is a quintessential Japanese culture that crystallizes all the art forms of our unique culture: tea, flower arrangement, painting, calligraphy, architecture, incense ceremony, traditional artisanal works. . . It can be felt with five senses; thus, I find the common aspects with architecture that also stimulate the five senses. Tea whisks, kimono, among other craftwork are important components of the tea ceremony; however, just like many traditional things, they're on the verge of extinction. But in recent years, works by craftspeople are catching attention worldwide and even Western luxury brands started to pay special attention to Italian or Japanese craftwork. As a guide, discovering and introducing these hidden Japanese treasures to my customers is one of my aspirations and missions to save our tradition. I am a pretty traditional-oriented person, but at the same time, my mindset is pretty business-oriented. This is because I've been in global businesses for long. Therefore, I welcome business travellers with whom I enjoy exchanging views about the world! Licensed tour guide-interpreter I'm not a driver but I can accompany you in your vehicle.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Yoko T.

Overview of your Tokyo tour

Asakusa is famous for Sensoji Temple with a gate that has a big red lantern. The temple's long approach has some 80 shops aligned on both sides. Asakusa is one of the rare spots of Tokyo where you can feel the atmosphere of the old Edo period. In Asakusa you can also see the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest self-standing tower in the world, stands next to Sumida River and Asahi Beer Brewery headquarters (accentuated by a gigantic golden object designed by Philippe Starck). Ueno is historical area and cultural center of Tokyo, home to a national park, museums, a zoo, and prestigious art & music universities. The National Western Art Museum is the only Le Corbusier designed building in Japan that is sole World Heritage site in Tokyo. Popular Yanaka's unrivaled attraction is the quaint atmosphere. Having survived the Great Kanto Earthquake and the 2nd World War, some pre-war era houses still remain. One of its high lights is Asakura Sculptor's Museum which houses the actual sculptor's studio.

Recent Reviews

Michelle W.United States
April 2025

This was our first tour in Tokyo. Despite the rain, the tour with Yoko was fantastic. She was responsive and flexible. We started indoors at a department store enjoying Japanese crafts and sweets. We visited and learned about the history of the Tsujiki fish market followed by Namiyoke Inari Shrine to experience a purification ritual. We enjoyed an authentic sushi lunch and had our first glimpse of the cherry blossoms (Sakura) at Ueno Park. Yoko took us through quaint neighborhoods and to hidden gems like a apanese teahouse for traditional pastries and matcha tea. We visited Asakura Museum of Sculpture and residence of Fumio Asakura, explored the Yanaka Cemetery, and traditional Japanese houses. Yoko was very friendly, easygoing, and informative, We hope to book another tour with Yoko again and would recommend her to anyone looking for a memorable experience. Arigatou gozaimasu, Yoko!

Jim E.
March 2025

Yoko was an awesome guide and her English is excellent. She was very flexible and adjusted our tour based on our needs. I wish we had her both both days we were in Tokyo. Jim

Greg M.
December 2024

Yoko gave us a really informative and enjoyable tour of Yanaka, Ueno and Asakusa. She was easy to get along with, and informative about history, architecture, art and more. The old area of Yanaka was a particuar highlight, including a visit to a small sculpture museum and some interesting local shops. We also had excellent sushi and got to visit an historic kissaten. And she was able to adapt to our particular interests by showing us the little restaurant where the main character in the movie "Perfect Days" had dinner. We got a kick out of that. The tour was a highlight of our trip to Japan.

David B.United States
March 2024

We enjoyed a splendid, informative, and exciting tour of Asakusa, Tokyo, with walks to the temple and shrine, wonderful shopping districts, a very tasty "local people" ramen restaurant, Ueno Park, the National Museum, and so much more! Yoko was so warm and knowledgeable, a fount of info about culture, local conditions, history, and fun. We would definitely do the tour again—there's so much to see and do in these neighborhoods. Thank you, Yoko, for your company on our first day in Japan.

Donal M.Australia
January 2024

Yoko delivered a great tour experience for our family - she is very knowledgeable and added a lot of local insight. She proved very good company and was very easy to get along with - would recommend Yoko highly.

Heather L.Canada
December 2023

Yoko gave my family of 4 a great, comprehensive tour. She helped us figure out our subway pass, she gave us insight to life in Tokyo. She is very knowledgeable on Japan's history and architecture. Yoko took us to an excellent noodle restaurant and old tea house. We experienced various neighbourhoods and saw where people live. The temples and parks were amazing. My two teenagers really enjoyed it. Tokyo is so clean, high tech, and orderly. The people are so polite and welcoming. Thank you.

Your Tokyo tour itinerary

With an hour lunch break (Suggestion) - Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, shopping malls and the surroundings) - Pass Ueno Park (National Museum and other museums from outside but see exhibits upon request by passing Yanaka) - Yanaka (Artsy spots, old café neighborhood, a private sculpture museum, temple and cemetery, a Tokugawa shogun's grave, casual shopping street and more) Disband * Entrances of facilities are subject to opening of the facilities. Usually, on Mondays, the National Museum and other associated museums are closed; alternatives to be discussed. The Asakura Sculptor's Museum closes on Mondays, Thursdays and Dec. 28, 2023 to Jan. 4, 2024. Note: Depends on tour time, some destinations may be skipped.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Public Transportation / Category: Subway

Public transportation use (mainly subway).

What's included
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses.
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: Asakura Museum of Sculpture
Meeting location

Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan

ByGuide: At Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center: It stands in front of the Kaminari-mon Gate. Near the entrance, there's a diorama of Asakusa; let's meet there. I will hold a sign reads "Kissaco Tour". Address: 2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku Tokyo

Other details
Tour categories
History
Architecture
Art And Culture
Shopping
Tour reference number
1263073
Languages
Japanese
English
Activity level
High

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Tokyo best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Tokyo who want to explore the city's historical and cultural highlights. It's also ideal for those interested in experiencing the atmosphere of the old Edo period and seeing iconic sites like the Sensoji Temple and Tokyo Skytree.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Tokyo be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What happens if a site is closed, crowded, or the weather changes?

What languages is this tour offered in?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 7 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 7 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
More tours in Tokyo by Yoko T.
Similar tours in Tokyo
Explore more of Tokyo
Secret Tokyo Private TourTokyo Highlight Private One-Day Tour by a chartered vanRun through Tokyo like a bullet train and see main sightseeing spotsOne-day Tokyo Tour In Your Own WayTokyo Highlights - Full Day Private TourTokyo Highlights Tour with Private CarTokyo Chartered Taxi Private TourExciting Highlights of Tokyo - 8hr Private TourHighlights of beautiful Tokyo - 7hr Private TourCultural walking tour with mix of traditional and contemporary life style in TokyoExciting Highlight Tour in the Dynamic Megalopolis of TokyoExperience old and new Tokyo Full-day - Private TourTokyo in a Nutshell: Unveiling the City's Charms in Just Half a DayTailoring Full Day Tour of Tokyo Highlights!! 6 hoursTokyo Full Day Private Tour by van Tokyo Highlight Tours with Maru Tokyo: First Day of Your Trip to JapanTokyo city tailored 8hr private tour8-Day Private Japan Experience: Tokyo, Kyoto, Mt. Fuji & DisneySeaQuick Tokyo Highlights – 5-Hours Private Car TourTokyo Half Day Private TourMt Fuji and Hakone Highlights Tour from Tokyo (with Private Car)Tokyo Full Day Private Walking Tour (7.5H)Tokyo Your Way: 5 Must-See Highlights in One DayTOKYO 6-Hour Introduction Tour6hr - Introductory Tokyo Highlights TourTokyo insider tour tailored to your interest in 6 hoursMt. Fuji & Hakone day trip by van from Tokyo - 10hr Private TourFully customized 7.0 hours Tokyo tour by experienced guide - see Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, Akihabara, YanakaLuxury Mt. Fuji Escape – Private Car Tour & Horseback Riding100% customized one day tour in Tokyo (8 hours)Half Day Tokyo After Dark Food Tour: Nakano's Nighttime FeastPrivate Family tour in Tokyo with your kids (7H)Tokyo, 6-hour-tour @ wherever up-to-you!Half Day in TOKYO - Certified National Guide Tour -Half Day Tokyo Explorer in 4 hours tailored to your interest Tokyo Highlight Private Half-day Tour by a chartered vanOne-Day Tokyo Highlights TourDiscover Tokyo: Full Day Walking TourShinjuku After Dark: Kabukichō Walking Tour / Tokyo Night Tour