Private tour in Tokyo Akiko K

Aizu Wakamatsu One-Day Tour from Tokyo

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Hours icon 14 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
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 14 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-4 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

Akiko K.

5.0

Guide rating

100

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Tours delivered

3 hrs

Avg. response time

*PLEASE MESSAGE ME BEFORE BOOKING to ensure your tour is customized for you! Hi there! I’m Akiko, a licensed guide based in Tokyo, currently living near Ikebukuro. I would be delighted to help you discover Japan through a local’s eyes. Having spent most of my life in Japan—growing up in the suburbs, attending university, and working in Tokyo’s dynamic office environment—I offer more than sightseeing. I provide genuine insight into everyday life, culture, and customs in Tokyo. I’m also a mother of two teenage boys, and through years of family outings, I’ve gained extensive knowledge of attractions and activities that appeal to travelers of all ages, from young children to adults. In addition to working as a professional guide, I previously served as a Tokyo Metropolitan Government volunteer guide at major train terminals, assisting visitors with navigation and travel logistics. I also had the honor of volunteering at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021 as a personal assistant to International Olympic Committee executives, an experience that strengthened my hospitality skills and attention to detail. Today, as a licensed paid guide, I lead tours across Tokyo, including: Tsukiji Fish Market, Asakusa, Harajuku, Akihabara, Yanaka, Ueno, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Shimokitazawa, Ikebukuro, the Imperial Palace area, Odaiba, and Akasaka. I also offer day trips to destinations such as Kamakura, Hakone (Mt. Fuji), Nikko, Kawagoe, and Aizu-Wakamatsu. I specialize in private, customized tours, carefully designed around each guest’s interests, pace, and travel style. I always strive to ensure that every guest feels comfortable, supported, and fully able to enjoy their time in Japan. I have experience guiding: Families and multi-generational groups Guests with autism, creating calm and sensory-friendly experiences Guests using wheelchairs, with knowledge of accessible routes and facilities I’m fluent in English, having lived in Atlanta, Georgia for three years, and having frequently visited Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where my father worked (you can watch my video by clicking on my photo). Clear communication and careful preparation are among my strengths, and I take pride in creating smooth, well-organized tours. Think of me as your friend in Tokyo — someone who can guide you to wonderful places, help you connect with local culture, and make your journey both enjoyable and meaningful. If requested and subject to availability, my teenage sons can also join tours, adding a fun and relatable element for families traveling with children. I truly enjoy planning itineraries together with my guests. Let me know your interests, and we’ll together create a tour that’s perfectly suited to you. Bring your sense of curiosity and adventure, and let’s explore Japan together. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or solo, I’m here to make your experience memorable, comfortable, and enriching. Qualifications: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English) Tokyo Volunteer Guide (English) Itinerary Control Manager I am not a driver. I can accompany you in your vehicle, or I can arrange for a separate car and driver.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Akiko K.

Overview of your Tokyo tour

*PLEASE MESSAGE ME IN ADVANCE FOR THIS TOUR! This one-day tour from Tokyo takes you deep into the rich samurai history of Aizu-Wakamatsu, with stops at iconic landmarks such as Tsuruga Castle, Aizu Bukeyashiki (Samurai Residence), and more. Departing early morning by Shinkansen, the tour includes a series of cultural and historical visits, all accessible via car. Although fast-paced, this tour offers a comprehensive dive into the traditions of the Aizu region, providing a glimpse of Japan’s fascinating feudal past, before returning to Tokyo in the evening. The tour can also be customized to end in Aizu-Wakamatsu, or to a two-day tour staying overnight in Aizu-Wakamatsu and returning to Tokyo on the following day. Personally, one day is not enough to see the entire city! This tour is particularly special to me as it is where my grandparents lived and where my father grew up. I am well-acquainted with the area and excited to share its rich history and beautiful sites with you.

Your Tokyo tour itinerary

7:10 AM: Meet at Tokyo Station 7:40 AM: Depart from Tokyo 10:31 AM: Arrive at Aizu Wakamatsu Sightseeing (choose from below) Tsuruga Castle (National Historic Site): The symbol of the Aizu region, boasting a striking five-story keep with panoramic views. Oyakuen (National Place of Scenic Beauty): A traditional Japanese garden designed by the Matsudaira clan. Aizu Bukeyashiki: A preserved samurai homes displaying traditional interiors, weapons, and armor. Nisshinkan: A historic samurai school showcasing Edo-period education and daily life. Sazaedo (National Important Cultural Property): A unique temple with a remarkable spiral staircase. Nanukamachi: A lively street with traditional Edo-era architecture and charming shops. Lunch and dinner at local eateries 6:19 PM: Depart from Aizu Wakamatsu 9:12 PM: Arrive at Tokyo The tour can be adjusted to start later or end earlier. Please message me in advance!

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: Train

Shinkansen and local train to and from Aizu-Wakamatsu (for JR pass holders, tour price will be discounted) We will rent a car within Aizu-Wakamatsu (rental fee not included in the tour price - about JPY15,000, depending on the party size and number of hours). We may use a taxi instead during the winter months. A private car from Tokyo is also available. Please inquire about prices.

What's included
Private Guide
Public Transportation
Other: If you have a JR pass, please let me know and I will deduct the ticket price.
What's not included
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: Admission to Tsuruga Castle, Oyakuen, Bukeyashiki Samurai Residence, etc.
Classes Workshop: Kyudo (Japanese archery), folk craft (akabeko) painting - optional, please request when booking
Other: We will rent and drive a car in Aizu Wakamatsu. The rental fee would depend on how many people in your party and how many hours, but will cost around JPY15,000. In the winter months, we may use a taxi instead.
Private Transportation
Meeting location

Chiyoda City, Tokyo, 100-0005, Japan

Tokyo Station (guide will provide detailed meeting point after booking) Depending on your hotel location, I may pick you up at your hotel or we may ride the Shinkansen from Omiya station.

Other details
Tour categories
History
Art And Culture
Architecture
City Highlights
Tour reference number
1387651
Languages
English
Japanese
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Tokyo best suited for?

This private tour is ideal for travellers interested in exploring the rich samurai history of Japan, particularly those who want to delve into the cultural and historical landmarks of Aizu-Wakamatsu. It's perfect for those who appreciate a fast-paced, comprehensive dive into Japan’s feudal past. The tour is also suitable for families, as it is kid-friendly, and for cruise ship passengers looking for a shore excursion.

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?

Is this private tour in Tokyo suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 14 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
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 14 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

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