Stephen O.Australia
Patrick is friendly and very amiable. He has incredible historical knowledge and delivers it in a very interesting way. If you want to know more detail than your average tour may provide, Patrick is your man!
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Private tour in Tokyo Patrick L
One-Half Day High City Tokyo Tour
5.0
(8) reviews
-
5 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
5 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Patrick L.
4.9
Guide rating
124
Reviews
Tours delivered
3 hrs
Avg. response time
My initial interest in Japan was sparked by the stories told by my boss - a first generation Japanese American - at my after school part time job in Seattle, Washington. Stories of his Japanese childhood in Iwakuni, and the experiences Japanese immigrants faced when they came to the United States impacted me and I went on to earn a BA in Secondary Education and Japanese history at Western Washington University and, while there, made my first trip to Japan in 1971 as a home-stay/study-abroad student. In my nearly forty five years in Japan since those days I have witnessed first-hand Japan's rapid economic development and its real estate and stock market bubble that burst in the late 80s bringing everything to a rapid halt. Since then, Japan's two plus lost decades continue to this day. My experience includes twenty years as a salaryman in a Japanese company and a teacher of Japanese Social Studies at Nishimachi International School. Now focused on Japan, her history, culture, and society, I am passionate about providing insightful and meaningful tours that create a vivid experience for visitors to take back home. Besides providing insightful and historically oriented Tokyo tours that I am happy to customise, I introduce people to other locations in Japan like Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura, Kyoto, and up the ancient Nakasendo that linked Edo - today's Tokyo - to Kyoto for over 265 years of the Edo period. Currently I am teaching tour guiding classes as well as A Japanese History class at Temple University, Tokyo Campus. I also continue my practice of Nihon Buyo, traditional Japanese dance, that has its origins in Kabuki, and am a certified practitioner of ikebana. My stage appearances have been featured on Japanese TV and in Japanese newspapers. BA in Secondary Ed. and Japanese History, Japanese Drivers License, Certificarte of Proficiency in Sogetsu Ikebana, 35 Years in Hanayagi School of Buyo - Japanese traditional dance, Long-Term-Permanent-Resident of Japan
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Patrick L.
Essential Edo to Tokyo History Tour
Overview of your Tokyo tour
This tour is perfect for those of who want an in-depth introduction to Edo's (now Tokyo's) history and the culture of Japan in a half-day format. Focus is on history and culture and toward introducing the Japan that is invisible to the uninitiated.
Recent Reviews
Robert D.United States
This tour enriched our first visit to Tokyo (and to Japan) immeasurably. Patrick took us off the beaten path to transport us back in time to the Edo period, helping us see how Tokyo came to be the city it is today. We saw shops that had been there for hundreds of years and in one case met descendants of the original owners. His knowledge of the Edo period is extensive and he shared this information in a conversational and very interesting way. We learned so many things that enriched not only our Tokyo experience, but colored our entire trip to Japan. Patrick is a true asset to Tours by Locals and a most excellent Guide. We parted company feeling so fortunate that he had been the one to introduce us to Japan.
Tom C.United States
What a perfect and wonderful tour we had with Patrick recently! Patrick has been living in Japan for 50 years, and is a scholar in Japanese history. He sat us down when we first met and gave us an overview of the city, its origins, and the itinerary for the day. Throughout the day he imparted personal stories, shared insights into Japanese culture, and helped us fall in love with Tokyo. We could not have been happier. Thank you Patrick!
Vikki M.Australia
Patrick was excellent. He is so knowledgeable in terms of history and culture. He kept it interesting for our youngest at 16 to our oldest at 76. Be prepared for his quick walking pace at times. Thank you Patrick for a fabulous introduction to this amazing city!
Jeff G.United States
My brother and I spent an afternoon learning and exploring with Patrick. He has vast knowledge and imparted fascinating details and history. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour!
Loretta H.Australia
PAtrick was well informed and friendly. We covered a lot despite being a large group. We were able to understand so much more about the culture and history, which gave us a better insight as we enjoyed the rest of the week. Great way to start our Japanese adventure
Your Tokyo tour itinerary
• 10. 00 Meet at Nihonbashimae Station - the heart of Edo and Tokyo • Visit the zero point of Japan • Visit William Adams mansion site • Stop by shops that have been in business by the founders family 200 and 300 years ago • Visit the 1673 Mitsukoshi Department Store • Bank of Japan • Tokiwa Gate • Lost Child Stone • Tokyo Station • Edo Castle • Tour ends in Kagurazaka
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
We use the excellent mass transportation system in Tokyo
What's included
Other: Transfers (public transportation) from Nihonbashi to venues and to lunch area in Kagurazaka
Private Guide
Private Transportation
Public Transportation
What's not included
Other: Lunch and any shopping
Meeting location
Chuo City, Tokyo, 103-0022, Japan
We will meet at the Ginza Line Mitsukoshimae Station at the Mitsukoshi exit from the platform at ticket wicket
Other details
Tour categories
Art And Culture
History
Tour reference number
281358
Languages
English
JapaneseActivity level
Moderate
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Tokyo best suited for?
This private tour in Tokyo is ideal for travellers who want an in-depth introduction to the history and culture of Edo, now known as Tokyo. It's perfect for those interested in exploring the Japan that is often invisible to the uninitiated, with a focus on historical sites and cultural insights.
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 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
-
5 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
5 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a 20% deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- The remaining balance will automatically be charged to your credit card 30 days before your tour date.