Tokyo

Your Perfect First Day in Tokyo: Icons, Hidden Gems & Local Tips

City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5.0 (495)

Your Perfect First Day in Tokyo: Icons, Hidden Gems & Local Tips

Begin your Tokyo journey with iconic sights, hidden gems, and expert tips from your host, making the city feel familiar from day one.

Don't forget to carry your passport with you to enjoy tax free shopping at many participating establishments!

What makes this experience special

Get to know Tokyo with a host who helps you navigate the city easily. Along the way, discover iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and essential local tips to make your experience effortless and exciting

Key highlights

Tailored introduction to Tokyo with iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures.
Gain confidence navigating Tokyo’s public transport and cultural nuances.
Explore the contrasts of the city, from vibrant Shibuya to serene Sumida Park.
Enjoy a flexible, personalized itinerary crafted to your preferences.
Connect with a knowledgeable local host for insider recommendations.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Private and personalized experience

3 hours with a host

Pick your exploration area with your host

Walking experience

What’s not included

Food and drinks

Tickets to any attractions

Transportation costs

Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Hachikō Memorial Statue, 2 Chome-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Hachikō Memorial Statue, 2 Chome-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan

Shibuya Crossing – Tokyo’s Heartbeat

Experience the buzz of Shibuya Crossing, where Tokyo’s vibrant energy pulses.

Your Perfect First Day in Tokyo: Icons, Hidden Gems & Local Tips

Feel the pulse of Tokyo at Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble. Whether you marvel at the spectacle from the second-floor observation deck of Shibuya Scramble Square or watch from street level, your host will guide you through the history and buzz of this iconic site.

Mastering Tokyo’s Public Transport

Navigate Tokyo’s complex transit like a pro with guidance from your local host.

Hop onto the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro with your host, who’ll show you the ropes of Japan’s renowned transport system. From loading your Suica card to understanding the map’s color-coded routes, you’ll gain the skills to navigate Tokyo with ease. You’ll feel like a city local.

Asakusa – Where Old Meets New

Discover Asakusa’s rich heritage through lively streets and serene temples.

Walk through Nakamise Shopping Street’s bustling stalls offering traditional snacks like ningyo-yaki before arriving at Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Learn the history of this cultural treasure, and follow your host to quieter backstreets for a glimpse into the city’s history

Sumida Park or a Secret Snack Spot

Unwind by the riverside or indulge in Tokyo’s iconic street food at hidden gems.

Recharge at Sumida Park, where you’ll soak in tranquil views of the Sumida River and the towering Tokyo Skytree. Alternatively, your host might introduce you to a hidden street food gem for a taste of fresh taiyaki or soft melonpan, showcasing Tokyo’s culinary delights away from the crowds.

Tokyo-Ready Wrap-Up

Leave prepared with local tips and recommendations for the rest of your trip.

As your adventure winds down, your host will share Tokyo tips tailored to your interests—whether you’re drawn to food hotspots, cultural sights, or hidden corners. You’ll finish with insider knowledge and personalized advice to make the most of your Tokyo journey.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

Discovering Tokyo’s Spiritual Side, One Ema at a Time!

Experiencing the Tradition of Hand Washing at a Japanese Shrine!

The World's Busiest Intersection, One Step at a Time!

Where Pop Culture, Fashion & Fun Collide!

A Shinjuku Adventure with New Friends!

A Family Adventure Through Tokyo’s Famous District!

Your Perfect First Day in Tokyo: Icons, Hidden Gems & Local Tips

First Meet, Endless Adventures Ahead!

City Lights, Big Smiles & an Unforgettable Evening!

Your Perfect First Day in Tokyo: Icons, Hidden Gems & Local Tips

Skyscrapers, Crosswalks & the Energy of the City!

Walking in the Footsteps of Tokyo’s History!

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google

recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor

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What travelers think of this experience

Judy, Mar 2025

I had a 10 hour layover at NRT and wanted to get some air and see a bit of Tokyo. Logistically, after the hour it took to go through immigration and customs and the 1.5 hour train ride into Tokyo, a 3-hour tour was the max amount of time that I had, and Lauren helped me to make the most of that! We covered about 4 miles on foot, visiting sites as divergent as the Meiji Shrine (where we saw a wedding) and the crazy Takeshita Street. With such limited time it was invaluable to have Lauren’s expert guidance not only about history and culture but also knowing which bathrooms are clean (and have soap!) and where to get a good iced coffee. This private tour was SO worth it - way better than 10 hours in Narita or trying to navigate for myself. Highly recommend especially with Lauren!

Leeann, Mar 2025

Noah made our day memorable, fun, and full of laughs. He knew all of the best spots and ensured that we enjoyed everything to the fullest!

Judy, Mar 2025

I had a 10-hour layover at NRT and wanted to get some fresh air and see a bit of Tokyo. Logistically, after the hour it took to go through immigration and customs followed by the 1.5 hour train ride into Tokyo, I didn’t have much more than 3 hours to see a bit of the city. Lauren worked with me to put together a diverse experience and we were able to pivot on the fly to accommodate my schedule. Not only was she knowledgeable about the history and culture, but she also knew all the things to see in the small area of Tokyo that we were able to cover (including where to find good coffee and clean toilets!). Honestly I can’t imagine trying to do this on my own. I highly recommend Lauren and booking a short private tour if you’re tight on time.

Olivia, Mar 2025

Kieran was so great at coming up with a personalized experience for us! He took us to areas we would never have seen as conventional tourists ! He took us to some of the most interesting places we have been to ! Thank you so much for making our trip so special

Geraldine, Mar 2025

Toshi went out of his way to show us things we were interested in and was flexible with the meeting place.

Mary, Mar 2025

She made it very easy to spend hours with a stranger in a strange city. Very good at her job.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

Can I request a specific host?

You can request a host, but since most hosts have other commitments, we can't guarantee they'll be available. However, we carefully match you with a host based on your interests and preferences, making it feel like exploring with a friend rather than a stranger.

Can I request specific places to visit?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.