Tokyo

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

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City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5.0

(601)

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!

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

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

We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

Lorie Oct 2025

She was awesome!!! We communicated prior to arrival of what we needed and she delivered exactly what we asked and then more. I cannot explain how wonderful and knowledgeable she was. Thank you so much for her!!!!

Heather Oct 2025

Incredible tour with Chisato! She’s kind, extremely knowledgeable and helped us navigate a few hours in Tokyo. Learned more about the Japanese culture and was able to see wonderful locations.

Elizabeth Oct 2025

Lauren did a great job communicating before the tour to see what we wanted to focus on. Her suggestions were perfect and we absolutely enjoyed our afternoon with her.

Michael Oct 2025

No rush, very knowledgeable about the culture and area.

Laura Sep 2025

Noah was a wonderful guide who provided us with insights that was both entertaining and educational. He went at a perfect pace and blended many elements of Japanese culture in the three-hour walking tour.

Jennifer Sep 2025

We had two great tours. One in Tokyo city with Kay and one in Kyoto with Kokoro. Kay was so accommodating as needed to start the tour a bit earlier as we were very jet lagged. He was patient with us and the kids and kept our energy levels up and we were able to see everything in the time we had. Kokoro was equally great for our Kyoto tour the following day. Very organised and knowledgeable about the history, kept the kids interested. It really felt personalised across both tours and great value. Would definitely use City Unscripted again. Thanks for a memorable experience Kay and Kokoro!

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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.