Tokyo
Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano
Local Food & Drink Tastings • 3 hours
5.0
(224)
Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano
Explore Nakano's lively backstreets and hidden izakayas on a tailored food adventure that reveals Tokyo's authentic culinary soul.
What makes this experience special
Explore Nakano’s lively backstreets and hidden izakayas on a food experience shaped around your tastes—connecting you to Tokyo’s soul, one bite at a time.
Key highlights
- Experience Tokyo’s culinary culture in an area beloved by locals, far from tourist-heavy hotspots.
- Explore Nakano’s iconic backstreets and “Sun Mall” with a local host.
- Savor 8-10 distinct dishes, from comforting oden to crispy karaage.
- Enjoy expertly paired drinks, including sake, plum wine, and draft beer.
- Uncover local secrets in family-run izakayas and yatai-style alleys.
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
Walking experience may use public transport for long distances
What’s included
Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
8-10 food & drink tastings, tailored to your dietary preferences
Flexible start times to fit your day
What’s not included
Additional food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees
Meeting point
JR Nakano Station, JR Nakano Station, 5-chōme Nakano, Nakano City, Tokyo 164-0001, JapanCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat 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 mostHere’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
JR Nakano Station, JR Nakano Station, 5-chōme Nakano, Nakano City, Tokyo 164-0001, Japan
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Late-Night Eats & New Friends!
A Night of Laughter, Sake & Unforgettable Memories!
Savoring Sushi & Sake in an Authentic Tokyo Izakaya!
The Best Nights Start in a Tiny Izakaya!
Discovering Tokyo’s Izakaya Culture!
Authentic Izakaya Dining in the Heart of the City!
Sharing Drinks, Stories & Local Favorites!
Cozy Corners, Cold Drinks & Great Company in a Hidden Izakaya!
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.
David
Oct 2025
Amazing guide!!
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David
Oct 2025
Our guide, Apy, was amazing. We had a wonderful day eating wonderful food!
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Philip
Oct 2025
Apy was a terrific guide for our first day in Tokyo, orientating us to the city, its cuisine, customs and district. She was a great conversationalist and kindly orientated us to transport/railway system. I'd recommend the experience to other Aussies coming to Japan.
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David
Oct 2025
Hiroko was fabulous, really helpful before and during our tour. Lovely evening
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Miguel
Sep 2025
Love Ayaka! she is an excellent guide!
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Eric
Sep 2025
Sheiiji was the best guide we had in Japan. We went on a food tour with him and he contacted us a week before to ask what we wanted to try. This made the day of the tour much better as he already knew what we wanted to try and had a plan for us.
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
Can my host accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences?
Yes! When you book, you’ll fill out a short questionnaire where you can note any dietary needs or preferences. Your host will plan the experience accordingly to make sure everything suits you.
Can I request specific foods or places to eat?
Absolutely. If there are dishes you’re eager to try or areas you'd like to explore, just let us know in the questionnaire. Your host will use your input to shape a personalized food journey.
Do you use fixed restaurant stops or is it flexible?
There’s no fixed route—your host will tailor the stops based on your tastes and what’s best on the day. Some places may be planned in advance, but there's room to adapt the experience as you go.
What if a restaurant or food stall is unexpectedly closed?
It’s unlikely, as our hosts usually check opening times in advance. But if a restaurant or food stall is unexpectedly closed, your host will have backup options ready and adjust the plan on the spot. The experience is flexible, so you’ll still enjoy a great selection of local spots.
How do you ensure food safety and hygiene?
All hosts are locals who know where to find safe, high-quality food. They avoid places with poor standards and focus on trusted spots they know well—so you can feel confident about every stop.
Is this a traditional tour or something different?
<p>This isn’t a typical food tour with set stops. Instead, it’s a casual, personalized food experience led by a local who knows where the best bites are—whether it’s tiny noodle joints, late-night izakayas, or tucked-away street snacks. You’ll discover local favorites, try what excites you, and enjoy a flexible route tailored to your tastes, all at your own pace.</p>
How does the personalization process work?
<p>Once you’ve booked, we’ll send you a quick questionnaire to learn more about your tastes, dietary needs, and food preferences. Your local host will then get in touch to shape a food journey that matches your tastes.</p>
Can I mix different themes (food, history, neighborhoods, culture, nightlife) in one experience?
<p>While this experience focuses on food and drink, your host can also weave in local culture, neighborhoods, or a bit of history during the experience. Just share what you're curious about in the questionnaire, and your host will tailor the route to suit your taste.</p>
Will I know the itinerary in advance, or is it spontaneous?
<p>You won’t receive a fixed list of food stops upfront—but that’s part of the charm! Your host will plan a personalized food journey based on your tastes and preferences, which you’ll discuss ahead of time. </p>
Can I adjust the plan during the tour?
<p>Yes! Your host can tweak the route based on what you’re enjoying, what you’re in the mood for, or if something catches your eye along the way.</p>
What is the duration and typical start times?
This experience includes 3 hours with a knowledgeable local host, a tailored itinerary based on your food preferences, and 8–10 tastings chosen to match your dietary needs. It’s a walking experience, though your host may suggest using public transport for longer distances.
What is included and what is not included?
This experience includes 3 hours with a knowledgeable local host, a personalized itinerary based on your food preferences, and 8–10 tastings tailored to your dietary needs. It’s a walking experience, though your host may recommend public transport for longer distances.
Not included: extra food or drinks, shopping, transport fares, or entry fees.
Where is the meeting point (and can it be changed)?
<p>The default meeting point is JR Nakano Station. You can change it up to 24 hours before your experience if it’s within 5km of the city centre. Update via the MyCU portal, or on Viator under “How to get there.” For other partners or help, call +1 (844) 909-2626 or email info@cityunscripted.com.</p>
What languages are available, and can I request a non-English host?
Our experiences are hosted in English or the local language (Japanese). If you'd prefer a host who speaks a different language, just get in touch with us when booking. While we can’t always guarantee availability, we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
<p>We offer a full refund for cancellations made at least 24 hours before your experience begins. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled start time are non-refundable. </p>
What should I bring or wear?
<p>Comfortable shoes are best, as you’ll be walking between food stops. Dress for the weather and bring a bit of cash if you'd like to try anything extra beyond the included tastings.</p>
What happens in case of bad weather?
<p>Rain won’t stop your experience—your host will adjust the route if needed, choosing cozy indoor spots or covered food areas. City Unscripted experiences are flexible by design, and your host will make sure it’s just as enjoyable, whatever the weather.</p>
Is this experience suitable for families, solo travelers, seniors, or groups?
Absolutely. Whether you're exploring solo, as a couple, or with family or friends, your host can adjust the experience to suit your group.
Are there fitness, mobility, or accessibility requirements?
<p>The tour involves walking between food stops, but it’s flexible. If you have mobility needs or would prefer a slower pace, your host can adjust the route accordingly. Just let us know when booking so we can plan the best experience for you.</p>
How far in advance should I book, and is last-minute booking possible?
<p>We suggest booking a few days in advance so your host can plan tastings around your preferences. Our system requires at least 24 hours’ notice, but if you’re booking last-minute, contact us—we’ll do our best to arrange it based on host availability</p>
Is tipping expected or optional?
<p>Tipping is completely optional and never expected. If you feel your host made your experience extra special, you’re welcome to offer a tip in any amount that feels right for you—either in cash or via their QR code.</p>
Who will be my host, and how are hosts selected and matched?
You’ll be matched with a local foodie who knows Tokyo’s food scene well. We use your responses to the booking questionnaire—like food preferences and dietary needs—to pair you with the best host. Once matched, they’ll get in touch to tailor the experience just for you.
What if I want to extend or shorten the day on the go?
If you’d like to extend your time with your host, just ask about their availability and continue your tour. Hosts can’t accept payments directly, so once the experience ends, please contact our customer service team at info@cityunscripted.com
to arrange payment. And if you prefer to finish early, that’s absolutely fine too!