Tokyo
Discover Tokyo’s Best-Kept Secrets and Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems • 3 hours
5.0
(65)
Discover Tokyo’s Best-Kept Secrets and Hidden Gems
Step beyond Tokyo’s neon buzz to uncover serene shrines, indie shops, and hidden courtyards on a journey crafted around your passions.
What makes this experience special
Step off the tourist path and uncover Tokyo’s best-kept secrets. From Shimokitazawa’s charm to Tokyo Camii’s architecture and Yoyogi Hachiman’s serenity, this is your curated flexible journey
Key highlights
- Tailored to your interests, ensuring every stop reflects your curiosity.
- Uncover Shimokitazawa’s vibrant indie backstreets and creative spirit.
- Marvel at Tokyo Camii’s Ottoman-style elegance and multicultural significance.
- Experience serenity at Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine, away from the city’s bustle.
- Wander Uehara’s quiet courtyards and artisan shops, discovering local craftsmanship.
- Pause for a coffee or a light snack at a cozy, independent café (optional).
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
Flexible start times to fit your day
What’s not included
Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees
Meeting point
Shimo-Kitazawa Station, 2-chōme-24-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, 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
Shimo-Kitazawa Station, 2-chōme-24-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan
Step into Shimokitazawa’s Indie Backstreets
Unearth Tokyo’s creative soul in Shimokitazawa’s tucked-away lanes.
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Marvel at Tokyo Camii’s Architectural Beauty
Discover Tokyo Camii, a cultural and architectural treasure.
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Find Peace at Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine
Escape to the serene Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine, nestled in a quiet neighborhood.
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Wander Uehara’s Hidden Courtyards & Artisan Shops
Explore Uehara, where local craftsmanship and tranquility blend effortlessly.
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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
New Friends & Izakaya Nights!
Lost in Tokyo’s Retro Charm!
Purifying Hands at a Shinto Shrine!
Exploring Tokyo’s Historic Heart!
Cozy Izakaya Vibes & Great Company!
Neon Dreams & Hidden Alleys!
Finding Serenity in the City!
Strolling Tokyo’s Quiet Backstreets!
An Evening of Stories & Sake in a Tiny 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.
Magno
Oct 2025
Kay is a very nice and friendly guy. He showed lot of different places!
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Angela
Oct 2025
Ack was very friendly, helpful and easygoing. He tailored the tour very well to our preferences and showed us sites we would never have experienced on our own. He was very knowledgeable and explained the traditions around temples and shrines which was very interesting. It was great to get all photos after the tour. Highly recommend.
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Mary
Jul 2025
Seiichi was exceptionally accomodating and friendly, gave us plenty of space to express our own wishes and interests for the tour and gave us a great insight into the local culture. The overall tour was a great experience. I wish every tour-going traveler a guide as good as Seiichi!
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Alan
May 2025
Kay was a phenomenal guide. His insight of the city and its unique spots and events made our tour very unique and fun. We saw live music, great shops, and a genuine conversation with locals that made us feel like we saw a glimpse of actual Japanese life. Couldn’t recommend him more!
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Michele
Mar 2025
Taka was a pleasure to be with, very considerate and he made us feel extremely comfortable as he guided us through the wonderful highlights of Tokyo. We would highly recommend Taka again. He truly made our day so special.
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Amanda
Nov 2024
He stayed on our pace and was a wonderful guide.
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
Is this a traditional tour or something different?
This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.
How does personalization work?
After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..
What makes City Unscripted different?
We don’t do generic tours. Every experience is crafted around you, ensuring a unique, personal, and authentic way to explore the city. You won’t just see the sights—you’ll connect with the people and stories that bring the city to life.
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.
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 request specific places or types of stops?
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.
What kind of stories and insights will my host share?
Each host has their own personal relationship with the city. You'll experience the city through their eyes—hearing stories about places they love, discovering hidden gems, and learning what makes their city special in a way that goes beyond a typical tour.
Will we enter attractions, or just explore from the outside?
That’s up to you! Some experiences include visits inside attractions, while others focus on the city's culture and atmosphere, which can be hard to truly experience without someone who knows the city inside out.
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.
Can my host meet me at my accommodation?
Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.