Japan ought to be one of the most fascinating countries to visit. I was there for the first time not that long ago, and absolutely loved it! So much that I’m going back in one month…
Tokyo in particular is a buzzing city full of wonders to be uncovered, which is why I’ve curated this phenomenal list of 30 (!!) Tokyo tours & experiences for you to enjoy.
Whether it’s your first or tenth time in Tokyo, you’re bound to discover new gems and take part in memorable activities in the city and beyond. From sushi-making classes to Mount Fuji tours, bar hopping, and wrestling tournaments, the options are truly as varied as can be.
➥ Why should you trust me? I’ve been curating travel guides and tours for a decade, and I know how to identify high-quality excursions. I thoroughly researched each activity to ensure it offers a great experience, worthy of your time and money. Plus, I’ve done quite a few of these activities myself!
I usually use Viator and Get Your Guide to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are you in a rush? These are the top tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | 1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour |
| COOKING CLASS | Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Cooking Class |
| MT. FUJI TOUR | Mt Fuji, Hakone Lake Ashi Bullet Train Day Trip |
| BIKE TOUR | Tokyo Guided Small-Group Biking Tour |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Tokyo: 6hr Private Tour of Tokyo |
| SUMO EXPERIENCE | Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament |
| TEA CEREMONY | 90 Minute Tea Ceremony Workshop |
| NIGHT TOUR | Shibuya Night Bar Hopping |
OUR PICK: The BEST Tour for First Timers
Experience the city’s top attractions in the 1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour. This bus tour starts with a stroll through the lush gardens surrounding the Meiji Jingu Shrine. Your second stop is the historic gardens of the Imperial Palace, where you can also find Edo Castle.
Leave ancient Tokyo behind as you pass through Akihabara’s gaming paradise and Ameyoko’s bustling market, as well as the quirky Kappabashi Street where stores sell plastic food replicas that look absolutely real.
You’ll then enter the Asakusa area. On top of visiting the famous Senso-ji Temple and its iconic gate, you’ll get the chance to sit down for crispy Karaage (fried chicken) or Tofu set meals in an izakaya. You’ll also get to try some matcha drinks and sweet, and have free time to shop.
Then, ascend Tokyo Skytree with skip-the-line tickets for breathtaking views from the observatory, and cap off the day with a scenic ferry cruise under the Rainbow Bridge in Odaiba. This deluxe tour delivers Tokyo’s best, hassle-free!
➤ Why is this the best tour? This tour has it all! You’ll get to check out both the historic and modern sides of Tokyo, have a mini food tour with lunch in an izakaya and a matcha tasting, as well as see the city from different perspectives (tower and cruise). It’s a long day, but well worth it.
This tour gives you the skills and confidence to navigate the city on your own, and a deeper understanding of the significance and its landmarks and districts.
You’ll start the trip as a curious first-timer in Tokyo, and end it with a wealth of knowledge and insights about the city. Plus, it takes you to all the important attractions, so it’s also a great option for those in a rush!
Read what the reviews say:
“We had an amazing introduction to Tokyo via this tour. Levin and Ria were so helpful and provided an excellent experience all throughout the trip, whether it was information about the shrines, or making us laugh on the bus between sites. As it was our first full day in Tokyo, I can gladly say that we are far more confident in navigating the city. I highly recommend starting your trip off with a Japan panoramic tour!”
Braden_B – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A professional guide, transportation, entrance fees, a matcha drink or gelato, and lunch with a soft drink. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Customizable Private Tour of Tokyo
Unearth the city’s treasures on this customizable Tokyo: 6hr Private Tour of Tokyo with Government-Licensed Guide.
You’ll get to choose which places to visit from an extensive list. These include the Imperial Palace, the vibrant Tsukiji Fish Market, the famous Shibuya Crossing, and the culturally rich Meiji Jungy Shrine.
You’ll also have the chance to check out the electronic wonderland of Akihabara, pay a visit to Koishikawa Korakuen Garden and the Hama Rikyu Gardens. Otherwise, you could spend time at the Tokyo National Museum.
During 6 marvelous hours, you’ll be delving into Tokyo’s history and culture with your professional guide, who will be at your sole disposal.
This tour includes: A local guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off by foot, and a customizable list of activities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Explore the hidden drinking dens of Shinjuku district hassle-free with a Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku. Join a small group to visit Izakaya bars tucked away in secret alleyways that you’d never uncover solo.
Relish drinks and local dishes that will make up for dinner, all the while learning about local culture from your savvy guide. Experience the unique charm of Golden Gai, and check out a sake bar to try Japan’s number-one drink!
This tour includes: Four drinks and dishes which you’ll get to choose, photos, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tokyo Cooking Classes & Sushi Making Classes
I’ve written two dedicated posts to the best cooking classes and sushi-making classes in Tokyo if you’re looking for more options. Otherwise, you can find here below my very favorite ones.
▶️ Unlock Tokyo’s culinary delights with a Small-Group Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Tokyo Cooking Class.
Dive into a kaiseki ryouri (haute cuisine) for a hands-on class to remember, in which you’ll whip up eight dishes, highlighting Wagyu beef and Japanese flavors.
Engage with English-speaking instructors who share insider tips and secrets, and begin by mastering the art of Dashi soup stock, a local favorite.
Then, tighten your apron as you prepare vegetables and traditional seasonings to make more appetizers, a full-course lunch, and dessert. Once the work is done, sip sake and green tea as you enjoy your creations!
This tour includes: A cooking class, all ingredients and tools, and a meal with drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Discover the secrets of sushi from sea to plate in just 4 hours with this comprehensive Tsukiji Fish Market Visit with Sushi Making Experience.
Start with a tour of the colossal Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the world’s largest, where you’ll learn about the process of fishing and the nuances of seafood distribution.
Then, get hands-on with a sushi-making workshop led by a master, in which you’ll craft your own nigiri sushi and savor your creations for lunch.
This tour includes: Fish Market visit, a guide, a sushi-making class, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Mount Fuji Tours from Tokyo
▶️ Ever wondered what it’s like to be at the top of a volcano? Get ready for an unforgettable journey as you embark on this Mt Fuji, Hakone Lake Ashi Cruise Bullet Train Day Trip from Tokyo.
This is the tour I personally joined for my visit to Mt. Fuji, and I loved it! You can read more about my experience in this post about day trips to Mount Fuji.
You’ll start the day with a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, perched at 7,545 feet (2,300 meters) above sea level. Take in panoramic views, explore shrines and souvenir shops, and opt for a Japanese-style lunch or grab your own before heading to Lake Ashi in Hakone National Park.
Cruise across the serene lake, surrounded by the beauty of Mt. Fuji and Mt. Komagatake, and then ascend Mt. Komagatake on the Ropeway for breathtaking 360-degree views.
Afterward, board the bullet train back to Tokyo. This tour is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure!
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, a guide, a lake cruise, ropeway tickets, ascent to Mt. Fuji’s 5th station, and optional lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Get your gang of up to 5 people together and visit Japan’s most famous mount with a Private Full Day Sightseeing Tour to Mount Fuji and Hakone guide.
Begin with a visit to Lake Kawaguchi, offering breathtaking views of the mountain, and then make your way to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station.
There you’ll get to explore various shrines and souvenir shops before you go back down to explore Lake Ashi and go on a fantastic Pirate Cruise. The itinerary is customizable, so you’ll get to choose which activities you’d rather skip and which to include.
You can also discover Oshino Hakkai’s charming village, and climb to the iconic pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park. If time allows, explore Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nemba before returning to Tokyo.
This tour includes: Private roundtrip transportation from your hotel, a guide, and all activities (without entrance fees). ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Sumo Experiences in Tokyo
▶️ Experience the heart-pounding action of Japan’s favorite wrestling sport with a Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament Viewing Tour.
I went last year without knowing absolutely anything about sumo and still had a great time. You can read more about my experience at the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament.
Start your day exploring the Sumo Museum, where you’ll discovering centuries-old traditions and learn about the sport, and then head to Ryogoku Kokugikan for the main event.
Feel the crowd’s excitement as the wrestlers enter the ring, and watch them grapple in the sand-covered arena. Your guide adds insights, and you even get an English brochure and ranking list to make sense of what’s happening. I would have been totally lost without these explanations.
Make sure to explore the ceremonial aprons and shop for sumo goodies before you leave.
This tour includes: Entrance tickets to a Sumo tournament, a visit to the Sumo Museum, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Alternatively, go behind the scenes with a unique experience: Watch Sumo Morning Practice at Stable in Tokyo. Spend two hours at a sumo stable watching the professional fighters train, gaining an exclusive peek into Japanese tradition.
Sumo is no ordinary sport—it’s Japan’s own heavyweight specialty since the 1600s! Wrestlers live by strict rules in communal stables, and not all of them allow visitors, so it’s a rare treat to have access to one.
This tour includes: Access to a Sumo Stable during morning practice. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Food Tours in Tokyo, Japan
▶️ Explore Tokyo’s foodie scene with this Eat and Drink Like a Local: Tokyo Ueno Food Tour. Say goodbye to tourist traps and hello to hidden gems.
Your expert guide will lead the way to secret spots loved by locals, including a standing bar and a cozy tavern. Learn everything about Japanese culinary culture, sampling delicious bites along the way, including a bowl of steamy ramen and drinks.
This tour includes: A guide, food and drink tastings, and a souvenir porcelain cup. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Uncover the city’s culinary scene in 3.5 hours with this fabulous Tokyo After 5: Local Japanese Food and Drinks Experience.
Head to Yakitori Alley for mouthwatering grilled chicken skewers bathed in homemade sauce. You’ll also taste local monjayaki, a pan-fried pancake, and explore Ginza’s confectionery shops to savor Japanese sweets.
Wash down the delicacies with beverages, and enjoy the tour’s intimate setting as it only hosts groups of 8 people at a time.
This tour includes: A guide, all food tastings, two local drinks, and subway tickets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
If this isn’t what you’re looking for, make sure to check out my dedicated post about the best ramen tours in Tokyo for more options.
Tokyo Bike Tours
▶️ Explore Tokyo like a local on this super fun Tokyo Guided Small-Group Biking Tour. Cruise through Shinjuku’s skyscrapers, discover hidden shrines, and pedal to iconic spots like Meiji Jingu Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and the Imperial Palace.
Take in Tokyo’s skyline by the Rainbow Bridge, and follow your local guide through Ginza’s posh shops. You’ll end your tour at the top of the 48-story Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, catching the views over the city.
This tour includes: A bike and helmet rental, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Check out this Tokyo West-Side Cycling & Food Tour to explore the city like a local with a small group. Pedal through hidden streets and riverside paths, away from the tourist crowds as you get insider insights into Tokyo’s culture and traditions.
Relish Japanese street food snacks and a local-style lunch, and enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods of Nakano, Koenji, and Asagaya, guided by a seasoned local.
This tour includes: Bike and helmet rental, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Go Kart Tours in Tokyo
▶️ Hop into character-themed karts for a thrilling Official Street Go-Kart in Shibuya. Hit Tokyo’s hotspots as you zoom through the iconic Shibuya Crossing, where you’ll turn heads, and glide past Harajuku, the birthplace of Japanese pop fashion.
Take in Omotesando’s luxury shops and charming cafés, and enjoy photo stops at iconic locations. You’ll be joining a group of up to 6 for this guided adventure, ensuring personalized attention.
This tour includes: Kart and costume rental, insurance, a guide, and fuel surcharge. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Unearth Tokyo’s playful side on a Tokyo Go Kart: Asakusa, Skytree, and Akihabara**IDP must**. Stand out in cartoon character costumes while you cruise past Akihabara’s electric buzz and Tokyo Skytree’s towering majesty.
Zoom by Senso-ji Temple and the historic Ryogoku Kokugikan SUMO stadium. With one or two-hour options, it’s a hilarious adventure with photo memories included.
Just bring your international driving permit form, and let the fun begin!
This tour includes: Go kart rental, guide, photo shooting, costume, and Bluetooth speaker. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The Best Tokyo Walking Tours
▶️ Roam through Harajuku’s lively streets on a half-day Harajuku Kawaii Fashion & Pop-culture Tour with a local guide.
Dive into the world of Kawaii fashion as you strike poses in a Purikura photo booth. Then, wander through cultural landmarks like Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park, trying local eats.
Enjoy a mouthwatering lunch at a charming local café (vegetarian options available) and finish your adventures exploring the upscale boutiques along Omote Sando. It’s a Harajuku adventure filled with fashion, culture, and delicious eats!
This tour includes: Snacks, lunch, tour photos, and a local guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Explore the heart of Tokyo’s historic district, with this Asakusa Cultural Walk & Matcha Making Tour. It’s a half-day experience that allows you to delve into the customs of Tokyo with a local guide.
Hop aboard a rickshaw and explore the neighborhood’s streets, enjoying stops to savor Japanese snacks along the way. Catch a glimpse of the Asakusa Shrine and the vibrant Kaminarimon, and top off the trip with a tasty lesson in making okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
You’ll also delve into the most traditional ceremony by learning how to make matcha, Japan’s green tea. This tour is kept intimate with a maximum of seven participants.
This tour includes: A guide, transportation, lunch, snacks, and tour photos. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The BEST Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tours
▶️ Discover Asakusa, the city’s captivating blend of tradition and modernity, with this Tokyo Asakusa Rickshaw Tour. Stroll past historic streets from the Edo period and the quirky raccoon-themed Tanuki Street.
Pass by the iconic Asahi Beer Headquarters and marvel at the colorful Nitenmon Gate before exploring Shinto and Buddhist shrines.
Learn temple secrets at Honryuin Matsuchiyama Shoden and encounter the beckoning cats at Imado Shrine. Asakusa offers a delightful mix of culture, entertainment, and scenic river views.
This tour includes: A rickshaw ride and a driver. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Explore Tokyo like a pro with a Custom Hidden Gems & Highlights Tour with Local Guide. You get a say in the duration of the trip – from 2 to 8 hours – and dive into iconic spots like Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree.
Meander through Asakusa’s history, take in Yanaka’s nostalgic charm, and check out Ginza’s high-end shopping. Shinjuku’s cityscape or Shibuya’s lively crossing could be your next stop. It’s your choice!
Your host will be leading the way, ensuring you make the most of your day out in town.
This tour includes: A private, personalized tour, and a host. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Experience Tokyo’s must-see spots with ease on this customizable Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide. Say goodbye to the stress of navigating the city as your private guide takes you on a journey through Tokyo’s gems…which you’ll get to choose!
Start at the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, then soak in the electric atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing and dive into the trendy Takeshita Street in Harajuku.
Or else catch a glimpse of the Imperial Palace and unwind in the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. With no wasted time and hotel pickup/drop-off included, you’ll make the most of your Tokyo adventure!
This tour includes: A licensed tour guide, a customizable itinerary, and hotel pick-up and drop-off on foot. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Samurai & Ninja Experiences in Tokyo
▶️ Try this hands-on Tokyo: Authentic Samurai Experience and Training at a Dojo to awaken your inner warrior. Join a small group at a real dojo, where you’ll explore the art of swordsmanship in three stages: Iai, gekken, and test cutting.
Get the lowdown on samurai culture, don your training gear, and master the katana, feeling the rush as you slice through two poles with a genuine samurai sword. It’s an authentic experience, and it’s limited to just 5 participants!
This tour includes: Samurai experience, an instructor, a uniform, and both practice and real swords. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Get ready to embark on a journey into the world of the ninja with this 90-Min Shinobi Samurai Premium at Ninja Clan Dojo. You’ll get geared up in the traditional ninja gi uniform and dive headfirst into training with a professional.
Your session will cover everything from meditation and well-wishing to ancestor dedication and hands-on lessons with ninja weapons like blowguns and shuriken.
Embrace ninja philosophies, which include community and freedom, while perfecting your pose for memorable photos.
This tour includes: A ninja lesson with a professional instructor. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tokyo Night Tours
▶️ New to Tokyo and lost in translation? You won’t be after joining this super fun Shibuya Night Bar Hopping Walking Tour in Tokyo!
Let your friendly guide lead you to the best izakaya-style bars in the area, where you’ll get your fair share of drinks and local dishes as you explore the city’s nightlife with new friends.
Capture Shibuya’s iconic crossing, get insider tips on how to enjoy your stay in Tokyo, and look your best for the photos you’ll receive at the end of the tour. A vegan menu is available.
This tour includes: A local guide, bar hopping, photos, drinks, and food. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Set sail on a Tokyo escapade with a Sumida River: Japanese Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise. It will have you drifting down the Sumida River as the cityscape lights up for the night.
While taking in the passing sights, relish an authentic Japanese dinner that includes no less than 14 dishes (yes, 14! So go on an empty stomach) and free flow of drinks.
You’ll also enjoy a few stops for photos at iconic locations, including the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Skytree.
This tour includes: A Japanese-style dinner, free flow of drinks, and a cruise. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Join this Tokyo Pub Crawl for a wild night out in which you’ll hit three local bars and clubs on a Friday or Saturday night – the liveliest of the week!
Enjoy welcome shots, sweet drink discounts, and even bottle shots between bars as you bond with your fellow party-goers and play games. End early to catch the last train home or party till dawn…the night is yours!
This tour includes: Drinks, discounts, games, club entry, and photos. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tokyo Tea Ceremony & Kimono Experiences
▶️ Learn about the ancient art of Chado by taking part in this 90 Minute Tea Ceremony Workshop In The Authentic Tea Room, one of the most traditional ceremonies in Japan.
You’ll step into a tearoom with tatami mats, where you’ll master the art of making matcha tea led by an expert. Taste various teas and local Japanese treats, and learn about the etiquette of the tea ritual, from serving as a host to savoring koicha, the samurai’s matcha.
This tour includes: A tea-making class, tea ceremony, and various teas with snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Experience Tokyo’s tea traditions with a Kimono Tea Ceremony at Tokyo Maikoya, which takes place in an ancient tearoom.
Don a kimono, instantly feeling like you’ve traveled back in time. You’ll craft matcha tea the customary way, measuring and frothing according to your guide’s instructions.
It’s a unique gem in the city that grants not only a thoroughly enjoyable experience, but a chance to delve into authentic and very traditional customs.
This tour includes: Kimono costume, hairstyling, green tea making, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Anime and Gaming Tours in Tokyo
▶️ Join this Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Walking Tour for an unforgettable few hours getting to know Japanese pop culture up close.
You’ll visit a retro game store, a quirky maid café, and a photo booth as your guide spills the beans on local hotspots. The expert will also explain the unique Japanese culture, the anime fever, and the locals’ customs besides answering all your questions.
Make the most of the excursion with a free drink at the café, and fun snaps at the photo booth, besides a maids’ live performance.
This tour includes: A guide, entrance fee to the maid café, a drink, and photo booth experience. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ A fan of anime? Explore the magic of the world-beloved Japanese studio on this Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour.
During this full-day trip, you’ll pay a visit to the Ghibli Museum, the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architecture Museum, and Hotel Gajoen Tokyo led by a guide expert on the subject.
Gain anime insights on the journey to Mitaka, and dive into Ghibli’s animation world by checking out magnificent exhibits and watching a short film by director Hayao Miyazaki.
You’ll also get to wander around the historic structures at the Edo-Tokyo museum, and have lunch in a beautiful hotel with your fellow anime-lovers.
This tour includes: Entrance fees, a guide, lunch, and roundtrip transportation. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Great Day Tours from Tokyo
▶️ Get a 1-Day Kyoto Rail Tour by Bullet Train from Tokyo to spend a full day discovering an entire new city. Catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on the way, and enjoy a tasty Western lunch in a restaurant before following your guide around the sights of Kyoto.
Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha’s vibrant gates and Sanjusangendo Temple’s 1,001 statues. You’ll absorb Kyoto’s charm at Kiyomizu-dera Temple as you learn about the history and culture of the city.
This tour includes: Roundtrip bullet train ride, a guided tour of Kyoto, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
I’ve written a whole post about visiting Kyoto as a day trip where you can find more tour suggestions and a DIY alternative.
▶️ Uncover Nikko National Park, a nature lover’s paradise, on this Autumn Exclusive 1-Day Nikko World Heritage Tour from Shinjuku. Your journey starts with a comfy ride from the Keio Plaza Hotel.
First stop: Toshogu Shrine, a lavish UNESCO site with golden decor and intriguing carvings. Here, you can enjoy a tasty Japanese lunch (extra cost). Then, admire Kegon Waterfall’s natural beauty and snap perfect pics before ending your adventure with some retail therapy.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, a guide, and optional lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
