Tokyo · GINZA TOURS
Good ginza tours fill up weeks ahead and the great ones go first. Below: the 4 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
In central Ginza, English-speaking instructors guide you through choosing wood, planing, sanding, and oiling your own chopsticks. Pick from 24 wood types and two lengths, then add Japanese or native-language engraving for ¥1,100 per pair. You take the finished chopsticks home the same day.
“Quite fun actually. It takes some strength to peak the wood. In the end you get a sense of achievement for making something.”
Visit Art Aquarium Museum GINZA inside Ginza Mitsukoshi for a roughly one-hour display of goldfish, colored light, music, and scent. You’ll see modern versions of Edo-period goldfish appreciation, seasonal presentations, and photo-friendly aquarium art. Admission is $17, with up to two young children free per adult.
“Very pleasant. Amazing art on display. You should really go there”
Take a 2.5-hour guided go-kart ride through eastern Tokyo, from Toyosu and Ginza to Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree. You drive on public roads behind a lead van and ahead of a support van, with costumes, fuel, photos, and a safety briefing included. An approved 1949 Geneva Convention IDP is essential.
“Driving through the city, it was awesome! It was like we were celebrities, people were smiling, waving, taking our pictures and were happy to speak to us! The young & old, people walking and in vehicles. They seemed to have just as much fun seeing us driving as we did actually driving! Definitely recommend any who visits Tokyo to do this tour!”
Start near Tsukiji and walk into Ginza with a private English-speaking guide such as Yoko, Yoshi, or Taka Yamamura. See Kabukiza, Wako, Hermes, Mikimoto, Okuno Building, and small shrines while your guide adjusts the architectural and cultural talk to your interests.
“We had a wonderful time with Eriko! She is a super knowledgeable guide and a very nice person! We learnt so much about Ginza architecture from her! She also showed us all local spots for shopping and stayed longer than the planned tour time! We highly recommend her and hope to see her again during our next visit to Tokyo! Excellent tour! Aleks, Billy and Tom”
Pick a neighbourhood, a mountain or a kitchen.
