Six Reasons Why Local Tours Are the Best Way to Experience Tokyo

Do you have a trip planned for Tokyo but aren’t sure where to go? Maybe you’ve already seen the highlights and want to explore more thaivten the tourist areas. Or perhaps you’re a first-time visitor who isn’t sure where to go. Either way we just have one question for you: Do you want to connect with locals, try authentic food, and see the real Tokyo underbelly? Then local tours are right for you! Here are the top six reasons why you should consider a local tour in Tokyo. After all, if you are traveling all the way to Japan, why not make sure you experience Japanese culture in a way that is authentic and fun.

A lively Tokyo city street at night, adorned with a plethora of neon signs, casting a vibrant glow on the bustling urban scene. Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric
A lively Tokyo city street at night, adorned with a plethora of neon signs, casting a vibrant glow on the bustling urban scene.
  1. No Map? No Problem!

Traveling within your home country can be daunting, with new locations, roads, and landmarks—it’s easy to get lost. Now multiply that by a million when traveling to a new country. The place is new, the language is incomprehensible, and you keep stopping every few seconds to snap pictures of the beautiful views (who can blame you?). That’s why traveling with a local guide can make your navigation all fun and no stress! A local guide can take you directly to your destinations, ensuring you don\’t waste time or energy getting lost, and allowing you to delight in sightseeing without the hassle.

A local guide knows the city like the back of their hand. They can take you directly to your destinations, ensuring you don\’t waste time or energy getting lost. Want to visit a popular shrine? They know the quickest route. Interested in local cuisine? They’ve got you covered.

Plus, with a local guide, you’ll learn the best ways to get around, whether it’s by foot, taxi, or local train. They can teach you how to use the public transport system, show you shortcuts, and even recommend the best times to visit popular spots to avoid crowds. This means more time enjoying Tokyo and less time staring at Google Maps. So, sit back, relax, and let your guide lead the way.

  1. Get The Local Lowdown
A man sitting at a Tokyo bar, holding a drink in his hand, enjoying a moment of relaxation.
A man sitting at a Tokyo bar, holding a drink in his hand, enjoying a moment of relaxation.

When traveling to popular destinations like Tokyo, it’s easy to fall into tourist traps. The worst part is that you often don\’t realize you\’re in one until it’s too late! With the guidance of a local, you not only get a frictionless experience but an authentic one too. A local tour guide knows exactly where tourists go and where they don\’t. They can show you the spots they and their friends love to visit—places that reveal the real side of Tokyo, where dishes made with care by the local community. Plus, you\’ll gain insights into each area and dish you try, turning your trip into a cultural experience filled with unforgettable moments.

Plus, you\’ll gain insights into each area and dish you try. Ever wondered about the history behind that delicious Monjayaki? Your guide will have the answers. So, forget the typical tourist trail. With a local guide, you\’ll see, taste, and experience the real Tokyo.

  1. See Secret Spots

A local guide offers more than just an authentic Tokyo experience—they provide access to hidden gems. For a tourist, it can be challenging to distinguish between a genuine hidden gem and a shop that merely appears to be off the beaten path. With a local guide, you\’ll discover places you might never find on your own.

You’ll see a side of Tokyo that most tourists miss. The local markets, the secret gardens, and the cozy restaurants where the chefs know your guide by name. These experiences create stories you\’ll share for years to come.

  1. Gain Insider Knowledge
A man standing in front of a display of food at a Tokyo fried food stand.
A man standing in front of a display of food at a Tokyo fried food stand.

The best part of having a local guide is gaining true insider knowledge. You’ll learn what locals like to do, how they spend their time, and what the real Japan is like. This insight goes beyond what any guidebook can offer, providing you with a deeper understanding of Tokyo’s culture and lifestyle. Your guide can share personal stories and historical context, making each location and experience come to life. Whether you\’re exploring the biggest entertainment district or enjoying cultural activities, a local guide ensures you have an unforgettable experience.

  1. Budget Friendly

It’s much cheaper to hire a local guide than to join a large tour company with lots of overhead and bloat. Local guides offer a more personalized and intimate experience without the hefty price tag. You’ll get more value for your money, ensuring that your trip is both enjoyable and affordable. With local tour packages and custom itineraries designed by travel experts, you can explore Tokyo without breaking the bank.

  1. Make Casual Connections
A waiter serving food to a customer at a Tokyo bar while two people engage in conversation.
A waiter serving food to a customer at a Tokyo bar while two people engage in conversation.

Last but certainly not least is the opportunity to make real connections. Language is often the biggest barrier to connecting with others, but having a local guide bridge that gap. You\’ll be able to connect not only with your guide but also with the people you meet along your journey in Tokyo. (Although we do recommend picking up a couple of Japanese words here and there to be polite.)

Imagine chatting with a local shop owner and getting to hear his life story. Or sharing a meal with a local couple whose son is around your same age, maybe you could meet? These connections can make your experience truly unforgettable. They allow you to form bonds and friendships that last long after your trip ends.

The personal connections made on these tours are invaluable. You\’ll leave with more than just memories; you’ll have friends and stories that enrich your life long after you’ve returned home.

Ready To Experience The Real Tokyo?

When traveling in Tokyo, you can go by yourself and risk missing out on the real sides of the city, or you can choose a local tour and get to know the authentic Tokyo experience. With all the benefits listed above, a local tour is the best way to explore Tokyo. With Best Experience Japan, we not only show you local spots, but we give you knowledge on all the food and drinks you have on your trip with us. So, what are you waiting for? Book your local tour today and see Tokyo like never before.

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