13 Best Tokyo Tours: Fun and Unique Experiences in Tokyo

13 Best Tokyo Tours: Fun and Unique Experiences in Tokyo

Impatient to book some of the best tours in Tokyo? I got you covered! This guide highlights the 15 best Tokyo tours for you to dive into the local traditions and learn more about this unique city.

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the tourist hotspots. It is a city of contrast and it has something to offer for everyone. From crazy drifting in a race car to meditation before the tea ceremony and beyond.

Discover unique experiences in Tokyo with top-rated Tokyo tours. Let’s discover local traditions, fun tours, and join some hands-on experiences in Tokyo. That is the true essence of Japan and you don’t want to miss out!

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Don’t have time to read the whole article about unique experiences in Tokyo?

13 best Tokyo tours 

Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour 

best tours in Tokyo

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 3 hours | Check rates and availability

Take a deep dive into the world of Japanese seafood during this tour of the outer Tsukiji Fish Market. This market is a must-see for every foodie visiting Tokyo and doing it together with a local expert will be the highlight of your trip.

During the tour, you will be able to sample a range of sushi, sake, fresh Tuna, and Japanese omelets. Considering the prices of these products, this Tokyo tour is a great bargain. Not only do you enjoy market hopping and food, but you also get to learn more about Japanese cuisine as well.

Other things to note:

  • Walking shoes are recommended
  • Group of a maximum of 20 people

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“This was incredible! Our guide Yukishima was so personable, knowledgeable, and experienced. We sampled so many items and had a great time eating some of the best sushi!”

Japanese Calligraphy Experience with a Calligraphy Master 

unique experiences in Tokyo

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 2 hours | Check rates and availability

If you are looking for unique experiences in Tokyo, Japanese Calligraphy Experience with a Calligraphy Master should be at the top of your list. This is such a cool opportunity to learn something new and explore the traditional art of Japanese calligraphy.

Under the expert eye of a master calligrapher, you’ll practice using the tools of the trade: brushes, ink, and paper. The ambiance is peaceful in relax, so you will find your mind meditating while keeping your attention on Calligraphy. Perfect during a busy trip to Tokyo!

Other things to note:

  • The minimum age is 7 years
  • Group of a maximum of 10 people
  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“I had a wonderful time with the master. He was very patient and kind. I have a newfound love for Japanese calligraphy. I would do it again.”

Travel Tokyo with Your Own Personal Photographer 

best Tokyo tours

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 1 hour | Check rates and availability

Do you want beautiful postcards from your trip to Tokyo, but don’t have the professional equipment? Or maybe you are traveling with your partner or family and want to cherish these memories forever? Hiring a local photographer is one of the best solutions for these situations.

You can either pick your own location or ask your photographer to plan it for you as he knows the best spots. He will be there to follow you around and capture natural moments with iconic Tokyo views around. You will be able to choose your favorite photos and get them edited as well.

I am someone who has hosted photo experiences and tried it as a customer as well, so I cannot stress enough how cool it is to keep these photo memories with you.

Other things to note:

  • You will get 20 fully retouched photos (selected by you)
  • This is a private tour and only your group will participate

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“How was excellent! He was communicative before, during, and after our shoot. He has a great eye for angles and good knowledge of where to get the best pics. We liked him so much, we will be doing another session with him next week.”

Tasting ALL TYPES of Sake with seminar 

Tokyo, Japan tour

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 1.5 hours | Check rates and availability

Tasting Sake is one of the top tours in Tokyo and not only do you get to sample the flavors, you can learn more about Sake traditions and enjoy some snacks while soaking up all the knowledge from your guide.

If you are someone who doesn’t like Sake, I challenge you to join this tour, because there is a wide choice of options and with the right pairing, anyone can find their own preference. boost your sake knowledge by having a tasting session with a sake sommelier in Tokyo.

And you even get a cheat sheet at the end of the experience!

Other things to note:

  • Group of a maximum of 10 people
  • You will sample some Sake that is not available for export

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“What an amazing time!! Aki made learning sake as easy to understand as possible. He guided us through tasting 6 different styles of sake, explaining the uniqueness of each, and the process of making sake. A huge bonus is Aki’s lively personality and hearing about his world travels!”

Manga Lesson with a Professional Japanese Manga Artist in Nakano

Tokyo tours

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 2 hours | Check rates and availability

Sure, you can always join an anime walking tour, however, sitting down to learn how to draw manga is one of the unique tours in Tokyo. Especially if you are someone who grew up with manga.

You will start with a brief lesson about manga, then try out some manga production tools such as screen tones, inks, and three different types of specialized pen nibs. Once you choose your own manga-type character, the instructor will guide you with step-by-step instructions.

Students of all skill levels are welcome; the instructor will adjust their lessons to you, whether you’re a complete beginner or honing your craft. 

I believe this could be one of the reasons why you decided to visit Japan in the first place, so if that is your thing – don’t miss out!

Other things to note:

  • Infants and accompanying adults not participating are free of charge
  • This is a private tour and only your group will participate
  • You will get to keep your work as a souvenir 

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“Very helpful and fun. My son loved learning how to draw manga. He has enjoyed reading it for years and never knew how to approach doing the artwork himself. What a treat! I loved it too. Nao is extremely experienced and professional, and also patient and friendly. Thank you, Nao!“

Tsukiji Fish Market Visit with Sushi-Making Experience 

tours in Tokyo, Japan

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 4 hours | Check rates and availability

The list of the best tours in Tokyo started with a food tour at the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market. However, this tour in addition to the walking tour, offers sushi making experience. So you can learn how to make sushi and enjoy your own creation for lunch. And bring your skills with you!

Your guide will take you around the fish market and teach you some local traditions, like how fish is caught, distributed, and sold. Then you head to sushi making and learn how to prepare nigiri sushi with the help of a sushi master. Then it is time to eat.

This is one of the best hands-on experiences in Tokyo, so I highly recommend booking it in advance.

Other things to note:

  • Group of a maximum of 10 people
  • The minimum guest numbers are two. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet the requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“I never do guided tours on trips but I did this one and loved it. The tour guide was amazing and added to the experience. I felt like I was strolling at my pace through the markets but the guide would provide info along the way. The sushi experience was a blast! I learned a lot. Great place to buy food and food-related souvenirs.”

Make Japanese Traditional Sweets and Tea Ceremony at Harajuku

top tours in Tokyo

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 2 hours | Check rates and availability

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Making Japanese traditional sweets and enjoying an intimate tea ceremony at your guide’s house should be the next stop on your Tokyo itinerary.

During the experience, the guide will show you how to make a traditional Japanese sweet called Neriki. Then it is your turn to attempt the same creation, however, with the guidance of Hana, you are in great hands.

Other things to note:

  • Group of a maximum of 4 people
  • Coffee and tea are included
  • The experience is held at a private home, so this is your chance to see how Japanese live

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“Hana was an excellent and gracious host. We got to learn how to make Nerikiri and had wonderful conversations with her regarding the activity and our travel plans.”

Japanese Archery (Kyudo) Experience in Tokyo 

best rated tours in Tokyo

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 2 hours | Check rates and availability

Tokyo really has it all and Japanese archery is not an exception. You get to put on a traditional uniform and learn every aspect of Kyudo. It is one of the best local experiences in Tokyo.

You start by selecting the right bow and arrows for your height, then you get a small lecture and then it is time to draw the bow. The instructor is there to point out your mistakes and improve your skills. Then you get more time to practice and master your skills.

After the experience, you must clean up the dojo, put things away, and fold your uniform. I love that the Japanese don’t cut corners and make you do like the locals would.

Other things to note:

  • Group of a maximum of 4 people
  • The minimum age is 13 years
  • Uniform is included

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“We had a great time learning Kyudo. I will highly recommend it to any of my friends who travel to Japan in the future. This was an authentic experience that went beyond what we were hoping for! It was a rich cultural exchange that showed you the real heart of Kyudo. The instructor was exceptional!”

Itasha trip to famous car meet-up spot Daikoku Parking 

unique tours in Tokyo

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 2 to 3 hours | Check rates and availability

I know many of you think about cool cars and underground car meet-ups when coming to Tokyo. This is your chance to actually participate in one and see the famous Tokyo attractions from a racer.

During this Tokyo tour, you will see the “real” heart of the city, while neon signs pass by. The highlight of the tour is Rainbow Bridge as you approach futuristic Odaiba. And at the end of the tour, you will experience the underground world of the Japanese car culture.

Did I fuel up your need for speed? If so, don’t think twice!

Other things to note:

  • A small group of a maximum of 3 people
  • This is a private tour and only your group will participate
  • After the driver will bring you back to the starting point

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“Such a wonderful and memorable experience. Being able to ride in such a sweet ride and go to one of Japan’s most desirable car meet-up hotspots should be on everyone’s itinerary. You’re in safe hands when he’s behind the wheel, and once you get to the Daikoku parking area you’ll see all the magic happen.”

90-Min Premium Shinobi Samurai Experience in Asakusa Dojo, Tokyo

guided tours in Tokyo

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 1.5 hours | Check rates and availability

This is one of the must-do experiences in Tokyo, especially if you are passionate about the ancient arts of ninjas and want to learn more about samurai traditions. 

At first, you will start with a short meditation and watch the instructor’s performance. Then you get suited up in an authentic ‘ninja gi’ and learn the basics. Once you are ready, you actually get to try things like Shuriken throwing, samurai garb-wearing, sword practice, etc.

At the end of the experience, you will have some time to take photos and capture the memories. Or show off to your friends back at home, because not everyone gets to be a samurai or a ninja for a few hours.

Other things to note:

  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant women
  • The spectator fee is 2500 yen. Please pay upon entering the dojo
  • Group of a maximum of 12 people

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“Great experience! We learned a lot about ninjas and samurai, and the class was hands-on training and getting to use weapons in a safe environment that is appropriate for any age. The interpreter was very fluent in English and was so kind and made the experience even better for us.”

A 90 min. Tea Ceremony Workshop In The Authentic Tea Room 

Local experiences in Tokyo

Rating: 5 | Tour Length: 1.5 hours | Check rates and availability

If you are looking for relaxing local experiences in Tokyo, the tea ceremony is a great idea. This happened to be one of the most affordable experiences as well, so it is great for those who are traveling on a budget.

Learn about Chado, an ancient zen tea ceremony, with this guided experience in Tokyo. The fundamentals of this practice are more than 400 years old and link mindfulness with the spiritual tea-making process.

Immerse yourself in an authentic tearoom, equipped with tatami mats and learn to prepare a bowl of matcha tea. Sample multiple types of tea and enjoy three kinds of local Japanese confectionary, too.

Other things to note:

  • Mini skirts and tight pants are not allowed
  • Your feet must be covered, so bring a pair of socks if needed
  • Group of a maximum of 8 people

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“What an experience! Not only for the tea and all history about preparation and rituals but also for the gentle and Kind words of the owner of the tea house. One of my Best choices in Japan.”

Kart experience in Shinjuku Drive metropolitan area 

must do experiences in Tokyo

Rating: 4.5 | Tour Length: 1 to 2 hours | Check rates and availability

This Tokyo, Japan tour has been all over social media lately and it is one of the fun experiences in Tokyo that you should consider during your trip. And you even get to wear a costume as you speed around the streets of Tokyo.

You will visit some iconic places like Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku Golden Gai, Harajuku Station, Tokyo Tower, and Roppongi District and get some amazing photos from your experience to keep the memories alive. Only in Japan!

Please note! Travelers must show an International driving permit and have permission to drive on the streets of Japan. There are no exceptions and you won’t be able to join this tour if you don’t follow the rules.

Other things to note:

  • Shorter (one hour) and longer (two hours) routes are available
  • Photos of your tour will be available after at no extra cost
  • Group of a maximum of 4 people

What did guests love about this Tokyo tour?

“This is easily the best go kart tour in Tokyo. Adam took so many photos during the tour that I didn’t really need to take selfies. Tip – take sunglasses as it gets windy when you are flying around the streets. Couldn’t get the smile off my face. Thank you for an awesome tour that I’ll never forget.”

Further reading for the best Tokyo tours

Travel tips for Kyoto:

Travel tips for Osaka:

Travel tips for Tokyo:

Or read more about Kyoto | Osaka | Tokyo | Himeji | Nara | Uji | Japan

Other useful tips for visiting Japan

🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse Booking or Agoda
💃 How about fun experiences? GetYourGuide, Viator, and Klook have it all
🚗 Considering renting a car in Japan? Use Rentalcars
🚂 If you need transfers, bus or train tickets, check 12Go
🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from HeyMondo

In conclusion…

popular tours in Tokyo

This is the end of the best tours in Tokyo and I am sure you have found one (or more!) that you will join during your time in the Japanese capital. Make sure you secure your spot and book now because these top-rated tours sell out fast!

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

Pin it for later and save the best tours in Tokyo!

13 BEST TOKYO TOURS: FUN AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN TOKYO
13 BEST TOKYO TOURS: FUN AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN TOKYO

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