Discover Ginza 2025: Exclusive Tours and Cultural Experiences in Tokyo's Premier District
Ginza is one of Tokyo's premier entertainment districts, packed with everything from world-famous fast fashion to luxury brands, department stores, and long-established specialty shops. While known as a trendsetter with new commercial facilities constantly opening, it's an area where modernity coexists with retro elements, including historic buildings like the Kabukiza theater.
Since Ginza's attractions are scattered throughout the area, it can be challenging to explore independently. Therefore, we recommend joining an efficient guided tour to cover all the key points. Here, we've carefully selected 10 tours that let you fully experience the streets of Ginza.
For those interested in experiencing Ginza's finest "top-tier sushi, wagyu beef, and tempura,"
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Japanese Cultural Spots in and Around Ginza
Did you know that Ginza and its surroundings offer numerous spots to immerse yourself in Japanese culture?
Ginza brings together various aspects of "Japanese-ness," including the Kabukiza theater where you can watch kabuki (traditional Japanese performance art), shops offering kimono rental and fitting services, restaurants serving Japanese cuisine, and historic buildings preserved from old times.
Among these, Japanese food culture is particularly popular with tourists, earning praise for its delicate dashi-based seasonings and visual presentation. As Ginza is renowned for its culinary excellence, you're sure to find the perfect establishment for your taste.
Three Bar-Hopping Tours in Ginza
Ginza is known for its bustling crowds and abundance of dining establishments, ranging from casual to high-end venues, offering almost too many choices.
Here are three bar-hopping tours to enjoy in Ginza:
Ginza: Authentic Food Tour in Tokyo
Source:Tripadvisor
This tour takes you through Ginza, Shinbashi, and Yurakucho, visiting restaurants that typical tourists might miss. The guide introduces three hidden gems that you might otherwise walk right past.
After meeting at Tokyu Plaza Ginza, you'll first try monja (a loose wheat flour batter cooked on a hot plate) and okonomiyaki (a savory pancake with various ingredients) in Ginza. Monja is particularly popular among tour participants as you get to cook it yourself on the hot plate right in front of you!
Next, you'll move to Yurakucho for yakitori, which is popular among foreign visitors. Yakitori consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken grilled on skewers, perfect for eating with one hand. Try comparing the different cuts to experience various textures and flavors!
The tour concludes in Shinbashi, where you'll sample a wide variety of sake.
You can also enjoy other popular Japanese dishes like sushi and tempura, making it perfect for those wanting to fully experience popular Japanese cuisine.
Meeting Point:
- Tour Area: Ginza
- Start Time: 18:00
Tokyo Allstar Food Tour
Source:Tripadvisor
Tokyo Allstar Food Tour offers a delightful culinary journey around Ginza where you can enjoy meals at popular restaurants while exploring the area.
The tour begins at the meeting point in front of Hankyu Men's Department Store, then heads to the drinking district under the railway tracks. Here, you'll blend in with locals while enjoying yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) at a popular Japanese restaurant, paired with drinks for a toast. The retro atmosphere of this drinking district under the tracks evokes a nostalgic Showa-era feeling, making you feel like you've stepped back in time.
In contrast to the casual drinking district, you'll next experience the celebrity-worthy Ginza area, sampling fruits and sweets. The tour concludes in Shinbashi, where you'll savor your final meal while relaxing in a casual izakaya (Japanese pub)!
With venues offering different styles, this exciting three-hour tour promises a stimulating experience. It's perfect for those who want to explore Japanese food culture from various perspectives.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Ginza
- Start time: 16:00
Ginza best authentic Izakaya hopping w/ pro-photographer
Source:Tripadvisor
Ginza best authentic Izakaya hopping w/ pro-photographer is a unique tour where you can explore popular izakayas in Ginza accompanied by both a guide and a professional photographer.
The tour visits three restaurants: one specializing in seafood, another offering wagyu (high-quality Japanese beef) BBQ, and a third serving obanzai (Kyoto home-style cuisine). You'll also visit the popular SEIKO clock tower photo spot in Ginza, where the professional photographer will capture memorable shots with the night view as your backdrop.
My personal favorite is the seafood restaurant. You can enjoy exquisite dishes made with fresh ingredients directly sourced from Tsukiji Market, along with carefully selected sake from various regions of Japan. Seafood is prepared in various ways, including sashimi, grilled dishes, and soups - work with your guide to choose the perfect menu items based on your preferences.
The guide provides in-depth information about Japanese cuisine while supporting your dining experience, making the food even more enjoyable. The small group size creates a friendly atmosphere, and the professional photos are provided free of charge, which is an attractive bonus.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Ginza
- Start time: 17:00
Two Tours to Maximize Your Enjoyment of Ginza's Finest Cuisine with Local Guides
Here are two tours that allow you to fully enjoy Ginza's highest quality cuisine with local guides. These carefully curated dining experiences will satisfy both body and soul, creating unforgettable memories!
Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza
Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza allows you to savor sushi and tempura at highly-rated restaurants, including Michelin-starred establishments in Ginza. As part of Ginza Tours 2025, you're guaranteed counter seating, enabling you to enjoy a live dining experience while watching the chef's masterful techniques!
The first stop is a sushi restaurant. The menu features a special omakase course exclusively arranged for this tour, where you can indulge in seasonal seafood. The sushi is prepared using methods that best complement each ingredient, and it's so delicious you might want to order additional pieces à la carte!
The second stop is a Michelin-starred tempura restaurant. The freshly-made tempura has such a light texture that you won't feel heavy at all - I finished all my tempura in no time, as if I hadn't just eaten sushi. The tour concludes with a stroll through Ginza's beautifully neon-lit streets.
Both establishments offer a luxurious atmosphere, promising an extravagant experience. Highly recommended for those seeking a premium dining experience.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Ginza
- Start time: 16:30
Wagyu Beef & Sake Pairing Foodie Tour in Ginza
Wagyu Beef & Sake Pairing Foodie Tour in Ginza offers all-you-can-eat wagyu beef and all-you-can-drink sake in Ginza. As a highlight of Ginza Tours 2025, this experience combines traditional and modern Japanese cuisine.
First, quench your thirst at a sake bar in Shinbashi offering unlimited sake. You can choose from over 20 different types of sake that change daily, ranging from sweet to dry, unfiltered, and slightly sparkling varieties. If you're unsure about your sake selection, don't hesitate to consult the knowledgeable guide who will surely recommend the perfect sake to match your preferences!
Next, head to an all-you-can-eat wagyu teppanyaki restaurant in Ginza. Watch as premium wagyu beef is prepared right before your eyes, making it a feast for both your eyes and palate. The finely marbled wagyu melts in your mouth - I couldn't help but smile at the first bite. The tour ends with a dessert while exploring Ginza's streets.
With unlimited drinks and wagyu, even hearty eaters will be satisfied. While in Japan, why not fully experience the nation's pride - drinking sake and eating wagyu to your heart's content?
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Ginza
- Start time: 17:00
Recommended Private Food Tours to Enjoy Leisurely with Family and Guide
Next, we'll introduce recommended private food tours that you can enjoy at your own pace with just your family and guide.
Private Tokyo Food Tour - A Journey Through Time Through Food
Source:Tripadvisor
Private Tokyo Food Tour - A Journey Through Time Through Food is a private tour where you can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine while exploring Nihonbashi, Ginza, and Akihabara. As part of the exciting new Ginza Tours 2025 program, this experience offers an authentic taste of Japan.
Starting in Nihonbashi, you'll visit century-old establishments to taste satsumaage (deep-fried fish cake), amazake (fermented rice drink), and imokenpi (sweet potato chips).
Next, in Ginza, you'll enjoy yakitori and various noodle dishes at a casual izakaya. Alcohol is served, so you can experience a pleasant buzz even during lunchtime.
While walking to Tokyo Station, you'll enjoy desserts like tamago-yaki and fruit sandwiches, followed by carefully selected sweets in Akihabara.
Throughout the tour, you'll enjoy 14 different Japanese dishes. Since these are places frequently visited by locals, it's perfect for those wanting to experience authentic local cuisine.
Meeting Point:
- Tour Area: Tokyo
- Start Time: Every 30 minutes from 11:00-14:00
Small Group Tokyo Food Tour - A Journey Through Time Through Food
Source:Tripadvisor
Small Group Tokyo Food Tour - A Journey Through Time Through Food is a small-group tour where you can enjoy a wide range of cuisine, from traditional Edo-period Japanese dishes to contemporary offerings.
The tour covers four areas:
- Nihonbashi
- Ginza
- Tokyo
- Akihabara
These four areas are famous tourist spots, mixing historical elements with cutting-edge trends, making them enjoyable just to explore.
During the tour, you'll try over 10 different foods including dashi, satsumaage, amazake, imokenpi, daifuku or dorayaki, yakitori, and soba.
Many of these foods are local favorites that you can't find in regular restaurants, so you'll likely encounter many first-time tastes. Don't worry though - these are all popular staples of Japanese cuisine, so feel free to try them! Once you taste them, you'll surely become addicted to their flavors.
This tour is recommended for those who want to challenge themselves with authentic Japanese foods.
Meeting Point:
- Tour Area: Tokyo
- Start Time: 11:30
Two recommended walking tours to enjoy shopping in Ginza
Here are two recommended walking tours where you can enjoy shopping in Ginza.
Shopper's Dream: Private Tokyo Shopping Tour in Luxury SUV
Source:Tripadvisor
Shopper's Dream: Private Tokyo Shopping Tour in a Luxury SUV is a private tour that takes you around Tokyo's shopping areas in a dedicated vehicle. A luxury SUV is provided for comfortable transportation throughout your journey.
The tour visits 8 major shopping facilities:
- GINZA SIX
- Ginza Mitsukoshi
- Tokyo Midtown
- Roppongi Hills
- Shibuya Hikarie
- Shibuya Stream
- Miyashita Park
- Kappabashi Kitchen Town
My recommendation is Kappabashi Kitchen Town. This district features shops specializing in culinary items, including exceptionally sharp knives, traditional tableware, and food samples. The streets are lined with unique items that you rarely encounter elsewhere, making window shopping alone an exciting experience. It's perfect for finding souvenirs for family and friends.
With Ginza Tours 2025 expanding its luxury services, the tour covers everything from world-famous luxury brands to specialized local shops, making time fly by quickly. This tour is highly recommended for those wanting to enjoy shopping in Japan.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Tokyo
- Start time: Flexible
Private Car Tour for Tokyo Shopping
Source:Tripadvisor
Private Car Tour for Tokyo Shopping is a private tour that takes you to famous shopping spots and local shopping centers via private vehicle.
The tour begins at Yodobashi Akiba in Akihabara, Japan's largest electronics complex. It sells various products including Japanese electronics, alcohol, and toys. You'll find many Japan-exclusive items, making it feel like a treasure hunt.
In Ginza, you can enjoy luxury shopping for high-end brands, bags, accessories, and watches. Why not treat yourself to something special to commemorate your visit to Japan?
A popular shopping spot is Daiso Ariake Garden Store. Daiso is a 100-yen shop where you can purchase stationery, kitchen items, storage solutions, and toys for daily use at around 100 yen each. The quality is surprisingly good for the price, so enjoy shopping without worrying about the cost!
As this is a private tour, you can request specific locations in advance. It's perfect for those wanting to experience shopping like a local.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Tokyo
- Start time: Flexible
Recommended Walking Tours Around Ginza and Surrounding Areas (Asakusa, Tsukiji, etc.)
Private Ginza Architecture Walking Tour is a tour where you can learn about history and culture while viewing historical and modern buildings around Ginza.
Private Ginza Architecture Walking Tour
Source:Tripadvisor
The tour visits 9 buildings:
- Ginza Main Street
- Tsukiji Honganji Temple
- Nicolas G. Hayek Center
- Toyoiwa Inari Shrine
- Ginza Maison Hermès Forum
- Mikimoto Boutique Ginza 2-chome
- Wako Ginza
- Okuno Building
My favorite is Tsukiji Honganji Temple. Unlike typical Japanese temples, it features a striking design incorporating ancient Indian and Asian Buddhist architectural styles. The temple entrance is decorated with stained glass, and the grounds feature 13 different animal statues, adding a playful touch to your sightseeing experience. The pipe organ in the main hall is impressive and a must-see.
Knowledgeable guides provide detailed explanations about building designs and cultural significance, completely changing my impression of Ginza, which I previously thought of only as a shopping district. The guides explain everything in an easy-to-understand manner, making it accessible even for those without architectural knowledge.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Ginza area
- Start times: 10:00, 13:00, 15:30
Private Tokyo Tour with a Local Guide: Tailored to Your Interests
Source:Tripadvisor
Private Tokyo Tour with a Local Guide: Tailored to Your Interests offers personalized tours based on your preferences. While primarily walking tours, you can also use public transportation or taxis upon request. If you're visiting Tokyo for the first time, you might want to request popular tourist spots, while repeat visitors might prefer discovering hidden gems known only to locals. Similar to the upcoming Ginza Tours 2025, these tours offer authentic local experiences.
I took the 2-hour course through Yanaka Ginza. In this area that captures the essence of traditional Japan, I enjoyed various street food snacks perfect for walking tours and shopping at stylish specialty stores. Despite the short duration, it was a fulfilling experience.
One of the attractive points is the variety of tour durations available: 2, 3, 4, 6, or 8 hours. Choose the time that best fits your schedule for efficient sightseeing!
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Tokyo
- Start times: 8:00, 9:00, 10:00
Explore Tokyo Your Way: 5 Hours Private Customizable Walking Tour
Source:Viator
Explore Tokyo Your Way: 5 Hours Private Customizable Walking Tour is a private tour where you can experience Japanese history, culture, and cuisine according to your preferences. Much like the anticipated Ginza Tours 2025, it offers personalized experiences.
The guide will consult with you before the tour about your interests and desired experiences, so communicate your needs clearly. Based on these requirements, the guide will create your personal tour, ensuring an efficient and fulfilling experience.
I once requested an Imperial Palace tour. During the palace walk, I received detailed explanations not found in guidebooks, gaining deep insights into Japanese imperial culture. The guide was friendly and easy to connect with, and being well-versed in Japanese culture, they taught me plenty of unknown facts about Japan within the 5-hour tour.
This tour is recommended for those who want to focus on specific spots in Tokyo and learn in-depth information.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Tokyo
- Start times: 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:30
Morning Market Adventure: Toyosu & Tsukiji with Tuna Auction
Source:Tripadvisor
Morning Market Adventure: Toyosu & Tsukiji with Tuna Auction is a tour where you can observe the market at Toyosu Market's Intermediate Wholesale Market Building, followed by shopping at the Toyosu Outer Market.
Toyosu Market is Tokyo's largest market, trading in seafood, fruits, vegetables, and various other products. The market has an observation deck where you can closely observe the vibrant market atmosphere.
What interested me most was the tuna auction. The sight of numerous large tuna lined up is impressive, and with live audio broadcasting of the bidding process, you can experience the auction's excitement firsthand. After the tour, treat yourself to sushi made with fresh seafood.
After dining, you'll move to the Tsukiji Outer Market for shopping. You can search for quintessentially Japanese souvenirs while experiencing the unique market atmosphere up close. With so many attractive items, the shopping time flies by quickly.
While the meeting time is early morning, it's a tour that offers an experience exciting enough to shake off any drowsiness. Recommended for those wanting to experience something different from typical sightseeing.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Toyosu/Tsukiji
- Start times: Hotel pickup 5:00, Market arrival 5:20
Recommended Private Car Tours Around Tokyo Including Ginza
Here are some recommended private car tours that take you around Tokyo, including Ginza. As part of the exciting Ginza Tours 2025 program, you can book these tours without worrying about weather conditions since you'll be traveling by car!
Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Source:Tripadvisor
The "Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide" offers a private tour customized to your interests, led by a nationally certified guide. It's convenient that you can specify your meeting point, whether it's at your hotel or airport.
For those who want to thoroughly explore Tokyo's landmarks, here are 19 tourist spots recommended by the guide:
- Asakusa Area
- mperial Palace
- Shinjuku Gyoen
- Tsukiji Uogashi
- Meiji Shrine
- Akihabara
- Koishikawa Korakuen
- Hamarikyu Gardens
- Tokyo National Museum
- Sensoji Temple
- Rikugien Garden
- Yoyogi Park
- Takeshita Street
- Odaiba Area
- Shibamata
- Nezu
- Shinjuku Golden Gai
- Tokyo Tower
- Gotokuji Temple
Visiting this many landmarks in one day is only possible through a private tour. While the stay at each tourist spot is brief, you can extend the viewing time at locations that interest you.
This tour is perfect for first-time Tokyo visitors who want to efficiently explore the main tourist attractions.
<Meeting point>
・Tour area: Tokyo
・Start times: Every 30 minutes from 8:00 to 15:00
Tokyo Private Driving Tour by Car or Van with Chauffeur
Source:Tripadvisor
Tokyo Private Driving Tour by Car or Van with Chauffeur is a private tour that allows you to comfortably explore Tokyo by car while avoiding the bustling crowds.
The guide recommends 7 tourist spots:
- Sensoji Temple
- Tokyo Skytree
- The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
- Tsukiji Outer Market
- Meiji Shrine
- Shibuya Crossing
- Odaiba Area
I was taken to Tsukiji Outer Market, famous for its fish market, during lunchtime. At Tsukiji Outer Market, I had a memorable experience seeing fish, vegetables, and processed foods up close, and enjoying meals made with freshly prepared ingredients. I was so captivated by the bustling market's charm that I even requested an extension of our time there.
The attractive point of this private tour is that you can customize the plan flexibly according to the situation. It's recommended for those who want to enjoy the tour at their own pace. As we look forward to Ginza Tours 2025, this flexibility becomes even more valuable for visitors.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Tokyo
- Start time: 9:00
Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day
Source:Viator
Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day is a private tour that allows you to arrange Tokyo sightseeing your way, visiting various tourist attractions.
A key point is that you can choose between a half-day or full-day tour. The full-day option allows you to efficiently visit multiple attractions or spend more time at spots that interest you. The half-day option is recommended for combining with other short tours or when you have extra time on your arrival day in Japan.
You can also choose between public transportation or a private vehicle. Using public transportation allows you to travel among locals, making the journey itself an exciting experience. A private vehicle means less waiting time and smoother access between tourist spots.
I recommend the tour using public transportation. Not only can you experience Japan's unique transportation methods, but you can also encounter street scenery that can only be appreciated on foot.
The guides are known for being cheerful and friendly, making it easy to ask questions anytime. This tour is recommended for those seeking a homely atmosphere, and it's perfect timing with Ginza Tours 2025 approaching.
Meeting point:
- Tour area: Tokyo
- Start times: 9:00 & 14:00