Explore Tokyo’s vibrant izakaya bar scene on a private food and drink tour led by a local expert. This immersive experience takes you to three authentic establishments in neighborhoods like Ueno, Shinbashi, or Ikebukuro. You’ll sample a variety of traditional Japanese dishes and beverages while the guide assists with menu translation and recommendations. Though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation. With a duration of 2 hours, this tour promises an authentic glimpse into the city’s captivating food and drink culture. Discover the flavors that make Tokyo’s nightlife scene truly unique.
More food tours nearby
Key Points
- Offers a 2-hour guided tour to explore the vibrant izakaya bar scene in neighborhoods like Ueno, Shinbashi, or Ikebukuro.
- Includes visiting 3 different izakaya establishments, sampling a variety of small dishes and drinks at each.
- Provides an authentic Tokyo experience led by an expert local guide who offers translation and recommendations.
- Tour is not wheelchair accessible but conveniently located near public transportation.
- Flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to book with confidence.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
This private Tokyo local food and drink tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the vibrant izakaya bar scene in neighborhoods like Ueno, Shinbashi, or Ikebukuro, led by an expert local guide.
During the 2-hour experience, guests will visit 3 different izakaya establishments, sampling a variety of small dishes and drinks at each. The tour guide will assist with menu translation and recommendations, ensuring an authentic taste of Tokyo’s nightlife culture.
With a drink and a dish included at each bar, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover hidden gems favored by locals, away from the typical tourist trail.
A minimum of 2 people is required to book, with a maximum of 5 travelers per tour.
Tour Details
The Tokyo local food and drink tour lasts for 2 hours, during which you will visit 3 different izakaya bars.
At each hotel, guests can expect to enjoy 1 drink and 1 small dish.
An expert local guide will be on hand throughout the tour to translate menus and assist with food and drink selection. This ensures an authentic experience, as the guide will lead the group to spots popular with residents rather than just travelers.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is conveniently located near public transportation.
A minimum of 2 people is required to book the tour, with a maximum group size of 5 travelers.
What to Expect
Guests can expect an authentic Tokyo experience guided by a local expert who’ll navigate the group through the izakaya bars of Ueno, Shinbashi, or Ikebukuro districts.
The tour will provide a glimpse into the local food and drink culture, visiting establishments popular with residents rather than travelers.
Along the way, the guide will translate menus and assist with selecting a variety of small dishes and drinks at the different izakaya spots.
Travelers will sample traditional Japanese bites and sip on beverages, getting a well-rounded taste of the vibrant nightlife scene.
With the expert local guidance, guests are sure to enjoy an off-the-beaten-path Tokyo adventure.
Meeting and Pickup
The tour meets at 6:00 PM at the predetermined meeting point, and the experience concludes back at the same location. This ensures a seamless and efficient start and end to the evening’s adventures.
The local guide will be there to greet the group and provide any necessary directions or instructions. Once the tour is finished, the guide will accompany the group back to the original meeting spot, making it easy for everyone to find their way.
This thoughtful planning allows participants to fully enjoy the food and drink experience without worrying about logistics. The tour’s structure provides a hassle-free way to explore Tokyo’s vibrant izakaya scene with an expert by your side.
Logistics
With a minimum of 2 people per booking and a maximum of 5 travelers per tour, this local food and drink experience ensures an intimate yet convivial group size. Participants must be at least 20 years old to join.
Public transportation is easily accessible near the meeting point, though the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly.
The tour’s logistics are designed to provide an authentic, immersive experience in Tokyo’s vibrant culinary scene. The small group size allows for personalized attention from the expert local guide, who can tailor the experience to the group’s interests and preferences.
While the tour may not be accessible for all, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s hidden izakaya bars and sample a variety of delectable local dishes and drinks.
Cancellation Policy
Full refunds are available if the tour is canceled 6 or more days in advance.
Partial refunds of 50% apply for cancellations made 2-6 days prior to the tour.
Unfortunately, no refunds are given for cancellations less than 2 days before the scheduled tour.
This flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change.
However, last-minute cancellations aren’t permitted as they can impact the guide’s schedule and availability for other guests.
Travelers are encouraged to provide as much advance notice as possible if they need to cancel their tour reservation.
Authentic Tokyo Experience
By joining this tour, travelers get to experience the authentic side of Tokyo through the guidance of a local expert. They’ll visit establishments popular with residents, venturing off the typical tourist trail to explore the vibrant izakaya bar scene in districts like Ueno, Shinbashi, or Ikebukuro. The tour provides an immersive introduction to Japan’s quintessential pub culture, where visitors can sample a variety of small dishes and drinks at multiple izakaya spots.
| What You’ll Experience | What You’ll Learn |
|---|---|
| Authentic, off-the-beaten-path establishments | Local customs and etiquette at izakaya bars |
| A curated selection of traditional Japanese dishes and drinks | Insights from an expert guide on the history and culture of Tokyo’s bar scene |
| Guidance from a knowledgeable local who can translate menus | Tips on navigating the vibrant, but sometimes overwhelming, izakaya experience |
Sample Variety of Dishes
Along With the guidance from the knowledgeable local, the tour allows visitors to sample a variety of traditional Japanese dishes and drinks at the different izakaya bars they visit.
At each of the three establishments, you will be served one signature dish and one drink, giving them the chance to experience an assortment of classic Japanese fare. The dishes could include items like yakitori, kushiyaki, or small tapas-style plates. The drinks might feature sake, beer, or other popular Japanese beverages.
With the help of the guide, guests can learn about the history and cultural significance of the food and drinks they sample, further enhancing their authentic Tokyo experience.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for the tour. Guests are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and exploring the local bars. The focus is on experiencing authentic Japanese culture, not fashion.
Can We Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, participants are typically allowed to take photos during the tour. However, it’s polite to ask the guide and other guests before taking photos in the bars and restaurants visited. Flash photography may be discouraged in certain establishments.
Are Gratuities Expected for the Guide?
Gratuities for the guide are not required, but are appreciated if you’re satisfied with the tour experience. It’s customary to tip 10-15% of the total tour cost in Japan.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the standard 2-hour tour duration. However, travelers can book additional tours or request a custom itinerary if they want to experience more of the local food and drink scene in Tokyo.
Do We Need to Know Japanese Language for the Tour?
No, knowledge of Japanese is not required for this tour. The expert local guide will translate menus and assist with food and drink selections, providing an authentic Tokyo experience for non-Japanese speakers.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchiko Private 1 Day Tour With Pick & Drop
- To Make You Want to Come to Japan Again!
- Tokyo: The Ultimate Self Guided Tour // Made by Local Guides
- Self-Guided Audio Guide Route Asakusa-Tokio-Odaiba
- Self-Drived Audio Guide Route Asakusa Ueno-Akihabara-Ginza
- Self-Drived Audio Guide Route Tokyo Contrasts Route
- Tokyo: Self Guided Trip to Nikko // Made by Local Guides
- Hakone: Self Guided Trip to Mt. Fuji // Made by Local Guides
- Tokyo: Best Restaurant Recommendations by Local Guide // PDF
- Tokyo Imaginary Experience
- Tokyo : Imperial Palace Night Running Tour
- Explore Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre Tour (English,Chinese)
- Tokyo : The Only Guide
- App Audio Guide Through the Japanese Capital Tokyo
- Akihabara: Self-Guided Tour With a Special Brochure
Recap
This private food and drink tour offers an immersive exploration of Tokyo’s vibrant izakaya bar scene.
Led by a local expert, the tour visits three authentic establishments, providing guests with a glimpse into the city’s food and drink culture.
Participants can sample a variety of traditional Japanese dishes and beverages, while the guide assists with menu translation and recommendations for an authentic experience.