Ginza: Tours and Guided Visits

Where fashion, art, and technology come together, Ginza is a must-visit destination for the modern Tokyo traveler.

With its bustling streets and eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, galleries and more – there's something here to capture everyone’s imagination.

From vibrant eateries serving up delicious dishes from around the world to exciting nightlife hotspots that buzz into the night, Ginza is a delight for all the senses.

An urban shopping paradise, Ginza offers up a plethora of up-scale boutiques and chic cocktail lounges. The iconic Wako Honkan department store has been selling fine jewelry since the 1930s, while Ginza Place features some of the most advanced electronics on the market.

During weekends, Chuo Dori transforms into a fashionable pedestrian zone with shops line both sides. Moreover, travelers can also enjoy traditional Japanese entertainment at the renowned Kabuki-za theatre. And that's just the tip of the iceberg for this bubbling Tokyo district.

With so much to see and do, it's a no-brainer to book a Ginza tour during your stay in Tokyo.

Here's all you need to know about Ginza tour, one of the best options for sightseeing tours in Tokyo.

How do I get to Ginza?

Ginza is located in the Chuo Ward of Tokyo, right in the heart of Japan's capital city. It is bordered by Harumi Dori Avenue to the north and the Sumida River to the south, sitting just a short 15-minute walk from the Sumida River.

Public transport options include two major JR train lines at the nearby Ginza Station, as well as the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. The area is also serviced by a number of bus routes and taxi services, making it easy to reach from any part of Tokyo.

Thanks to its central, downtown location – close to the Tokyo Tower, Hamarikyu Gardens, Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station, accessing Ginza from other parts of Tokyo is extremely easy and convenient, making it an ideal destination for visitors.

What are the highlights in Ginza?

There is a huge selection of exciting things to do in Ginzo, spanning everything from shopping to dining, entertainment and sightseeing.

From the chic boutiques of Ginza Six shopping centre to the classic department stores – Wako Honkan and Matsuya Ginza – there is something here for everyone’s taste.

So, to help you focus your planning, here are some of the best picks of local sights:

Wako Honkan Department Store

This iconic department store has been selling luxury goods, jewelry, and high-end fashion since the 1930s. With an impressive selection of brands and a wide range of products, it is sure to satisfy even the most discerning shoppers.

Chuo Dori Pedestrian Street

On weekends this busy street transforms into a fashionable pedestrian area with shops lined up on either side, making it perfect for people-watching or window shopping.

Some of the most popular shops include Ginza Mitsukoshi, Barneys New York Ginza, Hakuhinkan (for toys), Ginza Itoya (for stationary) and Don Quijote (for souvenirs and duty-free).

Kabuki-za Theatre

Enjoy traditional Japanese entertainment at this renowned theatre which hosts performances by some of Japan’s best kabuki actors throughout the year.

Ginza Place

Boasting some of Tokyo’s most advanced electronics, Ginza Place features innovative technology from around the world presented in an entertaining format that appeals to visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Sumida River Cruise

Take in spectacular views while cruising down the river with stops at popular landmarks such as Asakusa and the Toyko Skytree along the way.

Tsukiji Fish Market

Tsukiji Fish Market is one of the world’s largest fish markets offering a unique experience for visitors and locals alike, this bustling market is the perfect place to pick up some fresh seafood and watch the lively auctions take place.

What are the best tours to visit Ginza?

With such a high number of things to do in Ginza, sometimes it's a great idea to call on a guide to help take you to all the best places in the area.

From highlight-reel walking tours to those with specific themes, there's plenty to choose from. The most popular options are listed below.

Walking Food Tour

Usually lasting around three hours, this is a great way to explore the best food tour in Tokyo all in one day.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll make your way to close to five food stops (cafes, restaurants, street eats and more), with just enough walking time in between each tasting to digest and work up an appetite for the next stop.

There's even dessert and a few drinks included along the way. Expect to sample Tokyo delicacies like sushi, tempura and yakitori.

Private Ginza Architecture Walking Tour

Ginza is known for its blend of old and new architecture. This private tour takes you on a three-hour journey through Ginza’s history and culture.

Experience first-hand the unique architecture of this vibrant district, with an experienced guide to explain its significance and importance in Tokyo.

There are two departure times available so it can fit anywhere in your schedule, not to mention the tour is available in English too for overseas travelers.

Tokyo Upmarket District Ginza Shopping Tour

For those looking for some retail therapy, this two-hour shopping tour is perfect. Ginza has a high concentration of high-end fashion boutiques and stores with all the latest technology.

Get personal advice and tips on where to find the best bargains, as well as insider knowledge on the latest trends and styles and how to get the best deals.

Some of the common stops on these kinds of tours include mega-department stores like Wako, the Hakuhinkan Toy Park, and little-known gems like Yurakucho Gado-shita, a collection of hidden restaurants tucked away beneath the Yamanote railway line.

How much do Ginza tours cost?

The cost of a Ginza tour starts at around US$90 but varies depending on the type of tour, the elements included, and its length.

A Ginza upmarket shopping tour will cost around US$90 per person, but don't forget to take some extra cash if you want to purchase anything during the tour.

An architecture walking tour will cost around US$120 per person, while walking food tours start at around US$140, including all of the food and drinks along the way.

Where do sightseeing tours in Ginza start?

Guided Ginza tours have slight differences between where and when they start, however, they all set out from a central Tokyo location that is accessible by public transport.

The meeting point for the tours is usually the first stop as well – so for a food tour, expect to meet at a restaurant, and for a shopping tour, expect to meet out the front of a luxury boutique!

Depending on your tour, you might meet at landmarks like the bottom of the clock tower at Ginza Wako, the JR Kinshicho station, or ing front of the Tsukiji Hongwanji temple's main gate.

When is the best time to go on a sightseeing tour in Ginza ?

Ginza is thriving year-round, so there's never a bad time to visit. Summer is usually when it's busiest, however, you'll find crowds regardless of the time of year.

As for the best time of the day to visit Ginza, it's dependent on the type of tour you plan on taking and the activities you are drawn to. For shopping tours, it's best to set out in the morning to avoid walking around in the heat of the day.

For food tours, plan them around key meal times so you have plenty of room to enjoy all the local staples.

Travel tips

• Be sure to book your tour in advance and online to secure your spot and avoid missing out.
• Bring plenty of water and comfortable shoes to make sure you're able to stay energized and hydrated for the whole walking tour.
• Leave space in your luggage for all of your new beautiful Ginzo purchases!