If you're planning a food tour Tokyo experience in 2026, visiting an izakaya is a must. An izakaya is a traditional Japanese-style pub where locals gather to enjoy delicious food, drinks, and good company. From sizzling yakitori to crispy karaage, these casual dining spots offer an authentic taste of Tokyo's everyday food culture.

What Can You Eat at an Izakaya?

Izakayas are known for their variety of small dishes designed for sharing. Popular favorites include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), karaage (Japanese fried chicken), edamame, and sashimi. Pair these with Japanese beer, sake, or a refreshing non-alcoholic drink for a classic izakaya experience.

Izakayas and Japan's Salaryman Culture

Izakayas have long been popular gathering places for Japanese salarymen after work. Colleagues meet to unwind over shared dishes and drinks, strengthening relationships outside the office. These gatherings offer a fascinating glimpse into Japan's workplace and social culture.

Experience Izakaya Culture on Our Flavours of Tokyo Tour

One of the highlights of our Flavours of Tokyo tour is visiting an izakaya, where you can experience this beloved Japanese dining tradition firsthand. Discover local flavors, enjoy the lively atmosphere, eat like a salaryman and learn more about the customs that make Tokyo's food culture so unique.

Join our food tour Tokyo experience with a knowledgeable Tokyo tour guide and discover the authentic tastes and traditions that make Japan's capital a food lover's paradise.

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A bustling night street scene with glowing neon signs and pedestrians crossing the street in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Photo Credit: Pinterest <Hey Neon Bear>

Tokyo is a city of endless discoveries, from its iconic landmarks and historic temples to hidden neighbourhoods, local food spots, and fascinating traditions. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, exploring with a knowledgeable Tokyo guide can help you discover more of the city beyond the usual tourist attractions.

But discovering a city is about more than knowing where to go. Having a local guide helps you understand what you’re seeing, experience the culture more deeply, and uncover stories you might otherwise miss.

With a knowledgeable guide, you can explore at your own pace, discover places that match your interests, navigate the city with greater confidence, and enjoy local recommendations you may not find in a guidebook. Instead of spending hours planning every detail, you can focus on enjoying your experience.

At Hello! Tokyo Tours, our private customised tours are designed around your interests and our flavours of Tokyo takes you on a journey through time, through food! Spanning three periods of time! Whether you want to explore Tokyo’s history, discover its vibrant food culture, or see a different side of the city.

Make your Tokyo trip more than just sightseeing. Explore like a local, discover hidden gems, and create memories that stay with you long after your visit.

Ready to discover Tokyo? Let’s plan your experience!

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October is one of the best times to visit Tokyo—not only for its cooler weather and beautiful autumn atmosphere, but also for its delicious seasonal food.

Japanese cuisine celebrates eating ingredients when they are at their best. In this Tokyo Guide in October, here are some seasonal favorites to look out for.

The undisputed king of autumn seafood, Sanma - Photo credit: The Japanese Food Lab

Sweet Potatoes — Yakiimo

Warm, naturally sweet, and comforting, yakiimo (roasted sweet potato) is an autumn favorite. You’ll also find sweet potato-flavored soft serve, cakes, and other seasonal desserts.

Steamed Sweet potatoes - Yakiimo - Photo Credit: Tokyo Cheapo

Chestnuts — Kuri

October is peak season for chestnuts. Look for Mont Blanc, chestnut cakes, wagashi, and chestnut rice. Their rich, nutty flavor is perfect for autumn.

Chestnuts — Kuri - Photo credit: Guidable

Mushrooms — Kinoko

Maitake, shimeji, shiitake, and other mushrooms feature heavily in autumn dishes. Try them grilled, in hot pots, or cooked with rice.

Matsutake mushrooms being grilled over charcoal - Photo credit: FUN! JAPAN

Sanma — Pacific Saury

Sanma is one of Japan's classic autumn fish. Usually grilled and served simply with grated daikon and citrus, it’s a must-try for seafood lovers.

Grilled Sanma with citrus and shredded daikon on the side - Photo credit: Nippon.com

Persimmons — Kaki

Bright orange and naturally sweet, kaki (persimmons) are another classic autumn fruit. Enjoy them fresh or look for them in seasonal desserts.

Persimmons — Kaki - Photo Credit: Nippon.com

Matcha & Autumn Sweets

Don't forget dessert! Look for seasonal wagashi and matcha sweets featuring chestnut, sweet potato, pumpkin, and autumn fruits.

Different shapes of Wagashi - Photo credit: resobox

Taste Tokyo This Autumn

From traditional Japanese dishes to limited-time desserts, October is a wonderful month to discover how the changing season influences Tokyo's food culture.

Looking for more Tokyo things to do? Explore local neighborhoods, discover seasonal food spots, and ask a local Tokyo guide about the specialties worth trying during your visit.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to Japan, tasting seasonal food is a delicious way to experience Tokyo beyond the usual sightseeing.

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October is one of the most comfortable months to explore Tokyo. The intense summer heat begins to fade, humidity gradually decreases, and the city takes on an unmistakable autumn atmosphere. For travelers planning a Japan trip in October 2026, this means comfortable sightseeing weather, seasonal food, local festivals, cultural events, and plenty of opportunities to experience Tokyo on foot.

Here are 5 things to know before visiting Tokyo in October 2026.

Photo Credit: Get Your Guide (Hamarikyu Gardens with a touch of autumn)

1. Expect Cooler Weather, but Bring Layers

October is generally much more comfortable than Tokyo's hot and humid summer. Daytime temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing, while mornings and evenings can feel noticeably cooler.

Travel tip: Pack clothes that you can layer throughout the day. A light jacket or cardigan is useful, especially toward the end of October. An umbrella is also worth carrying, as rainy days are still possible.

Photo Credit: Real Japan Guide

2. Autumn Colors May Not Be at Their Peak Yet

If you're visiting Tokyo specifically to see autumn foliage, keep your expectations realistic. October marks the beginning of the autumn season, but many of Tokyo's famous trees and gardens may still be mostly green.

The most vibrant autumn colors in Tokyo usually appear later, particularly in November.

Travel tip: If you're visiting in early October, focus on enjoying the cooler weather, gardens, parks, and seasonal atmosphere rather than planning your entire trip around autumn leaves.

Photo Credit: Japan Guide

3. Look Out for Autumn Food

October is a great month for trying seasonal Japanese food. You'll start seeing ingredients such as sweet potatoes, chestnuts, mushrooms, persimmons, Japanese pears, and seasonal seafood appearing in restaurants, markets, cafés, and convenience stores.

You may also notice limited-time autumn desserts and drinks.

Travel tip: Don't be afraid to try seasonal specialties you haven't seen before. Japanese restaurants often change their menus according to what's in season.

4. Expect Festivals and Seasonal Events

Tokyo has plenty happening throughout October, from local festivals and cultural events to exhibitions and entertainment.

Halloween also becomes increasingly visible toward the end of the month, particularly in areas popular with younger crowds and pop-culture enthusiasts.

Travel tip: Check the event schedule for the neighborhoods you'll be visiting before your trip. Some events can affect crowds and transportation, while others can be a fun addition to your itinerary.

Photo Credit: Tokyo Cheapo

Photo Credit: Time Out

Photo Credit: Tokyo Weekender

5. Prepare for Plenty of Walking

October's comfortable weather makes it a great time to explore Tokyo on foot. However, remember that a day of sightseeing can involve a lot more walking than you might expect—especially when combining train stations, attractions, shopping streets, temples, and restaurants.

Travel tip: Wear comfortable shoes, carry a reusable water bottle, and avoid packing your daily schedule too tightly. Leaving some free time can make exploring Tokyo much more enjoyable.

Photo Credit: Tokyo Cheapo

Final Tip: Enjoy Tokyo at Your Own Pace

October is a month of transition in Tokyo. You may not see peak autumn colors throughout the city yet, but you can enjoy cooler weather, seasonal food, cultural events, and a more comfortable atmosphere for exploring without the intense summer heat.

For travelers joining Hello! Tokyo Tours or exploring independently, planning ahead while leaving room for spontaneity is one of the best ways to enjoy Tokyo in October. Check the weather, look out for seasonal events, and give yourself time to simply wander and discover the city.

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If you’re looking for a simple but delicious Japanese snack, Imo Kempi (芋けんぴ) is one to try. Made from sweet potatoes cut into thin sticks, deep-fried until crispy, and coated with a light sugar glaze, it offers a satisfying combination of crunch and sweetness.

Photo credit: shikoku-tourism.com (Japan’s Crispy Sweet Potato Snack!)

What makes Imo Kempi interesting is its connection to everyday Japanese food culture. It isn't an elaborate dessert—it’s a humble snack made from a familiar ingredient and transformed into something completely different through frying and caramelizing.

For visitors to Japan, trying snacks like Imo Kempi on a Japan Food Tour is a great way to experience the everyday side of Japanese food culture. Alongside sushi, ramen, and other famous dishes, these traditional treats offer a glimpse into the flavours and food traditions enjoyed by locals for generations.

During our Flavours of Tokyo: A Journey Through Time, guests can discover Imo Kempi alongside other Japanese favourites, experiencing the traditional flavours and everyday food culture that make Tokyo so exciting to explore!

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Tokyo is a city with something for everyone — from historic temples and peaceful gardens to vibrant neighbourhoods, incredible food, and modern Japanese culture. But with so much to see, planning your perfect day can feel overwhelming.

That’s where a private customised Tokyo tour guide can make all the difference.

Instead of following a fixed itinerary, you get a private experience designed around your interests, your pace, and the Tokyo you want to discover!

Your Tokyo Your Way

What Do You Get From a Private Customised Tour?

Why Is It One of the Best Ways to See Tokyo?

How to Book Your Private Tokyo Tour with us?

Ready to Discover Tokyo Your Way?

Your Tokyo, Your Way

One of the biggest benefits of a private customised tour is the freedom to choose what you want to experience.

Interested in Japanese history? Explore temples, shrines, and traditional neighbourhoods.

Love modern Tokyo? Discover Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Ginza, or Akihabara. A foodie? Focus your day around local food and unique neighbourhoods.

Travelling with children or older family members? Your itinerary can also be adjusted to suit your group's pace and interests.

Your tour doesn’t have to fit a standard itinerary — the itinerary fits you!

What Do You Get From a Private Customised Tour?

A Personal Tokyo Tour Guide

Your private guide does more than show you around. They can share the history, culture, traditions, and stories behind the places you visit — while answering your questions along the way.

A Flexible Itinerary

Want to spend longer somewhere you love? Prefer to skip an attraction? Interested in adding another neighbourhood?

A private tour gives you more flexibility than a fixed group tour.

A Better Use of Your Time

Tokyo is huge, and travelling between areas can take valuable time. Your guide can help organise your day so you can make the most of your time.

Whether you have four hours, six hours, or a full day, your itinerary can be planned around what matters most to you.

Local Knowledge

Guidebooks can tell you where to go. A local guide can help you understand why it matters.

Discover local customs, fascinating stories, food, neighbourhoods, and little details you might otherwise miss.

Why Is It One of the Best Ways to See Tokyo?

Tokyo can be exciting, but navigating the city's countless neighbourhoods, train lines, attractions, and restaurants can be overwhelming — especially for first-time visitors.

With a private Tokyo tour guide, you have someone to help you navigate the city while making your experience personal and enjoyable.

You don't have to spend hours planning every detail or rush from one attraction to another. Instead, you can experience Tokyo at your own pace and discover more with a local by your side.

How to Book Your Private Tokyo Tour

Ready to create your perfect Tokyo experience? Booking your private tour is easy:

1. Click “Book Tour”
Head to our website and click the Book Tour button.

2. Choose Your Date and Time
Select your preferred tour date and time and check the available options.

3. Fill Out the Booking Form
Tell us about your group, interests, and any special requests.

4. Review & Check Out
Review your tour details, complete your booking, and make your payment securely.

5. Get Ready for Tokyo!
Once your booking is confirmed, we'll take care of the details and your private Tokyo tour guide will be ready to welcome you.

Book your Private Customised Walking Tour or;

Book your Private Customised Car Tour

Whether you choose a Private Walking Tour or Private Car Tour, we're here to help you make the most of your time in Tokyo.

Ready to Discover Tokyo Your Way?

Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, a private customised tour gives you the freedom to experience Tokyo on your terms.

Contact Hello! Tokyo Tours and tell us what you'd love to see and experience. We'll help turn your ideas into a personalised day in Tokyo!

Planning your Japan adventure this September? Before you start filling your itinerary with sushi, shopping, and sightseeing, there’s one thing to check: Japan’s public holidays! If you’re joining our Tokyo Tours, knowing when the holidays fall can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.

Respect for the Aged Day – September 21

On Monday, September 21, Japan celebrates Respect for the Aged Day (Keirō no Hi), a national holiday dedicated to appreciating the older generations.

Since it falls on a Monday, many locals will enjoy a long weekend. That means you can expect popular areas, restaurants, and trains to be a little livelier than usual!

🎌 National Holiday – September 22

Here comes another day off! Tuesday, September 22 is also a national holiday because it sits between Respect for the Aged Day and the Autumnal Equinox Day.

The result? A mini holiday stretch known as Silver Week. ✨ It’s a popular time for locals to travel, explore, and spend time with family, so Tokyo may feel extra energetic.

🍂 Autumnal Equinox Day – September 23

On Wednesday, September 23, Japan celebrates Autumnal Equinox Day (Shūbun no Hi), which marks the changing of the seasons and the arrival of autumn.

For many Japanese people, it’s also a meaningful day to visit family graves and pay respects to ancestors.

With three consecutive national holidays from September 21–23, expect popular attractions and transportation to be busier. Our biggest tip? Plan ahead and book early!

🍁 Visiting Tokyo in September?

September is a lovely time to experience Tokyo as the city slowly says goodbye to summer and welcomes autumn. While the weather can still be warm and humid, the month brings a different seasonal atmosphere—and plenty of opportunities to explore!

If you're visiting during Silver Week, why not leave some of the exploring to a local? Our Tokyo walking tours are a fun way to discover Tokyo's neighborhoods, delicious food, fascinating culture, and hidden gems while enjoying the city at a relaxed pace.

Whether you're visiting during Silver Week or any other time this September, Tokyo Tours with Hello! Tokyo Tours can help you experience the city beyond the usual tourist spots. Just remember: the earlier you plan, the more time you’ll have to enjoy Tokyo! 🇯🇵✨

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September is a great month to experience Tokyo as the city begins its transition from summer to autumn. While the weather can still be hot and humid, visitors can enjoy seasonal festivals, autumn flowers, cultural events, and the first taste of fall.

Here are a few things to know before visiting Tokyo in September 2026.

Photo Credit: Pinterest (Ariel view of Tokyo with Tokyo Tower and Mt. Fuji visible)

September Can Still Be Hot

Although September marks the beginning of autumn, Tokyo can still feel like summer, especially in the first half of the month. Daytime temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F), and humidity remains high. September is also one of Tokyo's wetter months, with typhoons possible.

Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, and a compact umbrella. It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out.

Photo Credit: UME travel

Be Aware of Silver Week

September 21–23 is a holiday period in Japan. In 2026, Respect for the Aged Day falls on September 21, September 22 is a Bonus Citizen's Holiday, and Autumnal Equinox Day falls on September 23.

This can mean busier trains, attractions, and restaurants as locals take advantage of the long holiday. If you're visiting during these dates, booking popular restaurants and attractions ahead of time is recommended.

Photo Credit: Real Japan Guide

Enjoy Tokyo's September Festivals

September is packed with opportunities to experience Japanese culture.

The Nezu-jinja Shrine Annual Grand Festival is one of the month's highlights. In 2026, its special Jinkosai procession will take place on September 27. Other festivals include Fukuro Matsuri in Ikebukuro and Shinagawa Shukuba-matsuri.

For something different, Tokyo Festival 2026 brings performing arts events to venues across the city from September 1 to November 3.

Photo Credit: Tokyo Cheapo

Try Seasonal Japanese Foods

September is also when autumn flavors begin appearing throughout Tokyo. Look for seasonal favorites featuring sweet potatoes, chestnuts, Sanma (Pacific saury), and many more.

From traditional Japanese sweets to local restaurants and food markets, it's a delicious time to explore Tokyo's food scene.

Photo Credit: Tokyo Cheapo

Photo Credit: WA - SHOKU

Photo Credit: Nippon.com

Experience Tokyo with a Local

September gives you the best of both seasons — the energy of summer and the first signs of autumn.

Whether you're interested in Tokyo's food, history, culture, or hidden neighborhoods, exploring with a local guide can help you experience a side of the city you might otherwise miss.

Planning your September trip to Tokyo? Let us help you discover the city like a local!

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If you’re exploring Shinjuku and looking for unique architecture, Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower is a landmark worth adding to your Tokyo guide itinerary. Standing 204 meters tall with 50 floors, its distinctive oval shape and white lattice exterior make it one of the most recognizable buildings in Tokyo.

Photo Credit: Travel to Japan (Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower standing stall!)

What Is Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower?

Completed in 2008, Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower was designed by the renowned architectural firm Tange Associates. The building is home to three educational institutions operated by Mode Gakuen, specializing in areas such as fashion, design, and medical and technology education.

Its name comes from its cocoon-like appearance. The design represents a place where students can grow, develop their skills, and prepare for their future—just as a cocoon provides a space for transformation.

A Landmark in Shinjuku

The tower stands near Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest transportation hubs in Tokyo. Its unusual shape contrasts beautifully with the surrounding skyscrapers, making it an interesting example of Tokyo’s modern architectural landscape.

You don’t need to enter the building to appreciate it. The Cocoon Tower is best admired from the streets around Shinjuku, where you can see its full height and distinctive curved design. It also makes an excellent photography subject, especially when viewed from different angles.

Why Visit Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower?

Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower is not a conventional sightseeing attraction, but it offers a glimpse into the creative and futuristic side of Tokyo. If you enjoy architecture, photography, design, or discovering lesser-known landmarks, it is an easy and worthwhile stop during a day in Shinjuku.

Tokyo Guide Tip: Combine your visit with other nearby Shinjuku attractions and take some time to look up at the surrounding buildings. Tokyo’s skyline is full of fascinating architectural details that are easy to miss when you’re focused on the main tourist spots.

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Japan is a country where even the simplest moments can become an art form. A bowl of tea is more than just a drink—it can represent hospitality, mindfulness, beauty, and centuries of tradition.

In this Tokyo guide, discover one of the best ways to experience Japanese culture: attending a Japanese green tea ceremony.

Often called chanoyu or sado, the “way of tea” is much more than drinking matcha. From the preparation of the tea to the way the bowl is presented, every movement is carefully considered. The setting, utensils, seasonal decorations, and Japanese sweets are also part of the experience.

More Than Just Matcha

For many visitors, matcha means lattes, ice cream, or desserts. A tea ceremony offers a completely different experience.

Traditionally, matcha is whisked with hot water and served alongside wagashi, a Japanese seasonal sweet. The sweetness of the wagashi balances the tea's distinctive bitterness, making the experience both simple and memorable.

You may also learn how to receive the tea bowl, appreciate its craftsmanship, and follow some of the customs of the ceremony. Don't worry if you're unfamiliar with the etiquette—guests are guided through the experience.

Discover Japanese Hospitality

A tea ceremony is also a beautiful introduction to omotenashi, the Japanese spirit of wholehearted hospitality.

Every detail is thoughtfully prepared for the guest, from the tea utensils to the flowers and seasonal decorations. Rather than simply watching a performance, you become part of an exchange between host and guest.

The ceremony is traditionally guided by four principles: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

A Chance to Slow Down

Tokyo can be exciting, busy, and sometimes overwhelming. After exploring crowded streets, temples, shops, and train stations, a quiet tea room offers a chance to pause.

As the tea is prepared, you can focus on the small details—the sound of the whisk, the texture of the tea bowl, the aroma of the matcha, and the taste of the sweet.

It is a simple reminder to slow down and appreciate the moment.

Experience a Different Side of Japan

Many visitors come to Japan to see its famous sights, but understanding the culture behind those sights can make a trip even more meaningful.

A tea ceremony gives you a glimpse into Japan's appreciation for seasonality, craftsmanship, hospitality, and simplicity. It is a chance to experience a tradition that has been refined over centuries rather than simply observing it from the outside.

And perhaps the most beautiful part is the idea of ichigo ichie—treasuring each encounter because that exact moment will never happen again.

Photo Credit: Artelino

Add a Green Tea Ceremony to Your Tokyo Experience

Looking for a more meaningful cultural experience during your Tokyo visit? This Tokyo Guide highlights one of the most memorable Tokyo things to do: adding a traditional green tea ceremony to your itinerary. Discover the beauty of Japanese hospitality, craftsmanship, and seasonal traditions—one bowl of matcha at a time.

For a short while, you can step away from the busy city, enjoy a bowl of freshly prepared matcha, taste a seasonal Japanese sweet, and experience the thoughtful hospitality that lies at the heart of Japanese culture.

Experience Japan not only through what you see, but through what you feel.

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