Are all the guides volunteers?
Yes, we are all volunteer guides. We are well-informed, friendly and passionate local guides and always strive to offer high-quality tours, giving real insights into the Japanese culture and history. Their personal knowledge gained from living and working in the city will be beneficial to you.
Are free tours truly free?
Our tours are free of charge and there is no tipping policy. Tokyo Free Walking Tour is an independent, non-profit organization and we are all volunteers. We aren’t supported by either government or local.
Are tips necessary?
Our activities are not aimed at receiving tips. However, all of our members are constantly researching and working hard to make you happy. Some administrative costs are incurred. If you wish to show appreciation for our efforts, we gratefully accept tips.
What languages are used during the tour?
English is used 100% in every tour.
Can I book a tour for a large group?
For large group reservations of 9 or more people, please kindly contact us in advance. Based on the information you provide, we will consider arranging a tour that will meet your condition as much as possible.
Contact: tfwt-reservation@googlegroups.com
Please include the below information.
・Name of representative
・Number of members
・Family or Friends?
・Are there any children under 12 in your group? If so, how many?
・Country
Please note that the actual tour may be conducted with a group of nine or more people.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Can you accept commercial tour groups as guests?
We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept participation in the commercial tour.
Are the tours suitable for friends or family?
Most tours are for friends or family and children are allowed. When you make a reservation, it would be appreciated if you could input the total number of participants together with the number of adults and children in a bracket like 5 (2 adults & 3 kids) if you are a family.
What time do I need to arrive for my tour?
Please be at the meeting point of the tour at least 5 min(hopefully 20 min) before the departure to fill out a sign-up sheet. We usually start on time.
What is the consequence of arriving late to the meeting point?
We usually start the tour on time. If you arrive late, the tour may have already departed. Because the meeting points are sometimes complicated, please be sure to give yourselves plenty of time. Our other tours are recommended in case you miss the tour.
What should I do if I’m unable to attend the tour?
If you can’t make it, please cancel your booking as soon as possible. It’s free, and this allows other guests to take your spot. The contact details are informed after reservation.
Is it possible for me to come without making a reservation?
Yes, you can, but we recommend booking the tour. Priority is given to the people who booked the tour. Also, in some cases, we can send you an e-mail when we cancel the tour due to unpredictable circumstances such as weather conditions.
How far in advance and what is the deadline for booking a tour?
Most of the tour calendar is set two months ahead by the end of the month. You can book the tour in advance as you like. We accept your reservation one hour before the tour starts.
How long is the tour?
The tours approximately last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on each tour.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Rain or shine, even in cold weather, the tour occurs. In case of extreme conditions such as public transport stops or Special Heat Stroke Alert , we will inform you of the cancellation of the tour.
I’m a tour guide (or work for a tour company). Can I join a tour for educational purposes?
No. As a tour guide or someone working for a tour company, participation in the tour for educational purposes is not allowed.
Can the Japanese nationals join the tour?
Our tour is intended for tourists from other countries. Japanese nationals are not allowed to enter unless they are accompanied by non-Japanese guests.
Protection of private information
Your e-mail address will only be used to send for your tour confirmation. Your sign-up sheet filled out at the time of arrival will be deleted once the tour is completed.