Hi, I’m Masa! I’m an English-speaking tour guide with Tokyo Free Walking Tour. Today, We led a guided tour Tokyo experience for international travelers, showcasing the beauty of Japan sightseeing in the Imperial Palace East Gardens.
About Me
I live in the suburbs of Tokyo with my wife and our dog. We have a daughter and a son, who have grown up and moved out to pursue their own lives. Born and raised in Japan, I have spent nearly 60 years here, sharing its rich history and culture through Tokyo Free Walking Tour.
On weekdays, I work for an electronics company as a salaryman—a common Japanese term for company employees. Some days, I commute an hour by train, while other days, I work remotely from home. While my corporate job supports my family, my true passion is leading guided tours in Tokyo, especially through the Imperial Palace East Gardens.
Why I Volunteer as a Tour Guide
I guide Tokyo Free Walking Tours on weekends—not for money, but for the joy of sharing Japan’s rich heritage and culture. Here’s why:
A Passion for Japanese History & Culture
Every castle, shrine, and temple in Tokyo has a unique story. Visiting these landmarks is exciting, but understanding the history behind them makes the experience truly special. As a certified national tour guide, I provide accurate and fascinating insights into Japan’s past, helping travelers appreciate its deep cultural roots.
Connecting with Travelers from Around the World
Each country has its own customs, and I love answering questions about Japan sightseeing, local traditions, and daily life in Tokyo. Whether it’s about Japanese food, family life, entertainment, work culture, or historical sites, I enjoy engaging conversations and learning from my guests’ perspectives.
Sharing Memorable Experiences in Tokyo
Spending weekends interacting with curious international travelers is an experience I truly cherish. Through guided tours in Tokyo, I help visitors explore the Imperial Palace East Gardens and other iconic locations, making their journey through Japan unforgettable.
Tour Overview: A Memorable Tokyo Experience
Today’s 2.5-hour Tokyo Free Walking Tour welcomed 37 tourists from 10 countries, guided by 18 local volunteer guides.
Tour Highlights:
Tokyo Station & Marunouchi District – The heart of modern Japan. We explored the country’s 150-year journey of modernization and Western influence, uncovering its architectural and cultural evolution.
Imperial Palace East Gardens – Once part of Edo Castle, built 400 years ago during the Shogun era. We admired castle towers, gates, stone walls, and discussed the Shogun’s family, defense systems, and traditional Japanese mindsets.
A Beautiful Japanese Garden – The weather was perfect, and the scenery breathtaking, with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, offering a serene escape in the heart of Tokyo.
Along the way, we didn’t just talk about history—we shared fun facts, travel tips, and local recommendations. I even suggested Japanese curry rice to a family with Indian roots, and they loved the idea!
Join Our Tokyo Free Walking Tour!
Our tours are not just informative—they’re interactive and fun!
Discover Japan’s fascinating past, experience its vibrant present, and engage in meaningful conversations with local guides and fellow travelers.
For more information, visit:
https://tfwt.jp/top/east-gardens-of-the-imperial-palace/ ,
https://www.facebook.com/TokyoFWT
https://www.tripadvisor.jp/ .
(posted by Masa Ito)