tokyo food tour airbnb

Ultimate Guide: Top 11 Food Tours in Tokyo for Epic Eats

by Venese | Aug 24, 2020 | Blogs , Japan Travel , Japanese food & Drinks | 0 comments

If you’re someone who lives for good eats, there’s no better way to dig into Tokyo’s local food scene than by tagging along on some food tours. These outings pair you up with local guides and fellow foodies, making for a tasty adventure through the city’s culinary hotspots.

Tokyo’s got a bunch of these tours up for grabs on sites like Airbnb Experiences, Viator, GetYourGuide, and more. But sorting through them all can feel like a bit of a foodie frenzy. Lucky for you, we’re here to dish out our favorite food tours in Tokyo, no fancy order, just good grub and good vibes!

Find out more about Japan travel here: Shopping in Japan , the best souvenirs to buy in Japan , nature in Japan , camping in Japan , overnight & day trips from Tokyo , Top museums to visit in Tokyo , Local neighbourhoods in Tokyo and beaches near Tokyo .

Table of Contents

Food Tours in Tokyo

1. arigato japan tours.

Arigato Japan Tours, a leading Culinary Tourism company in Japan, aims to create unforgettable culinary experiences for visitors.

With over 30 enticing food tours available in Japan’s top destinations including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and the vicinity of Mt. Fuji, they offer a diverse array of gastronomic adventures.

Additionally, Arigato Japan Tours provides online experiences, allowing individuals to indulge in activities like the Green Tea Experience, DIY Japan-inspired cocktail sessions, and Virtual Tokyo tours from the comfort of their homes. Each tour is expertly guided by locals who impart invaluable insights, tips, and knowledge, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Find out more about Arigato Japan Tours here !  Find Arigato Japan Tours on Instagram , Twitter , Facebook and Pinterest .

2. Magical Trip

Magical Trip is your go-to local tour company offering an array of authentic experiences across Japan.

What sets Magical Trip apart is its emphasis on local guides, allowing you to see Japan through the eyes of those who call it home! When planning your visit to Japan, don’t miss out on their popular food tours in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Sapporo. From immersive Bar Hopping Tours to tantalizing Night Food Tours, Magical Trip ensures you experience the vibrant culinary scene of Japan like a true local. So, add these must-do tours to your bucket list and get ready for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure!

Find Magical Trip here ! Find Magical Trip on Youtube , Facebook and Instagram .

3. Tokyo Ramen Tours

When you’re planning your trip to Tokyo, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer number of ramen shops (there are thousands).

Leave this to Tokyo Ramen Tours – your local Tokyo ramen experts. They will take you to only the very best, most delicious Tokyo ramen shops! 

On any ramen tour, you’ll also learn all about this savory dish, from its history to its preparation. The “Ramen Tasting Tour” is the most popular and most booked. On it, guests visit three distinct ramen shops for 6 delicious mini bowls. These tour-exclusive mini bowls are 1/4 the size of your standard ramen. They also have a Vegetarian / Vegan Ramen Tasting Tour.

Whether you’re brand new to ramen or are a seasoned ramen eater, Tokyo Ramen Tours has something for you!

Find more about Tokyo Ramen Tours here !  Find Tokyo Ramen on Youtube , Instagram and Facebook .

4. Foodies Adventure 

Foodies Adventure is all about breaking the mold and keeping things exciting! Foodie Adventure Japan serves as your local Tokyo buddy, guiding visitors through the hidden gems, quirky spots, and traditional delights of this dynamic city!

From hunting down the most colorful cotton candy to savoring finger-lickin’ street food and indulging in monster-sized ice cream cones, there’s never a dull moment.

PS: Inclusivity is their forte! Foodies Adventure warmly welcomes Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Muslim guests, ensuring that everyone gets to enjoy the delicious and authentically Japanese delights they’ve been craving! The Foodie Tours are kept intimate, catering to small and exclusive groups, guaranteeing guests the most memorable experiences and a slower, more sustainable way of exploring Tokyo’s culinary scene.

Find Foodies Adventure here ! Find Foodies Adventure on Facebook and Instagram

5. Culinary Backstreets Tokyo

Culinary Backstreets, known as the global authority on local gastronomy, offers intimate food tours in over a dozen vibrant cities worldwide. These tours veer away from the typical tourist path, delving into lesser-explored neighborhoods to uncover hidden culinary treasures and share the captivating stories of the people behind them.

In Tokyo, Culinary Backstreets’ tour presents a delectable journey that serves as a flavorful exploration of the city’s rich culinary heritage, vibrant present, and promising future.

From the bustling streets of Shibuya to the laid-back atmosphere of Kichijoji, participants embark on a culinary adventure that highlights Tokyo’s dynamic food landscape, which seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Venturing through modern depachikas, classic sushi establishments, and the workshops of traditional miso and senbei artisans, the tour showcases a diverse array of Tokyo’s culinary delights.

The experience culminates in one of Tokyo’s traditional yokocho drinking alleys, where guests can savor sake or beer alongside authentic bar snacks at an izakaya, immersing themselves in a timeless local tradition that remains as relevant today as ever before.

You can find more about Culinary Food Tours here !  Find Culinary Food Tours on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook .

6. DIG Tokyo Tours

Andy, the owner and operator of DIG Tokyo Tours, brings a laid-back Aussie vibe to the bustling streets of Tokyo. Residing in the tranquil neighborhood of Koenji with his family, Andy’s love for Japanese classic bicycle restoration, outdoor adventures, and, of course, delicious ramen and cold beer fuels his passion for uncovering the hidden gems scattered throughout Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods.

DIG Tokyo Tours specializes in immersive experiences, offering guided bike tours and street food adventures in the lesser-known districts of Nakano, Koenji, and Asagaya. Nestled just moments away from Tokyo’s iconic tourist hotspots like Shinjuku and Shibuya, DIG is dedicated to providing travelers with an authentic glimpse into the soul of Tokyo’s inner west-side communities.

Each tour curated by DIG is a blend of adventure and authenticity, tailored to showcase the unique charm of Tokyo’s offbeat neighborhoods. Whether exploring on two wheels or wandering on foot, guests can expect an unforgettable journey through Tokyo’s colorful backstreets, far from the tourist crowds, led by a knowledgeable and passionate guide like Andy.

Find out more about DIG Tokyo Tours here !  Find DIG Tokyo Tours on Instagram and Facebook ! Check out DIG Tours here: 

• Tokyo West-Side Cycling & Food Tour
• Tokyo West-Side Walking & Street Food Tour
• Tokyo West-Side Classic Road Bike Tour

7. Japan Food Trips 

In a world where travel dynamics have shifted post-pandemic, Japan Food Trips emerges as an ideal choice for delving into the rich culinary tapestry of Japan while prioritizing safety through private, small-group settings. Unlike large, impersonal tours, Japan Food Trips offers intimate experiences, bringing you face-to-face with some of Tokyo’s most innovative chefs and culinary artisans.

Stephanie Haddad, the founder and food critic behind Japan Food Trips, meticulously curates each walking food tour to cater to your specific tastes and preferences. With insider knowledge and a passion for uncovering hidden gems, Stephanie’s signature tours in Nakameguro have garnered widespread acclaim. As a local to the neighborhood, she unveils the best-kept secrets of this trendy and picturesque area, ensuring a truly immersive experience.

Beyond merely sampling delectable treats, Japan Food Trips offers a unique opportunity to delve into Japanese food culture. Whether indulging in freshly baked curry pan pastries from Tokyo’s top bakeries or savoring exclusive sake varieties, each culinary adventure promises an authentic taste of the flavors that captivate both locals and visitors alike.

Join Japan Food Trips Nakameguro Day trip for a unique food experience!  Find more about Japan Food Trips here !  Find Japan Food Trips on Instagram and Facebook  

8. Hatago Travel

A trip is lived three times: when you plan it, when you do it, and when you remember it.

Hatago Travel’s tours are not just about visiting Tokyo with a guide, but are about the experiences. They want their guests to live a unique experience that is relevant to the context of the chosen tour or designated area.

Whether it is a traditional Japanese dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant that is enriched by the explanation of kappo kaiseki and chatting with the chef, or the exploration of the Otaku district of Akihabara with explanations of Japanese subculture with entry and drink at maid cafe, their goal is to give their guests a unique memory of their experience, which gives them something to tell their friends after returning from the trip.

Tour itineraries to the most classic and touristic points of Tokyo are completed with small hidden gems. Walking in the most traditional area of ​​Tokyo is completed with a traditional cultural experience such as a tea ceremony or the personalization of one’s Maneki Neko , the most classic Japanese souvenir.

All Hatago Tours are private to guarantee customized experience and flexibility according to the guests’ needs.

Find Hatago Tours on Instagram and Facebook !

9. Ninja Food Tours 

Ninja Food Tours stands out as a locally-operated gem in Tokyo’s culinary scene, offering bespoke and immersive experiences not only in Tokyo but also in Kyoto and Osaka. Their team of knowledgeable local guides is deeply ingrained in the food and drink culture of each neighborhood, ensuring that guests uncover the hidden culinary treasures of Japan.

Both day and night tours are available with Ninja Food Tours, each meticulously curated to showcase the culinary highlights of the area. The emphasis is on providing guests with the confidence and insight to navigate restaurants and food choices like a local, while also delivering an unforgettable and enlightening journey through Japan’s diverse flavors.

Beyond traditional food tours, Ninja Food Tours offers cooking classes, sake tastings, and private tours, allowing visitors to tailor their experiences to their preferences. With a commitment to personalized service, they maintain small group sizes to foster meaningful connections between guests and guides.

Ninja Food Tours boasts a multicultural team of just six individuals, ensuring a tight-knit and collaborative approach to crafting unforgettable culinary adventures. Each team member is dedicated to ensuring that every customer’s trip is nothing short of extraordinary.

Find more about Ninja Food tours here ! Find Ninja Food Tours on Instagram and Facebook . 

10. Japan Wonder Travel 

Japan Wonder Travel stands out for its commitment to crafting original tours that offer travelers the most authentic Japanese experience possible. From selecting the finest destinations to curating specialized adventures, they ensure every journey delves deeper into the heart of Japan.

Embark on a journey with Japan Wonder Travel and discover Japan in a way that goes beyond the surface. Their meticulously designed tours are crafted to immerse you fully in Japanese culture, allowing you to uncover hidden gems and experience the country’s traditions firsthand.

Led by a team of friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic guides, Japan Wonder Travel ensures that every traveler receives personalized attention and gains insights that can’t be found in guidebooks. With their expertise, you’re guaranteed a unique and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Japan like no other.

Find out more about Japan Wonder Travel here !

11. Oishii Food Tours

Oishii Food Tours, with a rich history spanning over 5 years, stands as a premier provider of culinary experiences in Tokyo. Offering both standard and customized tours, Oishii Food Tours goes beyond mere sightseeing to offer immersive cultural experiences.

Their tours cater to a diverse range of interests and preferences, incorporating activities such as chopstick tutorials, interactive games, and Japanese language lessons. They also accommodate dietary restrictions and special occasions, ensuring that every guest enjoys a personalized and memorable experience.

A highlight of Oishii Food Tours is their visit to Toyosu Market, where guests can indulge in the freshest tuna sourced from special connections with local vendors. Another iconic tour takes place in Ebisu, renowned for its vibrant izakaya scene. Here, guests are treated to an exploration of three authentic izakaya establishments, sampling a variety of dishes and drinks beloved by locals.

With Oishii Food Tours, every excursion promises a delightful blend of culinary delights, cultural insights, and unforgettable memories.

Check out their home page here for more information! Find Oishii Food Tours on Instagram and Facebook !

Which of these food tours would you like to join when you’re in Japan? Let us know in the comment section down below!

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Food Tours Japan

Eat, Drink & Cook in Japan

Tokyo Food Tours: 12 Best Gourmet Travel Experiences

Taking a food tour in Tokyo is essential for any trip to Japan. With more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world, Tokyo is the world’s number one cuisine city.

For alternative Tokyo gourmet travel experiences, check out:

• Tsukiji Outer Market Tours – experience Tokyo’s atmospheric old fish market district
• Toyosu Market and Tuna Auction Tours – visit the world’s biggest seafood market
• Tokyo Ramen Tours – ramen tasting, eat like a local, vegan and luxury Wagyu beef experiences
• Sake Tasting and Brewery Tours – drink and learn about Japan’s famous sake
• Tokyo Cooking Classes – discover washoku (Japanese cuisine) hands-on

I’ve selected the 12 best Tokyo food tours; let’s dive straight in!

1. Tokyo Private & Personalised Local Food Tour

Flexible start times and meeting points for a tailored Tokyo food tour to suit your needs.

• Discover where the locals eat at markets, shops, street food stalls and restaurants
• Learn about Tokyo’s food and drink culture
• Taste new Japanese dishes and regional specialities
• Get insider recommendations on where to eat your favourite Japanese food
• Try unique flavoured Japanese soft drinks from a vending machine or convenience store
• Includes eight to ten food and drinks, a private and personalised experience, and a walking tour
• Location: Flexible – near your accommodation or a place suggested by your host
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, flexible – choose your own start time

Book Tokyo Personalised Food Tour >>

2. Shinjuku Izakaya and Golden Gai Bar Tour in Tokyo

Explore the best of Shinjuku, from neon lights to charming restaurant-filled alleys to retro bars, on this incredible food and drink tour . Get ready to experience Japan’s classic casual culinary culture in the country’s most popular entertainment district.

Immerse yourself in Shinjuku’s legendary food and nightlife scene on this highly rated and excellent-value tour.

• Eat delicious yakitori (chicken skewers) in a historical old-Tokyo-style alleyway brimming with family-run restaurants
• Sample classic Japanese dishes at an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) and drink beer and sake with the locals
• Enjoy a drink and end your tour in Golden Gai—Tokyo’s bar-hopping mecca with hundreds of themed bars
• Experience the perfect mix of old and new Shinjuku with a fun and friendly atmosphere
• Includes: 6-8 food dishes, 3 alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks and a guided walking tour
• Location: Shinjuku
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 5pm

Book Shinjuku & Golden Gai Tour >>

3. Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku

Discover two of Japan’s most iconic dishes and Tokyo’s food and drink culture on this exceptional tour . You’ll experience a different side of Shinjuku’s entertainment district, from hidden restaurants to classic spots.

Indulge yourself with sushi and wagyu beef on this fun and five-star-rated Tokyo foodie experience.

• Savour a delicious eight-piece set of seasonal sushi prepared omakase (I’ll leave it up to you) style by a professional chef
• Enjoy delightful cuts of Wagyu beef and learn the art of cooking Japanese-style yakiniku (grilled meat) BBQ
• Learn about Tokyo’s culinary culture and get travel tips from fun and friendly guides
• Experience Shinjuku’s vibrant Kabukicho red-light district for a drink or dessert
• Vegetarian course available when booking
• Includes: 8 pieces of seasonal sushi, a full yakiniku dinner, 2-3 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), 1 dessert and a guided walking tour
• Duration and start time: 3.5 hours, 6pm

Book Tokyo Night Foodie Tour >>

4. Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku

Get your Japan trip off to an amazing start with an introduction to Japan’s wonderful izakayas!

• Eat yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) at Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) an old-style Tokyo alley
• Discover Tokyo’s local culinary and nightlife scene
• Try delicious Japanese food and meet new friends
• Visit three places (izakayas and bars) and see Shinjuku’s neon-lights
• Includes three food dishes and three drinks, and a walking tour
• Location: Shinjuku and Kabukicho
• Duration and start time: 3 hours; 5 pm, 6pm or 7pm

Book Shinjuku Food Tour >>

5. Best of Shibuya Walking Food Tour Tokyo

Get off the beaten track and experience Shibuya’s food and drink scene like a local.

• Eat Kobe wagyu beef skewers, okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), assorted sushi and dessert
• Explore Shibuya’s hidden back alleys and visit restaurants away from tourists
• Wander through a department store food hall and be amazed at the variety of cuisine
• Sample delicacies from throughout Japan, including Osaka and Hiroshima
• Family-friendly Tokyo food tour starting at 1 pm or 4 pm
• Finish your trip with a newfound appreciation of Japan’s gastronomic culture
• Includes 10 dishes at five food stops, one drink, and a walking tour
• Location: Shibuya
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 1pm and 4pm

Book Shibuya Food Tour >>

6. Shinbashi Tokyo Hidden Gem Food Tour at Night

Get off the beaten tourist track and discover one of Tokyo’s best evening food and drink spots.

• Stroll around a maze of backstreets sampling tasty food along the way
• Hang out with the locals as they relax after work
• Try foods like sashimi (raw fish), gyoza (dumplings), okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and more
• Savour local speciality yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
• Includes around 15 dishes (including dessert), one drink and a walking tour
• Location: Shinbashi
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 4.30pm

Book Shinbashi Night Food Tour >>

7. Shinjuku Golden Gai Food Tour

Feast on fantastic food at izakayas (Japanese-style bars) on this highly-rated Tokyo walking night tour.

• Discover Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)  and eat yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
• Visit Kabukicho red-light district and learn about the area
• Savour tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen
• Explore Golden Gai with the world’s highest number of bars per square metre
• Includes four food stops (including sushi, ramen and yakitori), one drink and a walking tour
• Location: Shinjuku, Kabukicho and Golden Gai

Book Shinjuku Izakaya Experience >>

8. Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Food Tour in Shibuya

Meet new friends over Japanese cuisine and drinks on this fun food tour.

• Discover Shibuya after dark, including the nightlife street Dogenzaka
• Savour Japanese foods, like meat sushi, teppanyaki (grilled meat) and steak at Niku Yokocho (Meat Alley)
• Enjoy drinking beer, sake and whisky with the locals at izakayas and bars
• Relax and have fun while your guide helps you select from a recommended menu
• Includes three food dishes (enough for a full meal), four drinks, photos, and a walking tour
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 6pm or 7pm

Book Shibuya Night Food Tour >>

9. Tokyo Ramen Tasting with a Local Ramen Guru

Ramen lovers will discover why it tastes so much better in Japan than your own country!

• Visit three ramen shops in different neighbourhoods of Tokyo
• Choose six mini bowls of ramen (around 1/4 to 1/3 of a standard ramen bowl) from 11 options
• Discover delicious light fish, curry and tonkotsu (pork bone broth) style soups
• Learn about the origin, types and preparation of ramen
• Eat ramen like a local with flavours you’ll never get at home
• Includes six min bowls of ramen and tour with a ramen expert (and blogger)
• Location: Nakameguro
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 2pm and 7pm

Book Tokyo Ramen Tasting Tour >>

Do you love ramen? Of course, you do! Check out my hand-picked selection of Tokyo’s best ramen tours .

10. Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nights Food Tour

Enjoy an evening of snacking and drinking around Shinjuku’s top spots with a local guide.

• Join the locals for happy hour at an izakaya
• Stroll through Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), an alleyway famous for its yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
• Discover Shinjuku’s red-light district Kabukicho with its colourful neon lights
• Drink at a classic Japanese-style tiny bar at Golden Gai
• Includes skewered food snacks, two drinks, and a walking tour
• Location: Shinjuku, Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, Golden Gai
• Duration and start time: 2.5 hours, 5.30pm

Book Shinjuku Neon Lights Tour >>

11. Eat and Drink Like a Local Tour: Tokyo Izakaya and Ramen

Enjoy a unique, authentic, entertaining Tokyo food and drink experience with a fun-loving and experienced guide.

• Explore izakaya (Japanese-style pub) and tachinomiya (standing bar) culture at hidden spots
• Savour classic, delicious izakaya food like sashimi, grilled fish, various meats and ramen
• Enjoy at least four different Japanese drinks, including beer and sake
• Visit 2-3 izakaya and standing bars and end your evening local-style at a ramen restaurant
• Includes: A full meal of food including ramen, 4 (or more!) alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, a walking tour and a souvenir
• Location: Ueno
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 3pm and 7pm

Book Tokyo Like a Local Tour >>

12. Tokyo After 5 Food Tour

Savour local favourites and Japanese food on this highly-rated tour.

• Eat yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) from a street stall
• Enjoy monjayaki (savoury pancake) in the neighbourhood where it’s from
• Visit a confectionery shop in Ginza and try a sweet
• Wash down your food with Japanese sake or beer
• Learn about Tokyo’s eclectic food culture from an expert guide
• Includes five assorted chicken skewers, savoury pancake, sweets, two drinks, public transport and walking tour
• Location: Ginza, Tsukishima and Yurakucho

Book Tokyo Night Food Tour >>

And for something a bit different, why not try the…

Tokyo Robot Evening Cabaret Show

Each entertaining show features fun – and sometimes campy – performances full of flashing lights, taiko drums and techno music. See glitzy girls dance with a giant panda, dinosaurs, ninjas and (of course) robots on stage!

Save money with our Robot Restaurant discount tickets and price comparison.

Unique things to do in Tokyo

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Travel like a local

In Tokyo, there’s non-stop action and things to do, and when you stop to look around, you realize that local life is happening all around you. Weddings in public parks. Kind people who will stop and help you with directions. Nights spent laughing over drinks in hidden izakayas with new friends. Neighborhoods like Ebisu, Nakameguro and Daikanyama are great starting points to see local life, and you can go beyond traditional tours and activities for a local’s perspective of Tokyo with Airbnb Experiences.

Find local things to do

Top-rated activities.

What Tokyo has to offer

Most popular in Tokyo

Activities near top attractions

Things to do near ueno.

Things to do near Harajuku

Things to do near Gotanda

Your guide to Tokyo

Where do locals shop in tokyo.

In this premier shopping district, there’s more than what meets the eye. Find a local who can take you to the shops that visitors usually miss for street clothing, casual wear, and more styles. You can learn about Tokyo's trends and local brand names you won't easily find elsewhere.

Harajuku and Aoyama

Bright and cheery fashion and kawaii (“cute”) shops abound on Takeshita Street, and you can find the best places to shop with a local who knows the area best on a fashion street tour. Along the way you can also stop to enjoy snacks and street art. People watching is a must here, where it’s like a non-stop street fashion show.

After doing the “Shibuya scramble” at Shibuya Crossing, check out this lively district for some of the latest trends, where you’ll see groups of friends posing in DIY photo shoots and people hopping shop to shop for underground and affordable apparel.

What are the best food experiences in Tokyo?

Whether it’s a Michelin-star meal atop a highrise, or an order of onigiri at Tokyo Station, you could spend years dining your way through this city and only scratch the surface. Here is a quick guide to unique experiences to try if you want to eat like a local in Tokyo.

Dine in the Ueno district

This cultural hotspot is home to many museums, Ueno Zoological Gardens, Shinobazu Lake, among other sites. It’s also where you can find some of the best food in the city according to locals. Join food tours to try sushi, skewers, ramen, and more in the taverns and restaurants here.

Learn to make sushi in a sushi bar

Try your hand at various sushi techniques inside a sushi bar. You can learn the history and techniques used to perfect this iconic Japanese food and get to try your creations at the end.

Bike and eat in West Tokyo

Delve into the eclectic local neighborhoods of Nakano, Koenji and Asagaya on bikes with a local guide who takes you on a tour of the area’s street food. Pedal your way through backstreets to find unique attractions, as well as a relaxing ride along the trails of the Zenpukiji River.

Take a tour of Tsukiji Outer Market

In the heart of the city, you’ll find the Nihonbashi neighborhood, home to Japan’s oldest department store and the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market. Join a local guide to try some of the best food in the market, where you may get lucky and meet vendors within the market to learn more about the food and wares you see. Tip: Be sure to bring cash if you want to shop — many businesses don’t accept cards.

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5 Food Tours That Show You the Tastiest Side of Tokyo

T okyo, Japan, is best place in the world to eat. The city is divided into four parts — Central, Northern, Western and Southern Tokyo — and the intricacies of your dining experience depend on where you are in the city. If you want to dive head first or stomach first into Tokyo’s food scene, check out these food tours in Tokyo that you can book via Airbnb.

We hope you love the Tokyo food tours we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Tokyo Ramen Tour

You can’t do Tokyo without ramen, making this top-rated ramen tour one of the best food tours that Tokyo has to offer. On this tour , you’ll visit three award-winning ramen shops, and at each, you will sample six different mini bowls of ramen, so make sure your stomach is ready for a big day. At each stop, you’ll gain insight into the history and preparation of the style of ramen you are eating. Bet you didn’t realize each ingredient was so critical!

Price: From $112 per person 

Visit the world’s largest fish market – Tsukiji (Old) vs Toyosu (New) S.S Tour

Ready to learn about all types of fish and other fresh seafood? Then this tour is calling you. During this Tokyo food tour, you’ll visit the world’s largest fish market, both the old and new markets, as well as an area off-limits to ordinary tourists. There will be the opportunity to shop at the market and time spent making traditional Japanese cuisine. This tour will also make a stop at the famous Buddhist Sensō-ji temple.

Price: From $133 per person

Vegan Adventure in Ginza

This tour through the city’s best shopping district is the best food tour in Tokyo  for vegans. Don’t worry. The tour starts with a pastry commonly served with matcha tea, and then proceeds through several snacks and light courses before finishing with one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets — a bowl of vegan ramen. Along the way you’ll learn basic Japanese phrases to make dining out in the country more enjoyable. And, you’ll walk away having a basic framework for how to eat vegan in one of the world’s top foodie cities — and will know your way around Ginza, to boot.

Price: From $82 per person

Street Food Japan food tour at night

Dive into Shimbashi, Yurakucho, and Ginza with this three-hour night tour . Experience the traditional and authentic food and izakaya spots that the city’s salarymen flock to after hard work days. This tour is a great way to experience the heart of the city on foot, and gives you insight into the area’s hidden gems and sights. The best part of this Tokyo food tour is that you will actually have time to enjoy each spot while eating your fill — the tour covers three concepts including a karaage, kushiage and sweets, with time to ask questions along the way.

Price: From $90 per person

Tasting of Tokyo

Price: From $172 per person

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• › Tokyo Region

Unique things to do in Tokyo

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Travel like a local

In Tokyo, there’s non-stop action and things to do, and when you stop to look around, you realize that local life is happening all around you. Weddings in public parks. Kind people who will stop and help you with directions. Nights spent laughing over drinks in hidden izakayas with new friends. Neighborhoods like Ebisu, Nakameguro and Daikanyama are great starting points to see local life, and you can go beyond traditional tours and activities for a local’s perspective of Tokyo with Airbnb Experiences.

Find local things to do

Top-rated activities.

What Tokyo has to offer

Most popular in Tokyo

Activities near top attractions

Things to do near ueno.

Things to do near Harajuku

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Your guide to Tokyo

Where do locals shop in tokyo.

In this premier shopping district, there’s more than what meets the eye. Find a local who can take you to the shops that visitors usually miss for street clothing, casual wear, and more styles. You can learn about Tokyo's trends and local brand names you won't easily find elsewhere.

Harajuku and Aoyama

Bright and cheery fashion and kawaii (“cute”) shops abound on Takeshita Street, and you can find the best places to shop with a local who knows the area best on a fashion street tour. Along the way you can also stop to enjoy snacks and street art. People watching is a must here, where it’s like a non-stop street fashion show.

After doing the “Shibuya scramble” at Shibuya Crossing, check out this lively district for some of the latest trends, where you’ll see groups of friends posing in DIY photo shoots and people hopping shop to shop for underground and affordable apparel.

What are the best food experiences in Tokyo?

Whether it’s a Michelin-star meal atop a highrise, or an order of onigiri at Tokyo Station, you could spend years dining your way through this city and only scratch the surface. Here is a quick guide to unique experiences to try if you want to eat like a local in Tokyo.

Dine in the Ueno district

This cultural hotspot is home to many museums, Ueno Zoological Gardens, Shinobazu Lake, among other sites. It’s also where you can find some of the best food in the city according to locals. Join food tours to try sushi, skewers, ramen, and more in the taverns and restaurants here.

Learn to make sushi in a sushi bar

Try your hand at various sushi techniques inside a sushi bar. You can learn the history and techniques used to perfect this iconic Japanese food and get to try your creations at the end.

Bike and eat in West Tokyo

Delve into the eclectic local neighborhoods of Nakano, Koenji and Asagaya on bikes with a local guide who takes you on a tour of the area’s street food. Pedal your way through backstreets to find unique attractions, as well as a relaxing ride along the trails of the Zenpukiji River.

Take a tour of Tsukiji Outer Market

In the heart of the city, you’ll find the Nihonbashi neighborhood, home to Japan’s oldest department store and the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market. Join a local guide to try some of the best food in the market, where you may get lucky and meet vendors within the market to learn more about the food and wares you see. Tip: Be sure to bring cash if you want to shop — many businesses don’t accept cards.

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5-Day Tokyo Itinerary for Foodies

Stefanie Akkerman moved from the Netherlands to Japan in 2013 with her Japanese husband and son. She jumped into the niche of Dutch tour guiding in Tokyo and Kamakura in 2015 and occasionally writes articles about all the great sights and activities Japan has to offer. She loves (Japanese) food, and to work that all off she goes diving, snorkeling, cycling, or hiking.

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One of the best things about being in Tokyo is the city’s food culture. Japanese cuisine is considered one of the world’s most refined and is even designated as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO, but Japan’s capital is also home to incredible international and fusion restaurants. It’s not for nothing that Tokyo has been the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world for years. So where to start when you want to make a food-centered itinerary for your visit to Tokyo? Let us help and inspire you with this 5-day plan for foodies who want to go sightseeing while enjoying Tokyo’s diverse food scene to the max!

▼Book our Shinjuku bar hopping tour to make your foodie trip wonderful!

Day 1: Traditional Snacks in Asakusa and Kitchen Utensils in Kappabashi

Day 2: tsukiji fish market & craft beer in yanaka, day 3: sushi making experience & michelin-starred ramen, day 4: fancy lunch in ginza & izakaya hopping in shinjuku, day 5: street food in sunamachi, japan wonder travel tours in tokyo, other articles you might be interested in.

Let’s start our trip with some sightseeing in one of Tokyo’s traditional areas, Asakusa . You can easily spend many hours here looking at the sights, snacking your way through Nakamise and shopping for cute souvenirs. Just strolling through the area’s picturesque streets while browsing the shops for accessories and trinkets, is a lot of fun. Once you start feeling hungry, head over to Nakamise, the area’s central shopping street. There are many vendors here selling all kinds of traditional Japanese snacks and drinks like senbei crackers, amazake , matcha tea, melon pan , and mochi .

After this street food lunch, let’s check out Asakusa’s main attraction: the Sensoji temple. There is so much to see on the grounds of this large Buddhist temple, like the Kaminarimon (also known as the ‘Thunder Gate’), the 5-storied pagoda, the koi pond, the Asakusa-jinja shinto shrine and of course the impressive main hall. And don’t forget to stop by the tourist information center near the Kaminarimon for a great bird’s eye view of the area. Do you love cooking at home? Then you should definitely make a detour through Kappabashi , a street packed with shops catering to restaurant owners as well as hobby cooks, and selling any kind of kitchen utensil you could ever think of.

If you’ve walked through Asakusa’s Hoppy Street, you will have noticed the many cozy-looking and semi-outdoor izakaya restaurants. For a real insider’s experience and introduction to these traditional Japanese gastro pubs, you can join our Asakusa local food bar hopping tour for great fun and tasty bites!

A breakfast or early lunch visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market is simply a must-do for any foodie visiting Tokyo. Don’t be fooled by its name, as there is much more for sale here than just super fresh seafood. You might ask: didn’t Tokyo’s famous fish market move to Toyosu a few years ago? Yes, it’s true that the wholesale part including the tuna auction and some of the restaurants have moved from Tsukiji to Toyosu. However, many of Tsukiji’s restaurants and food-related shops chose to stick around, and the so-called “outer market” is still very much a great food destination. The area isn’t that big, but you can easily spend a few hours walking around trying all kinds of snacks, or you can sit down at one of the amazing seafood restaurants. Don’t forget to try the fresh sea urchin, different cuts of tuna, scallops, Japanese-style egg ( tamago ), fried satsuma-age, unagi eel and seasonal fruits with or without mochi. Don’t want to go alone and possibly feel put off by the language barrier? Book our Tsukiji food tour to get the most out of your visit to this superb market!

After this great start to the day, you might feel like moving around for a bit before heading for the next meal, so how about a nice walk in nearby Hamarikyu Gardens ?

Not far from the garden, you can take the Yamanote line from Shimbashi Station to Nippori Station. On the west side of the station you will find the quaint neighborhood of Yanesen where one can still feel the atmosphere of times gone by as this part of town was spared from most of the WWII firebombings. Once you’ve toured this area you are likely feeling peckish again, so let’s stop by our next foodie spot, Yanaka Beerhall. As the name suggests, this is a great place to try some of Tokyo’s local craft beer, but that’s not all: Yanaka Beerhall serves delectable side dishes which are a fusion of Japanese and international cuisines. If you feel like having a bigger meal, they also have a rotating menu of 5 main dishes that regulars like to come back for time after time.

Yanaka Beerhall : 11am – 8pm (closed on Wednesday mornings and Mondays)

Until now you’ve had the experts cook for you, but how about an expert teaching you how to make your own sushi? During our Sushi Making Workshop & Tsukiji Tour you will first visit the market with your instructor to buy ingredients, then head to the cooking studio to learn how to prepare some mouthwatering sushi. Handy knowledge for when you get home and want to impress your friends or family with homemade sushi. Of course, you get to eat your creations too. In the afternoon we recommend heading to Akihabara to explore some of Tokyo’s many interesting subcultures.

Of course, a foodie trip to Tokyo would not be complete without trying one of the city’s highly acclaimed Michelin-starred ramen spots . Tsuta , the world’s very first restaurant to have received this honor, already lost its star in 2020, but new restaurants took its spot. However, Tsuta is still a very popular restaurant with noodles to die for (and to queue for for a long time). If you want to go to a restaurant that has received a Michelin star more recently, you can visit Soba House Konjiki Hototogisu in Shinjuku where you can enjoy a unique experience that will probably spoil you for life when it comes to noodles. After dinner, there are plenty of opportunities in Shinjuku for nighttime entertainment with the neighborhood being one of Tokyo’s drinking hot spots. Head to Golden Gai for a special experience in one of the tiny bars or just walk around the area to admire its flashing neon signs and throngs of people going about their evening business.

Upscale neighborhood Ginza can be regarded as Tokyo’s version of 5th Avenue in New York or Paris’ Champs-Élysées. Its wide streets are lined with the world’s most famous fashion brands and is a true paradise for high-end shoppers. But this is not all, as Ginza is also home to some of the country’s best restaurants. Having dinner at one of these establishments can definitely be expensive, so what to do if you don’t want to break the bank while still savoring the best of what Ginza has to offer? Going during lunchtime will cut the bill to a fraction of what it would be for dinner, and you will still receive the same high-quality food. Some examples of high-end restaurants with good lunch deals are Ginza Wakuta , Ginza Kushima , and Tateru Yoshino . After lunch, let’s explore Shibuya with its youthful, fashionable atmosphere. One of the world’s most crowded pedestrian intersections is located in Shibuya and is a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo. If you still have time, you can walk to Harajuku for more youth culture and trendy boutiques. Visit nearby Meiji Shrine and its expansive grounds for some peace and tranquility in the middle of the bustling capital.

Did yesterday’s walk through nighttime Shinjuku make you want to join in on the fun? Joining an izakaya bar hopping tour together with a local guide is the perfect way to do so! No need to worry about the language barrier, and learning more about what you eat while being in great company of fellow travelers, will make this an evening of long-lasting memories!

On the last day of this foodie’s dream itinerary in Tokyo, let’s go to an old-fashioned local shotengai in the eastern part of the city. Not often visited by large groups of tourists and therefore extra interesting, Sunamachi Ginza is a great destination for savoring some of Japan’s favorite street foods. This street has retained many of its old shops that have been around for decades, and visitors love the retro atmosphere. You can try dishes like oden, yakitori, tempura and unagi eel that have been prepared in a traditional way. There is also an interesting miso store here which is completely dedicated to this Japanese staple condiment.

Would you like to be taken by the hand by a local who is a fellow foodie and will bring you to the best spots in Sunamachi? We offer a Local Street Food and Drink tour in this area that will make your mouth water. While you eat your way through one of Tokyo’s best shitamachi areas, your guide will explain to you everything you want to know about the food, drinks and local culture.

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are traveling in, our knowledgeable and friendly guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo, where you will have the chance to try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake along with your friendly English-speaking guide! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour: Experience Tokyo’s Nightlife in Izakaya Check out the best spots in Shinjuku while bar hopping through the lively and vibrant area. Try some delicious local food and drink as you explore the narrow yet photogenic alleys that the town has to offer. Experience Japanese izakaya culture and drink in Shinjuku like the locals!

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