LGBT Tokyo Then and Now
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 144 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 36 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is LGBT Tokyo Then and Now worth booking?
LGBT Tokyo Then and Now is a 3-hour experience in Tokyo, Japan, from $15876 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 36 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 144 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (36)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $15876 per person
Behind every stoic Japanese businessman face there is a secret, thus one aspect of "honne tatemae," which loosely translates to something along the lines of keeping the publicly acceptable face forward, and the true face
What you get
- Alcoholic beverages
- 2 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
- Dinner
- Gratuities
About this experience
Behind every stoic Japanese businessman face there is a secret, thus one aspect of "honne tatemae," which loosely translates to something along the lines of keeping the publicly acceptable face forward, and the true face within. This, combined with Japanese culture's general disdain for public affection, might make Tokyo seem to not have as vibrant an LGBT presence as hoped. Worry not: In a city as big as Tokyo, there is of course a thriving gay scene -- if you know where to look. Tonight, you'll not only see Japan's largest gayborhood, Shinjuku 2-chome, but Asakusa in the evening as well. You'll also get a solid primer in Japanese gay society, both past and present. We'll stop along the way for a local Japanese meal (veg options available), and a couple of drinks too. Get ready for a well-rounded adventure into the heart of homosexuality in Japan, led by a friendly native (or equivalent) speaker of your selected language who knows what it means to be gay in Japan.
What's included
Included
- Alcoholic beverages
- 2 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
- Dinner
- Gratuities
Not included
- Hotel pickup (please inquire -- this may be available for an additional charge upon request)
- Transportation (you'll need 270 yen for the one subway ride we take)
What you'll see and do
Asakusa
Sensoji (Temple) forms the deeply historic heart of Asakusa, but the shopping, dining, and entertainment areas alongside its approach is also the center of Tokyo's "elder gay" population. A century ago, Asakusa was in many ways what Shinjuku and Shibuya are like today. In fact, the Asakusa to Ueno stretch was so popular back in the early 20th century that Asia's first subway was built between those two areas (this is now known as the Ginza line). As the area aged, the clientele aged and changed faces too, and especially in more recent years, there has been a plethora of gay bars, saunas, and even cruising areas for the daddies and granddaddies of the gay persuasion. We'll walk around the neighborhood, talk about history, cultural context, and take a gander at some notable sights from the outside.
45 minutes here
Shinjuku 3 Chome
This thriving restaurant and shopping district is adjacent to 2-Chome, and it is here where we'll grab some food and a drink (included) at one of the sociable, casual restaurants dotting the streets.
45 minutes here
Shinjuku 2 Chome Gay Town
2-Chome (pronounced "knee choh may") is the largest LGBTQ district in the largest metropolitan region in Japan (or the world, for that matter). Some bars are garish, some are low key. Most indoors, but some have sights visible from and spilling into the streets. We'll give you a thorough walk-through, and also stop at a bar for a drink (included).
45 minutes here
Senso-ji Temple
Sensoji is arguable the top attraction in Asakusa, During the day, this Buddhist Temple compound dating back to 7th century, is thronged with visitors, but at night it's a mellower, perhaps more atmospheric scene. Beautifully lit up, you'll have your phone out for a picture before you know it.
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Tokyo
Please meet on the corner outside this famous bar/restaurant. Easily accessible by two different subway lines.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The evening wraps up in this area, but we are happy to set you in whatever direction you may like to head.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Pinpoint Traveler, Inc
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum age is 18 years
- Japan's drinking age is 20 years.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 36 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
6 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
36 verified traveler reviews for LGBT Tokyo Then and Now. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Absolutely the best guide! LGBT History, Japanese Culture, Nightlife!
Reina was literally the best guide for this tour! His knowledge of Japanese culture and how it affects the LGBT culture in Tokyo was comprehensive! Really great guy and funny! Set a great pace for the tour through Asakusa then over to Shinjuku for some food and a cocktail at a local bar. I can’t say enough great things about him and this tour! Absolutely recommend!!! Thanks, Reina! Aloha and Mahalo!!
via Tripadvisor
Fun night out!
Adrian did a great job of bringing us through Asakusa and showing us the most beautiful aspects of the district while discussing the history. We had a great time on our small intimate tour having traditional Izakaya food and checking out the 2 chome bar scene. It was helpful to get an idea and explore the city.
via Tripadvisor
More queer history please
We were really looking forward to this tour, but were disappointed. As visitors to Tokyo before, we have seen many sites and know a bit about local culture. We expected our guide to provide more knowledge and information about the local LGBTQ community, and history of our community here in Japan. Our suggestion, if starting in Asakusa, skip the temple and figure out a way to stop into a member only bar or snack. Otherwise just meet and focus the tour on Shinjuku ni chome. And have drinks in at least 3 queer bars. We only had one drink in one bar in 3 hours.
Response from the operator: Thanks for the review. The vast majority of our guests have enjoyed the balance, but we understand it is not for everyone. However, I would like to point out that while there is one drink at a bar, there is also one drink at the restaurant before that. Not everyone wants to drink, and to build in the cost of three drinks at bars given the price of this tour... while also keeping in mind the commission that online tour sites take... well, it would be pretty difficult to pencil that out, especially considering the small group nature of our tours. As for the member bars, they are generally not interested in a gaggle of English speakers coming in.
via Viator
Touring Then and Now
Adrian was great and had plenty of insight into the area. Tasted some food I hadn’t experienced before and it was great; bacon wrapped cherry tomatoes on a skewer! As a solo traveler it’s always great to have knowledgeable people who know the ins and outs of an area and the tour was a fun way to see and experience Asakusa/Ni-Chome! Thanks again Adrian!
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re glad to hear the tour offered a fun way to explore Asakusa and Shinjuku, and that Adrian’s insights helped bring the area to life. It’s great to know you enjoyed trying new dishes along the way, and that the experience felt comfortable and engaging.✨
via Viator
Hiroshi was an excellent...
Hiroshi was an excellent tour guide who blended history and humor effortlessly. He was flexible when we wanted to explore and encouraging when we had questions that ventured beyond the schedule. He was a joy to have and I am appreciative of the knowledge he brought.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re delighted to hear Hiroshi’s blend of historical insight and humor made the tour both engaging and enjoyable. His flexibility and openness to questions are qualities we truly value in our guides, and your kind words will mean a lot to him.✨
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 144h before
- Minimum age to book
- 18+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $15876 to $17859
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 13
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
LGBT Tokyo Then and Now: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tokyo.
How much does LGBT Tokyo Then and Now cost?
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Prices start at $15876 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tokyo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does LGBT Tokyo Then and Now take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tokyo is not rushed.
Is LGBT Tokyo Then and Now worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 36 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Tokyo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule LGBT Tokyo Then and Now?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 144 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is LGBT Tokyo Then and Now suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 18. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 3-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book LGBT Tokyo Then and Now?
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Around 13 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tokyo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tokyo and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does LGBT Tokyo Then and Now start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tokyo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Tokyo?
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Tokyo is less a city than a stack of neighborhoods with completely different opening hours. A guided food crawl through Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho gets you past the no-tourist curtains, while the day trips west to Hakone and Fuji need an early start to be worth the fare. Our ranking weighs guide quality heavily here, because in Tokyo the guide is the product. On Outty we rank every Tokyo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Tokyo Shinjuku Chopsticks Making Class, Tokyo : Asakusa Chopsticks Making Class, Shinjuku Night Food and Bar Crawl. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
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Late March to May for blossom, October to November for clear Fuji views. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Tokyo?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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