Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Annex Rokku
    • 2. 09:00 Stay @ Senso-ji Temple
    • 3. 10:25 Travel: Subway
    • 4. 10:45 Stay @ Akihabara
    • 5. 12:15 Travel: Subway
    • 6. 12:30 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 7. 12:50 Disband @ Kaminarimon-dori

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Asakusa and Akihabara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were from Europe. I had been waiting for them in the second-floor lobby of the Hotel, but when they did not appear, I suddenly realized something and went down to the first floor, where, as expected, the guests were waiting outside the entrance of the Hotel. Because I had previously experienced a similar case in which guests from the same region did not stop by the lobby but went directly outside the Hotel to wait for me, I was able to notice this before 9:00. The requested spots were Asakusa and Akihabara. Since the Hotel was close to the main hall of Sensoji Temple, I decided to start with Sensoji Temple and then walk along Nakamise Street toward Kaminarimon Gate. As I learned that the guests were fans of older anime programs, I spent a little more time in Akihabara explaining things, including shops that sell nostalgic items. At first I had thought I would need to guide them to one more location, but there was a request to recommend places in Asakusa where they could have a Japanese breakfast, so we returned from Akihabara to Asakusa, and I showed them two such places. Finally, I took them to a recommended tempura restaurant for lunch, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho180JPY
    Section 2SubwaySuehirocho～Asakusa180JPY
    Total360JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Shizuoka: Miho no Matsubara & Shimizu Station

    Shizuoka: Miho no Matsubara & Shimizu Station

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Departure from Shimizu Port
    • 9:50 Miho no Matsubara
    • 10:30　Nihondaira Yume Terrace
    • 11:20 Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
    • 13:30　Momijiyama Garden
    • 14:30　Sunpu Castle Park
    • 16:00 Shimizu Station

    What Is a Private Mount Fuji View Tour Like in October? A Licensed Guide's Report Even into October, the daytime heat and humidity felt like summer, making for uncomfortable weather. The weather itself was not bad, but there was a lot of moisture in the air, so Mount Fuji was mostly shrouded in haze and could hardly be seen. We toured the Mount Fuji view spots while imagining what the mountain would look like. It was very unfortunate, but I was able to give explanations by connecting them with historical stories, and the guests listened with great interest. The guests got along wonderfully, and their sense of humor kept the mood light and enjoyable throughout the day. On the way back, when I asked for a review, they said things like "I'll give you 'Six Stars,'" and we spent a fun day full of laughter right to the end. As a guide, I am filled with gratitude.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShizuoka Station～Shimizu Station240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Tour Report by Ikuyo

    I have been a guide over ten years. I always make my utmost efforts to make tours enjoyable and memorable for the guests. I always enjoy traveling myself. I have received warm hospitality through my life domestically and internationally. I would like my guests to feel the same hospitality. I would like to entertain tourists from abroad by showing around and explaining about not only the places but also Japanese culture in a friendly way.
    I have been an English teacher all my life. I challenged to get the guide license and am enjoying guiding ever since.
    I especially guide around Mt.Fuji area. Every time I do guiding around Mt.Fuji, I am impressed by the beauty and its overwhelming power. I want my guests to encounter this beautiful and yet powerful mountain of Mt.Fuji.

    Request Booking

    May 4, 2026
    Jackim2009
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our Day in Shizuoka
    We had a wonderful day in…

    Oct 9, 2025
    Katie_F
    We had a wonderful day…
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had a wonderful day…

    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Cruise Visit to Shimizu Area and Day Tour Visiting Miho no Matsubara
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private…

    May 21, 2025
    Traveler33207354848
    Tea, tour and Mount Fuji
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Ikuyo customized our tour exactly…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Depart Kinjo Pier at 9:00 – Nagoya Castle (10:00-11:30) – Atsuta Shrine (12:00-12:50) – Nagoya Station (13:15) Dismissal

    What Is a Private Nagoya Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report Despite the rain, the guests thoroughly enjoyed the sightseeing. They asked many questions about Tokugawa Ieyasu and Nagoya Castle. At Nagoya Castle, it took some time to enter the main hall, as many people were lined up (they were visitors from a cruise ship's tour bus). At the guests' request, they wished to part ways at Nagoya Station (for souvenirs and lunch). I explained the location of the Aonami Line and Kinjo-futo Station, and we parted ways at Nagoya Station. The guests said they would be fine, as they had come by the same route on the way there. There is no receipt.

    Click here for more details: Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNakashima Station～Kinjofuto Station270JPY
    Section 2TrainKinjofuto Station～Nagoya360JPY
    Section 3SubwayNagoya～Nagoya760JPY
    Section 4BusSubway Takabata～Ousunakabashi210JPY
    Total1,600JPY

    Tour Report by Sammy

    Hey there, I’m Masami Maeda, and I’m all about guiding you through some incredible adventures! Teaching English at high school was cool and all, but I craved something more exciting. That’s when I discovered my love for guiding.
    Traveling is my jam. I’ve spent years soaking up the vibes in the US and the UK. In fact, I even did a stint at Warwick University, where I got totally hooked on Drama and Theatre Education. It was like stepping into a whole new world!
    When I’m not busy showing folks around, you’ll find me doing all sorts of things. Ballet classes? Yep, I’m there. And I’m a huge fan of Japanese rakugo – both watching and performing. It’s a blast!
    My style of guiding? Think of it as a mix of storytelling and cultural immersion. I want you to feel like you’re really part of the places we visit, not just an onlooker. Let’s dive deep into the heart of each destination and uncover the hidden gems together.
    So, if you’re up for an adventure filled with laughter, learning, and maybe a few surprises along the way, then I’m your guide! Let’s make some unforgettable memories together!

    Request Booking

    Oct 2, 2025
    Phong_N
    Great time in Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We were lucky to have Sammy…

    Nov 25, 2024
    155arlenen
    Excellent Tour – Very Professional
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was an excellent guide,…

    Nov 12, 2024
    CHERYL_D
    Fun day trip around Nagoya City
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was very knowledgable…

    Apr 3, 2024
    dianefik
    A great tour guide in Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was our tour…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Asakusa

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:20 Meet @ Tokyo Station Marunouchi North Exit
    • 8:40 Tsukiji Outer Market (Fish Market, Outer Market)
    • 9:40 Breakfast @ Sushizanmai Tsukiji Main Store
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 11:15 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Denboin Street)
    • 12:45 Dismissal @ Imperial Palace East Gardens Information Center

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tsukiji, Asakusa, and the Imperial Palace Like? A Tokyo Guide's Report The guests were longtime friends visiting from Oceania on their first trip to Japan. They had initially hoped to see the large tuna at Toyosu, but when we met in the morning, I explained that by that time of day the auction is over and only the concrete floor remains. Since it was their first visit to Japan, we agreed instead to visit the Tsukiji Outer Market along with Asakusa and the Imperial Palace. I explained the reasons for the move to Toyosu and the different roles of Toyosu and Tsukiji using the materials I always use for the Toyosu tuna auction tour. As they had not eaten breakfast, I took them to a well-known sushi restaurant near the Tsukiji main area. During breakfast, I gave an overview of Japan and Tokyo and explained how they could spend their time in Tokyo over the following days.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayEidan Tokyo～Eidan Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 2SubwayToei Higashi-Ginza～Toei Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayEidan Asakusa～Eidan Otemachi178JPY
    Total576JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Request Booking

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ritz-Carlton Tokyo & Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    Tokyo in One Day: Ritz-Carlton Tokyo & Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo
    • 10:20 Depart the hotel (due to guest show-up delay)
    • 10:50 – 11:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:10 – 13:00 Lunch (Sukiyaki Juniten Marunouchi)
    • 13:10 – 14:15 Imperial Palace Outer Garden and East Garden
    • 14:50 – 15:30 Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple)
    • 15:50 Kappabashi Kitchen Town
    • 16:00 Dismissal (Kappabashi Kitchen Town)

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Kappabashi Even though it was October, it was a hot day in Tokyo, with a high of 31.9°C and strong sunshine. Since the guests were fine with the heat, there was little cause for concern, but I made sure to arrange breaks. When the guests had not appeared even ten minutes after the meeting time at the Hotel, I asked the concierge to call their room, and in the end we were able to leave the Hotel about twenty minutes behind schedule. At the guests' prior request, I had made a lunch reservation at a restaurant, so we moved through Meiji Shrine at a slightly quicker pace, and although I had planned to go as far as the entrance of Takeshita Street, we skipped that part. At Meiji Shrine, the guests wanted to buy an amulet, so we lined up, but only one window was open, and I believe we waited in line for about ten minutes. Starting on the way to Meiji Shrine, the guests asked me many questions about Japan. It was their first time on the Tokyo subway, and they were impressed by how quiet it was inside the train. Since it was a hot day, both of them bought hats at a hat shop we happened to pass on the way from Senso-ji Temple to Kappabashi Kitchenware Street. At Kappabashi Kitchenware Street, the guests wanted to look for a knife, and we parted ways as they were about to browse the shops.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNogizaka～Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae209JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa286JPY
    Total673JPY

    Tour Report by Mac

    Hello, I’m Masaaki Kurata. I have been conducting walking tours in Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka and the East Garden of Imperial Palace since I joined an English guide volunteer club in 2016. I worked for 2 U.S. based companies in Tokyo for 41 years and retired in 2023. I developed good communication skills with people from other countries in my long career in those 2 companies. I was born in the suburb of Tokyo and I’m familiar with Tokyo pretty much. Since I retired and do not work for a company any longer, I can be flexible in making itineraries. I really want to make tourists happy by making fun and interesting communication.

    Request Booking

    Jun 5, 2026
    Flyer544764
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Extraordinary submersion into Japanese history and culture~
    What an extraordinary 6 hr…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Eric_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mac was a very good tour…
    Mac was a very good tour…

    Apr 23, 2026
    O4598GUpatriciat
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional Private Guide – Discovering the Hidden Side of Tokyo
    We had…

    Apr 2, 2026
    V742WEsusans
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommended tour
    Excellent friendly guidance from Mac. He greeted us at…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza Mitsukoshi Depachika

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza Mitsukoshi Depachika

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Sotetsu Fresa Inn Ginza-Sanchome
    • 9:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:20 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 10:40 Walk along Omotesando
    • 11:00 Shibuya
    • 11:30 Omoide Yokocho
    • 11:45 Lunch @ Yoro no Taki
    • 12:50 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck
    • 13:50 Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 14:50 Ginza Mitsukoshi Depachika
    • 15:00 Disband at Ginza Mitsukoshi

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report At Meiji Shrine, the guests were amazed by the enormous cypress pillars of the torii gate and enjoyed the deep green forest. They asked many questions about Shinto. On Takeshita Street in Harajuku, since it was before 11:00, few shops were open, so they did not shop and passed through quickly, walking on to Omotesando. On Omotesando, the guests had learned from a guidebook that there were many beautiful buildings, and took photographs in various spots. In Shibuya, they filmed video from the second floor of a Starbucks and took photos of the Hachiko statue, thoroughly enjoying themselves. In Shinjuku, we went to Omoide Yokocho for lunch, but many shops were still not open and it was not lively. They enjoyed yakitori and beer. At the observation deck of the Metropolitan Government Building, there was a long line in front of the elevator, which was surprising, but we were able to get in without much of a wait. Although it was clear, there was a lot of haze, so only the silhouette of Mount Fuji could be seen. We stopped by Golden Gai, saw the Godzilla building on the way back, took the subway from Shinjuku, and after I showed them the basement food floor of the Ginza Mitsukoshi department store, the guests said they could find their way back on their own, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza～Meiji-jingumae600JPY
    Section 2TrainOmotesando～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Shinjuku167JPY
    Section 4TrainNishi-Shinjuku～Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku～Ginza0JPY
    Total767JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:55 meet at Sanjo Station Exit 4, go to Kinkaku-ji by bus
    • 11:50-12:40 Kinkaku-ji, then go to Omuro Ninna-ji by bus, transfer to Randen at Ninna-ji and go to Randen Arashiyama
    • 13:30-14:30 Arashiyama (Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, Observation Deck, Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge), then use Randen and subway to go to Shijo Station, Nishiki Market
    • 15:30-16:10 Nishiki Market (since we didn't have lunch during the tour, we stopped by 2 shops for a light meal)

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour with Nishiki Market Like? A Licensed Guide's Report To make the tour more efficient, I arranged to meet the guests near a bus stop rather than at their hotel, and since we met exactly as planned, we were able to follow the itinerary almost as scheduled. The guests were cheerful and chatted along the way about topics such as pensions, immigration, and global warming. They remarked that it was too hot for October. I also took photos of the guests at various points during the tour. At Nishiki Market, we stopped by two shops and had a light snack together. They seemed to really like the processed sesame products and bought a large quantity of them. By the time we finished exploring Nishiki Market, it was past 4:00 p.m., so I had them check the direction back on their smartphone, and we parted ways there. The guests planned to explore the Teramachi and Shinkyogoku covered shopping arcades afterward, and I believe they enjoyed the tour.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKeihan Sanjo～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi～Omuro Ninna-ji230JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Ninna-ji～Randen Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 4TrainRanden Arashiyama～Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 5SubwayUzumasa Tenjingawa～Shijo260JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Request Booking

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meeting Point 8:30 Hakata Port Cruise Center (Taxi) 8:45
    • Ohori Park / Maizuru Park / Fukuoka Castle Ruins 9:50 (Taxi) 10:00
    • Fukuoka City Museum 11:30 (Bus) 12:30
    • Lunch / Yanagawaya 12:20-13:00
    • Canal City 13:30
    • Kushida Shrine 14:20
    • Tochoji Temple 14:45
    • Jotenji Temple 15:10
    • Dismissal Hakata Station 15:20

    Title: What Can You Do on a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Fukuoka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Their original wish had been to visit Nankuzoin Temple, but since it is under construction for the rest of this year, we had to give up on that idea. As an alternative, they wanted to do some hiking, so I recommended Atago Shrine, which sits atop a hill within the city, and we changed the plan and had discussed it up until the day before. On the day itself, however, there was unfortunate rain and wind, so we gave up on Atago Shrine and I guided them to the Fukuoka City Museum instead. Since there was time before the museum opened, and because one of the guests liked flowers, we decided to go see the October cherry blossoms at Maizuru Park. It took some time to find the blossoms, but I was glad we managed to locate them in the end. Afterward, I guided them through the city museum, and they explored it far more enthusiastically than I had expected. For lunch, they thoroughly enjoyed the "steamed eel in a bamboo steamer" that they had wanted from the start, and they had fun at Canal City browsing local souvenirs and an anime merchandise shop. On cruise ships, the time spent in each city is limited, so it had apparently been difficult for them to visit anime shops, but in Fukuoka many popular anime shops are concentrated nearby, which pleased them greatly. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, we were not able to visit the Japanese garden we had planned to see. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Click here for more details: Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMuseum North Exit～Gion260JPY
    Total260JPY

    Tour Report by Chizuko

    My name is Chizuko Kitajima.
    I have worked as an international exchange coordinator for sister schools for more than 20 years and have handled more than 10 sister school partnerships. I guided young students when they came to Japan.
    I was born in Fukuoka and have lived here almost all my life. I am very happy to be able to introduce my hometown to our international guests.
    I will do my best to make your trip different from other cities and offer you new experiences and pleasant surprises.
    Please let me know where you want to go and what your interests are. I would be delighted to help you make the most of your trip and help you create wonderful memories.
    I look forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Apr 6, 2026
    Robert_S
    A Wonderful Day!
    Viator review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide met us promptly at the cruise…

    May 4, 2025
    92075
    So glad we did this!
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Chizuko, our guide, was phenomenal.
    We…

    Mar 25, 2025
    Veronicajhyde
    A day in Fukuoka
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great day with our tour guide Chizuko,…

    Oct 18, 2024
    Pearl_I
    Wonderful Experience!
    Viator review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Chizuko was a wonderful tour guide. She spent hours…

  • Kanagawa: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Hakone-Yumoto Bus

    Kanagawa: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Hakone-Yumoto Bus

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00　Hotel Okada
    • 8:45 　Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • 9:30　Gora Station
    • 10:00 Pola Museum of Art
    • 12:00 Owakudani
    • 13:30 Togendai Port
    • 14:30 Motohakone Port
    • 14:40 Hakone Shrine
    • 15:20 Motohakone Bus Stop
    • 15:50 Hakone-Yumoto Bus Stop
    • 16:00 Hotel Okada

    What Is a Public-Transport Private Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although the tour was originally planned to use a private vehicle, arrangements could not be made, so it became a tour using public transportation. The guests were blessed with good weather and thoroughly enjoyed the great nature of Hakone, and they were very satisfied. They especially loved Mount Fuji and pressed the shutter many times. At Owakudani, when I suggested that eating the black eggs is said to help you live longer, the guests happily bought some. At Hakone Shrine and places with steep slopes, there were moments when one of the guests waited below. As a guide, I am very concerned about securing private vehicles and taxis in Hakone.

    Click here for more details: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone-Yumoto Station～Gora Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by SHO

    In February 2017, I registered with Kanagawa prefecture as a National Interpreter Guide in English. Since then, I have guided mainly in Tokyo and Kamakura and Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, except during the corona virus epidemic. In addition, in February 2022, I became a Hakone Adventure Travel Guide certified by the Hakone DMO. I am especially good at walking and hiking tours. Here are my recommendations for Tokyo and Hakone.

    Tokyo – Imperial Palace
    The Imperial Palace is formally known as the Edo castle, the stronghold of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This place has been the residence of emperor of Japan since after the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The palace with a compound of 1.15 million square metere consists of the main palace where ceremonies and functions are held, the resindence of the Emperor and Empress, and the East Garden containing the ruins of Tensyukaku Donjon. The Chowadn Hall, located in the main Imperial Palace, is noted for the New Year’s visit by the general public to the Imperial Palace.

    Tokyo – Asakusa
    Asakusa is a famous sightseeing spot in Tokyo, which is reminiscent of the Edo period. This district has been flourishing as a temple town of Senso-ji, the oldest and the largest temple in Tokyo, Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” the outer gate of the temple is very famous as a landmark of Asakusa for its huge red lantern. Both domestinc and foreign tourists flock to thie venerable temple and the shopping arcade called “Nakamise” in the compound, the best place to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs in Tokyo.

    Hakone – Owakudani Valley
    One of the most popular sightseeing spots in Hakone. There are exploded craters, which were formed by the last phreatic eruption of Hakone Volcano about 3,000 years ago, and activer sulfur and hot stream vents. White smoke envelops the desolate ground to this day, and you can feel the intensity of a active volcano. This place is also a popular viewing spot for Mt. Fuji.

    Hakone – Jinja Shrine
    Hakone Jinja Shrine is famous for its Shinto shrine archway of Peace, which was founded in its current location in 757 based on a revelation of the priest Mangan. Manga was famous priest who trained in strict ascetic practices and pacified the nen-headed dragon that lived at the bootm of Lake Ashi, and history is still handed down to people today.

    Hakone – Check Point
    Tokugawa shogun placed 53 sekisy (facility of inspection) on major roads across the nation to defend Edo (current Tokyo). Hakone Sekisho was one of the largest and was thought to be important among them. Hakone Sekisyo was placed on the current location in 1619, during an early period of Edo Era. One of the main roles of sekisho was to control “incoming guns and outgoing women”, which means to prevent wapons from being brought into Edo and wives and children of feudal lords from fleeing from Edo. However, Hakone Sekisho did not inspect “incoming guns” andseverely inspected “outgoing women”. Sekisho which operatef for about 260 years furing Edo Era, was dissoloved in the next years of 1868, when government changed.

    Request Booking

    May 21, 2025
    aileenhs1739
    Great day!
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Mt Fuji with low stress!…

    Apr 5, 2025
    aradhnaa
    Perfect day
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sho was absolutely wonderful. He arrived early at our…

    Nov 9, 2024
    jennifergW1707MI
    Great way to see all the beauty Hakone had to offer
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle and stay there

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle and stay there

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Pick up at Hotel New Otani
    • 9:00-11:00 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 11:00-11:20 Move to Shitennoji Temple
    • 11:20-11:50 Stay at Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:00-12:20 Kuromon Market
    • 12:30-13:00 Dotonbori
    • 13:00-14:00 restaurant in Dotonbori
    • 14:00-15:30 Move to Umeda Sky Building and stay there
    • 15:30 End of the tour

    What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The guests were a lovely group. They were delighted that, having purchased electronic tickets, they were able to enter Osaka Castle without waiting in line. They listened with great interest to stories about Japanese history, carefully explored the interior of Osaka Castle, and I explained about the Summer Siege of Osaka, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Since they did not seem particularly interested in figures, we skipped Miraiza Osaka. When we moved on toward Shitennoji Temple, I heard that they wanted to go to Kani Doraku, so we headed early from Kuromon Market to Dotonbori. At Kani Doraku, even I was treated to a meal. I saw them off in front of the Floating Garden Observatory at the Umeda Sky Building, and we parted ways there so that they could enjoy the rest of the time at their own pace. As for souvenirs, they said they wanted photos taken together, so I took plenty of pictures of the group for them.

    Click here for more details: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 2TrainShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 3TrainNamba～Umeda290JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Request Booking

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…