Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Stay at Shitennoji & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Stay at Shitennoji & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet up
    • 10:00 ～ 11:40　Travel to and stay at Osaka Castle.
    • 11:40 ～ 12:00　Take the subway to Shitennoji.
    • 12:10 ～ 12:40　Stay at Shitennoji.
    • 12:40 ～ 13:00　Travel to Nipponbashi
    • 13:00 ～ 13:20　Kuromon Market
    • 13:20 ～ 14:00　Dotonbori
    • 14:00　Disband

    Osaka Castle and Kuromon Market: A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report The guests contacted me shortly before the tour to say they were tired from a long flight and asked to push the start time back by 30 minutes to 10:00. The route entering from the Osakajokoen Station side, which is close to the Hotel, and then moving from the opposite Tanimachi-Yonchome side toward Nippombashi was one I had never taken before, but it turned out to be very convenient. Since the guests had purchased online tickets, we were able to enter smoothly, and one of the younger members of the group was let through without any need for age verification. At Osaka Castle, the guests enjoyed dressing up in Sengoku-era warrior costumes and I took many photos for them. They also liked the photos taken by a professional and purchased those. At Shitennoji Temple, I explained the temple grounds from the outside rather than entering the halls, and one of the guests, who likes animals, seemed especially fond of the turtle pond. At Kuromon Market, I thought we might just look around since it can be expensive, but the guests bought some shine muscat grapes and had skewers of Kobe beef grilled and enjoyed eating them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 2TrainShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total380JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo: Omiya Bonsai Art Museum & Toju-en

    Tokyo: Omiya Bonsai Art Museum & Toju-en

    Omiya Bonsai Village Private Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:35 Meet @ karaksa hotel TOKYO STATION
    • 11:30 @ Omiya Bonsai Art Museum
    • 12:50 Lunch @ Bonsai Restaurant Omiya
    • 13:45 @ Mansei-en
    • 14:15 @ Seiko-en
    • 14:40 @ Fuyo-en
    • 15:10 @ Toju-en
    • 15:40 Dismissal @ Omiya Station

    What Is a Private Bonsai Village Tour in Omiya (Saitama) Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was a private tour for one guest visiting from Oceania. The guest shared that they grow a bougainvillea bonsai and a fig bonsai at home, and had signed up for this tour specifically to see Japanese bonsai. We had originally planned to take the 11:09 Utsunomiya Line train direct to Toro Station, but since we were able to meet earlier than scheduled at the hotel, we caught the earlier train departing at 10:49. We managed to get box seats, so during the roughly 40-minute ride we talked about houses and land prices in Tokyo, about Tsukiji, which the guest planned to visit the next day, differences in food between Japan and Oceania, and about our families. Upon arriving at Toro Station, I explained the history of the Bonsai Village as we first headed to the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum. This week there was a special exhibition of precious bonsai, so the lobby and indoor displays were lined with magnificent shinpaku (Chinese juniper) and Japanese white pine bonsai that had been designated as precious bonsai by the Japan Bonsai Association. The guest said it was their first time seeing shinpaku, and was deeply moved by the branches and trunks with their striking jin and shari deadwood features. The special exhibition room featured a rare display of ukiyo-e woodblock prints devoted entirely to bonsai and potted plants, titled "The Great Illustrated Encyclopedia of Ukiyo-e Plants." The ukiyo-e prints of potted flowers packed densely onto a single sheet of paper were very beautiful, and the guest was delighted by them. In the bonsai garden, the guest was captivated by a maple bonsai with beautiful green leaves, a thousand-year-old Ezo spruce, and a Japanese black pine with an appealing multi-layered trunk surface. After lunch at the Omiya Bonsai Restaurant, we went to Mansei-en, which is known for its impressive large-scale bonsai. The guest was overwhelmed by the power of a shinpaku bonsai said to be 2,000 years old, and also said that a stone-planted hinoki cypress group planting that looked just like a forest was very beautiful. After visiting the Bonsai Four Seasons House and Seiko-en, we went to Fuyo-en. This is a bonsai garden known for its beautiful deciduous bonsai, including bougainvillea, which the guest also grows, as well as rare grape bonsai. The conversation flowed well with a craftsman at the bonsai garden who had visited Oceania 30 years ago. We were also delighted to learn that the beautiful purple flowering street trees blooming along the road were jacaranda. On the way back, we also stopped by Toju-en before arriving at Toro Station. We took the Utsunomiya Line direct from Toro Station to Tokyo Station, confirmed the exit at Tokyo Station, and I said goodbye as I got off at Omiya Station. Guiding this tour with a guest who loves bonsai was a very enjoyable time for me as well.

    Click here for more details: Omiya Bonsai Village Private Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo Station～Toro Station594JPY
    Section 2TrainToro Station～Omiya Station147JPY
    Total741JPY

    Tour Report by Miyuki

    Hello, my name is Miyuki. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter since 2019. I was born in Saitama, 30 km north of Tokyo. I have lived there until today. I like Japanese traditional culture. I love bonsai and work as a guide in the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum. I am also learning the tea ceremony. Both bonsai and tea ceremonies make you feel relaxed and refreshed. I used to be a member of a Japanese archery club when I was a university student. Visiting shrines, temples and traditional gardens also makes me happy. You cannot miss eating Japanese food and sweets after visiting there. Let’s enjoy walking around Japan together!

    Hallo, mein Name ist Miyuki. Ich bin nationale anerkannte Reiseleiterin. Ich begleite Sie gerne durch Tokyo. Tokyo hat verschiedene Gesichter, mal traditionelle mal moderne. Da gibt es Shinto-Schreine, buddhistische Tempel, und typische japanische Gärten zu sehen, während man z. B. in Harajuku moderne Kultur und Mode erleben kann. Wollen wir zusammen bummeln und entdecken, was Tokyo ist!
    Ich empfehle Ihnen auch einen Besuch zum Omiya Bonsai Dorf. Da kann man sich allerlei Bonsai Bäume ansehen.
    Ich freue mich schon darauf, Sie zu sehen!

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    WolfgangSD
    Tripadvisor review: Omiya Bonsai Village Private Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour
    Miyuki-san was very knowlegdable and friendly, it was…

    Sep 15, 2025
    John B
    Fantastic tour of Bonsai Museum and nurseries with knowledgeable and friendly guide Miyuko
    Tripadvisor review: Private Omiya Bonsai Village Tour…

    Sep 30, 2024
    Resort01967483239
    Great experience, leant heaps
    Tripadvisor review: Private Omiya Bonsai Village Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miyuki was delightful, she was very friendly…

    Sep 20, 2024
    enriquels01
    Great prívate Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Everything was great!
    Miyuki was extremely nice and she…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at ibis Styles Tokyo Ginza
    • 2. 10:30 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • 3. 12:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4. 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 5. 14:00 Disband at Meiji Shrine

    Title: What Is a First-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Meiji Shrine For guests on their very first day in Japan, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide provided a private tour of Tokyo, beginning in Asakusa with a thorough explanation of Buddhism, temple architecture, and the origins of Edo. The guests asked about the difference between Shinto and Buddhism, and why temples do not have chairs and tables like churches, where people sit to listen to and carefully understand the teachings of Christ. Rather than giving a superficial answer such as "you do listen to sutras during zazen meditation," I explained that the Japanese view of Buddhism lies in devotion to the Buddha statues and the principal image of worship themselves, rather than in a linguistic understanding of scripture as in Christianity. At the Tsukiji outer market, the guests tried grilled chicken thigh skewers, and at the fish market they savored medium-fatty tuna nigiri, expressing admiration for the fresh ingredients unlike what they were used to at home. At Meiji Shrine, we gave an overview of the differences between Japan's Imperial family and royal families abroad.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassGinza～Asakusa900JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Higashi-ginza0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

    Request Booking

    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @ Kyoto Station (Shinkansen platform)
    • 2. 9:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha tour
    • 3. 12:00 Kiyomizu-dera tour
    • 4. 13:30 Disband @ Kyoto Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Half-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera At the request of the guests, who were visitors from North America, we met at the Shinkansen platform at Kyoto Station 30 minutes earlier than planned and traveled by train to Fushimi Inari Taisha. The guests had come to Japan after receiving an invitation from a university. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, I explained Shinto, the torii gates, and the foxes, and we offered prayers at the main hall before passing through the Senbon Torii and descending Inari Mountain. The guests were fascinated by the vermilion-colored shrine and took many photographs. From Fushimi Inari Taisha, we moved on to the next destination, Kiyomizu-dera, by train and bus, but everywhere was extremely crowded today, and even Kiyomizuzaka was so packed that it was difficult to move. We took a break along the way to have some water, and then walked up the approach to Kiyomizu-dera. Upon arrival, I explained the background of the temple as we entered the grounds, but perhaps due to fatigue from walking, the guests only took photographs rather than touring the interior. After purchasing a few souvenirs at Kiyomizu-dera, and with the Shinkansen reservation approaching, we took a taxi to Kyoto Station, where we parted ways. With only four hours for sightseeing and the crowds of many travelers, the guests appeared to be tired.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Station～Inari Station150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari Station～Tofukuji Station150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji-mae Station～Kiyomizuzaka Station230JPY
    Total530JPY

    Tour Report by Toshi

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Request Booking

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel (3-3-1 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:15 Cornes Shiba Showroom (3-3-10 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 3) 11:00 Shibuya Crossing
    • 4) 11:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 5) 13:30 Tsukiji Market & Lunch
    • 6) 14:50 Asakusa <Kannon-dori, Nakamise-dori, Senso-ji Hozomon Gate>
    • 7) 16:10 Dismissal @ Taxi stand near Matsuya Asakusa (1-4-1 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo)

    What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like for Guests with Limited Mobility? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour for guests visiting from North America. Although the pre-tour communication had indicated "no particular requests," at the meeting point it turned out that one of the guests had an injured right ankle. In addition, they made a request: "Last night, on the way to the hotel by taxi, we saw a Ferrari dealership. We'd like to stop by there first." Checking the map, it was a 12-minute walk from the hotel. I confirmed with the guests, and since it was fine with them, we first walked at a slow pace to the Ferrari showroom (Cornes Shiba Showroom). One of the guests, a Ferrari owner, wanted to take photos of the Ferraris in the first-floor showroom, but since those were all on display as items entrusted by their owners, photography was not permitted. The guest looked very disappointed. Then the dealer, Mr. T, said, "Since you own a Ferrari yourself, please feel free — you can take photos of the Ferrari in the third-floor showroom." He kindly included me, though I have no connection at all to imported cars, and out of his kindness we all took photos together. The guests were beaming. Still riding that excitement, we went on to Shibuya Crossing and then Meiji Shrine. However, since pain also developed in the right hip in addition to the right ankle, we walked slowly with frequent rests. By the time we finished at Meiji Shrine, the guests were asking things like "How long is it on foot to the station?" and "Is Tsukiji close from the nearest station?", so I explained each time. The daytime temperature was not that high, but Japan's humidity seemed a little uncomfortable for them. Even using elevators and escalators, subway transfers and walking distances were considerable, so on the trains I encouraged them to sit down whenever possible. The guests are very familiar with Japan and the whole group loves Japanese food; they often visit places like Little Tokyo near their home and are knowledgeable about ingredients and seasonings (one of the guests likes Kikkoman teriyaki sauce). They seemed to appreciate the differences by comparing the Japanese food back home with the sushi and tempura of Tsukiji. Midway through the tour, one of the guests said they were tired, and I judged that walking for more than 30 minutes would be too much. I said we would give up on the East Gardens and head straight to Asakusa, and the guests agreed. At the Meiji Shrine souvenir shop, when one of the guests was browsing, I had mentioned "Shopping is more fun in Asakusa!" So when I announced "Asakusa is shopping time!", they became delighted and started buying senbei crackers, T-shirts, and more, one after another. Perhaps the foot pain eased a bit — they looked lively. The guests had particular tastes in souvenirs and wanted a "call bell within 2,000 yen." They found one at the first shop near Kaminarimon but didn't like it, and searched all along Nakamise Street without much luck (an orin singing bowl was rejected as too expensive). At a second shop near Hozomon Gate, they finally found a call bell with a maiko design and purchased it. Looking very satisfied, they took photos in front of Hozomon Gate, and that was where we ran out of time. I guided them to the taxi stand and we parted ways. Starting tomorrow they will set sail on a cruise ship, visiting places like Fukuoka, Osaka, Aomori, and Hakodate, so with their easygoing and cheerful spirit, I hope they take care and enjoy their trip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Subway Oedo Line Akabanebashi Station～Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Kita-sando Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station～Toei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet at Pullman Tokyo Tamachi
    • 2. 09:45 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3. 11:30 Asakusa – Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple
    • 4. 12:20 Lunch at Tsuruya
    • 5. 13:30 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 6. 15:10 Disperse at Mita Station

    What Is a Private Full-Day Cultural Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They were strong walkers and showed no sign of fatigue right through to the end, so I believe they were able to fully enjoy the day. I planned the route based on a hearing session before the tour, and since they had expressed an interest in Japanese history and culture, I believe they were satisfied. For lunch, they had requested a Japanese-style meal other than ramen, so I took them to a restaurant where they could enjoy tempura and rice bowl dishes, and they were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMita～Shimbashi178JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Mita286JPY
    Total936JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: standby at Kyoto Sta & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto in Half a Day: standby at Kyoto Sta & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 standby at Kyoto Sta.
    • 9:20 pck you up in the south side of Kyoto Sta.
    • 10:00 Nijojo Castle
    • 11:00 (take taxi)
    • 11:20 Sanjusangen-do
    • 12:10 (take bus)
    • 12:30 Kyoto Station.

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like with Nijo Castle and Sanjusangendo? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. The guests were visitors from North America. 2. We had originally planned to meet on the south side of Kyoto Station (the Shinkansen side), but the guests got out of the taxi on the north side, stored their baggage in a coin locker, and then moved to the south side, where I was able to pick them up. 3. At Nijo Castle and Sanjusangendo, the stroller was left in front of the halls, and the guests joined the tour carrying their belongings by hand. At Sanjusangendo, they were deeply moved by the 1,001 Buddhist statues. 4. At the guests' request, we ended the tour in front of Kyoto Station at 12:30. The guests planned to have a meal and then travel to Kanazawa in the afternoon.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2BusSanjusangen-do-mae～Kyoto Station230JPY
    Total490JPY

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 @Meet (Bloosom Hibiya)
    • 10:15 @Tsukiji
    • 11:30 @Nijubashi, Tokyo Station
    • 13:00 Lunch @Mikagekura
    • 14:15 @Asakusa
    • 16:00 @Disband (Blossom Hibiya)

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. One of them had previously visited Japan as a child for a scouting event. From the moment we met, I could sense their warm personalities, which allowed me to guide them comfortably and with peace of mind. I recommended a 24-hour subway pass as it would be more economical, but they wanted to use up the balance on their Suica cards, so we simply used Suica. They mentioned that there are IC cards in their home region as well, so they understood how to use them right away. The guests were very knowledgeable about Japan, including topics such as members of the Imperial family, the Emperor Emeritus, and the new Prime Minister. The tour took place on the first day of their sightseeing, and they planned to explore on their own afterward. They seemed confident about getting around, and I hope they enjoy visiting many places throughout Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShintomicho～Sakuradamon180JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Kanda150JPY
    Section 4SubwayKanda～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Shimbashi210JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa Station & Hamamatsucho Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa Station & Hamamatsucho Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Asakusa Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 10:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 10:50 Nippori Station
    • Yanaka Yanaka Ginza
    • 11:30 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Lunch: Hidakaya
    • Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Parco / Pokemon Center / Nintendo Store
    • 14:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Hamamatsucho Station
    • 14:30 Disband: Hamamatsucho Station

    Title: What Is a Private Family-Friendly Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous night, later than planned because their scheduled flight had been canceled. Their accommodation was a bed & breakfast in the Hamamatsucho area. They were on a two-week holiday trip, planning to spend five days in Tokyo, then visit Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, before returning to Tokyo and heading home. This evening, they had a reservation for the Tokyo Skytree. The tour took place under occasional light rain. We met at the Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa and strolled around the area. One question was, "Why are there so many people here? Is it always this crowded?" I explained about Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo, the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, as well as omikuji (fortune slips) and omamori (amulets). There were questions such as "What does Buddhism teach?" and "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" One of the guests noted, "In Europe too, most buildings were destroyed by bombing during the Second World War." After that, we moved to Yanaka, as they said they wanted to see an old townscape. At Nezu Shrine, they passed through the torii gates and took photos. From there, we moved to Shibuya. Since they said, "We'd like to eat ramen, if possible ramen without soup," we went to a casual ramen restaurant. They seemed to particularly enjoy the gyoza and edamame. Afterward, we crossed the scramble crossing and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue, and I explained the story of Hachiko. There was a question: "Why do so many people gather here at the scramble crossing?" After that, at the request of the guests, we visited the Pokemon Center and the Nintendo Store inside Shibuya Parco. They also made comments such as, "The city is so clean. There is no litter on the ground," "The public toilets are clean and pleasant, and they're free," and "The subway is quiet and clean." At their request to be taken to Hamamatsucho Station, I saw them off there 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 Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno Station～Nippori Station146JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi Station～Nezu Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNezu Station～Shibuya Station209JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya Station～Hamamatsucho Station208JPY
    Total919JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Ginza & Harajuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Ginza & Harajuku

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Ginza→Tsukiji
    • 11:00 Tsukiji→Yanaka
    • 12:30 Nezu→Meiji Shrine
    • 14:30 Harajuku→Ginza

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tsukiji, Yanaka, and Meiji Shrine in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since they requested a 4-hour tour covering Tsukiji, Yanaka, and Meiji Shrine, it was a busy tour without a lunch stop, but the guests were in very good spirits throughout. At Tsukiji they enjoyed strawberry daifuku and sashimi, and at Yanaka they had croquettes, menchi-katsu, and rice balls, all of which they were very satisfied with. One of the guests, who is not fond of crowded places, seemed relieved upon arriving at Meiji Shrine. Since the guests have Korean roots, we were able to chat happily using my bit of broken Korean as well, which made for an enjoyable tour. They said they would like to come to Japan again in the future.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Nippori324JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Ginza178JPY
    Total889JPY

    Tour Report by Rumi

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…