Category: Uncategorized

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet up @ In front of the apartment in Aioi-cho, Nikko City (airBndB)
    • 9:25　Shinkyo Bridge
    • 9:45　Rinnoji Shoyoen Garden
    • 10:30　Rinnoji Sanbutsudo
    • 11:00　Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:40　Lunch @ Yuba Yuzen
    • 14:25　Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 15:00　Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 16:30　Dismissal @ JR Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nikko Tour Like for Garden Lovers? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. Both of them love Japanese gardens and enjoyed Shoyoen Garden. They also grow Japanese plants in the garden at their own home, and they were very interested in bamboo hedges, moss, and unusual plants. They were very knowledgeable about plants and how to cultivate them. In addition to gardening, the guests told me they had renovated their own home themselves, painted pictures while traveling, and showed me many photographs of their own works. They also shared knowledge about ships and trade, and about the natural environment. They said they love the nature of Nikko very much. Beyond Shoyoen Garden and the gardens of the Imperial Villa, they thoroughly enjoyed the trees and flowing water around the World Heritage area. Since some of the guests do not eat meat and wished to try traditional local cuisine, I guided them to a restaurant serving yuba dishes. For a dish that contained a small amount of pork, the restaurant kindly replaced it with another tofu dish, which they were very happy about. Once again, it turned into an enjoyable tour with lots of pleasant conversation throughout the day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nikko～Shinkyo Bridge220JPY
    Section 2BusIn front of Tamozawa Imperial Villa～JR Nikko Station350JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Yumi

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Request Booking

    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima Island & Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima Island & Museum

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:10 Meeting at the hotel
    • 11:35 Arrive at Miyajima Island
    • 12:30 Walking around the Stone Torii Gate and the Shrine
    • 13:00 Eating lunch at Toriiya Restaurant
    • 14:25 Arriving at Peace Park by Jet ferry
    • 15:50 Peace Park Tour including the A-bomb Dome
    • 16:55 Museum
    • 17:05 Goodbye at the east end of the Peace Bridge

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had been concerned about their Shinkansen reservation on the 4th due to the heavy rain on November 2, but the arrangement was successfully made. They had listed the history of Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park, and the museum as their priority items. On Miyajima, because of the spring tide, people were lined up from the stone torii gate waiting to visit the shrine, so the guests said they would not visit it, and we had lunch. The ferry terminal also had a very long line, and since the guests said they wanted to reach the Peace Memorial Park quickly, we used the jet ferry. At the Peace Memorial Park, questions came up such as, "What was being sold at the Atomic Bomb Dome? What were Hiroshima's industries before the war, and what are they now? How was Shima Hospital, which was at the hypocenter, rebuilt?" When I said, "As a result of the war, the atomic bomb was dropped. The important thing is not to have war from now on," the guests nodded deeply and listened intently. In front of the museum we also had to wait, and the stay was only 30 minutes, but the guests said, "Because we had listened to your explanation, we could understand it right away."

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima～Peace Park1,100JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Request Booking

    Apr 13, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with Yoshi
    Yoshi was truly one of the…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Liesbet N
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Boeiende reis door geschiedenis
    Een boeiende rondleiding van Yoshiko…

    Oct 26, 2025
    COYS100
    Great Hiroshima experience
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    A great tour with a very informed…

    Jun 25, 2025
    O1135UVraymondp
    Highly recommended to everyone to this tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Joshi is…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1)meet 　around 9:05　JR Kyoto Station　By bus to Sanjusangendo
    • 2)Sanjusangendo（9:30～10:00)　By bus to Kiyomizu-michi
    • 3)Yasaka Pagoda～Kiyomizu-dera(10:20～11:20)　On foot to Kodai-ji
    • 4)Kodai-ji(11:30～12:00)　On foot to Yasaka Shrine, Gion
    • 5)Yasaka Shrine・Gion Kobu(12:10～12:30)　On foot to Shirakawa area, Pontocho
    • 6)Shirakawa area, Pontocho(12:30～12:50)
    • 7)Farewell around 12:50

    Title: What Is a Private Half-Day Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The meeting point was set at the central ticket gate of JR Kyoto Station, but the guests seemed to have gone out of the station toward the bus stop, so it took a little time to meet up. They also mentioned that their IC card had no balance, so I helped them add money to the IC card. On the bus, they commented that the tour fee was expensive. It seemed that a group tour they were joining the next day to Nara and other places cost less than 60 dollars, so they felt this tour was expensive, but I replied that a guide does not know the details of the tour fees. They also walked quickly, saying time is money, and there were many requests to take their photo from certain angles, so I took photos at many spots. As a result, the itinerary progressed quickly. The plan had been to go as far as Gion Kobu, but since it was around 12:30 at that point, I guided them further to the Shirakawa area and Pontocho, and we said goodbye there. They seemed to have liked Kiyomizu-dera and its surroundings.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto Station～Sanjusangendo-mae230JPY
    Section 2BusSanjusangendo-mae～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Total460JPY

    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet up @ Tobu Nikko Station
    • 8:40　Shinkyo Bridge
    • 9:00　Rinnoji Shoyoen Garden
    • 9:40　Rinnoji Sanbutsudo Hall
    • 10:20　Toshogu Shrine
    • 11:40　Futarasan Shrine
    • 12:00　Lunch @ Maruhide Diner
    • 13:10　Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 13:50　Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 15:40　Disband @ Tamozawa Imperial Villa Bus Stop

    What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were very cheerful and enjoyable to be with, and we were able to spend the whole day chatting about many different topics. They took a deep interest in shoguns and emperors, Shinto and Buddhism, and the flow of Japanese history, and one good question followed another. Normally, worrying that talking too long might bore guests, I watch their reactions and skip parts, but today's guests were wonderful listeners, so I was able to speak freely about the historical background of Nikko. Since some of the guests preferred a vegetarian option, we went to a local eatery that accommodates various requests flexibly. As they had not eaten breakfast, they ordered three portions between them and enjoyed the meal thoroughly. They were staying at accommodation near the Nikko Botanical Garden, so I explained how to walk there and we parted in front of the Tamozawa Imperial Villa. Since dinner might not have been included in their stay, I also told them about the bus stop for taking the bus into town. It turned out dinner was indeed not included, and in the evening I received a message saying they were having dinner near the place where we had lunch that day. They were very active, full of curiosity, and truly wonderful guests.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station～Shinkyo Bridge220JPY
    Section 2BusNishisando-mae～Kanmangafuchi Abyss200JPY
    Section 3BusKanmangafuchi Abyss～Tamozawa Imperial Villa200JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Yumi

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Request Booking

    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:15 Meet at Kyoto Station Shinkansen Platform
    • 2. 11:30 Hotel check-in at Hotel Granvia
    • 3. 12:00 Guide to Nijo Castle
    • 4. 13:30 Guide to Kinkaku-ji
    • 5. 15:00 Guide to Ginkaku-ji
    • 6. 15:30 Nanzen-ji (including the aqueduct)
    • 6. 16:00 Guide to Nishiki Market
    • 7.. 17:00 Disband at Hotel Granvia

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour Avoiding the Crowds? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a guest from Europe who was visiting Japan to attend an international conference. The guest was a very approachable and friendly person, which made the guiding enjoyable. After consulting with the guest, we planned an itinerary that avoided places packed with tourists, covering Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, Nanzen-ji, and Nishiki Market. Unlike the heavy rain of the previous day, today was a comfortable and pleasant autumn day, so I was able to take my time guiding through the Ninomaru Palace, the main keep area, and the gardens, which the guest enjoyed. For Kinkaku-ji, I explained its background in the car, so at the temple grounds I could focus mainly on guiding through the scenery. After Kinkaku-ji, I guided the guest to Ginkaku-ji, which offers a striking contrast, and the guest was delighted by the beautiful scenery where the autumn foliage was just beginning. Next, we moved to Nanzen-ji, where I guided through the grounds and the aqueduct, and the guest showed great interest in the aqueduct that contributed to the modernization of Kyoto. Finally, I let the guest experience the bustle of Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's kitchen, before we parted ways at the hotel. I also received words of thanks: "Thank you for such a rich and rewarding tour within a limited amount of time."

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKyoto Station Shinkansen Platform～Kyoto Station Shinkansen Platform140JPY
    Total140JPY

    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

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel　→　9:30 Tsukiji Outer Market 10:20　→　10:30 Ueno Park・Ameyoko Shopping Street 11:50　→12:00 Sensoji Temple・Nakamise 13:10　→13:20 Imperial Palace 13:50　→　
    • 14:05 Meiji Shrine・Takeshita Street 14:55　→　15:00 Hotel

    What Is a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was a Tokyo sightseeing tour arranged within a very busy schedule, with the guest extending their stay by just one day and departing the following morning. On November 1st, the tour happened to coincide with the autumn grand festival at Meiji Shrine. The unexpected event taking place at a destination the guest had requested seemed to add even more to their enjoyment. It appeared to be a fun and fulfilling day, and I was pleased to sense that same feeling of satisfaction when we parted at the hotel. While many travelers return home the following morning after their meetings, I would like to express my gratitude to the guest for dedicating a full day to sightseeing in Tokyo.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTochomae～Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Hibiya210JPY
    Section 4TrainNijubashimae～Meiji Shrine210JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku150JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    Tour Report by kiyo

    I’m happy to show you around Japan. I used to be a traveler myself. And now I’ve got a lot of wonderful memories when I took trips abroad where people were very nice and kind to me. I’m hoping you would have more of such experience while you’re staying here. And I’d be so honored to be a part of your pleasant memories here in this country.
    Tokyo is the city I’m from. You can imagine Tokyo bristling with skyscrapers fully equipped with cutting edge conveniences. The capital’s charm is not only this kind of futuristic aspect. You might find the city mixed with old and new when you walk around this busy town.
    The other day, my guests and I were abruptly entertained with beautiful music played a traditional musical instrument called shamisen at one of Tokyo’s biggest train terminal stations. Our initial idea of finding a place to take a bite had taken away. We just stood there with lots of crowd, listening to the pleasing sound coming from the three-string instruments. After giving a big clap to the musicians for their glamorous performance, we left for a sushi shop where we enjoyed talking about the guitar lesson one of my young guests was taking. I’m looking forward to sharing such pleasant encounter with you here.
    One fun part of travel is trying some local food, isn’t it? Mouth-watering dishes are the must-try items not only for travelers but people living in this country. My guests with dietary restrictions have ventured fancy traditional confectionery I’ve been fond of. I usually waste no time trying when it comes to savory foods. When I asked if they liked the sweets at a precinct of the temple, they nodded at me with a big smile. Looking at such happy faces always makes me so glad. I’m waiting to see your happy smile.
    The more information on your preference on food and sites you let me know, the more thoroughly we can arrange our itinerary. I’m sure you have a lot on your plate, with preparing for your trip here. Still, I’d be happy if you spare your time to email me.
    Your guide, Kiyo

    Request Booking

    Oct 19, 2024
    tylerthomas
    Kiyo and Kamakura
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama / Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    Kiyo San was an excellent guide who lives…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel　→　10:20 Tsukiji Outer Market 12:00　→　12:10 Sensoji Temple・Nakamise 13:10　→　13:20 Ueno Park・Ameyoko Shopping Street 14:10　→　14:20 Tokyo Station 14:25　→14:30 Imperial Palace 14:　→　15:00 Meiji Shrine・Takeshita Street 15:50　→ 15:55 Shibuya Crossing 16:10　→　16:20 Kabukicho 16:25　→　16:30 Hotel

    What Is a First Day of Private Tokyo Sightseeing Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived in Japan late the previous night from Oceania. Day one was Tokyo sightseeing, and since they were scheduled to board a ferry the following day to explore various parts of Japan, the Tokyo tour became packed with sights. They seemed a little tired, but appeared very satisfied. On the way back, we also stopped by Kabukicho near the hotel, where they were able to take a photo of Godzilla. They may well be reviewing the photos and confirming the places they visited while aboard the ferry the next day. The guests said they travel to many places around the world, but this was their first visit to Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku West Exit～Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Tokyo170JPY
    Section 5TrainNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya～Shinjuku170JPY
    Total1,370JPY

    Tour Report by kiyo

    I’m happy to show you around Japan. I used to be a traveler myself. And now I’ve got a lot of wonderful memories when I took trips abroad where people were very nice and kind to me. I’m hoping you would have more of such experience while you’re staying here. And I’d be so honored to be a part of your pleasant memories here in this country.
    Tokyo is the city I’m from. You can imagine Tokyo bristling with skyscrapers fully equipped with cutting edge conveniences. The capital’s charm is not only this kind of futuristic aspect. You might find the city mixed with old and new when you walk around this busy town.
    The other day, my guests and I were abruptly entertained with beautiful music played a traditional musical instrument called shamisen at one of Tokyo’s biggest train terminal stations. Our initial idea of finding a place to take a bite had taken away. We just stood there with lots of crowd, listening to the pleasing sound coming from the three-string instruments. After giving a big clap to the musicians for their glamorous performance, we left for a sushi shop where we enjoyed talking about the guitar lesson one of my young guests was taking. I’m looking forward to sharing such pleasant encounter with you here.
    One fun part of travel is trying some local food, isn’t it? Mouth-watering dishes are the must-try items not only for travelers but people living in this country. My guests with dietary restrictions have ventured fancy traditional confectionery I’ve been fond of. I usually waste no time trying when it comes to savory foods. When I asked if they liked the sweets at a precinct of the temple, they nodded at me with a big smile. Looking at such happy faces always makes me so glad. I’m waiting to see your happy smile.
    The more information on your preference on food and sites you let me know, the more thoroughly we can arrange our itinerary. I’m sure you have a lot on your plate, with preparing for your trip here. Still, I’d be happy if you spare your time to email me.
    Your guide, Kiyo

    Request Booking

    Oct 19, 2024
    tylerthomas
    Kiyo and Kamakura
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama / Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    Kiyo San was an excellent guide who lives…

  • Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour

    Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour

    Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel　→　10:30 Tsukiji Outer Market 11:30　→　11:40 Amazake Yokocho 12:40　→　12:50 Animate 13:10 → 13:20　Kokugikan 13:55　→　
    • 14:00 Takeshita Street・Meiji Shrine 15:10　→　15:15 Shibuya Crossing 15:10　→　16:00 Hotel

    After sending several emails without a reply, I contacted a staff member at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) in the evening the day before, and at the same time the guests reached out as well. Since the tour was focused on shopping and hopping between shops, I had prepared an itinerary that would cover the shopping streets, but on the day there were two additional requests, so I ended up guiding while adjusting the itinerary on the go. It was a continuous stream of nervous moments both the day before and on the day of the tour. In the end, the guests said they had a wonderful day, which was a great relief. I heard that one of the guests recommended [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) after having used a guide from them before.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Ningyocho180JPY
    Section 3TrainNingyocho～Akihabara180JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara～Ryogoku150JPY
    Section 5TrainRyogoku～Harajuku230JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya～Tokyo210JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    Tour Report by kiyo

    I’m happy to show you around Japan. I used to be a traveler myself. And now I’ve got a lot of wonderful memories when I took trips abroad where people were very nice and kind to me. I’m hoping you would have more of such experience while you’re staying here. And I’d be so honored to be a part of your pleasant memories here in this country.
    Tokyo is the city I’m from. You can imagine Tokyo bristling with skyscrapers fully equipped with cutting edge conveniences. The capital’s charm is not only this kind of futuristic aspect. You might find the city mixed with old and new when you walk around this busy town.
    The other day, my guests and I were abruptly entertained with beautiful music played a traditional musical instrument called shamisen at one of Tokyo’s biggest train terminal stations. Our initial idea of finding a place to take a bite had taken away. We just stood there with lots of crowd, listening to the pleasing sound coming from the three-string instruments. After giving a big clap to the musicians for their glamorous performance, we left for a sushi shop where we enjoyed talking about the guitar lesson one of my young guests was taking. I’m looking forward to sharing such pleasant encounter with you here.
    One fun part of travel is trying some local food, isn’t it? Mouth-watering dishes are the must-try items not only for travelers but people living in this country. My guests with dietary restrictions have ventured fancy traditional confectionery I’ve been fond of. I usually waste no time trying when it comes to savory foods. When I asked if they liked the sweets at a precinct of the temple, they nodded at me with a big smile. Looking at such happy faces always makes me so glad. I’m waiting to see your happy smile.
    The more information on your preference on food and sites you let me know, the more thoroughly we can arrange our itinerary. I’m sure you have a lot on your plate, with preparing for your trip here. Still, I’d be happy if you spare your time to email me.
    Your guide, Kiyo

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    Oct 19, 2024
    tylerthomas
    Kiyo and Kamakura
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama / Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    Kiyo San was an excellent guide who lives…

  • Tokyo: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & HIE SHRINE

    Tokyo: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & HIE SHRINE

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:40 Starting from Hotel
    • 8:50 1. SHIBUYA CROSSING & Hachi
    • 9:15 2. MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 10:15 3. SHINJUKU, Golden-Gai and the Metropolitan Gov Observation Deck
    • 11:30 4. KOISHIKAWA KOURAKUEN
    • 12:30 5. THE IMPERIAL PALACE & the Tokyo Station
    • 13:45 6. Lunch, TSUKIJI Outer Market
    • 15:15 7. SENSO-JI TEMPLE
    • 15:55 8. HIE SHRINE
    • 17:15　Hotel

    What Is an 8-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a cheerful first-time 8-hour private tour of Tokyo for guests visiting from Oceania. Unfortunately it rained all day, but the guests stayed bright and said they liked the rain too, which was a great help. They also handled the downsides of the wet weather with good humor. They kindly remarked, half-jokingly, that during their time in Tokyo they might revisit these spots on a sunny day, noting: (1) Shibuya Crossing was not crowded and had a good view, (2) they were happy to visit Meiji Shrine smoothly, and (3) they gently asked what could be seen from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck on a clear day. It was a pleasure to guide such positive guests.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShibuya～Meiji-jingumae600JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku-sanchome~Iidabashi/Korakuen~Tokyo/Sakuradamon~Shintomicho/Tsukiji~Asakusa~Tameike-sanno~Shibuya0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spare time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

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    Sep 21, 2026
    judygU2038FZ
    A wonderful time in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had such a…

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Stay at Dotonbori / Hozenji Yokocho

    Osaka in Half a Day: Stay at Dotonbori / Hozenji Yokocho

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet near Shiokusa Park
    • 9:30 ~ 9:50 Move to Namba Yasaka Shrine, stay
    • 9:50 ~ 11:00 Move from Daikokucho Station to Ebisucho, stay at Tsutenkaku
    • 11:00 ~ 12:00 Move from Ebisucho to Nippombashi, stay at Kuromon Market
    • 12:00 ~ 13:00 Stay at Dotonbori / Hozenji Yokocho
    • Around 13:00 Disband

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Dotonbori and Kuromon Market The guests had flown into Tokyo the day before and traveled to Osaka through bad weather. They had booked a bnb near Shiokusa Park rather than a hotel, so the exact address of the accommodation was not clear unless you were a registered member of the booking service. However, I was able to locate Shiokusa Park, and when I emailed them from there, they came out and we were able to meet without any trouble. Since Namba Yasaka Shrine was nearby, we stopped by to take photos. This time the guests wanted to save Osaka Castle and the shrines for later and focus mainly on places to eat, so we went to Tsutenkaku, had fun shooting a bow in Shinsekai, and watched a knife demonstration at the Tower of Knives. We decided to eat kushikatsu in Dotonbori, then went to Kuromon Market, where we ate fruit, tuna sushi, and takoyaki, and sampled several things. In Dotonbori we also ate fluffy melon bread, and I offered suggestions and explanations about Hozenji Yokocho and several other foods that are worth trying in Osaka. From 2:30 they had a tea ceremony experience in Dotonbori, and since they planned to have dinner at a crab restaurant, we took photos in front of the Glico sign around 1:00 and parted ways. It seemed they still planned to return and eat ramen and other things afterward. It was a fun food tour, and the group enjoyed eating our way around town together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaikokucho～Ebisucho190JPY
    Section 2TrainEbisucho～Nippombashi190JPY
    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.

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    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
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    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…