Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Meiji Shrine Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Meiji Shrine Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
    • 9:30 Tsukiji
    • 10:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:45 Lunch @ Inataya
    • 12:50 Asakusa (Skytree photos) Kappabashi Kamata
    • 14:40 Shibuya shopping and Scramble Crossing
    • 15:15 Meiji Shrine Takeshita Street
    • 16:30 Disband at Nagatacho Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Kappabashi, and Shibuya It was a hectic day, with rain followed by hot, humid sunshine. At Tsukiji, the guests asked many questions about seafood. At the Imperial Palace, they asked many questions about history. Since they requested a light lunch, we changed the plan from tonkatsu to soba. While walking through Tsukiji, the guests mentioned they wanted to buy a kitchen knife, so after Asakusa I guided them to Kamata in Kappabashi, a shop also recommended by [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). They bought two knives, but since they did not have their passport with them, they were unable to receive the tax exemption. I had thought they might come back another day, but they decided to buy on the spot, which surprised me a little. At Kappabashi they also bought plastic food samples. Since I had heard beforehand that they wanted to buy sweet bean confections, I introduced kintsuba and other options in Shibuya, which they purchased. In the latter part of the day, the guests were tired, so after Takeshita Street I saw them off at the station near their hotel, and the tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAkasaka-mitsuke～Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Takebashi0JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4TrainTawaramachi～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 6TrainMeiji-jingumae～Nagatacho0JPY
    Total746JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Hotel Niwa Tokyo (5 min from JR Suidobashi Station, mostly Inbound guests)
    • 0930 Harajuku – Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine – Takeshita Street
    • 1130 Shibuya – Scramble Crossing – Hachiko Statue
    • 1220 Asakusa – Nakamise – Sensoji Temple – Asakusa Shrine
    • 1400 Shimbashi – Since you will head to Yokohama to meet your friend afterward, we will part ways at the JR Shimbashi Tokaido Line platform

    Title: What Is a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Tokyo Like (Harajuku, Shibuya, Asakusa)? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, all on their first trip to Japan. Initially, Harajuku and Shibuya were fixed points, and depending on the time and the situation of the group, the plan was to guide them around Roppongi or Ginza. However, during the time from Takeshita Street to Shibuya the rain became heavy, so we decided to skip walking around Roppongi and Ginza and head to Asakusa for the time being. When we arrived in Asakusa it was cloudy but not raining, and the group enjoyed shopping at Nakamise, but around Hozomon Gate it began to rain heavily, so we took shelter while completing our visit to the main hall. Along the way, we had ice cream and melon bread in place of lunch. After this, the group planned to visit a friend in Yokohama, and since it overlapped with my own route home, I saw them off at Shimbashi Station and showed them to the Tokaido Line platform before we parted ways. They mentioned they would be traveling to Kyoto the next day. Today the Shinkansen was suspended between Mishima and Nagoya, and although there was an announcement that normal operation would resume from the first train the next day, I recommended that they confirm at the hotel front desk the next morning. Although the time ran slightly long due to taking shelter from the rain, the guests were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSuidobashi – Yoyogi～Harajuku178JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Asakusa252JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shimbashi209JPY
    Total785JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

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    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:30 Meet at The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
    • 2. 11:00 Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Gardens)
    • 3. 13:20 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 4. 15:00 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 5. 16:40 Dismiss at Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's East Gardens Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe who had studied Japan very thoroughly. They listened enthusiastically to detailed explanations of history and culture, and they also asked many questions. At the East Gardens, there was a moment of commotion when one of the guests thought a mobile phone had been lost, but it was found in a pocket, and we were able to continue the tour without any trouble. Depending on where an item is thought to have been dropped, in most cases lost items are safely returned within the East Gardens, and I was told to inquire at the shops or the entrance office. Although the weather had been a concern, we were fortunate to avoid the rain well as we went around, and there was no need to use an umbrella. Overall, I believe the guests were very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke～Nijubashimae600JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Akasaka-mitsuke0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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

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    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Itinerary
    • 1.10:00@Hotel Cocone Kuramae
    • 2.10:10@Asakusa
    • 3.12:10@Shibuya
    • 4.12:30 Lunch @ Oreryu Shio Ramen (Shibuya)
    • 5.13:20@Meiji Jingu
    • 6.14:10@Takeshita Street
    • 7.15:00@Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 8.16:00 Disband @ Meiji-jingumae Station

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku Gyoen The guests arrived in Japan from Europe the day before. There had been concern about the weather due to a typhoon, but luckily there was almost no rain and we even had occasional glimpses of sunshine. The guests were collecting goshuin (temple and shrine stamps), and received stamps at Sensoji Temple and Meiji Shrine. Perhaps because of the typhoon, the sites were less crowded than usual. The guests were interested in Japanese culture and history and listened attentively to the explanations. Some of the guests were especially interested in food, and enjoyed mitarashi dango and iced green tea. On Takeshita Street, the guests took a liking to an animal cafe and mentioned they might return the next day. They also enjoyed ramen in Shibuya. Although they were quite tired from all the walking, they wanted to see a garden as well, so we went to the Japanese garden at Shinjuku Gyoen, and took a break at the tea house with iced green tea and shaved ice topped with anko (sweet red bean paste). They tried anko for the first time and said it was very delicious. On the way back, the guests wanted to stop by Tokyu Plaza and New Balance in Harajuku, so we returned to Meiji-jingumae Station and parted ways. I was glad everything finished smoothly.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKuramae～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya252JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku-gyoemmae178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae～Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Total932JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

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    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Conrad Osaka
    • 10:15 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 12:30 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha (exterior only)
    • 13:15 @ Kuromon Market
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ Kuromon Market

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha, and Kuromon Market The guests were a group who moved through the day smoothly. There had been concerns about suspensions and delays of public transportation due to a typhoon, but the weather turned out to be reasonable and the transportation ran mostly as usual. However, prior research showed that Sumiyoshi Taisha would be closed (no entry to the main hall permitted) for two days including today and the following day. At Osaka Castle and Sumiyoshi Taisha, the crowds were unusually sparse, likely due to the typhoon. At Osaka Castle, entry was possible, but at the guests' request we limited ourselves to viewing from the outside and spent much of our time at the adjacent commercial facility "Miraiza." At Sumiyoshi Taisha, entry to the main hall was not possible, but access up to the arched bridge was allowed. Afterward, at Kuromon Market, the guests enjoyed many samples such as ice cream, roasted chestnuts, dried fruit, black bean tea, and pickles, and also purchased souvenirs. We ended up dispersing at Kuromon Market a little later than planned, and the guests said they would stroll around a bit longer.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigobashi～Morinomiya240JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Tennoji170JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji～Sumiyoshitorii-mae230JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba240JPY
    Total880JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Ikebukuro Station & Kawagoe Festival Museum

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Ikebukuro Station & Kawagoe Festival Museum

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:20　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 9:16　Ikebukuro Station
    • 10:00　Kawagoe Station
    • 10:25　Kitain Temple
    • 11:00　Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
    • 11:40　Toki no Kane (Bell of Time)
    • 11:50　Lunch @ Kincho (udon specialty restaurant)
    • 13:00　Matsumoto Soy Sauce Store factory tour
    • 13:30　Kurazukuri warehouse district streetscape
    • 14:00　Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley)
    • 14:30　Kawagoe Festival Museum
    • 15:20　Kawagoe Station
    • 16:00　Disband @ Ikebukuro Station

    What Is a Private Kawagoe Day Tour from Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America, some of whom had visited Japan about twenty years ago, while the others were visiting for the first time. This trip was focused only on the Tokyo area, and they did not plan to visit places such as Kyoto. At Kitain Temple and Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, the guests listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, and they also purchased protective charms. A factory tour of the Matsumoto Soy Sauce Shop was specially added to the tour route at the guests' request, and they observed it very enthusiastically while also purchasing soy sauce as a souvenir. Since I accommodated everything according to the guests' wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHiroo～Ebisu180JPY
    Section 2TrainEbisu～Ikebukuro180JPY
    Section 3TrainIkebukuro～Kawagoe1,110JPY
    Section 4BusKawagoe Station～Kitain Temple front0JPY
    Section 5BusKitain Temple front～Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine front0JPY
    Section 6BusKawagoe Hikawa Shrine front～Ichibangai0JPY
    Section 7BusIchibangai～Kawagoe Station0JPY
    Section 8TrainKawagoe～Ikebukuro0JPY
    Total1,470JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • 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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:55 Meet @ Tobu Nikko Station
    • 11:10　Board bus
    • 11:20　Shinkyo Bridge
    • 11:45　Rinnoji Temple Shoyoen Garden
    • 12:00　Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo Hall
    • 12:30　Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:00　Lunch @ Maruhide Restaurant
    • 15:21　Board bus
    • 15:35　Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 16:50　Board bus
    • 17:05　Disband @ Tobu Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Rain had been forecast due to the effects of a typhoon, but the weather changed and we were fortunate to avoid rain almost entirely. It finally began to rain after 3:00, so I changed the plan; we had intended to visit Kanmangafuchi Abyss, but decided against it due to the rain. The guests had purchased limited express tickets for the Tobu Line, but because they boarded with Suica cards there was a shortfall in the fare, which took a little time at the ticket gate. The complicated fare system nearly put them in a bad mood, but they made it through the gate safely, shifted their mindset, and we managed to start the tour on a happy note. I wanted to build the tour course while listening to their preferences and opinions as much as possible, so I checked several things with them, and they said they trusted me completely and that I could decide everything at my discretion. Even so, I explained the characteristics of each place and made decisions while watching their reactions. Everyone was very friendly and cheerful, and as they said, they trusted me, listening carefully to my explanations everywhere we went and enjoying themselves. There were also many questions. For example, "What is the minimum wage in Japan?", "When do Japanese people wear kimono?", "What are '-dori' streets and 'chome'?", "Why is a geisha's skin painted so white?", and "How do you say in Japanese that you shouldn't overeat for your health?" and many other things, mostly unrelated to the places we visited — perhaps things they had been curious about for a long time and wanted to resolve all at once. At the time I couldn't explain some of them very clearly, so I followed up afterward via a messaging app. Some of the guests do not eat meat or shellfish, so I took them to a restaurant that could accommodate vegetarian meals. It is a restaurant I often use because it has many menu options and is flexible in accommodating requests, but since it looks old and not stylish, I warned them in advance about what kind of place it was so they wouldn't be disappointed. They said they trusted me, so I took them there, and their expressions did indeed cloud over at first. However, the owner served some yuba as a complimentary dish and the food was delicious, so in the end they were pleased, which was a relief. After leaving, they said, "If we had come on our own, we would never have chosen this place based on its appearance," which I interpreted to mean they were glad they could discover it thanks to having a guide. We arrived at Tobu-Nikko Station right on schedule, and I showed them a café where they could relax until their train, then we parted ways. They seemed very happy, which I was glad about.

    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 Chaya～Tamozawa Imperial Villa200JPY
    Section 3BusTamozawa Imperial Villa～Tobu Nikko Station350JPY
    Total770JPY

    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

    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…

    Nov 10, 2025
    Salutory
    A fascinating tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Yumi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at hotel
    • 10:30-11:00 Travel to Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00-12:00 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00-13:30 Travel to Shibuya, lunch, experience Shibuya Crossing
    • 13:30-14:00 Travel to Ginza
    • 14:00-14:30 Window shopping in Ginza
    • 14:30-15:00 Travel to Asakusa
    • 15:00-16:00 Visit Senso-ji Temple
    • 16:00-16:30. Travel from Senso-ji Temple, disband at Ueno Station

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe as part of a cruise. Since a bus tour was planned for the following day, I took them to the places they wished to see. When we met, I made a point of pointing out nearby landmarks as often as possible after the tour began, so they could find their way back to the hotel on their own. At Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple, I focused my explanation on the difference in how to worship, since these sites offer a nice contrast between Shinto and Buddhism, and the guests worshipped very enthusiastically. Their wish was to see a market and, along the way, a robot cafe, but since they wanted to avoid the fish market, I took them to the cafe instead. The rain was extremely heavy due to a typhoon, so we took shelter inside a shopping complex, where the guests found a bag for one of the group and seemed to enjoy it very much. Although it was a tour in very heavy rain, I believe it ended safely and well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro～Harajuku178JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Ginza209JPY
    Section 4TrainGinza～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Ueno178JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Kappa

    Thank you for your entry in this tour. Nice to meet you in this mail.
    Your tour guide Kappa is my nickname. Kappa is a traditional, imaginary creature who came into being in Japan over 300 years ago. She is good at swimming, like me, for I like swimming. I would like to make our tour operated smoothly as Kappa does when she swims in the river or pond. It is my pleasure to introduce many aspects in our tour, especially cooking, for it is my hobby and I went to the professional cooking and SAKE school, respectively. If you have any questions or requests about Japanese cooking, of course our tour, I am very delighted to answer to you anytime!

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    Jul 30, 2025
    Michael_R
    Customized Hakone tour
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kappa-san, modified the typical Hakone tour…

    May 18, 2025
    Leigh_M
    Kappa, our guide met us…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa, our guide met us at the…

    May 4, 2025
    panderhigs
    Kappa A+ Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa was an amazing guide who created a thorough…

    May 4, 2025
    O9621SBscottp
    Kappa is a wonderful tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I were treated…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:50 Meet up @THE KANZASHI TOKYO ASAKUSA (2-27-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 11:00 Tea ceremony experience @Tea Utensils Kakinuma (3-21-9 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 3) 12:10 Asakusa
    • 4) 13:30 Imperial Palace Main Gate Nijubashi Bridge
    • 5) 14:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 6) 15:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 7) 15:50 Harajuku Takeshita Street → Omotesando → Cat Street
    • 8) 16:30 Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 9)17:10 Disband @Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Station ticket gate

    Can You Do a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour with a Tea Ceremony? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided guests visiting from Europe. In advance, they had expressed interest in a tea ceremony experience and visiting Tokyo's highlights. Since the experience venue was near the Hotel and started at 11:00, they kindly agreed to meet at 10:50. I was impressed that the guests had such an interest in Japan's traditional culture. After a one-hour tea ceremony experience, at the guests' request I guided them to Nishi-Sando and the Nakamise shopping street to buy a gift lantern (lantern purchased at a shop in Asakusa). We then visited the Nijubashi bridge at the main gate of the Imperial Palace, the Shibuya scramble crossing (including the second floor of a coffee shop), and Meiji Shrine. According to the guests, in the region they come from, due to its historical background of religious suppression during the Cold War era, there is little inclination toward religion, and they rarely buy things like omamori charms, so they did not offer prayers at the shrine. We continued to Harajuku's Takeshita Street and the Cat Street area of Omotesando (strolling only, without shopping), and to the Yanaka shopping street (I guided them there as we had extra time). Thanks to the guests' physical stamina, we were able to visit more places than expected. When our English was hard to understand between us, I made an effort to communicate by showing photos and text on a smartphone (for example, when explaining soba and udon). Finally, at the ticket gate of Ueno Station on the Ginza Line, I instructed them to get off at Asakusa Station, 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 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Sakuradamon Station～Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Kita-sando Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Yamanote Line Nippori Station～JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station150JPY
    Total750JPY

    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…

  • Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Nikko Station – 11:40 Kegon Falls – 12:30 Lake Chuzenji shore – 13:40 Kanmangafuchi Abyss – 14:20 Lunch – 15:00 Futarasan Shrine – 15:30 Toshogu Shrine – 16:20 Disband at Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Day Trip to Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania on their first trip to Japan, and this was one of the final days of a ten-day itinerary. Given the choice between Kamakura and Nikko, the guests chose Nikko, and fortunately there was no rain or wind from the typhoon that had been a concern. We started at Kegon Falls near Chuzenji Onsen. After strolling along the shore of Lake Chuzenji, we got off the bus partway on our route to lunch at a bakery restaurant of a long-established hotel, and took a walk at Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where the guests fully enjoyed the untouched natural scenery. At Futarasan Shrine, the guests drank the spring water said to have the effect of extending one's lifespan, and enjoyed a ring-toss game, having a wonderful time in Nikko.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nikko Station～Chuzenji Onsen1,250JPY
    Section 2BusChuzenji Onsen～Urami Falls Entrance1,000JPY
    Section 3BusIn front of Taiyuin/Futarasan Shrine～Tobu Nikko Station350JPY
    Total2,600JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Request Booking

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…