Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyo Lobby
    • 10:40 Photo shoot in front of Shibuya Hachiko Statue, Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 11:20 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 13:00 Lunch at "Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan"
    • 14:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center 8th floor observation deck
    • 14:15 Asakusa Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 16:00 Dismissal in front of "Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station ticket gate"

    What Is a Private Tokyo Public Transport Orientation Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived in Japan from North America and planned to stay in Tokyo before boarding a cruise ship from Yokohama to visit Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki. The guests planned to explore Tokyo on their own from the following day. Since they wanted to learn how to use the JR lines and subway within the city for their exploration, I explained how to use the public transportation system using a route map, as well as how to charge a Suica card. The guests had gathered a great deal of information for this trip before arriving in Japan, and I received many questions about things such as the free observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and unusual souvenirs that can be purchased at Don Quijote.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shimbashi Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station180JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station～JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station～JR Chuo Line Kanda Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Kanda Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station210JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Bruce

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

    Jun 12, 2026
    716suzannab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience
    Bruce was an amazing guide. He taught us some essential…

    May 27, 2026
    beaufordtjustice
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Tokyo with Bruce!
    My son and I had a…

    May 24, 2026
    A2151KImelissab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day out in Tokyo
    I enjoyed a solo guided tour of Tokyo…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:15 Meet at NR Nara Station
    • 2. 13:45 Guide through Nara Park
    • 3. 14:00 Guide at Todaiji Nandaimon Gate
    • 4. 14:15 Guide at the Great Buddha Hall
    • 5. 15:00 Guide at Nigatsudo Hall
    • 6. 15:30 Okumura Construction Research Institute
    • 7. 16:00 Guide at Yoshikien Garden
    • 8. 16:30 Guide at Kofukuji Temple
    • 9. 17:30 Disband at JR Nara Station

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Todaiji, Nara Park, and More Due to a typhoon, the trains were delayed, and I was only able to meet the guests one hour after the scheduled time of noon. After gathering at Nara Station, because of the extreme heat I recommended taking the bus, and we headed to our first destination, Todaiji Temple. First, while walking to the Great South Gate, I explained the historical background of why deer are present in Nara Park, then described the Nio guardian statues at the gate, and moved on to the Great Buddha Hall to enter. I explained that the Great Buddha Hall is the largest wooden building in the world, and once inside, I described the imposing Great Buddha, the attendant statues, and the Four Heavenly Kings. After the Great Buddha Hall, we walked to Nigatsudo Hall, where I explained the "Omizutori" ceremony, and then left Todaiji Temple. We stopped by a construction research facility, where the guests experienced an earthquake simulation and gained an understanding of earthquake-resistant architecture in Japan, a country prone to earthquakes. After that, I guided them to Himuro Shrine, the shrine known as the birthplace of ice in Japan, and we visited the nearby Yoshikien Garden to avoid the extreme heat, passing through Kofukuji Temple and moving on to Sarusawa Pond. I had hoped to let them watch the mochi pounding at Nakatanido, but Nakatanido had already closed, so they were unable to see the mochi pounding. From there we set off walking toward Nara Station, but along the way we were caught in a sudden downpour and hurried quickly to Nara Station. Because of the heavy rain, I expressed my thanks for the tour there and we parted ways. The guests today were visitors from Europe. The guests had visited Tokyo before on trips, but this was the first time traveling here together, and they said they were enjoying the sightseeing.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of JR Nara Station～In front of Todaiji Temple250JPY
    Total250JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima Station & Miyajimaguchi to Hiroshima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima Station & Miyajimaguchi to Hiroshima

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00　Meet at the Hotel
    • 12:15　From Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 12:41　Arrive at Miyajima Station
    • 12:55　By ferry to Miyajima
    • 13:05　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 　　　　　Shrine　Ropeway
    • 16:30　Finish sightseeing in Miyajima and head to Miyajimaguchi
    • 17:00　From Miyajimaguchi to Hiroshima Station
    • 17:20　Disband at Shin-Inokuchi Station

    Miyajima Private Tour Report from Hiroshima: What Can a Licensed Guide Show You Even With a Typhoon Approaching? I guided guests from Europe on a private tour. Because a typhoon was initially forecast to make a direct hit, I sent an itinerary in advance that would use the streetcar to reach Miyajimaguchi in case the JR line was suspended. This helped put the guests at ease. Fortunately, the typhoon was approaching more slowly than expected, and we were blessed with fine weather, so the guests were able to fully enjoy the tour. The guests expressed a wish to take the ropeway up Mount Misen, so we decided to skip the visit to Daishoin Temple and climb Mount Misen instead. I cautioned that if the wind became strong, the ropeway could stop and we might have to descend on foot, but they said that would be fine, so we went ahead with the ascent. Fortunately, the weather remained calm, and we were able to descend safely by ropeway. I also introduced okonomiyaki, Hiroshima's soul food, but the guests said they had already eaten it twice the day before. Furthermore, when I showed them a photo of a former British prime minister grilling okonomiyaki himself at an okonomiyaki restaurant during his visit to Hiroshima, they were very delighted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Total420JPY

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

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2025
    pedropM3071GD
    Amazing day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing experience to…

    Jul 25, 2025
    ourtravelingt
    Great personalized tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour was fabulous and our…

    Jul 13, 2025
    katherinepE2305IO
    Hiroshima Tour 4hr Walking
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an amazing guide. He…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Preston_H
    Great tour guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an incredible guide who…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　 Meet at Himeji Station
    • 9:30　Himeji Castle, Main Keep and Nishinomaru Hyakken Corridor
    • 12:10　Kokoen Garden
    • 13:15　Himeji Station　Disband

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were fond of Japan and listened with great interest to explanations about the country. As we walked, they took in the castle's defensive layout and its formidable fortifications, which made explaining it all the more rewarding. Due to the effects of a typhoon, quite a strong wind blew into the castle keep, which offered some brief relief from the heat, and at the Osakabe Shrine on the top floor we all prayed together that the typhoon would stay away. They also explored the West Bailey with enthusiasm, and they were truly wonderful guests. As they were heading to Kyoto the next day, I shared a few recommended spots with them before we parted. They kindly told me that they had a very enjoyable time.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Chiyuki

    Hello, I am a tour guide, Chiyuki. If I write my name in Japanese, it means one thousand happiness. Please call me Chiyuki. I am looking forward to seeing you.
    I have been guiding many visitors from all parts of the world since I became a tour guide.
    I hope Japan can attract many people with beautiful scenery, culture, historical buildings, food and so on. What are you interested in?
    And I couldn’t be happier if I can help you to create memories of a wonderful trip.
    I will make my best effort to satisfy my guests. See you soon. Thank you very much. Chiyuki

    Request Booking

    Jul 9, 2026
    727tessv
    We had the best time in Kobe
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide Chiyuki was…

    Jun 21, 2026
    M9524SIphilippel
    Tripadvisor review: Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sake tour in Kobe
    Chiyuki is one of the…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Pinoy V
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and informative.
    Chiyuki kept us informed on our itinerary…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Sharon G
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Full-Day Private Tour with Nationally-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!!
    After getting off to a rocky start our…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00　Meet up @Hotel New Otani Tokyo EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN
    • 2. 10:30　@Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 3. 11:20　@Meiji Shrine Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Robot Restaurant)
    • 4. 12:00　Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 5. 12:40　Lunch @Suju Dining (inside Tokyo Midtown Roppongi)
    • 6. 13:45　@Tokyo Midtown Roppongi
    • 7. 14:00　@The National Art Center, Tokyo
    • 8. 15:00　@Ginza
    • 9. 15:30　@Tokyo Station (station building, station plaza, Yaesu Exit, Midori no Madoguchi)
    • 10. 16:30　@Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 11. 17:40　@Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, FUKURAS)
    • 12. 18:30　Disband @in front of the cafe near the Shibuya Sky entrance

    Title: What Can You See on an 8-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America, having extended their trip to Japan after a vacation elsewhere, and this was also their first visit to Asia. On the morning of the tour, they mentioned they could already see Mount Fuji from their hotel room. Since Shinjuku, which was not part of the itinerary, was clearly visible from the lobby, I explained distinctive landmarks such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Kabukicho Tower, and the Cocoon Building before we set off. This 8-hour private tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and the guests were very enthusiastic about sightseeing, hoping to see as many places as possible within the time. I believe they enjoyed everything from the historical and traditional to the modern. In front of the main gate of the Imperial Palace, they seemed deeply moved by the contrast between the modern high-rise buildings and the palace grounds. On the other hand, at a café along Takeshita Street in Harajuku, they were excited to photograph piglets and people interacting through the glass. For the meal, they enjoyed a typical Japanese lunch and were very satisfied, saying "delicious, delicious." By the latter half of the afternoon, they understandably grew tired. When they asked for a place to sit, and since they had already made a 7:30 reservation at Shibuya Sky on their own beforehand, we said our farewells just after 6:30 in front of a café right by the observation deck entrance. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Nagatacho Station～Sakuradamon Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Nogizaka Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Roppongi Station～Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Ginza Station～Tokyo Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihombashi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 7Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Market Building & Tsukiji Shijo

    Tokyo: Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Market Building & Tsukiji Shijo

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meeting place: Hotel 1899 Tokyo
    • 5:25 Hotel 1899 Tokyo
    • (Taxi)
    • 5:40 Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Market Building
    • (Tuna Auction Tour)
    • Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Market Building
    • 7;00 Shijomae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 7:20 Tsukiji Shijo Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 8:20 Tsukiji Shijo Station
    • 8:20 Dismissal: Tsukiji Shijo Station

    **Title:** What's an Early Morning Private Tour of Toyosu Fish Market and Tsukiji Outer Market Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were friends visiting from Europe, both on their first trip to Japan. Two weeks earlier, they had arrived and spent time in Tokyo before making a fast-paced tour of Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, and Shirakawa-go, returning to Tokyo the previous night. On this day, after the tour, they planned to visit Odaiba and Akihabara, check out of their accommodation, and return home from the airport in the evening. The departure was scheduled for 05:00, but one of the guests did not appear for some time (the other was in the lobby on time), so we ended up leaving the Hotel by taxi at 05:25. We arrived at Toyosu Market at 05:40 and went to the seafood wholesale building, where they watched the tuna auction with great interest. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish markets," "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market," and "the difference between the wholesale market, the intermediate wholesale market, and the Tsukiji Outer Market." I also answered questions such as "Where are the tuna shipped from?", "Are tuna from all over the world sent to this Toyosu Market?", "When is the market closed?", and "What are the types of tuna, and which kind is the most expensive?" However, from the second-floor general viewing corridor, it was difficult to see the "fresh tuna" auction taking place below, and the guests seemed dissatisfied, asking, "Why can't we enter the special viewing deck?" After this, we visited the intermediate wholesale building. There were questions such as "What kind of people come here to buy?" and "Can't we go inside?" Afterward, the guests said they wanted "coffee and a sandwich for breakfast," so we went to a coffee shop. We then took the monorail and subway to the Tsukiji Outer Market and walked slowly around the area. The guests wanted to buy "edamame," but the size they wanted was not available, so they gave up. They also wanted to buy "octopus crackers," but the shop had not yet opened, so they gave up. Perhaps because of the rainy weather, there were few people out, and many shops remained closed. The guests said, "We'll walk around Tsukiji Market a little more and then go to Odaiba," so we parted at the entrance to the Tsukiji Outer Market. Points I noticed 1. The previous day, I used a messaging app to confirm the meeting place and time, and received an "understood" reply from the guests. 2. However, as noted above, on the morning of the tour, perhaps due to fatigue, one of the guests did not appear for some time, delaying the departure. (The taxi driver also urged us on, and I called many times but could not get through.) 3. Regarding transportation from the Hotel to Toyosu Market, during the prior discussions the guests had requested "by taxi," so I visited the Hotel in advance, presented the guests' confirmation number, and arranged the taxi reservation. (This Hotel would not accept a taxi reservation by phone alone.) I explained that "the taxi fare would be paid by the guests," but they seemed dissatisfied and reluctantly paid by credit card. 4. Regarding "breakfast at the coffee shop (a cash-only establishment)," the guests said, "We don't have cash on hand," so I temporarily covered the cost (later, at the Tsukiji Outer Market, they withdrew cash and reimbursed me). 5. For the monorail and subway, they paid with their Suica cards. Points for reflection 1. I believe I explained things carefully and answered questions as usual, but from the guests' perspective there may have been points that fell short. 2. Both guests seemed to have some difficulty conversing in English, and at times they translated into Italian on their smartphones and read the text. 3. Regarding who would bear the costs, I think it would have been better to explain this more thoroughly and carefully in advance.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShijomae Station～Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu Station～Tsukishima Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukishima Station～Tsukiji Shijo Station178JPY
    Total545JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka Station
    • 10:30 @ Osaka Castle
    • 12:45 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 14:15 Dismiss @ JR Osaka Station

    What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of the guests preferred a slow pace and had some difficulty with stairs. Advance tickets for entry to Osaka Castle had been requested through an agency, but it turned out they had not been purchased. Fortunately, there were few people waiting to buy entrance tickets, so we were able to purchase them without much of a wait and toured the interior smoothly. Since the walking and stairs had clearly become quite tiring, we took a break for drinks at "Miraiza," located next to the castle. Advance tickets for the next spot, the Umeda Sky Building, had also not been purchased, but these too were obtained fairly smoothly. When purchasing the tickets, a coupon I brought as a guide provided a 10% discount, which was much appreciated. Although there was news of a large typhoon approaching, the weather was fine, and both Osaka Castle and the Sky Building offered wonderful views that the guests seemed to greatly enjoy. I was also able to hear very enjoyable and valuable stories about their home region, which made this a very meaningful and enjoyable tour for me as a guide as well. As they were heading back to their hotel in Shin-Osaka, we parted ways at JR Osaka Station after I explained the trains.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Osaka～Morinomiya190JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Osaka170JPY
    Total360JPY

    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

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    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
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    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
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    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…

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Station & JR Nara Station

    Kyoto: Kyoto Station & JR Nara Station

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at JR Nijo Station (Start of Tour)
    • 10:12 Train departs for Kyoto Station
    • 10:19-37 Kyoto Station (Transfer)
    • 10:37 Train departs for JR Nara Station from platform #8.
    • 11:21 Train arrives at JR Nara　 (taxi)
    • 11:40-12:00 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:30-13:00 Kasuga-taisha Shrine　 (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill 　Lunch and knife shop (former swordsmith)
    • 14:00-14:30 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall 　 (walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:40 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower　 (walk 10 minutes)
    • 15:00-30 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall　 (walk 5 minutes)
    • 15:40-16:10 Todaiji Museum
    • 16:10-20 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • (walk 5 minutes and then taxi 10 minutes)
    • 16:40-17:07 JR Nara Station (Train for Kyoto departs at 17:07)
    • We will accompany you until you board the train, End of Tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto and Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I truly enjoyed guiding on this tour. A big part of that was the rapport we had already built through our correspondence beforehand. The conditions were not very comfortable, with high humidity and high temperatures just before a typhoon arrived, but by searching for air-conditioned spots along the way, the guests were able to enjoy themselves. Although this was a tour that started and ended in Kyoto, it actually concluded after I saw the guests board the train back to Kyoto in Nara. I am grateful to the guests. I had learned online that one of the guests had a professional background, but I was told they had since left that position. The conversation was endless, with stories such as thinking about relaxing after leaving work but then starting new work and coming to Japan in connection with it.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijo～Nara860JPY
    Total860JPY

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • 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. 08:50 Meet up @The Okura Tokyo
    • 2. 09:05 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:35 Stay @Tsukiji
    • 4. 10:55 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:05 Stay @Ginza
    • 6. 11:40 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 12:00 Stay @Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 8. 12:20 Lunch @Tsukiji Sushisei Shibuya Branch
    • 9. 13:00 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 13:15 Stay @Meiji Shrine
    • 11. 14:00 Stay @Takeshita Street
    • 12. 14:20 Travel: Subway
    • 13. 14:40 Disband @Omoide Yokocho

    What Does a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ginza, Shibuya, and Shinjuku I met the guests in the lobby ten minutes early, but since they had not yet had breakfast, we waited a little before starting the tour. The hotel is somewhat far from the station and the route is not easy to find, so I was reminded that care is needed when it is designated as a meeting point. We spent a bit longer than planned at Tsukiji, but since the other spots did not take much time, this did not have a significant impact. In Ginza, I mainly guided them around famous department stores such as Mitsukoshi and Matsuya. For lunch I took them to a sushi restaurant in Shibuya that I had thought of as a hidden gem, but it was more crowded than expected for a weekday. It seems I need to expand my options for restaurants I can recommend in Shibuya. Since the guests wished to have a drink in Shinjuku before returning to the hotel, I guided them to Omoide Yokocho and then 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 PassToranomon Hills Station～Tsukiji Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji Station～Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassGinza Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station～Shinjuku-sanchome Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

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

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

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

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

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
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  • Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour

    Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour

    Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel – 9:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens – 11:00 Meiji Shrine – 12:00 Harajuku – 12:30 Dismissal at Harajuku Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Half-Day Private Tokyo Tour Before Your Flight? A Licensed Guide's Report On the final day of a week-long trip to Japan that had also included Kyoto, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided the guests, who were visitors from North America, on a half-day private tour of Tokyo. We met at an airport hotel, and after a tour of a few hours, the guests would return to the hotel and fly back home. For their first visit to Japan, the final places they chose to see were the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine. At the souvenir shop in the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, one of the guests purchased a folding umbrella that works both as a parasol and a rain umbrella, ready for both the sudden rain and the sunshine when the sky cleared. Another of the guests preferred to stick with a rain poncho, which looked a little inconvenient, but everyone was able to enjoy the tour without any trouble.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHaneda Airport Terminal 3～Otemachi547JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total756JPY

    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!

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    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!
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    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…