Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 2. 10:30 @Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:45 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, JR Midori no Madoguchi)
    • 4. 12:45 @Ginza (4-chome Crossing, Kyukyodo, SEIKO Clock Tower, Kimuraya)
    • 5. 13:30 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 6. 14:00 @Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building)
    • 7. 14:10 Lunch @Kamatake Udon (Tokyo Station Gransta Yaekita)
    • 8. 14:30 @Nihonbashi (Takashimaya Underground Food Court)
    • 9. 15:10 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine, Azumabashi Bridge)
    • 10. 16:10 Disband @Roppongi Station on the Toei Oedo Line

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Asakusa The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, coming from North America. They had no trouble walking and enjoyed sightseeing energetically. Some of the guests were also in Japan at the same time and, entirely by coincidence, planned to spend part of the trip together. After visiting Meiji Shrine, we went to the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where I helped film a video of the guests walking across the intersection. They enjoyed it immensely. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Hakone, Nikko, Kyoto, and Nara. For Nikko, they planned to travel by rental car, and for the other areas they intended to take the Shinkansen, but had not yet made any reservations. Since the Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket office at Shibuya Station was not crowded, we made the reservations and issued the tickets there. As they also planned to take the same train as the other guests, they had been concerned about securing seats together, so they were relieved when all the tickets were successfully arranged. For lunch, I guided them to Gransta Yaenaka at Tokyo Station, where one of the guests chose Kamatake udon. They tried cold udon for the first time and, as it was a hot day, were delighted, saying "cold udon is so delicious." Another of the guests had eaten a large breakfast and was not very hungry, so they only shared a little. However, afterward they actively enjoyed sampling sweets around Tokyo Station and in the basement food floor of a department store. At Senso-ji Temple, they were surprised by the crowds along Nakamise Street. They also seemed to feel it was overly commercialized compared to their image of a Buddhist temple, and did not appear to like it very much. In any case, it was a satisfying first day in which they were able to see a great deal of Tokyo.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Oedo Line Tochomae Station~Yoyogi Station1,100JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station~Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassYurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihonbashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 7Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Ueno-hirokoji Station0JPY
    Section 8Free PassToei Oedo Line Ueno-okachimachi Station~Roppongi Station0JPY
    Total1,420JPY

    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!

    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 in One Day: Walk to Enoshima & @ Komachi-dori

    Tokyo in One Day: Walk to Enoshima & @ Komachi-dori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet up @ Hotel Otemachi
    • 08:18 From Shin-Nihombashi to Ofuna via JR Yokosuka Line
    • 09:09 From Ofuna to Shonan-Enoshima Station via Shonan Monorail
    • 09:30 Walk to Enoshima
    • 09:40~11:30 @ Sightseeing on Enoshima Island
    • 11:45 To Hase Station via Enoden
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Totokama
    • 13:00~13:30 @ Kotoku-in Great Buddha
    • 13:45~14:30 @ Hasedera Temple
    • 14:35 To Kamakura Station via Enoden
    • 14:50 Walk to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
    • 15:00~15:40 @ Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
    • 15:45 @ Komachi-dori
    • 16:00 To Shin-Nihombashi via Yokosuka Line
    • 17:00 Disband @ Shin-Nihombashi Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Kamakura and Enoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were very active, exploring Enoshima Island without using the escalator, going up and down the stairs without any trouble, and walking a total of more than 20,000 steps in a single day. On this day, Mount Fuji was beautifully visible across Sagami Bay, and the guests took many photos. They also looked with great interest at the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in, Hasedera Temple, and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. At "Totokama," which was chosen for lunch, the guests enjoyed an unadon (grilled eel bowl) and a tempura set meal, saying "Excellent!" and enjoying their lunch together with a local Shonan craft beer. When I bought them the famous Hato Sabure biscuits, they liked them so much that they purchased some as souvenirs. We moved through the tour at a very fast pace, but because we tried to fit in one extra sightseeing spot, we ran a little short on time toward the end, and the tour was extended by one hour. As reflected in the high rating and comment in the review, I believe the guests were satisfied overall.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Nihombashi~Ofuna880JPY
    Section 2TrainOfuna~Shonan-Enoshima340JPY
    Section 3TrainEnoshima~Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)260JPY
    Section 4TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)~Kamakura200JPY
    Section 5TrainKamakura~Shin-Nihombashi970JPY
    Total2,650JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

    Jul 11, 2026
    912courtneyp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great family guide
    May was a great tour guide.…

    Jun 27, 2026
    LPMarchica
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 Recommend
    We had an incredible time exploring Tokyo with our guide,…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Alisha_W
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    May was an enthusiastic…
    May was an enthusiastic and well informed guide.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: @ Nezu Shrine & Take the Ginza Line to Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: @ Nezu Shrine & Take the Ginza Line to Ginza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Yamanote Otsuka Station
    • 10:30 Take the JR Yamanote Line via Nishi-Nippori, then the Chiyoda Line to Nezu Shrine
    • 10:50-11:20 @ Nezu Shrine
    • 11:35-12:00 @ Yanaka Ginza
    • 12:05 Take the Yamanote Line via Ueno to Tawaramachi
    • 12:30-13:20 @ Kappabashi for shopping such as tableware and kitchen knives
    • 13:30-14:20 Lunch @ Asakusa Matsunami for teppanyaki
    • 14:20-15:45 @ Asakusa (Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Rokku)  
    • 15:45 Take the Ginza Line to Ginza
    • 16:00 Disband @ Ginza Station

    **Title:** What's a Private Tokyo Shopping Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kappabashi and Ginza **Body:** The guest was a solo traveler from Europe. The pre-tour communication was quite detailed, and if a reply was delayed by even a day, the guest would send an inquiry through the system, giving the impression of someone very attentive, so I handled the day carefully. Once the tour actually began, the guest turned out to be quite calm and friendly, and enjoyed conversation very much. (Since the guest talked continuously, I was a little overwhelmed, ha ha.) We had agreed on the itinerary I had sent in advance, but the guest mentioned wanting to buy kitchen knives, high-quality stationery, and matcha, so I adjusted the route on the spot, cutting Ueno and instead guiding the guest to Kappabashi and Ginza. For lunch, I guided the guest to the yakiniku (actually teppanyaki) that had been requested, and the guest was very pleased. When I gave a folding fan with a sushi pattern as a souvenir, the guest was also very delighted. I received a high review and words of praise, so I believe the guest was satisfied overall.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtsuka (Tokyo)~Nishi-Nippori200JPY
    Section 2SubwayNishi-Nippori~Nezu180JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Ueno150JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno~Tawaramachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Ginza210JPY
    Total920JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

    Jul 11, 2026
    912courtneyp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great family guide
    May was a great tour guide.…

    Jun 27, 2026
    LPMarchica
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 Recommend
    We had an incredible time exploring Tokyo with our guide,…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Alisha_W
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    May was an enthusiastic…
    May was an enthusiastic and well informed guide.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2.9:30 @ Tsukiji Market, @ Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 3.10:30 @ Ginza Mitsukoshi, @ Uniqlo, @ Kyukyodo
    • 4.11:30 @ Asakusa
    • 5.13:00 @ Shibuya Crossing, @ Cat Street, @ Onitsuka Tiger
    • 6.15:00 Disband @ Hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ginza, Asakusa, and Shibuya Body: 1. 9:00 Meeting point at Hotel 2. 9:30 at Tsukiji Market, at Tsukiji Hongwanji → We enjoyed sampling food around Tsukiji Market. The guests wanted to see a market where local Japanese people come to shop rather than a place crowded with tourists, and they were delighted, saying they loved tuna and salmon sashimi and sushi. 3. 10:30 at Ginza Mitsukoshi, at Uniqlo, at Kyukyodo → We strolled through the streets of Ginza, including the Kabukiza Theatre, Mitsukoshi, Uniqlo, and Kyukyodo. Since some of the guests were interested in history and others in shopping, we chatted while visiting the shops the guests wanted to see. 4. 11:30 at Asakusa → We walked through the Nakamise shopping street and Sensoji Temple while I explained the temple and the shrine. 5. 13:00 at Shibuya Crossing, at Cat Street, at Onitsuka Tiger → We looked out over the Shibuya cityscape from the 11th floor of Hikarie, then actually walked across Shibuya Crossing, stopping at vintage clothing and apparel shops along the way, and continued to Onitsuka Tiger as the guests had requested. 6. 15:00 Dismissal at Hotel

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaimon (Tokyo)~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2TrainGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Hamamatsucho260JPY
    Total910JPY

    Hello and welcome! I have been working as a licensed tour guide since 2015, guiding private travelers around Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, and many other beautiful regions of Japan. I also support international student and professional groups during their study visits, helping them explore Japanese culture, society, and everyday life from a deeper perspective.

    I love creating tours that feel friendly, relaxed, and full of discovery. Whether you are interested in history, food, nature, or simply experiencing local life, I enjoy tailoring each tour to match your interests and pace. My goal is to make every guest feel comfortable, supported, and truly connected to the places we visit.

    Whether it’s your first time in Japan or a return visit, I will do my best to make your trip enjoyable, meaningful, and memorable. I’m excited to share Japan with you and look forward to meeting you soon.

    Apr 17, 2026
    Stephen_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Amazing day in Tokyo!
    I had an amazing time in…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Hama-rikyu Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Hama-rikyu Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hilton Tokyo
    • 9:20 3DCat, Omoide Yokocho, Godzilla Head, Don Quijote
    • 10:00 Assistance with purchasing Welcome Suica at Ekitabi Concierge Shinjuku (Shin-Minami)
    • 10:40 Stroll through Yanaka Ginza→Yomise Street→Hebi-michi (Snake Road)
    • 11:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Loyal Dog Hachiko Statue, Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 13:10 Hama-rikyu Gardens
    • 14:15 Lunch at "Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan"
    • 15:00 Stroll through Ginza to JR Yurakucho Station
    • 16:10 Disband at "Hilton Tokyo Lobby"

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Yanaka, Hamarikyu, and Tsukiji The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan a couple of days earlier. They planned to take a day trip to Hakone the next day, then travel to Kyoto and Osaka before returning home. The previous day they had joined a group tour and visited Meiji Jingu Shrine and Asakusa, so I proposed an itinerary tailored to their wishes covering other areas. Although the guests were considerably older than me, they said they absolutely loved walking. We walked the entire way on foot — from Nippori Station through Yanaka Ginza, Yomise Street, and Hebi-michi (Snake Road) to Nezu Shrine; from Shimbashi Station through Hamarikyu Gardens to the Tsukiji Outer Market; then from Tsukiji Market to Yurakucho Station; and from Shinjuku Station to their hotel — routes that would normally often involve taking the train. Their smartphone showed more than 25,000 steps, yet the guests kept smiling and enjoyed the tour right to the end. Since one of the guests teaches English at a college-level school, I guided in English with even more care than usual to avoid any grammatical mistakes. Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.) 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.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Nippori260JPY
    Section 2TrainNezu~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 5TrainYurakucho~Shinjuku260JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    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).

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 2. 9:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 3. 10:30 Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 4. 12:30 Bamboo Grove
    • 5. 13:00 Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 6. 14:00 Dismissal @ Restaurant "Shigetsu"

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Arashiyama I guided guests visiting Japan from North America. The group had previously visited Kyoto and had planned this trip together. First, I guided them to Kinkaku-ji, where I explained its historical background and the Japanese culture that flourished during the Muromachi period, which they enjoyed. From Kinkaku-ji, we walked to Ryoan-ji, where I talked about Zen, and in the bamboo grove I shared stories about Shinto at Nonomiya Shrine. Finally, I guided them to Tenryu-ji and we parted ways in front of a restaurant. We ran slightly over the scheduled ending time, but I was glad that they enjoyed my guiding.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijo~Enmachi150JPY
    Section 2BusNishinokyo-Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3OtherRyoanji Station~Arashiyama Station250JPY
    Total630JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Nagasaki: Dejima → 15:45 Depart Dejima

    Nagasaki: Dejima → 15:45 Depart Dejima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Depart Matsugae International Cruise Terminal
    • 10:20 Arrive Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture → 11:45 Depart Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture
    • 12:00 Arrive Nabekanmuriyama → 12:15 Depart Nabekanmuriyama
    • 12:25 Arrive Glover Garden → 13:25 Depart Glover Garden
    • (After a brief stop in front of Oura Church for explanation) 13:45 Arrive Atomic Bomb Museum → 14:30 Depart Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 14:35 Arrive Peace Park → 15:00 Depart Peace Park
    • (After explaining the hypocenter monument from the vehicle window, then briefly stopping in front of the one-legged torii gate for explanation)
    • 15:15 Arrive Dejima → 15:45 Depart Dejima
    • 16:00 Arrive Matsugae International Cruise Terminal

    What Is a Full-Day Private Nagasaki Cruise Port Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had been in touch with the guests in advance through a messaging app, so we were able to meet smoothly at the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal. I knew the guests were coming from Europe, and we departed as planned at 10:00. This time, I wanted the guests to get an overall sense of Nagasaki, and since one of the group used an electric wheelchair (they were able to stand and walk for short distances), we discussed it together and decided to visit the barrier-free Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture. This is truly an excellent facility for understanding Nagasaki's history and culture in one place. It has a good selection of videos with English subtitles, and I believe the guests came to understand Nagasaki well. Although the guests followed a particular faith, they watched and listened with interest to the explanations and video presentations related to Christianity. Next, we went to Mount Nabekanmuri, where the guests could see the whole of the Nagasaki city area laid out before them. On the way down from Mount Nabekanmuri, there is the Second Gate of Glover Garden. To reduce the physical strain of moving around, we entered from the Second Gate, which only requires walking downhill through the grounds, and the guests enjoyed the beautiful views and the historic buildings. Along the way, they took a break at an outdoor café. After explaining the episode of the "Discovery of the Hidden Christians" in front of Oura Church, we headed to the Atomic Bomb Museum. Before entering, I showed the guests a copy I carry of the photograph "The Boy Standing by the Crematorium," which appears at the end of the exhibition, and asked them to look at it carefully. It seems everyone did view it, but since photography of the actual photograph on display is prohibited, after finishing the exhibition several of the guests asked to take a photo and photographed the copy I was carrying. Normally, except in bad weather, I have guests walk to Peace Park by way of the hypocenter, but this time we traveled from the Atomic Bomb Museum to Peace Park by car. At Peace Park, the guest using the wheelchair and one other guest who was tired viewed the Peace Statue from the car window and waited in the vehicle. I guided those who were up for it not only to the Peace Statue but also to the monuments donated by various countries and the Fountain of Peace nearby. After leaving Peace Park, we passed near the hypocenter monument and in front of the one-legged torii gate before heading to Dejima. At Dejima, I guided the guests to the miniature Dejima, the archaeology hall, and the Kapitan's Room, and we returned to the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal at 16:00, the scheduled ending time. This was actually my first time guiding a guest in a wheelchair. I took on the challenge hoping it would be a valuable experience, and I managed to complete it without any problems. The day was clear and sunny, and the Peace Statue, in the same blue as the deep blue sky, looked truly striking. We were blessed with good weather, and I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Hello, my name is Junichi Matsumoto.
    I will be your guide on this occasion. With warm hospitality, I will do my best to help you fully enjoy and appreciate the charm of Japan.

    Before becoming a guide, I worked for the Kumamoto Prefectural Government and retired in March 2023. From 2003 to 2005, I was stationed in Montana, USA, which has a sister-state relationship with Kumamoto. During that time, I actively interacted with the local community together with my family, which gave me valuable cross-cultural experiences.

    I am an easygoing person who quickly builds a friendly relationship with international guests. With a sincere smile and attentive care, I always strive to provide tours that are warm, enjoyable, and memorable. It would be my great pleasure to help you make unforgettable memories during your stay in Japan.

    Jul 24, 2026
    mariopV3953VG
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour by an amazing guide
    Junichi, our guide,…

    Jun 16, 2026
    andreabL155TS
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagaski day tour
    Junichi was a great tour guide. He met us…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Wander45660599315
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour of Nagasaki with Junichi!
    We had a wonderful tour with…

    May 16, 2026
    partel_12
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent Guide Junichi
    Junichi was excellent guide very enthusiastic in…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Nihonbashi

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Nihonbashi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet the guest at the hotel.
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:50 Hachiko Statue in front of Shibuya Station, Scramble Crossing
    • 12:40 Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Main Hall
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Otemon Gate
    • 15:50 Nihonbashi
    • 16:00 End of tour

    Title: What Does a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and the Imperial Palace The guest was a visitor from Europe. At Meiji Shrine, I began by giving an overview of Japanese history, the difference between shrines and temples, and the origins of Meiji Shrine, offering explanations at key points along the way before we paid our respects at the main hall. There were not many people around the Hachiko statue or the scramble crossing, so we were able to take photos at each spot. Next, in Asakusa, after explaining an overview of the area at the culture and tourism center, we walked from Kaminarimon through the Nakamise shopping street, where the guest enjoyed sampling kibi dango, buying souvenirs, and strolling around, and we paid our respects at the main hall. After lunch, we moved to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, where I talked about the Edo shogunate, the feudal lords, and Edo Castle as we walked, and in the end the guest was deeply impressed by the wonderful scenery of the Japanese garden. After that, we moved to Nihonbashi, took photos at the foot of the bridge, and ended the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 5SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Nihonbashi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total990JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Jul 8, 2026
    Maria H
    Tokyo an amazing city
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    First time in this…

    Jul 4, 2026
    davidsM6670MT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent professional and attentive Tokyo Tour
    Shigeru was extremely professional, knowledgeable and…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Q3961PBsaraf
    History, Culture and Local Insight
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful half-day tour of…

    Jun 7, 2026
    abhinavg948
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is an outstanding guide for an outstanding Tokyo tour
    Shigeru is…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
    • 2. 11:00 Tsukiji (Honganji Temple, Outer Market)
    • 3. 12:30 Kokyo Gaien National Garden
    • 4. 13:10 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 5. 14:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 14:15 Dismiss at Shibuya

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour? Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya: A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, who mentioned they would be joining a cruise ship tour starting the following day. Based on a request received in advance, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led them through the Tsukiji Outer Market, the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, and Meiji Shrine, and since there was an additional request to visit the Shibuya Scramble Crossing at the end, we finished the tour after taking them to Shibuya. At Tsukiji, they chose to skip the sashimi and sushi and instead enjoyed grilled wagyu beef skewers. After the tour, they wished to stroll around Shibuya a little, so we ended the tour there. The tour was relatively short, but the weather was fine, and I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba~Shintomicho (Tokyo)510JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Hibiya180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    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

    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 in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @ Aman Tokyo
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Aozora Sandaime Honten
    • 14:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Ura-Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, West Approach, Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise)
    • 15:45 Akihabara
    • 16:15 Disband @ In front of Radio Kaikan

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were a close and friendly group from North America. It was their third day in Tokyo, and they planned to continue on to Hakone, Osaka, and Hong Kong. They got along so well that it was sometimes tricky to find the right moment to speak, but once we started talking they listened attentively and, given their interest in investing, asked some excellent questions related to the economy. Today was a "Taian" lucky day, and as I had hoped, we were able to see a long wedding procession, which made the guests very happy. In front of the "Meoto Kusu" camphor tree, they had fun striking various poses for photos. Since before arriving in Japan, the guests had wanted to eat sushi at Tsukiji, so I took them to a well-known main sushi restaurant, which turned out to be a great choice. In Asakusa, to avoid the crowds, we walked along less touristy streets to Senso-ji Temple, giving them a taste of the real old-town atmosphere. In Akihabara, the guests already had a specific photo composition in mind, so I guided them to the spot and they were satisfied to get the photos they wanted. The guests wanted to stay in Akihabara to shop and play games, so the tour ended in front of the Radio Kaikan building. Since the guests preferred tap and go over Suica, we used the subway for the entire itinerary.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3SubwayHigashi-ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total820JPY

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

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

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

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

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