Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine - Omotesando & Nezu Museum

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine – Omotesando & Nezu Museum

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet at Chinzanso
    • 14:40 Meiji Shrine – Omotesando
    • 15:30 Nezu Museum
    • 16:30 Shibuya – Shibuya Sky – Shibuya Crossing
    • 17:30 Shibuya – Nagatacho – Edogawabashi Station
    • 18:00 Disband at Edogawabashi

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide Include? A Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe on a private trip. Following their prior requests, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide planned a private one-day tour of Tokyo covering Meiji Shrine, Omotesando, Shibuya, Zojoji Temple, and Tokyo Tower, with a plan to finish around 8:00 after seeing them off to a kaiseki restaurant in the Atago area, which they had requested. However, since they wanted to return to the Hotel first to change clothes, we skipped the Roppongi area and, after Omotesando, visited the Nezu Museum instead. To my surprise, at the Nezu Museum the guide's admission fee was not waived. One of the guests kindly paid the fee and we entered together, but at facilities like this, if the guide's fee is not at least waived, it makes me hesitant to return in the future. Perhaps they face financial difficulties, but for that very reason I would hope guides could be admitted free so that we can bring many more guests. Afterward we went to Shibuya, where they enjoyed the Shibuya Crossing. I offered to see them off to the restaurant, but they said there was no need, so we parted ways two hours earlier than planned.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayEdogawabashi～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 2SubwayOmotesando～Shibuya178JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Edogawabashi209JPY
    Total596JPY

    Tour Report by Kyoko

    Hello! I am Kyoko who has been working as a guide since 2017. I was born in Kyoto. So, my name comes from Kyoto which is Japan’s beautiful ancient capital . And “ko” literally means child in Japanese. Thus, my name Kyoko means Kyoto’s child, Kyoko. But some guests call me Kyoto. It’s okay, not a big problem.
    But to say the truth, I feel like this, ” Am I like an ancient person? No way~!!…” I am mainly guiding in and around Tokyo. Tokyo has two faces of well-advanced and old-fashioned. So, you can enjoy both high-tech technology and historical culture plus delicious food and drinks,too. You will surely be inspired in this city with me. Anyway, looking forward to meeting you in the near future. Thank you in advance!

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    Sep 9, 2025
    salanicolas
    Superb Tokyo guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoko was great! Super knowledgeable, a lot of fun,…

    Jun 19, 2025
    josephk547
    A definite must-do when visiting Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Walking Tour with Government-Licensed Guide (Tokyo DEP.)
    Absolutely amazing tour…

    May 24, 2025
    sandrashachar
    Terrific Tokyo Tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a fantastic tour of the Asakusa Shrine,…

    May 22, 2025
    andywP8147WV
    Private Guided Tour in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our wonderful guide Kyoko prepared an excellent…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo National Museum

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo National Museum

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:55 Meet at Metropolitan Marunouchi
    • 10:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:15 Rest and light meal at Mori no Terrace
    • 12:45 Guide to Omotesando and the entrance to Takeshita Street
    • 13:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Don Quijote)
    • 14:50 Tokyo National Museum
    • 16:30 Disband at Metropolitan Marunouchi

    Tokyo Full-Day Private Tour Report: What Can You See at the Imperial Palace East Gardens, Meiji Shrine, and Tokyo National Museum with a Licensed Guide? The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests had worked for 25 years at the U.S. corporation of the same company I am connected with, and we had a mutual Japanese acquaintance, which made for a very lively conversation. My apologies to the rest of the group for that… Since they were interested in history, I began the tour by explaining the timeline of Japanese history. At the Imperial Palace East Gardens, I focused mainly on Edo Castle and the Edo period (the Tokugawa era), then moved the discussion on to the Meiji Restoration before heading to Meiji Shrine. I knew that the Tokyo National Museum gets crowded on weekends during the summer holidays, and a past tour report from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) mentioned a case where guests had to give up entering even on a weekday in August. So I made the Tokyo National Museum the final stop and entered just before 3:00 p.m., which turned out to be the right call. As it was extremely hot that day, we proceeded with the tour while taking hydration breaks. At the discount store in Asakusa, the guests purchased items to cope with the heat. We ran slightly over time, but since the health and safety of the guests come first, it could not be helped.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayEidan Otemachi～Eidan Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Harajuku～JR Ueno208JPY
    Section 3SubwayEidan Ueno～Eidan Asakusa178JPY
    Section 4TrainEidan Asakusa～Eidan Ueno178JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Ueno～JR Tokyo167JPY
    Total940JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    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

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi (Chinatown)

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi (Chinatown)

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:45 Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 12:30 Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum
    • 13:45 Nankinmachi (Chinatown)
    • 14:30 Disband at Nankinmachi

    Title: What Is a Private Kobe Cruise Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Sake Brewery, and Kobe Beef The guests were a group visiting Japan, and everyone moved smoothly throughout the tour. At the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, they were very impressed by the magnificent scenery and the sheer scale of the bridge itself. At the Kikumasamune Sake Brewery, they listened attentively to the guide's explanations. In addition to the free tasting, they also enjoyed a paid tasting, and commented that the sake was completely different from what they drink at home and was extremely delicious. Since this was a tour during a cruise ship voyage, they said it would be difficult to purchase sake as a souvenir, and seemed very disappointed about that. At the final stop in Chinatown, rather than Chinese food, I introduced them to a restaurant serving "Kobe Beef," which they had wanted from the beginning, and we parted ways there. This restaurant also serves authentic "Kobe Beef" at Dotonbori in Osaka, and I have introduced it to guests several times before with a favorable reception.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal～Sannomiya210JPY
    Section 2TrainSannomiya～Maiko320JPY
    Section 3TrainMaiko～Sannomiya320JPY
    Section 4TrainSannomiya～Uozaki200JPY
    Section 5TrainUozaki～Motomachi250JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center (2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 11:00 Shibamata <Taishakuten Approach・Taishakuten Daikyoji Temple・Yamamoto-tei>
    • 3) 13:00 Lunch @ Akizuki
    • 4) 14:00 Sensoji Temple <Nakamise Shopping Street・Sensoji Temple>
    • 5) 14:20 Disband @ Taxi stand near Matsuya Asakusa (1-4-1 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Shibamata and Asakusa Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour of Tokyo for a group visiting from North America. During the pre-tour communication, the requests were varied and it took some time to finalize the destinations. The guests requested to meet somewhere other than the hotel, so we decided to meet at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center (I had emailed detailed instructions in advance on how to use the subway from the hotel to Shinjuku Station and then to Asakusa Station). We decided to visit Shibamata and Asakusa, and I reconfirmed the itinerary again at the meeting point. At the approach to Shibamata Taishakuten, the guests requested shaved ice at Takagiya (which had air conditioning), and they were delighted. At Daikyoji Temple, we entered the main hall, and at Yamamoto-tei they relaxed in the garden and in the spacious tatami rooms (there was no air conditioning, only electric fans). We returned to Asakusa for lunch and I guided them to Akizuki, a soba and tempura restaurant (the seating was close to the kitchen and the air conditioning was not very effective). One part of the group decided to leave the tour early (the reasons being lack of sleep from jet lag and the daytime humidity and heat). Since health comes first, I escorted them to the taxi stand. The rest of the group ordered lunch and were very satisfied. After guiding them to the main hall of Sensoji Temple, I escorted them to the taxi stand to return to the hotel, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainToei Asakusa Line (through service to Keisei Oshiage Line) Asakusa Station～Keisei Kanamachi Line Shibamata Station380JPY
    Section 2TrainKeisei Kanamachi Line Shibamata Station～Toei Asakusa Line Asakusa Station380JPY
    Total760JPY

    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…

  • Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner

    Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner

    Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:30 Hotel Meet
    • Since a heatstroke alert was issued that day, we started the tour after talking about the history of the geisha district and maiko/geiko in the hotel lobby.
    • 15:50 Gion Kita/Shirakawa Tatsumi Bridge – Furumonzen-dori – Sanjo Ohashi Bridge – Pontocho – 17:15 Hotel
    • *Because it was hot, we temporarily paused the tour and had guests rest at the hotel. The tour resumed 30 minutes later. (The remaining 30 minutes were conducted after dinner)
    • 17:45 Hotel – 18:00 Kaiseki @ Gion Hayakawa (one maiko in attendance) – 20:45 Gion Hanamikoji – Kaburenjo Theater – 21:15 Return to hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Evening Walking Tour and Kaiseki Dinner Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Because a heatstroke warning alert had been issued and it was extremely hot, and the tour started at 3:30, I first consulted with the guests about how much time they would like to spend on the walking tour before we began. As a result, we moved the remaining 30 minutes of the walking tour to after dinner when it would be cooler, and the guests rested a little in their room before dinner. The guests were very pleased, saying that the dinner was a truly precious and special experience for them. They finished all nine courses of the kaiseki meal without leaving anything, and the owner of the restaurant was very happy as well. The maiko who joined us this time, Asuha, mentioned that she was not used to dining occasions with international guests, but she answered all the questions from the guests and the guide, and she also actively asked the guests questions herself. The dinner lasted more than two and a half hours, but the guests seemed to thoroughly enjoy the wonderful time.

    Click here for more details: Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by June

    Hello, everyone.
    I’m Junko Yoshida, the government licensed national guide.
    I have a deep passion for traveling and enjoying plays and musicals.

    Originally hailing from Kyoto, Japan, I worked as a hotel concierge in Kyoto after completing my college education. Following my retirement, I decided to continue working in the travel industry as a tour guide.
    Kyoto holds a special place in my heart as it is where I grew up and where I have dedicated my career. With a history spanning over 1000 years, Kyoto has fostered a culture that Japan can take pride in.
    Together, let us explore this beautiful city and create a holiday experience that is both special and unforgettable.

    Request Booking
  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel, depart by private car　➡　Sightseeing around Nijo Castle from the car window　➡　10:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple　➡　11:10 Ryoan-ji Temple　➡　12:00 Bamboo Grove and the gardens of Tenryu-ji Temple　➡　13:30 Lunch at Inoda Coffee Main Store　➡　14:50 Sanjusangendo　➡　15:40 Drop off two people near Kiyomizu-dera Temple　➡　16:00 Disband at the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on a Retro Cafe Lunch and Sanjusangendo The guests were a group visiting Japan. Since they had been eating Japanese food continuously since arriving in Japan, they said they would prefer sandwiches and coffee for lunch, so we went to a long-established coffee shop, Inoda Coffee Main Store in Kyoto. The guests seemed to really like the shop's retro Western atmosphere. They ordered sandwiches, cake, and coffee. They said "amazing!" at how beautifully the sandwiches were presented. At Sanjusangendo, the guests were deeply moved by the sight of 1,001 Buddhist statues lined up densely throughout the hall.

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

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nihonbashi Station & Harajuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Nihonbashi Station & Harajuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 9:20 Nihonbashi Station
    • 9:45 Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Tourist Center, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple
    • 11:00 Asakusa Station
    • 11:40 Tsukiji Station
    • Fish Market, Tsukiji Outer Market, Sushi Iwa (Lunch)
    • 13:40 Tsukiji Station
    • 14:05 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Meiji Shrine
    • 14:50 Harajuku Station
    • 15:00 Disband @ Takeshita Street entrance

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Right after we met up at the hotel, they asked if I could help solve a problem: their SUICA app had become unusable due to a trouble at the exit gate soon after they arrived in Japan. We decided to start the tour first and check at a station counter somewhere along the way. (During the tour, they used an ICOCA card they had installed instead.) They really liked both Asakusa and Tsukiji, as well as the souvenir shops I recommended and guided them to, and although we ran a little behind schedule, after finishing lunch at Tsukiji we made it safely to Meiji Shrine. In particular, they seemed to love the tableware shop at Tsukiji where they bought a Japanese-patterned teapot and matching tea bowls. The guests were affectionate throughout, so taking photos of them was very rewarding.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNihonbashi Station～Asakusa Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station290JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Meiji-jingumae Station210JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 2. 10:50 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 3. 12:20 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 4. 12:40 Lunch @ The Herb Dining
    • 5. 14:50 @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 6. 15:20 @ Sorakuen Garden
    • 7. 16:00 Disband @ Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street

    Title: What Is a Private Kobe Tour with a Vehicle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a tour with a vehicle. The original plan was to meet at the Kobe Port Terminal, then visit the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Sorakuen Garden, and the Motomachi Shopping Street, before returning to the Kobe Port Terminal. We first went to the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. On the 8th-floor Maiko Marine Promenade, one of the guests was unable to continue and waited on the first floor. Because of this, at the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, we took the ropeway up to the observation area and only had lunch at the restaurant. After lunch, some of the guests visited the fragrance museum, the observation deck, and the shops. After descending by ropeway, we returned to the Port Terminal, where some of the guests ended the tour as they were tired. The rest of the guests visited Sorakuen Garden, but in order to finish the tour within six hours, I informed the guests of the bus stop for the free shuttle bus back to the Port Terminal and then ended the tour at the Motomachi Shopping Street. The guests I parted with at the Port Terminal and those I parted with at the Motomachi Shopping Street all thanked me, but I remain a little unsure about whether they truly enjoyed themselves.

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

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

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    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up @Hotel
    • 2. 10:10 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 12:00 Lunch @Ueshima Coffee Shop
    • 5. 13:00 @Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 6. 14:30 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 7. 15:45 @Kawaramachi Shijo
    • 8. 17:00 @Namba Takashimaya
    • 9. 18:00 Dismissal @Hotel

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like, Including Kinkaku-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather forecast had mentioned a possibility of thunderstorms in the evening, so I first explained this to the guests and they agreed that we might need to head back early. When we were finishing at Kinkaku-ji, there was thunder in the distance and I was worried, but fortunately we did not encounter any rain during the tour. During the day, I explained the situation regarding foreign currency exchange for the return train fare, and we searched for a currency exchange machine, which took some unexpected time. Because of all this, we were not able to purchase Japanese tea in Kyoto, so I mentioned that my recommended tea could be bought at a department store in Osaka, and in the end I accompanied the guests for shopping at the department store as well. They seemed very pleased, and later I received a thank-you email with photos, so if they were satisfied, that was the best outcome of all.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba～Yodoyabashi190JPY
    Section 2TrainYodoyabashi～Fushimi Inari420JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi～Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Section 5TrainKyoto-Kawaramachi～Osaka-Umeda410JPY
    Section 6TrainUmeda～Namba240JPY
    Total1,730JPY

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    One of the highlights of my trip, perfect for solo…

    Jul 14, 2026
    Elizabeth W
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    We had a great tour with…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Dianna-fam
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    Wonderful Tour, Wonderful Guide!
    My teenage boys and I…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Christian_L
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto visite with Yuka : Wow !
    Wow ! Yuka was…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Nol Kyoto Sanjo Meet up
    • 10:00~10:45 Nijo Castle
    • 11:20~12:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:30~13:15 Sanjusangendo
    • 13:30~13:50 Gion Pontocho – Nishiki Market　Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their first trip to Japan, arriving in Kyoto after passing through Tokyo and Osaka. They were impressed by the cleanliness and safety of Japan's cities, as well as the well-developed railway transportation infrastructure. At Nijo Castle, it was a Tuesday, so we could not enter the interior of the Ninomaru Palace, but they were deeply moved by the magnificent architecture and carvings of the Karamon Gate and the Ninomaru Palace. We also discussed the role of the palace, how Tokugawa Ieyasu became shogun, and the flow of events at the end of the shogunate leading up to the restoration of imperial rule. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, they were interested in the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, as well as Japanese faith, and we discussed these topics. At Sanjusangendo, they were amazed by the power of the 1,001 Buddhist statues and the 28 guardian deities in the main hall.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo170JPY
    Section 5SubwayShichijo～Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

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    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
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    Walking Tour with Shige
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    Osaka tour 2025
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