Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @New Otani Garden Tower
    • 10:15 Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • 10:45 Tsukiji Station
    • Fish market, Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:40 Tsukiji 3-chome
    • 11:50 Ginza 4-chome
    • Ginza Mitsukoshi tour, lunch at the deli
    • Ginza SIX, break at Starbucks
    • 13:55 Ginza Station
    • 14:20 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Meiji Shrine, break at Forest Cafe
    • 15:40 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • 15:50 Shibuya Station
    • Scramble Crossing
    • 16:05 Disband @Ginza Line Shibuya Station ticket gate

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ginza, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Europe. They were diligent about sending requests in advance through a messaging app, and we visited Tsukiji, Ginza, Meiji Shrine, and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Since they wanted to take their time and enjoy the tour at a relaxed pace, we made occasional breaks as we went along. The original plan had been to have a sushi lunch at Tsukiji, but since they were not very hungry, we moved on directly to Ginza. They especially liked the food floor of a department store and decided they wanted to buy something and eat it there, so they purchased items from the deli and enjoyed them at a rest space on an upper floor. This was not part of the plan, but since it was a spot I had scouted before, I was glad I could guide them there smoothly. I was not familiar with their home region, so I did some research beforehand and learned that it has historically had friendly relations with Japan. When I mentioned this, one of the guests already knew about it and was delighted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke Station～Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 2BusTsukiji 3-chome～Ginza 4-chome210JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Station～Meiji-jingumae Station180JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station180JPY
    Total750JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Meet　8:45 Nanzen-ji Temple (Sanmon Gate, Suirokaku Aqueduct, Hojo Garden)　10:10 Higashiyama Area (Yasaka Pagoda, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji Alley, Yasaka Shrine) 11:35 Gion
    • 12:05 Lunch (Shijo Kawaramachi, Sushi Restaurant) 13:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple　　14:25 Tour ends at Kinkaku-ji Temple bus stop

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Visiting Nanzenji and Kinkakuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. Since some of the group understood only Spanish, others interpreted from English into Spanish for them. Nanzenji Temple was quiet in the early morning, with few people around, and had a calm, pleasant atmosphere. The video presentation inside the temple had been revised from an earlier version. There are also many aqueducts in North America, and among the photos I was shown, some were even more impressive than the one at Nanzenji. At Kinkakuji Temple, the restoration work on the Sekkatei teahouse had been completed and its interior was open to the public. By the time we finished the guided tour of Kinkakuji, six hours had already passed. Considering some of the group, I thought it might be better to return to the Hotel, but the guests decided to go to Ryoanji Temple, so I guided them to the bus stop, and the tour for the day came to an end. The photo was taken near the Yasaka Pagoda.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Keage260JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeage～Higashiyama220JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama-sanjo～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4TrainShijo Kawaramachi～Saiin170JPY
    Section 5BusSaiin～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel
    • 14:00 Miyajima
    • 17:00 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 20:00 Atomic Bomb Dome

    Private Tour of Miyajima and the Seto Inland Sea: A Licensed Guide's Summer Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. As even higher temperatures were forecast than the previous day, I again recommended a frozen bottled drink at a convenience store, but to my surprise, they were sold out. Because it was so hot, the weather became a topic of conversation. We talked about how there had been a major bushfire in the Blue Mountains in Oceania, and how in Hiroshima it used to snow about once a week some forty or fifty years ago, but in recent years it snows only once or twice a year, which is a rather sad change. Still, the summer view of the Seto Inland Sea from the ferry was fantastic, with the glaring sun reflecting off the rippling surface of the water, and the guests gazed at the scenery for a while.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

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    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Yurakucho Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Yurakucho Station & Asakusa Station

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting point: The Peninsula Tokyo
    • 9:10 Yurakucho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 9:40 Arrive at Shijomae Station
    • Toyosu Toyosu Wholesale Market Building
    • Toyosu Intermediate Wholesale Market Building
    • 10:40 Depart Shijomae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 11:10 Arrive at Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:30 Tawaramachi Station
    • Tawaramachi Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 13:00 Depart Tawaramachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Lunch: Owariya
    • 14:00 Asakusa Station
    • Disband: Asakusa Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Food and Market Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toyosu, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all visiting the country for the first time. They had arrived at Narita two days earlier and traveled to their hotel by limousine bus, and the previous day they had strolled around Ginza. The main purpose of this trip was a round-Japan cruise departing from Yokohama Port starting the day after next. After returning to port, they planned to visit Osaka and Kyoto and then fly home from Kansai Airport. The whole group loves watching sports, and they planned to go to Tokyo Dome the next day to watch a baseball game. The tour took place during intense summer heat, so we rested many times along the way. (I reminded them several times to be careful of heatstroke.) First, we went to Toyosu Market. The whole group loves sushi. At the seafood wholesale building, they asked questions such as "Where is the tuna caught?" "How much tuna is put up for auction?" "How much does one fish cost?" "What kind of tuna is expensive?" and "Who directs the auction?" They also asked, "Which part of the tuna is the most delicious?" At the intermediate wholesalers' building, they asked, "Why aren't we allowed inside?" and "Why do they sell vegetables as well as fish?" After that, we transferred via the Yurikamome and other lines to Tsukiji Market. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, we took a short break at "Platto Tsukiji." They also asked, "Why are there so many people? Is it always this crowded?" Since they very much wanted to buy kitchenware and knives, we went to Kappabashi Kitchen Town. Unfortunately, many shops were closed for the Obon holiday, so we could only visit a few, but they purchased some kitchenware as souvenirs. After that, we stopped by Asakusa, visited Sensoji Temple, and had lunch of soba and tempura at Owariya. (There was a request to eat cold soba.) They also made comments such as "The city is so clean. There is no litter on the ground," "The public toilets are clean and pleasant," and "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable," and "Recently, homelessness has been increasing rapidly in downtown San Francisco." They also asked, "During our stay in Seoul, the local guide explained many times about the delicate relationship between Japan and Korea. Honestly, what do Japanese people think of Korea?" We parted ways at Asakusa Station. (They said they intended to visit Tokyo Skytree afterward.)

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYurakucho Station～Toyosu Station178JPY
    Section 2OtherToyosu Station～Shijomae Station189JPY
    Section 3OtherShijomae Station～Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 4SubwayToyosu Station～Tsukishima Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukishima Station～Tsukiji Market Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayTsukiji Station～Tawaramachi Station209JPY
    Section 7SubwayTawaramachi Station～Asakusa Station178JPY
    Total1,299JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Gion Misaki Komonzen, departure　➡　By subway and bus, 10:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple　➡　By taxi, 11:40 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple　➡　On foot, 13:00 Bamboo Grove ~ Tenryu-ji Temple Garden　➡　Vegan lunch in Arashiyama　➡　15:20 Disband at JR Nijo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Arashiyama in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. They seemed to handle the heat well, and enjoyed a one-hour walk under the blazing sun from Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple to the bamboo grove, stopping at souvenir shops along the way and taking in the scenery. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was visited at the request of the guests. They took many photos of the expressive stone statues. They also mentioned that flowers are scarce in their home region, and were deeply moved by the beauty of the lotus flowers still in full bloom at Ogura Pond near the bamboo grove. They were also impressed by the beauty of the Sogenchi Garden at Tenryu-ji Temple. Since I only learned of it that day, finding vegan cuisine in Arashiyama was difficult, but I discovered that it was available at "Yoshiya," and the guests were satisfied with the menu. All of the guests were goshuin (temple seal) collectors.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySanjo Keihan～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Total690JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Omote-sando street

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Omote-sando street

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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Meet at Sheraton Hiroshima
    • 8:00 Peace Memorial Park
    • 9:00 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 10:40 World Heritage Route
    • 12:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:45 Omote-sando street
    • 14:35 End the tour at Hiroshima station

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour Like Before Heading to Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report After the tour began, we returned to the Hotel once for a forgotten item. Considering the crowds during the Obon period, I had planned to visit the museum first, but tickets were already sold out even before the usual opening time. Because of this, we started from Peace Memorial Park. On the way by bus, I also added explanations about the atomic-bombed remains. Since the tour started early in the morning, we were able to hear the music of the Peace Clock Tower at just the right time. When we arrived at the museum there was no line to enter, but by the time we left, entry itself had been stopped. We also used the World Heritage Sea Route, but it was very crowded, and we managed to board at the last moment, so I ended up sitting in the crew seat. While some of the guests went near the torii gate, I paid the admission fee in the meantime. The main approach was also very crowded, so I gave explanations and allowed some free time. The guests seemed to enjoy oysters, momiji manju, ice cream, and other treats each in their own way. Since there was about an hour and a half before the Shinkansen, I recommended okonomiyaki. After the tour, the guests were moving on to Osaka, so I paid particular attention to the timing.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station～Hondori220JPY
    Section 2OtherPeace Memorial Park～Miyajima Port1,100JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Total1,740JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…

  • 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

    • 9:00 Hotel-9:45 Otemon Gate-10:15 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine-11:00 Fukagawa Fudodo Temple-11:50 Tsukiji Outer Market-13:00 Lunch-14:30 Disband at Hotel

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Before a Yokohama Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and this was a one-day Tokyo tour arranged before their cruise departed from Yokohama. Since it was a Tuesday, I took the guests to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, but because the previous day had been a substitute public holiday, the gardens were closed for the day. I reflected on my failure to confirm this in advance. When we moved to Fukagawa, one of the guests wished to smoke rolled cigarettes, and I realized just how extremely limited the places where smoking is permitted are in Koto Ward and Chiyoda Ward. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, we visited four knife shops, and the guests purchased a total of four knives at two of them. After lunch, we returned to the hotel earlier than usual.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNational Stadium～Otemachi286JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Monzen-Nakacho178JPY
    Section 3SubwayMonzen-Nakacho～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Market～National Stadium220JPY
    Total862JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．10:30 Meet at Hotel
    • ２．11:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • ３．12:30 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • ４．13:45 Meiji Shrine
    • ５．15:00 Lunch at Akasaka Yakiniku Restaurant Kusa no Ie
    • ６．16:00 Imperial Palace Outer Garden
    • ７．17:00 Shiomi Station (nearest station to the hotel)

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace Since the guests enjoy cooking, I took them to the Tsukiji Outer Market to introduce Japanese kitchen knives. After carefully examining the selection, they purchased two knives and were very satisfied. Because of the extreme heat, we used the subway even for the stretch from Tsukiji to Shiodome, entering and exiting through the Nakanomon gate to minimize walking under the blazing sun. At Meiji Shrine as well, we entered through the north torii and exited through the first torii to avoid retracing our steps. Since somewhere along the Chiyoda Line was the most efficient choice for lunch before heading to the Imperial Palace, we went to a long-established restaurant in Akasaka, a mecca for yakiniku, and the guests seemed to enjoy the tenderness of the wagyu beef. My major regret was that, due to my own insufficient checking, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were closed (the site was open on Monday, which is normally its closing day, because it was a substitute holiday, so it was irregularly closed on Tuesday instead), and I ended up guiding them around the Outer Gardens. I honestly admitted my mistake and apologized. The guests understood, but I felt truly sorry, so I voluntarily extended the tour time and saw them off at Shiomi Station, the nearest station to their accommodation. As they were gentle and easygoing, they seemed satisfied overall, but I reflect deeply on my error.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi～Hatchobori170JPY
    Section 2Free PassHatchobori～Tsukiji900JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji～Shiodome0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShiodome～Yoyogi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Akasaka0JPY
    Section 6Free PassAkasaka～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 7TrainTokyo～Shiomi170JPY
    Total1,240JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

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    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
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    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00　Meet up @ Hotel by Marriott Tokyo Ginza
    • 14:30　Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 14:50　Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00　Imperial Palace
    • 17:00　Senso-ji Temple
    • 18:20　Tokyo Tower
    • 19:30　Dinner @ Mr. Farmer (Tokyo Midtown Hibiya)
    • 20:30　Disband @ Hibiya

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests had visited Japan several times before, while the others were visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Osaka and Kyoto. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they were impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, and listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. At the Imperial Palace, they showed great interest in the historical explanations about the role of the Emperor and the Meiji Restoration. At Tokyo Tower, they enjoyed the magnificent night view of Tokyo. Since I responded exactly as the guests wished, I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza～Shibuya600JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 4SubwayYurakucho～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Kamiyacho0JPY
    Section 6SubwayKamiyacho～Hibiya0JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

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

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

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

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

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

  • Miyagi in One Day: Kanrantei Matcha Experience & Tenrinin　

    Miyagi in One Day: Kanrantei Matcha Experience & Tenrinin　

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Metropolitan Sendai　Meeting
    • 10:52 Shiogama Wholesale Fish Market　Tour
    • 12:30 Matsushima Sightseeing Boat Nioumaru Boarding
    • 13:50 Lunch　Japanese Noodle Restaurant Homare
    • 15:30 Kanrantei Matcha Experience
    • 15:50 Zuiganji Temple Visit
    • 16:15 Tenrinin　
    • 16:44 Boarding the Senseki Line bound for Sendai at Matsushima-Kaigan Station～Dismissal on the train

    What Is a Private Matsushima and Shiogama Day Tour Like After a Typhoon? A Licensed Guide's Report This tour was originally planned for the previous day, but the Matsushima sightseeing boats and the trains to Matsushima were all suspended due to an approaching typhoon. I suggested to the guests that, if they had flexibility in their stay, we could postpone the tour to the next day, and this is how the tour came about. Even though it was due to the weather, I felt apologetic. On the 12th, I had informed them of places they could visit without getting wet, and they apparently spent the day at those places and doing karaoke. On the 13th, we were blessed with good weather. The group included younger members, so gathering and moving around inevitably ran a bit behind schedule. This time they traveled without a JR Pass, using only cash and credit cards. When time was short or when they were tired, it was very helpful that the guests suggested "let's take a taxi." The Shiogama Nakaoroshi Fish Market was a request from the guests, who wanted to see a local market. Since tuna had been landed even with the typhoon the previous day, they watched with great interest as the tuna was being cut. Because the bus connection from the market to the nearest station runs only once an hour and is inconvenient, the guests asked me to call a taxi. It was a 15-minute walk, but Miyagi was extremely hot and humid after the typhoon, and I thought walking would be tough, so this worked out well. I had brought extra paper fans from home, and they were delighted, saying "having these made it comfortable." From Higashi-Shiogama Station we went to Matsushima Kaigan. Riding from Sendai can feel long, but adding sightseeing spots along the way like intervals makes the journey feel shorter. There is a temporary ticket window for the sightseeing boat right at Matsushima Kaigan Station, and we learned there was a special 12:30 departure. We decided to take that. The ticket for the guide's portion was only discounted by 10%. Previously this company had provided it free of charge, so I said "isn't the guide's portion free?" but was told "it's a 10% discount," and I said "sorry" to the guests. Since the boarding ticket can be provided free at the pier window, this became a lesson for the future. The guests said "it's fine." When we hurried to the pier, it was incredibly crowded, and instead of the large boat, we ended up chasing in a medium-sized boat. There was plenty of room in the seats, which was good, but the waves were still rough and it rocked quite a bit. The captain, having heard me guiding in English, switched to the English recorded announcements. For lunch, they wanted to eat local food, so I answered "maybe fried oysters or conger eel" and we went to the Umi-no-Eki building across from Kanrantei, but the seafood restaurant on the 2nd floor had a long line reaching the stairs that didn't seem to move, so we went to a noodle and Japanese food restaurant on the 3rd floor. They told us to write our name and wait in the cool back rest area, saying they would call us in order. However, even after 30 minutes we weren't called, and when I went to check, our name had been crossed off as if we had already been called! I called a staff member and protested that "we haven't been called yet," and they said "sorry, right away," and after a few minutes we were called. Losing time here was painful. The guests said "we don't mind the time," though… For the meal, three of them each ordered fried oysters and seemed very satisfied. One of the younger guests wanted dessert, so I suggested "why not order a matcha set at Kanrantei afterward?" and we left the restaurant and headed to Kanrantei across the way. Enjoying tea and sweets while looking out at the sea, they seemed to feel a bit relaxed. It was late by the time we reached Zuiganji Temple, but since I intended to see them off to Sendai, I headed to Zuiganji as the last stop. This was a place one of the guests had wanted to visit, and they carefully toured the gold-leafed abbot's quarters. When the tour was finished, one of the guests said "it must be time already, and if you live near here it's fine to part ways here," but since I had intended to see them off to Sendai Station, I explained the return route in case they wanted to get off at a station along the way. At that time it was past 4:10, and I realized the only train we could catch was at 4:44, so I said we would return together and wait more than 20 minutes at the station. On the way back, when I explained the small shrine for the memorial of toys at Tenrin-in, one of the guests climbed up toward the mausoleum of Iroha-hime above, so I waited below with the others, saying it was full of mosquitoes up there. The view of Matsushima from above is truly wonderful. The guest was satisfied, and we boarded the same train together and parted ways on board.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Riko

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

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    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
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    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…