Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa sightseeing

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa sightseeing

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Depart from Edition Tokyo Ginza
    • 13:25-14:20 Asakusa sightseeing
    • 14:40-15:45 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 16:10-16:50 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya PARCO, guide on how to return via the Ginza Line and disband

    What Can You See in a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America. They had already traveled through Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, and had moved to Tokyo by shinkansen that morning. They wanted to see Asakusa, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing within four hours. Since the guests were strong walkers, we moved at a fast pace, and as a result we finished with a little time to spare, so I guided them to Parco before ending the tour (as one of the guests was interested in anime and manga). The guests listened carefully to the explanations, which made guiding very easy. We were lucky to be able to proceed with the tour without being caught in any thunderstorms.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTakaracho Station～Asakusa900JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi～Shibuya0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Maki

    Hello!
    I’m Maki. Nice to meet you.
    I used to work at a travel agency as a tour escort so I have traveled to more than 50 countries and all 47 prefectures in Japan.
    When I came back to Japan from abroad, I always noticed virtues in Japan anew.
    I’m thrilled to introduce such kinds of stories and favorite places to you.
    I like bar hopping, cooking, history, and outdoor activities such as camping, cycling.
    I have a licence of International Sake Sommlier and Wine Expert. I’m happy if I would have a chance to introduce you about sake and wine.
    I’m also a mother of junior high school girl. Let’s have fun together!

    Request Booking

    Oct 9, 2025
    301catherinep
    Fabulous customised tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki is a wonderful, well informed guide. She customised…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Gene L
    Our 6 hour tour with Maki was fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and…

    Aug 31, 2025
    T
    tmay2921
    Maki is the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day exploring…

    Jul 12, 2025
    O6400ONsaram
    Maki san kakkoii desu
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki was generous and flexible! She met us…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hilton Tokyo Odaiba
    • 10:20 Daiba Station
    • 11:05 Asakusa Station
    • Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:20 Asakusa Station
    • 13:00 Tsukiji Station
    • Lunch @ Rotating Sushi Zanmai
    • 14:20 Tsukiji Station
    • 14:40 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 16:00 Disband @ Takeshita Street

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. I felt a natural rapport with the group, and we had an interesting conversation about differences between Japan and North America regarding health-conscious eating. Since they had eaten a large breakfast, we sightseed in Asakusa first and then headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market. Because they wanted to eat fresh sushi, I chose a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant where the portions are easy to adjust. They were delighted that even conveyor-belt sushi in Japan is extremely delicious. Our final stop was Meiji Shrine, where we spent about 50 minutes, and with the remaining time we visited Takeshita Street. After picking out and guiding them to some recommended shops, I explained how to get back to Harajuku Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba Station～Shimbashi Station330JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station～Asakusa Station220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station290JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station～Meiji-jingumae Station210JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: /Asakusa & /Recovery of Phone and End

    Tokyo in Half a Day: /Asakusa & /Recovery of Phone and End

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00/Meet at Hotel
    • 11:30/Asakusa
    • 13:30/Pokemon Center Nihonbashi・Takashimaya
    • 15:00/Lunch (Kanda)
    • 16:15/Disband at Hotel
    • 17:00/Recovery of Phone and End

    What Is a Wheelchair-Accessible Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa and Nihonbashi This was my first opportunity to guide guests using a wheelchair. The group had recently started using a wheelchair. Because it had only been a short time since they began using it, and because the plan involved subway travel with transfers, this was a fairly challenging itinerary. Before the tour started, I explained that using the subway would take considerably more time and that crowding on the subway was to be expected, and once they understood and agreed, I focused the guiding on Asakusa and the Pokémon Center in Nihonbashi. The guests described themselves as beginners with the wheelchair, but they were very cheerful and were understanding even when things did not go as planned. I had checked the subway transfers and the wheelchair routes at the ticket gates in advance, but once we actually started moving, everything took twice as long as usual. Basically, the accompanying person pushed the wheelchair, but depending on the situation I also helped out, and it was a day full of new discoveries. Since this is an unusual case, I would like to share some notes: – It is safest to travel after the end of rush hour, around 10:30 or later, and to return to the hotel by 16:00. – As was the case this time, you should assume that a taxi will be needed at the end. – Keep subway transfers to about one, and minimize the use of elevators as much as possible. – Most important is to check in advance where the wheelchair-accessible train cars are, and to let crowded trains pass. – Wheelchairs compete with stroller users who are also waiting for less crowded trains. – Use the wider ticket gates near the station staff. – This is just my personal impression, but for wheelchair routes, the Tokyo Metro is easier to understand and navigate than JR. Although the number of destinations was limited due to various conditions, unlike sightseeing by car, we were able to enjoy sightseeing from a different perspective, and I believe the guests were satisfied. For lunch, we had tonkatsu at a famous restaurant, and although there was a bit of a wait, the thick cut of meat was well received. Finally, on the taxi ride back to the hotel, the guests left a smartphone in the vehicle. Because I had kept the receipt, I was able to quickly contact the driver using the vehicle number, and we recovered the smartphone in about 40 minutes. I was reminded once again that even if it seems unnecessary, you should always keep taxi receipts. This concludes my report for this time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Asakusa252JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Nihonbashi178JPY
    Section 3TrainNihonbashi～Kanda178JPY
    Total608JPY

    Tour Report by tani

    Japan Guide Award Finalist
    A nationally available guide with a background in international journalism, field logistics, and custom travel planning.

    With more than 30 years of experience as a broadcast journalist, including many years in current affairs, I bring a calm, practical, and flexible approach to guiding. I served as bureau chief in Cairo for 4 years and in London for 5 years, and reported from more than 30 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

    I have also visited all 47 prefectures of Japan while working as a news supervisor for a local affiliate station. This nationwide perspective helps me design tours that are both realistic and rewarding.

    I offer custom itineraries tailored to each guest’s interests, pace, and priorities. I am especially well-suited to walking-based, outdoor, and hands-on experiences, drawing on many years of mountaineering and other active pursuits such as tennis, skiing, canoeing, and biking. Golf rounds can also be arranged upon request.

    In addition, I served as a volunteer team leader for the press at the canoe slalom venue during the Tokyo Olympics. I am available throughout Japan, and I also publish weekly travel tips for international visitors on Substack, Japan A to Z.

    Contact
    Newsletter (Substack): https://tani.substack.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/japanatoz/
    Email: treasurehuntinjapan@gmail.com

    Request Booking

    Oct 21, 2024
    jaysonn708
    Outstanding Guide: A Memorable Tokyo Experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tani was an exceptional guide who…

    Oct 15, 2024
    Q3332TBnicholasl
    Great introduction to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tani was exceptional! He communicationed ahead of time…

    Oct 8, 2024
    X3846HRmiken
    Wonderful Tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour! Our guide, Tani (Hideo Tanikawa) was very knowledgeable,…

    Oct 8, 2024
    RAQUEL N
    Tour with Tani
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideo Tanikawa was an amazing tour guide! He…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:30 @ Himeji Castle (via Egret Himeji)
    • 11:45 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 13:15 Disband @ Food Court inside JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest visited Japan and moved smoothly through the itinerary even in the heat. The guest showed a strong interest in Japan and listened attentively to the guide's explanations. Photography seemed to be a hobby, and the guest took many photos throughout the day. Before visiting Himeji Castle, the guest was very impressed by the full view of Himeji Castle from the rooftop of "Egret Himeji." At Koko-en Garden, the guest wished to experience tea in the tea house, and I guided them there, which they greatly enjoyed. On the way back to Himeji Station, the guest wished to try soft-serve ice cream at a popular Japanese tea shop, but unfortunately, due to a machine malfunction, it was not available for sale. When I told the shop staff how much the guest had been looking forward to it, they were very apologetic and said, "Please at least have some tea," offering complimentary chilled green tea, which the guest happily described as "very delicious." Afterward, the guest stopped by a specialty shop in the local shopping street known for handmade "maneki-neko" (beckoning cat figurines) and purchased souvenirs. Feeling a bit hungry, the guest ordered the local specialties "ekisoba" and "akashiyaki" (octopus dumplings eaten with broth) at the food court inside Himeji Station, where we then parted ways.

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

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinagawa

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinagawa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Royal Park Haneda
    • 9:00 Ueno Park, Shinobazu Pond
    • 10:00 Asakusa
    • 11:00 Akihabara
    • 12:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:30 Shibuya Crossing, PARCO
    • 14:30 Shinagawa

    Title: What's a One-Day Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. After spending time visiting friends in Oceania, they stopped in Japan for a few days on their way home. Since they plan to take a more thorough trip to Japan next time, this time they wanted to briefly visit Tokyo DisneySea and the major sights of Tokyo. The group was deeply moved by Shinobazu Pond with its blooming lotus flowers, which one of the guests had wished to see. In the intense summer heat, we quickly toured five locations, and the guests were also thrilled at Akihabara and the Nintendo store in PARCO. I was very touched to receive a cap, cookies, and a kitchen cloth as gifts. I saw the guests off at the Keikyu Shinagawa platform for the train to Haneda Airport, ending my duties. It was a wonderful group, and everyone was very well-mannered.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHaneda Terminal 3～Hamamatsucho519JPY
    Section 2TrainHamamatsucho～Ueno178JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukuba Asakusa～Akihabara210JPY
    Section 5TrainAkihabara～Otemachi324JPY
    Section 6SubwayOtemachi～Shibuya209JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya～Shinagawa178JPY
    Total1,796JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Osaka: @ Shitennoji Temple & @ Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka: @ Shitennoji Temple & @ Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Regale Dotonbori East
    • 9:55- 11:45 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 12:05-12:30 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:40-12:55 @ Shinsekai
    • 13:10-14:20 Lunch @ Harukas
    • 14:50 -15:10 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 15:35-15:40 @ Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:55 Dismiss @ Regale Dotonbori East

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. Some of the guests live in Asia, some in Europe, and others also joined the trip. One of the guests had a long relationship with Japanese companies and had visited Japan several times before, so they were quite familiar with the country. From the start I had been told that one of the guests loved history and would ask many questions, and indeed the questions continued throughout the drive, so much so that we lost track of time. The sunlight was very strong, and as it was the final day of their trip they were also tired, but with the cooperation of the driver we were able to visit the famous sights of Osaka at a brisk pace, and the guests were very satisfied. After the sunlight softened, they visited Dotonbori near their hotel, and afterward one of the guests reported to me that they had a wonderful time at the sushi restaurant I had recommended.

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

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Aioi Ryokan – Miyajima – Hiroshima Peace Park – Atomic Bomb Dome

    What Is a Private Miyajima Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. On this day at Miyajima, we encountered a sudden downpour. Fortunately, it eased to a light rain in about 20 minutes, so we were able to wait it out at Itsukushima Shrine. Starting today, the staircase route at Daishoin Temple has reopened, as the water leak repairs have been completed. Guiding through the dim passages while reciting the Heart Sutra from memory really heightens the spiritual atmosphere all at once. One of the guests mentioned an interest in Buddhism and remarked that the concept of emptiness might be explainable at the quantum level. I had no idea what that meant, and my mind went completely empty.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIn front of the Atomic Bomb Dome～Nishi-Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Hiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 4BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: @Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: @Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @W Osaka
    • 10:30-12:00 @Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 12:45-13:15 @Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:15-15:00 @Kuromon Market, Hozenji Temple
    • 15:15 Disband @Dotonbori

    What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had just arrived at Kansai Airport the previous evening. Although it was a hot and humid day, they showed no signs of jet lag and walked around energetically while drinking plenty of bottled water. They mentioned that when their family had traveled to Japan over thirty years ago, everything had been very expensive due to the strong yen, so they were happy to be visiting now with a weaker yen. They planned to visit Japan across several trips, and this time they focused on the Kansai and Kanto regions, staying for two weeks. They cheerfully shared their well-researched itinerary, holding their newly purchased ICOCA cards: staying two nights in Arashiyama and two nights in Gion while strolling around Kyoto, taking a day trip to Nara from Osaka, and then spending a week in Tokyo. It was a very pleasant journey together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nippombashi190JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

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    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Light meal @ Bakery Senba & Futarasan Shrine

    Tochigi in One Day: Light meal @ Bakery Senba & Futarasan Shrine

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Meet up @ JR Nikko Station
    • 9:40　Light meal @ Bakery Senba
    • 9:57　Board the bus @ JR Nikko Station～Shinkyo
    • 10:05　Shinkyo Bridge
    • 10:20　Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo
    • 11:00　Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:20　Futarasan Shrine
    • 12:50　Put the guests in a taxi and disband @ Toshogu Shrine taxi stand

    Title: What Is a Private Half-Day Cultural Tour of Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe. This time, all the advance communication was handled through a travel agency in Europe, so I did not know what the guests would be like until the day itself. According to the agency, the tour was to be a maximum of three to four hours, I was asked to make a lunch reservation at a mountain restaurant for 1:00 p.m., to arrange a taxi to take them there, and I was told that I did not need to join them for the meal or wait until they finished eating, so we parted ways relatively early. I had been a little anxious beforehand because I did not know what the guests would be like, but when I met them they were a very friendly and warm group, so even though our time together was short, we were able to spend it pleasantly and got along very well. The guests said they wanted to learn more about Japanese culture, so I explained Buddhism, Shinto, the Edo period, and the shogun as carefully as I could. They listened very attentively and had many questions. Toshogu Shrine has something connected to Europe, and when I told them about it, they were delighted and said, "We didn't know that!" Since it was very hot and standing to listen was tiring, I made an effort to keep things comfortable by taking them to cool spots from time to time and handing out cooling packs. As I was not going to accompany them to the restaurant, I called the establishment in advance to explain that the guests were from overseas and did not speak Japanese, and to ask them to call a taxi after the meal. Just in case, I also gave the guests a copy of the English menu of the restaurant they had requested, the phone number of the taxi company for the return trip, and a note written in Japanese saying "Please take me to JR Nikko Station" to show the driver. They seemed to be experienced travelers so I was sure they would be fine, but I went the extra mile to do my best. After the tour ended, I also reported to the travel agency in Europe, with whom I had been in contact, that everything had finished without any problems.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nikko Station～Shinkyo220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Yumi

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

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    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Tokyo Skytree

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Tokyo Skytree

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:15 Meet at Hilton Odaiba
    • 8:50 Tsukiji Market
    • 9:55 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:00 Lunch at Kinki Palace Building
    • 12:20 Asakusa
    • 12:50 Tokyo Skytree
    • 14:00 Disband at Tokyo Skytree Town

    What Does a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were staying at a hotel, and came from there by taxi to Odaiba, where we met just after 8:15. At the strong request of one of the guests, Tokyo Skytree was added to the list of destinations. We had also planned to visit Meiji Shrine, but there was not enough time, so the tour ended at Skytree. Since they wanted to avoid the heat as much as possible, in addition to public transportation we used taxis from Tsukiji to the Imperial Palace and from Asakusa to Skytree. At Tsukiji, they showed interest in cooking tools and purchased a bamboo rolling mat for making sushi. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, they took their time, resting at the rest areas along the way. They had lunch at a sushi restaurant in the basement of a hotel. Asakusa was also very hot, so we headed to Skytree early. At Skytree, they enjoyed the sights in a cool environment, but there was considerable smog toward Mount Fuji, so unfortunately there was no clear view. We parted ways at Skytree Town.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdaiba～Shiodome325JPY
    Section 2TrainShiodome～Tsukiji Market178JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi～Asakusa178JPY
    Total681JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…