Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima: Shukkeien & Catch a taxi for the guests and end the

    Hiroshima: Shukkeien & Catch a taxi for the guests and end the

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50 Meet up at Ujina port : earlier than scheduled
    • Briefing about today's tour / Explanation about the history of Ujina port
    • 09:08 taxi to Shukkeien Garden (paid by the guests)
    • 09:25 -10:25 Shukkeien
    • 10:25- 10:40 Walk to Hiroshima Castle
    • 10:40 – 11:15 Hiroshima Castle
    • 11:15 – 11:20 Taxi to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 11:20 – 12:10 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 12:10 – 12:40 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (stroll in the park)
    • 12:40 – 12:45 Walk to the Hypo-center
    • 12:50 Catch a taxi for the guests and end the tour
    • *10 minutes earlier than scheduled but the guests agreed to do so

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Communication with the guests was smooth from our very first contact by email, and meeting up was completely without issue. Because of concerns about walking distances at each site, at Shukkeien Garden we took our time going around the left half of the walking route, and at Hiroshima Castle the guests were unfortunately able to see only the lower floors. Neither facility is barrier-free (there are no elevators), and there is no air conditioning inside the castle, so the guests may have found it a little tiring. We switched to a taxi to reach the museum, and along with the park, the guests viewed everything with great interest. The guests had a strong interest in history and the traces of the war, and it made for a very rewarding experience as a guide. At the end, I received a tip from the guests. I am reporting this just to be safe.

    I hope this message finds you well and full of excitement for your upcoming journey to Hiroshima! My name is Kay, and I am thrilled to be your designated tour guide for this adventure.
    As a guide deeply passionate about the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this area, I am eager to share these experiences with you. With nearly 10 years of experience as a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of welcoming guests from all over the world, each bringing their own unique perspectives and interests. Whether this is your first-time visiting Hiroshima or you’re returning to explore it more deeply, my goal is to provide you with an enriching and memorable experience.
    Our itinerary will take us through some of the most iconic landmarks, as well as a few hidden gems that only locals know about. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, indulging in the local cuisine, or learning about the fascinating history that has shaped this place, I am here to tailor the tour to your interests. My aim is to not only guide you but also to connect you with the heart and soul of Hiroshima.
    I understand that traveling to a new country can sometimes be a bit overwhelming, especially with language barriers and unfamiliar customs. Please consider me your local resource – not just for the tour itself, but for any questions or concerns you may have during your stay. From dining recommendations to advice on local etiquette, I am more than happy to assist in making your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Before we begin our tour, feel free to share with me any specific interests or special requests you might have. Whether it’s a particular site you’re eager to visit, a type of cuisine you’re curious to try, or even a story you’ve heard about this place that you’d like to explore further, your input will help me craft an experience that is uniquely suited to you. Thank you for choosing to explore Hiroshima with me. I look forward to meeting you in person and sharing in the discovery of all that this incredible place has to offer.
    If you have any questions before your arrival, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Until then, I wish you safe travels and eagerly await the opportunity to guide you on what promises to be an unforgettable journey.

    Warm regards,
    Kay

    Jun 3, 2026
    Y5284SOjeffe
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Peace Park and Miyajima Island Walking Tour
    Keiko…

    Apr 21, 2026
    gailk914
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour & guide!
    Unforgettable and emotionally moving tour of…

    Jul 10, 2025
    Z4238KUrebeccag
    Amazing day
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was amazing. Kay was so knowledgeable…

    Jun 13, 2025
    Olga870
    Ahora tenemos nuestro corazón en Japón. La mejor experiencia
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet up @Chokoku-no-mori Station
    • 2. 09:00 Stay @The Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 3. 11:20 Travel: Bus
    • 4. 11:50 Lunch @Caffe Terrazza Ukai
    • 5. 13:00 Stay @Hakone Venetian Glass Museum
    • 6. 14:00 Travel: Bus
    • 7. 15:00 Stay @Lake Ashi (Pirate Ship Cruise)
    • 8. 16:00 Travel: Bus
    • 9. 16:55 Disband @In front of Yunessun

    Title: What Is a Private Art-Focused Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The art-loving guests seemed to enjoy this itinerary, but there were some challenges because they were staying at an unusual hotel. Regarding the meeting point, since the hotel was quite far from the station, I had asked the guests in advance to use the shuttle service to come to Chokoku-no-Mori Station. I later learned that the hotel's shuttle service did not start until 11:00, so the guests had to take a taxi to the station. I felt bad that this resulted in an extra expense for them. Both museums were very well received. At the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the guests showed interest not only in the artworks but also in the plants growing outdoors, and we ended up staying here for about two hours. At the Hakone Museum of Glass, we took a lunch break at a restaurant on the grounds before strolling through the museum. The terrace seats offered a great view and were less crowded than the restaurants in Moto-Hakone, so I would like to use this place again if I have the chance. Before the end of the tour, I was asked to recommend a nearby place where they could have dinner. They said that their hotel only served light snacks suitable for drinking. After looking into it, I confirmed that Yunessun had a buffet-style restaurant, and that the guests could also arrange a pickup car from their hotel to that location. In the end, I took the guests to Yunessun before parting ways. For transportation, we used buses except for the pirate ship. For the final leg from Miyanoshita Onsen to Yunessun, we used an Izuhakone bus that was not covered by the free pass, so I recorded that transportation cost separately.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassThe Hakone Open-Air Museum~Hakone Venetian Glass5,000JPY
    Section 2Free PassIn front of Tawaraishi/Hakone Venetian Glass~Miyanoshita Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMiyanoshita Station~Motohakone Port0JPY
    Section 4Free PassMotohakone Port~Togendai Port0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTogendai Port~Miyanoshita Onsen0JPY
    Section 6BusMiyanoshita Onsen~In front of Yunessun280JPY
    Total5,280JPY

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

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 9:00 Start at Hotel. At the customer's request, made a reservation for the next day's train to Kyoto at the Midori-no-Madoguchi of JR Kanazawa Station
    • AM 9:20 Departure
    • AM 9:30 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, viewing the permanent public works
    • AM10:30 Kenrokuen Garden, sightseeing
    • AM 11:10 Kanazawa Castle Park, viewing the Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, and Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • PM 12:00 ~13:30 Moving to Nagamachi via Oyama Shrine, with lunch at Korinbo along the way
    • PM 13:30 Nagamachi Samurai District, viewing the Takada Family Site and the Ashigaru Museum
    • PM 14:20 Departure
    • PM 14:45 Strolling around Higashi Chaya District
    • PM 15:30 Departure  15:45 Arrival at JR Kanazawa Station
    • PM 16:00 After introducing the recommended dinner spots that were asked about, ended in front of Hotel

    Title: What's a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather during the earlier part of the trip had reportedly been unstable, so the guests were pleased that the day turned out to be sunny. Since some of the guests were less comfortable with English, and communication sometimes required interpreting into another language, the tour took a bit longer overall, and because of the reservation process at the ticket office, we got a late start and ended up running nearly an hour past the scheduled finishing time. As I had been told in advance by the travel agency that the guests were interested in architecture, they listened with great interest to explanations about the hospitality dome at Kanazawa Station, the 21st Century Museum, and the restoration construction methods of Kanazawa Castle. I was also able to give a somewhat detailed explanation over lunch about the historical relationships among the daimyo, samurai, and shogun, which I felt went well. At the end, when we parted ways, I was offered a tip, which I gratefully accepted.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassWithin Kanazawa City~Within Kanazawa City800JPY
    Total800JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hiroshima Station, arriving 9:39 on Nozomi 99. Hiroshima Station 10:00 === 10:15 Kamiyacho ····· Hypocenter, Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park monuments · 10:55 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum 11:40 ···· 11:50 Lunch at Restaurant Benbee Otemachi Branch 12:35 == taxi == 12:55 Nishi-Hiroshima Station 13:08 ――― 13:26 Miyajimaguchi Station ···· Miyajimaguchi Pier 13:40 ~~~ 13:50 Miyajima Pier ····· 14:10 Itsukushima Shrine 14:50
    • (Free time 30 minutes) ··· 15:40 Miyajima Pier 15:45 ~~~ 15:55 Miyajimaguchi Pier ····· Miyajimaguchi Station 16:04 —— 16:32 Hiroshima Station. After arriving at Hiroshima Station, disband in front of the Shinkansen platform. The customer had reserved the 17:22 Nozomi 48 train to Kyoto.

    I believe the guests were generally very pleased. When I met them at Hiroshima Station, I confirmed that they had reserved the 17:22 Nozomi No. 48 shinkansen for their evening return to Kyoto, so the itinerary had little margin and the sightseeing had to be somewhat rushed. I explained in advance to the guests that time would be limited, and they kindly understood. The Atomic Bomb Museum was very crowded, as many school excursion students had begun moving through the exhibits. For lunch, I had reserved okonomiyaki at a local restaurant, which the guests greatly enjoyed. Because we moved quickly, we ended up with a little extra time, so I arranged a 30-minute break for rest and shopping on Miyajima Island, allowing the guests to relax a bit. We arrived at Hiroshima Station at 16:32, 50 minutes before the train's departure. I saw the guests off in front of the shinkansen ticket gates, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station~Kamiyacho200JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Hiroshima~Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi Station~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total950JPY

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima, and began guiding services in full swing in July 2023. I am a second-generation of A-bomb survivor. Neither of my parents told much about the war, but I can tell you some of their experiences. In Hiroshima City, I can tell you about Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum, and other monuments. In Miyajima, I can tell you about Itsukushima Shrine, Daigan-ji Temple, Daisho-in Temple, etc. Hiroshima has some specialties such as okonomiyaki, oysters, and conger eel. I will be able to introduce you to some delicious restaurants. Let’s learn and enjoy Hiroshima together.

    Apr 2, 2026
    Trudy M
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Ask for Nob – he’s the best guide.
    We…

    Oct 24, 2025
    David_F
    Nob did a great job…
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Nob did a great…

    Sep 28, 2025
    Phong_N
    Amazing day in Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima 6hr Private Guided Tour & Food Tasting with Concierge
    My family and I had…

    Jul 17, 2025
    linsshirl
    An Incredible Tour to Book – two places in one day! Amazing Guides and Service!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day…

  • Nagano Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagano Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at hotel – Odata Family House –
    • 13:30 Matsushiro Zozan Underground Bunker – Yamadera Jozan Residence – Zozan Shrine – Former Shirai Family Front Gate – Bunbu School – Sanada Residence –
    • 16:00 Sanada Treasure Museum – Statue of Sanada Nobuyuki – Matsushiro Castle Ruins –
    • 17:00 Disband at hotel

    What Is a Private Castle Town Walking Tour in Matsushiro Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who was currently on a solo trip around the world. Under the refreshing clear skies of autumn, the guest enjoyed a walk through the quiet castle town while asking many questions, such as the differences between ninja, samurai, and shogun. The guest kindly commented that what they saw in Matsushiro town would help deepen their understanding of what they would see at future destinations. This tour was arranged by an overseas agency using the guest's name.

    Nice to meet you. My name is Emi F., and I am a licensed guide interpreter specializing in English. I was born and have lived and worked in Nagano, where I am especially knowledgeable about the northern, eastern, and central regions of the prefecture. After retiring early from a career in teaching, I began working as a guide interpreter in 2021. Since then, I have had the pleasure of guiding many visitors to some of my favorite places, including Nagano, Matsushiro, Togakushi, Matsumoto, Azumino, Yamanouchi, Obuse, Nozawa-onsen, Suzaka, and Karuizawa, among others. I have a deep appreciation for the diverse foods harvested in Nagano and am committed to providing a flexible and enjoyable experience for my guests. Additionally, upon request, I can also guide you in Kanazawa, Nagoya, Nara, and Kyoto. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you and to share a memorable and enjoyable tour together.

    Mar 21, 2026
    Cengiz_S
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Recommend this tour without any hesitation!
    We’re really enjoyed this…

    Apr 3, 2025
    R
    Robert_C
    Emi was a great guide who…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Emi was a…

    Jun 8, 2024
    James_M
    Beautiful afternoon with a private tour of Nagano!
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet at Hotel
    • Depart at 9:32 by shuttle bus to JR Shinagawa Station
    • 9:45 Assistance purchasing the "registered Suica" at the ticket machines at Shinagawa Station, which resumed sales in September.
    • 10:00 Hachiko the Faithful Dog Statue, Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 10:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:40 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 13:20 Lunch at "Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan"
    • 14:40 In front of the ticket gate at "Toei Asakusa Line Higashi-Ginza Station" (Explain the route to Asakusa Station and the return route from Asakusa Station to the hotel)
    • Dismissal (Plan to watch a play in Asakusa from 16:30)

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived the day before. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days before continuing to Kyoto. One of the guests had visited Japan several times before, and another had lived in Japan long ago and was visiting for the second time. Both were very cheerful. On the Yamanote Line, they chatted with a group of junior high school students on a school trip; on the Chuo Line, they spoke with a group of university students returning to campus after lacrosse practice; and at a sushi restaurant, they struck up a friendly conversation with the Japanese guests seated next to them, using English and the Japanese phrases they had just learned. Since they had a theater performance to attend in Asakusa starting at 16:30, I explained the route from Higashi-ginza Station on the Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station, as well as the return route from Asakusa Station back to their hotel, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Yamanote Line Shinagawa Station~JR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station180JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station~JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station~JR Yamanote Line Shinjuku Station150JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Chuo Line Shinjuku Station~JR Chuo Line Kanda Station180JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Kanda Station~Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Total840JPY

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

    Aug 25, 2026
    T8432CMjeffr
    6 hr Tokyo tour with Bruce
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The tour was…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Polly1818
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Bruce was the best !! 5⭐️
    Bruce was our…

    Aug 3, 2026
    AJEDav
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Bruce Sagano was terrific! He was very…

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @Hotel
    • 2. 9:30 @Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple (Main Hall, shop inside the cafe)
    • 3. 9:50 @Tsukiji Market
    • 4. 10:40 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, matcha break at "Kaminari Issa", Sumida Park)
    • 5. 12:30 @Nihonbashi Takashimaya (basement food floor)
    • 6. 13:00 @Tokyo Station (Yaesu Exit, Character Street, Ramen Street, DAIMARU sweets floor, Midori no Madoguchi, station building, Marunouchi side station plaza)
    • 7. 13:45 @Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 8. 14:00 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, FUKURAS)
    • 9. 14:30 @Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 10. 15:30 @Tokyo Midtown Roppongi
    • 11. 16:00 Disband @in front of Tokyo Midtown Roppongi Information

    What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had heard from many friends who had traveled to Japan that "Japan is wonderful," and, combined with favorable currency conditions, they decided to take this opportunity to make their trip to Japan a reality. Very active and strong walkers, they had already explored Shinjuku on their own on the day they arrived, the day before. Since they wished to see as many places as possible, even if it meant shortening their lunch break, I added a few destinations to the original plan. On the way to Asakusa, the first planned destination, we stopped by Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, then walked from Tsukiji Market to Ginza while introducing the Kabukiza Theatre. After Meiji Shrine, which I had assumed would be the end point of the tour, I guided them to Tokyo Midtown Roppongi and introduced a place where they could enjoy a relaxed meal together before we said goodbye. They reacted with great excitement everywhere we went, but I was especially struck by how their eyes lit up when I explained seasonal fruit (pears) at a roadside fruit shop, or introduced the various prepared dishes at the food floor of Nihonbashi Takashimaya. Throughout the day, they asked one question after another about various aspects of Japanese culture and society (the education system, how characters are written, working styles, the aging society, dietary habits, and so on), and I could sense their strong interest in Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Ningyocho Station~Tsukiji Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Ginza Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Nihonbashi Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station~Ginza Line Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Nogizaka Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

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

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

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

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

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

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Osaka Station

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Osaka Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 pick you up in the lobby of your hotel
    • (Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka-Namba)
    • (take subway)
    • 9:40 Osaka Castle
    • 10:30 enter the main tower
    • 11:40 (take road train)
    • 12:20 Shinsekai
    • (lunch)
    • 13:30 (ltake suway)
    • 13:50 Osaka Station
    • (take picture op Umeda Sky Building)
    • 14:20 (take subway)
    • 14:50 return to your hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Osaka Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America. We met at the hotel and confirmed the itinerary for the day. Since they had visited Dotonbori the previous evening, they wanted to go somewhere different, so I suggested the Umeda Sky Building and they agreed. At Osaka Castle, the elevator was under maintenance, so we climbed the stairs up to the observation deck on the 8th floor. As the guest wanted to learn about history, I introduced the history of Osaka Castle, including the battles between the Tokugawa and Toyotomi clans and how it was once used as a military base for the army. For lunch in Shinsekai, we enjoyed takoyaki, sobameshi, and okonomiyaki. Finally, we intended to enter the Umeda Sky Building, but as the guest was tired from walking and wished to return to the hotel, we took some photos and headed back to the hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherOsaka Castle Gokurakubashi Station~Morinomiya400JPY
    Total400JPY

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Namba Shopping Street

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Namba Shopping Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:45 Meet @ Hotel Oska The Tower
    • 09:30 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:45 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 12:30 @ Namba Shopping Street

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour started about 15 minutes late due to the guests' circumstances. One of the guests used a stroller frequently (though there did not appear to be any particular physical difficulty) and preferred to use elevators rather than stairs or escalators whenever possible, so getting around took longer than expected. Since the activities and sightseeing were largely centered on one of the guests, it was very difficult to predict the timing. As a result, we only visited Osaka Castle (viewed from the outside only) and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. The guests also wanted to have lunch, so I guided them to a restaurant in the Namba shopping arcade, where we parted ways. We were not able to visit the "Pokémon Cafe" in Shinsaibashi that had been looked forward to, so I explained the location so that they could go there later. At the "Miraiza" facility at Osaka Castle, the guests purchased personalized chopsticks as a gift for a schoolteacher. Since they had just arrived in the country the previous day, I recommended purchasing an ICOCA card, which they did. This time, rather than taking a strong interest in and enjoying the sights, the guests seemed occupied with caretaking throughout the entire itinerary, which was somewhat unfortunate.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYodoyabashi~Morinomiya240JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya~Shin-Imamiya170JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Imamiya~Sumiyoshi Taisha230JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba230JPY
    Total870JPY

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Omotesando Sou Sou Aoyama Store & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Omotesando Sou Sou Aoyama Store & Shinjuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Celestine Shiba
    • 10:30 Yanesen (Nezu Shrine ~ Snake Road ~ Yanaka Cemetery ~ Yanaka Ginza ~ Sendagi Station
    • 12:00 Omotesando Sou Sou Aoyama Store
    • 13:15 Shimokitazawa Lunch @ Okinawa Soba
    • 14:45 Gotokuji Temple
    • 16:00 Shinjuku (Omoide Yokocho ~ Godzilla Head)
    • 16:30 Disband @ Kabukicho Tower

    Title: What's an Off-the-Beaten-Path Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of three visiting from North America. Before arriving in Japan, the group had requested that, since they would visit the famous spots on their own, they wanted to go to places that inbound tourists do not usually visit. Because of this, the itinerary became more of an off-the-beaten-path tour rather than the standard Tokyo 6-hour tour. When we met at the Hotel and during lunch, I used a map of Tokyo and a rail route map to explain how they could get around on their own from the following day. It rained in Shimokitazawa, but some of the guests stopped by a thrift shop there to browse, and it seemed they would have liked a little more time. I think it was great that we were able to show many different sides of Tokyo in a short time: the old-town atmosphere of Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi, the high-end feel of Omotesando, the youthful energy of Shimokitazawa, the residential area of Gotokuji, and the bustle of Shinjuku.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToei Shibakoen Station~Eidan Nezu Station286JPY
    Section 2SubwayEidan Sendagi Station~Eidan Omotesando Station209JPY
    Section 3TrainEidan Omotesando Station~Odakyu Shimokitazawa Station314JPY
    Section 4TrainOdakyu Shimokitazawa Station~Odakyu Gotokuji Station136JPY
    Section 5TrainOdakyu Gotokuji Station~Odakyu Shinjuku Station199JPY
    Total1,144JPY

    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, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

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

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

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

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