Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: @Kinkaku-ji Temple & @Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

    Kyoto in Half a Day: @Kinkaku-ji Temple & @Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @The Chapter Kyoto
    • 10:00 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:00 @Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
    • 12:00 @Arashiyama, Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 13:30 Disband @The Chapter Kyoto

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Focused on Festivals and Culture Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time and seemed interested in festivals, traditional events, and Japanese culture. At their request, since taxis were something they could use on their own, we traveled by public transportation whenever we moved around together with the guide. Kinkaku-ji and the Sagano Bamboo Grove were the guests' requests. Since the Tanabata Festival was being held at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, we stopped there on the way from Kinkaku-ji to Arashiyama. I explained the origins of Tanabata, and they seemed to show genuine interest. Although the Yamaboko Junko procession of the Gion Festival could not be seen within their itinerary, they planned to visit Yasaka Shrine this evening, so I explained about Gion.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto City Hall~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi~Kitano Hakubaicho230JPY
    Section 3TrainKitano Hakubaicho Station~Arashiyama Station250JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama Station~Nijo Station200JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijo Station~Kyoto City Hall Station220JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    I’m Yuri Takeda, a goverment lisenced English tour guide. I’ve been working as a tour guide for about two years. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been in Nara for about 40 years. I can guide you Kyoto, Osaka and Nara. I like visiting historical sites, eating and cooking. I also like meeting people from different backgrounds. In Japanese, we have a wonderful phrase “Ichigo Ichie”. It means we have to treasure every encounter is a once in a lifetime opportunity. This word came from the spirit of tea ceremony. I’d like to help you discover, enjoy, experience and feel Japanese culture with the heart of Japanese hospitarity, “omotenashi”.

    Jun 6, 2026
    Jason_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent, well rounded…
    Excellent, well rounded itinerary with pertinent facts and answers…

    Apr 13, 2026
    Dunka591
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend.
    Yuri is an incredible woman! What an amazing experience, we…

    Jul 28, 2025
    C
    Cedric_S
    Incredible Kyoto Adventure with Yuri
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuri was the heartbeat…

    Jun 25, 2025
    983whitneym
    Beautiful Kyoto Guided Tour With Yuri
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We loved…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel→Hibiya Line and Chiyoda Line→Meiji-jingumae→Sightseeing at Meiji Shrine→Chiyoda Line→East Gardens of the Imperial Palace→Ramen at KITTE basement→JR and Ginza Line to Asakusa→Sightseeing in Asakusa→End at 14:10

    What Is a Standard One-Day Tokyo Private Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa The guests were visiting from North America and were doing a one-week trip focused solely on Tokyo. From the following day onward, a friend based in the area was going to accompany them. One of the guests had visited the previous year on a school trip and had followed a similar course, but since the other wished to see the sights, we went with the standard course of Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa. At Meiji Shrine the rain grew a little heavy, and afterward I suggested an indoor facility instead of the Imperial Palace, but the guests preferred to keep the Imperial Palace, so we proceeded. In the end the rain was not too strong, which was fortunate. We had the ramen they had requested in the basement of KITTE, and they were delighted.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassUeno~Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Kanda150JPY
    Section 4Free PassKanda~Asakusa0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Kyoto: Sightseeing: Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Sightseeing: Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting point: JR Kyoto Station, Shinkansen Central Gate
    • 11:00 Sightseeing: Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:00 Sightseeing: Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove Path, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 13:00 Lunch: Arashiyama ("Seishuan" at the east end of Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 14:30 Sightseeing: Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 16:00 Sightseeing: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:30 Dismissal: JR Kyoto Station

    What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour with a Licensed Guide Look Like? A Guide's Report The guests this time were a group visiting Japan from South America. They were a lovely, close-knit group, calm and full of curiosity, with a deep interest in Japanese history and culture. Through our correspondence beforehand, it was clear they were eager to visit as many famous sites as possible. Their initial request listed six locations: Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari, Gion, Arashiyama, and Nishiki Market. However, they accepted my advice that "packing in too much would rush the guests and could diminish the sense of anticipation," and we narrowed it down to mainly four locations (①Kinkaku-ji ⇒ ②Arashiyama: Bamboo Path, Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge ⇒ ③Kiyomizu-dera ⇒ ④Fushimi Inari Taisha). During the day's sightseeing, I made the most of the advantage of traveling by private car, using the travel time between destinations fully to provide explanations. My explanations focused on a common theme across the sites — the basics of "Japanese religion (Buddhism and Shinto)" and its relationship with politics — and, building on that, I explained each destination. Since one-way explanations from the guide alone can become tiring, I occasionally posed questions (quizzes) related to what I had explained. The guests found this interesting and thought carefully about them, creating an interactive "class" that I felt was quite lively. The challenge on this tour was that Kyoto city was entering the period of the "Gion Festival," so traffic congestion during travel was unavoidable. Thanks to the private car driver's quick thinking in choosing routes that avoided congestion as much as possible, we were able to carry out the sightseeing almost exactly as scheduled. It was a day for which I was deeply grateful to the experienced local driver. In the end, I dropped them off at JR Kyoto Station almost on schedule and saw them off as they departed for their next destination, Osaka. I felt a real sense of connection with the guests, and it was a very pleasant guiding experience.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainInari~Kyoto150JPY
    Total150JPY

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.09:00 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo
    • 2.09:30 @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 3.11:30 @ Shibuya
    • 4.12:30 @ Takeshita Street
    • 5.01:15 Lunch @ Yasaiya Mei
    • 6.02:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 7.03:30 @ Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • 8.04:30 @ Ginza
    • 9:5:00 Disband @ Ginza

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report We started at the Tsukiji Outer Market, where the guests were amazed and delighted by the wide variety of food ingredients on display. They had just eaten breakfast and were not very hungry, but some of the guests tried strawberry candy and strawberry daifuku. After that, we went to Shibuya, where the guests purchased some dancewear, crossed the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and took photos with the Hachiko statue before heading to Harajuku. On Takeshita Street, one of the guests wanted a T-shirt that said "Wagyu," and we were able to find exactly that. They also enjoyed some cotton candy and bought some accessories. Since the lunch spots were crowded, we ate at a vegetable-focused restaurant in Omotesando Hills. In Shinjuku, we visited the 3D cat billboard, the Godzilla head, and Golden Gai, and then went to Ginza, where I guided them to several spots. As the guests were planning to have dinner with friends afterward, we finished the tour in Ginza. The weather was cloudy and not too hot, so I believe the guests enjoyed the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Tsukiji Outer Market178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Shibuya209JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku146JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku~Ginza209JPY
    Total888JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:15 Tsukiji Market
    • 10:25 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:50 Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko
    • 12:15 Introduce Pokemon Shop, Jump Shop, etc.
    • 12:30 End of the guide

    Title: What's a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Shibuya The guests were a family visiting from Europe. They skipped breakfast and left the Hotel because they wanted to eat plenty at Tsukiji Market. On the way to Daimon Station, I introduced nearby spots such as Zojoji Temple and Shiba Daijingu Shrine. At Tsukiji Market, the guests enjoyed wagyu beef, tuna, octopus, scallops, salmon, strawberries, and muscat grapes. They said it was delicious! At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the guests were amazed by the grandeur of the former Edo Castle. When I explained how the shogun commanded the daimyo through systems such as the alternate attendance policy, they asked, "Was the shogun really that powerful!?" But when I explained that the Emperor was considered a descendant of the gods and was therefore regarded as truly exceptional, they were amazed again! After showing them the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue, I guided the guests to their destinations, a Pokemon shop and a comic shop. When I also introduced a nearby cat cafe, they said they wanted to go there later. They thanked me in Japanese, saying "arigato."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayDaimon~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Otemachi180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi~Shibuya210JPY
    Total570JPY

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Four Seasons Kyoto & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Four Seasons Kyoto & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Four Seasons Kyoto
    • 9:40-10:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 10:20-10:45 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
    • 11:00-11:20 Ryoan-ji
    • 11:40-12:10 Nijo Castle
    • 12:30-13:50 Lunch (Moritaya Main Store)
    • 14:00-14:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:45-15:15 Nishiki Market
    • 16:00-16:30 Fushimi Inari
    • 17:00-17:40 Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka & Kiyomizu-dera
    • 18:00 Four Seasons Kyoto

    What's a 9-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Covering Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were visitors from North America. In response to their wish to visit as many sightseeing spots as possible and to see Kiyomizu-dera in the evening, the tour was extended from 6 hours to 9 hours. The route covered Hotel → the Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama → Kinkaku-ji → Ryoan-ji → Nijo Castle → lunch (a restaurant) → the Kyoto Imperial Palace → Nishiki Market → Fushimi Inari → Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Kiyomizu-dera → Hotel. They were moved by the beauty of the scenery at every sightseeing spot, but they seemed most interested in Nijo Castle, where they carefully read the panel explanations even for details that the guide had left out. They were also impressed by the Five Precepts displayed beside the mountain gate at Kinkaku-ji, and they showed interest even in fine details, such as asking about the types of wood used in each wooden structure. For lunch they enjoyed sukiyaki at a restaurant and were delighted to experience the hot-pot style of dining. The conversation flourished across a wide range of topics, including the differences in real estate between Japan and North America, seismic building standards, generational gaps in attitudes toward work, political developments, and the economic, employment, and social instability following the pandemic.

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up JR Kyoto Station
    • 10:00 – 11:00 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 11:30 – 12:15 Todai-ji Temple
    • 12:30 – 13:00 Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 13:15 – 13:45 Mount Wakakusa
    • 14:00 – 14:45 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 – 16:00 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 16: 00 Disband Higashimuki Shopping Street

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nara Park and Temples Today's guests wished to visit shrines and temples in Nara, but also wanted time to interact with the deer, so I allocated extra time for a stroll through Nara Park. Although rain had been forecast for the afternoon, fortunately it stayed as only a light drizzle, and I believe the guests enjoyed today's Nara tour. Around 3:00, we had a late lunch at the Higashimuki shopping arcade, and I had intended to deliver the group to Kyoto Station by 5:00, but since they wished to visit the souvenir shops in the Higashimuki shopping arcade, we ended the tour a little early, at 4:00.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKintetsu Kyoto Station~Kintetsu Nara Station760JPY
    Total760JPY

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at Hotel
    • 0930 Harajuku – Visit Meiji Shrine – Takeshita Street
    • (Scheduled Imperial Palace Outer Garden is Skipped)
    • 1205 Asakusa – Sensoji Temple – Nakamise – Asakusa Shrine
    • 1340 Nihonbashi Takashimaya S/C – Pokemon Center
    • 1500 Drop off at JR Shinjuku Station and disband

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Tokyo Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. From the outset they requested to "keep a slow pace," but since they also wished to see historical sites, I planned an itinerary of Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Asakusa, and the Pokémon Center. At first I considered stopping at the first torii gate of Meiji Shrine, but at their request we continued to the main shrine hall for a visit. Afterward, the group was still energetic through Takeshita Street, but before reaching the subway station one of the guests said they could no longer walk, so we took a short break. I decided to skip the Imperial Palace and instead had them rest and cool down a little on the subway heading to Asakusa. In Asakusa, one of the guests was pleased to be able to purchase a Japanese kitchen knife they had wanted. When we reached the main hall of the temple, one of the guests said they did not want to walk anymore, so we decided to return to the Hotel. However, once cooled by the air conditioning on the subway, the group regained energy, and we decided to visit the Pokémon Center after all. After filling a large bag with shopping, we headed to Tokyo Station, but just after entering the concourse one of the guests felt unwell, so we took a short break. Somehow we managed to board the Chuo Line and reach Shinjuku Station. After resting for about an hour, they planned to take a taxi to TeamLab Borderless. After Tokyo, they planned to travel to Nagoya (Legoland, Ghibli Park), then Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. During this season, guests traveling with children tend to increase due to the school holiday period, but this year's heat is quite intense, so I aim to guide with careful consideration for everyone's comfort.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae to Omotesando~Asakusa252JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Nihonbashi178JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Shinjuku208JPY
    Total784JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
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  • Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & @ JR Shin-Kobe Station

    Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & @ JR Shin-Kobe Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Sannomiya Station
    • 09:45 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 12:00 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 13:15 @ JR Shin-Kobe Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour in Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Nunobiki Herb Garden The guests were a group visiting Kobe, and we were able to move around smoothly throughout the day. On the day of the tour, the meeting point was changed from JR Shin-Kobe Station to JR Sannomiya Station, but we were able to meet up without any trouble. Although we visited only two locations this time, the guests showed a great deal of interest during the tour and commented that they were very satisfied. They enjoyed purchasing various kinds of souvenirs both at the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and at the Nunobiki Herb Garden. I also recommended and made a reservation at a restaurant serving "Tajima beef," which is considered the original of Japan's three major wagyu brands. After the tour ended, I explained the restaurant's location to the taxi driver, and we then parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSannomiya~Maiko320JPY
    Section 2TrainMaiko~Sannomiya320JPY
    Total640JPY

    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

    Jul 25, 2026
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  • Kamakura Zen Temples & Gardens Tour

    Kamakura Zen Temples & Gardens Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Meet at Kamakura Station. Take the Enoden to Hase. Hasedera Temple. Great Buddha of Kamakura. After sightseeing, Japanese food near Hasedera for lunch. Take the Enoden to Kamakura Station. From Kamakura Station, take the bus and get off at Jomyoji. Hokokuji Temple. Take the bus and get off at Hachimangu. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Stroll through Komachi-dori on the way to Kamakura Station.

    What Is a Private Kamakura Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America and had a strong familiarity with Japan through past connections. This was their first time visiting Japan in person. The guests were quite tall, and as you can see in the photos, the red lanterns at Hasedera Temple appeared small, though in front of the Great Buddha everything looked normal in scale. One of the guests keeps koi at home and showed me photos, remarking that the koi and the pond at Hasedera looked very similar to their own. They were also fond of cats and were looking for cat goods, so it was fortunate that we found some along Komachi Street. One of the guests bought a hat with a picture of the Great Buddha on it. Tomorrow they plan to watch baseball at Tokyo Dome. They said they remember well the heyday of famous players and sumo wrestlers of the past, and mentioned an interest in sumo as well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKamakura~Hase200JPY
    Section 2TrainHase~Kamakura200JPY
    Section 3BusKamakura~Jomyoji220JPY
    Section 4BusJomyoji~Hachimangu220JPY
    Total840JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

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