Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Asakusa Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point @MIMARU Tokyo Hatchobori
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:20 Tsukiji Station
    • 12:50 Asakusa Station
    • 14:00 Dismissal: Near Sensoji Temple

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Tsukiji and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and it was their first trip to Japan. Some of the guests were especially knowledgeable about Japanese history and politics, and remained enthusiastic throughout, asking questions and checking with me about the things they saw and heard. At Tsukiji Market, the guests enjoyed and were impressed by Japanese food culture through tastings and explanations. In Asakusa, I gave an overview of the history and the differences between shrines and temples, but the heatwave was severe and some fatigue was visible, so I kept the area around the main hall brief and we finished by cooling off at a nearby cafe before parting ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKayabacho Station~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Total470JPY

    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!!

    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…

  • Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel-9:15 Fukagawa Fudodo-10:00 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine-10:45 Pokemon Center DX-11:20 Lunch-12:30 Tsukiji Outer Market-13:10 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace-14:30 Dismissal at Tokyo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Central Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nihonbashi, Tsukiji, and the Imperial Palace The group visiting from North America was interested in trying many different things. To save time buying tickets one by one, I explained the benefits of an IC card, and they purchased four PASMO cards at Takadanobaba Station, after which getting around became smooth and easy. At a long-established washi (Japanese paper) shop in Nihonbashi, the guests shopped for souvenirs. They enjoyed an early sushi lunch and savored the lively atmosphere of the Tsukiji Outer Market. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, although there was no direct sunshine, walking for a while in the hot and humid weather left them feeling a bit worn out. After a rest at an air-conditioned rest area, they seemed to recover their energy. The private tour was led by a government-licensed guide from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Okubo~Takadanobaba146JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakadanobaba~Monzen-Nakacho209JPY
    Section 3SubwayMonzen-Nakacho~Nihonbashi178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNihonbashi~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji~Otemachi178JPY
    Total889JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet at the hotel 8:55 Head to Kenrokuen from Kanazawa Station on the Kanazawa Loop Bus 9:10 Tour Kenrokuen  
    • 9:30 Tour the Ishikawa Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts next to Kenrokuen
    • 10:00 Return to Kenrokuen  10:25 Stroll through Kanazawa Castle Park
    • 10:55 Go from Nezumita Gate to Oyama Shrine for a stroll and visit
    • 11:20 Head toward the Nagamachi Samurai District and tour the Ashigaru Museum
    • 11:40 Tour the Takada Family Residence 11:55 Tour the Nomura Family Residence
    • 12:30 Take a taxi from Korinbo toward the Higashi Chaya District
    • 12:45 At Sakuda Gold Leaf, tour and receive an explanation of the gold leaf production process 13:15 Walk through the Higashi Chaya District.
    • 13:25 At the plaza of the Higashi Chaya District, explain the Higashi Chaya District and its highlights, ending the tour in front of Shima

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Despite the rainy season, it stayed sunny for the first three hours after the tour began, so the guests enjoyed strolling through Kanazawa's famous sights and the back streets along the canals. The guests were especially interested in Kanazawa's traditional culture and gold leaf. For this reason, they loved the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts, and at the shop they purchased a small replica of the Kaga lion dance figure unique to Kanazawa. At Hakuza gold leaf shop, they were fascinated by the gold leaf manufacturing process, listening attentively to the explanations and watching the work closely. They remarked that Kanazawa is a beautiful and wonderful city.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station~Kenrokuenshita, Kanazawa Castle210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello.
    My name is Masayo Shirai.
    I have been a national licensed tour guide of English since April in 2014.
    I was born. raised, and still living near the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
    I have guided lots of foreign guests in my hometown Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takaymam, Kaga, Fukui, and Toyama.
    I have guided FIT, highend FIT, group tour, and bus tours.
    I have been learning tea cemoney, flower arrangement, and noh performance of noh chanting and playing the hand drum.
    I can take you to the experience spot of such traditional cultural spots in my hometown, Kanazawa,

    Oct 5, 2025
    L
    LightPacker147788
    Kanazawa visit
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very interesting tour with Masayo. She took us…

    Jun 27, 2025
    H6092PZsuem
    Pleasant and interesting morning
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo was our guide for the morning.…

    Mar 16, 2025
    952bonnieh
    Wonderful!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We loved our time with Masayo! Thank you for a…

    Jan 3, 2025
    U5110ZKjades
    A day in Kanazawa with Masayo!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo Shirai was an excellent…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:50 Meet up @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 2. 10:05 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:40 Stay @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 4. 11:00 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:20 Stay @ Harajuku
    • 6. 12:20 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:05 Lunch @ Hong Kong Market (Sunshine City)
    • 8. 13:55 Stay @ Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo
    • 9. 14:15 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 15:05 Stay @ Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No. 1, South Observatory
    • 11. 15:30 Travel: Subway
    • 12. 15:45 Stay @ Omoide Yokocho
    • 13. 16:20 Disband @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

    What Is a Private Shopping-Focused Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, Ikebukuro, and Shinjuku Since I had been told the group was a larger party, I set up a route that would let them enjoy shopping as much as possible. There was not much of a reaction on Takeshita Street, but the Nike store in front of Meiji-Jingumae Station was very popular, and in the end the group purchased three pairs of sneakers. The guests were from Europe, and they were delighted that the prices were far cheaper than in Europe. Sunshine City in East Ikebukuro has a spacious restaurant floor, and like Mark City in Shibuya, I think it is well suited as a lunch venue for a larger group. Since the guests' Hotel was in Shinjuku, I added the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to the route. Because you can get there from Nishi-Shinjuku Station without ever going outdoors, I felt it was an ideal destination in the summer. I would like to actively incorporate it into future tours.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku-sanchome Station~Shibuya Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassShibuya Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station~Higashi-Ikebukuro Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassHigashi-Ikebukuro Station~Nishi-Shinjuku Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassNishi-Shinjuku Station~Shinjuku Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 The Westin Miyako Kyoto Meet-up
    • 9:30~10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 11:15~12:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:40~13:20 Sanjusangendo
    • 13:40~14:15 Lunch break (Sanjo)
    • 14:15~15:15 Gion – Yasaka Shrine – Chion-in   Disband

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari, and Sanjusangendo The guests were a group visiting from North America. The weather was fine, but daytime temperatures in Kyoto rose to 36 degrees and the humidity was high, so we toured while making sure to stay hydrated and checking on everyone's condition. At Nijo Castle, the guests were impressed by the Karamon Gate, the buildings of the Ninomaru Palace, and the wall paintings. In the scene depicting the audience with the shogun in the great hall, they admired the mannequins of the shogun and the feudal lords. One comment was that it would be nice to have a female mannequin placed in the Shiro-shoin as well. At Fushimi Inari, the guests were captivated watching a Shinto priest's ritual and were amazed at the number of people climbing the thousands of torii gates up Mount Inari. At Sanjusangendo, they reflected on the political power of the rulers of the time who relied on Buddhism, as well as on the lives of ordinary people.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeage~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari~Shichijo170JPY
    Section 5TrainShichijo~Sanjo170JPY
    Total1,010JPY

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

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

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

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:05 Meet up @ Onyado Nono Asakusa Bettei
    • 2. 09:20 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:50 Visit @ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 4. 11:00 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:20 Visit @ Tsukiji, Lunch @ Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 6. 12:50 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:35 Visit @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Scramble Square
    • 8. 14:10 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:30 Visit @ Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 10. 14:55 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 15:25 Visit @ Nezu Shrine
    • 12. 16:05 Travel: Subway
    • 13. 16:40 Disband @ Onyado Nono Asakusa Bettei

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, and Shibuya In Asakusa, some hotels have two nearby buildings, such as the View Hotel and Richmond Hotel, and the hotel for this tour also had an annex. I did not realize the guests were staying in the annex until they sent me a photo, so our meeting was slightly delayed. When I apologized for the delay, the guests laughed and said, "We got confused too." The entrance to the annex was on a back street and hard to find, and the guests said they had walked around the area several times. It is probably rare for such a place to be designated as a meeting point, but it may require caution. Since it was a family group, at the East Gardens I also guided them toward the main keep area, but they seemed a little tired, so afterward I made sure to keep a comfortable pace. In Tsukiji, before lunch we took a break at a café and had ice cream, and in Shibuya, after showing the guests the Scramble Crossing, we stopped by Shibuya Scramble Square for some shopping. It was too hot to guide them around Yanaka after visiting Nezu Shrine, so I saw them back to the Hotel a little earlier than planned and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAsakusa Station~Otemachi Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi Station~Tsukiji Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji Station~Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station~Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassNezu Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 Meet at Hotel Sequence Miyashita Park (9 min from JR Shibuya Station)
    • 0830 Walk to the first torii gate of Meiji Shrine, overview explanation
    • 0915 From Nijubashimae Station along Gyoko-dori Avenue, Marunouchi Building wooden piles, Tokyo Station, walking and explaining as far as around Nihonbashi Takashimaya
    • 1010 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 1100 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
    • 1150 Okachimachi ~ Ameyoko ~ Ueno Park (Kiyomizu Kannon-do Hall, statue of Saigo Takamori)
    • 1230 Akihabara, Yodobashi, Radio Kaikan
    • 1305 Kabukiza Theater ~ Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1340 Shibuya, Hachiko statue, explain how to get to the next meeting place
    • 1400 Disband at the Scramble Crossing

    **Title:** What Can You See on a Private Half-Day Tokyo Photography Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report **Body:** The guest was a solo traveler visiting from North America. Even through our email exchanges beforehand, I had not been able to fully grasp where they wanted to go. The guest informed me that a tour they would be joining the following week would cover these destinations in Tokyo: – Tsukiji Fish Market – Sensoji Temple – Meiji Jingu Shrine – Shibuya Sky Observation Platform – Harajuku district – Shinjuku-gyoen – Yoyogi Park – Imperial Palace So I planned the itinerary to avoid these places. Since the tour started at 8:00 in the morning and many shops were not yet open, I suggested starting a little later, but the guest had a go-kart reservation at 3:00 in the afternoon and needed to return to Shibuya before then, so we proceeded with the above itinerary. The guest carried two professional-grade cameras, and it seemed that taking photographs was more important than the guide's explanations. The guest had no interest in shopping at all, and since we completed each location earlier than planned, I added the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck along the way. Unfortunately, the humidity was high and the air was hazy, but we were still able to photograph the view. From the observation deck, I was able to explain both today's route and next week's route. Since photography became the main focus, I could not tell from the guest's reactions whether I had provided a satisfactory guided experience. After this, the guest planned to head to Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassNihonbashi ~ Ueno-hirokoji~Ueno-okachimachi ~ Iidabashi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassIidabashi~Tochomae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTochomae~Ueno-okachimachi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno~Akihabara0JPY
    Section 6Free PassAkihabara~Higashi-ginza0JPY
    Section 7Free PassGinza~Shibuya0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place:
    • Hotel Shinjuku
    • 8:30 Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station
    • Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:15 Arrive at Kamiyacho Station
    • Shiba Tokyo Tower
    • 10:15 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 10:45 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:45 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Break: Cafe Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 13:30 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 13:40 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 14:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 14:30 Kamiyacho Station
    • 14:30 Disband: Kamiyacho Station

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America, having originally come from Asia before relocating to North America years ago. For this trip, they first traveled from North America to Asia, spent about a week with relatives, and then came to Japan. Afterward, they planned to visit Kyoto and Osaka, then travel from Kansai Airport to another destination in Asia before returning home. Some of the guests were staying at a different hotel and joined at Tochomae Station before we set off. They planned to visit Hakone the next day. The guests were very knowledgeable about Japanese history and geography, having studied Japanese history at university. The tour took place in weather that felt like midsummer. First, in line with their wishes, we headed to Tokyo Tower. Seeing Azabudai Hills along the way, they asked, "What is that — is it an office building or a condominium?" At Tokyo Tower we went up to the Top Deck, and they remarked, "There are too many high-rise buildings around," and "I can really see that Tokyo is a vast, sprawling city." The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were, as expected, very crowded. They asked questions such as "When was it built as a castle?" and "Did Edo Castle become the Imperial Palace?" I explained the nature and history of the Japanese Imperial family. They also asked, "Does the Emperor live inside here?", "Does the Emperor have political influence?", and "Who will become the next Emperor?" At Meiji Shrine, they asked, "What kind of religion is Shinto? How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" and "What are the torii gates for?" They also asked, "What was the balance of power between the Emperor and the Shogun?", "Do Japanese people respect the Emperor and the Imperial family?", and "Why did the Meiji Restoration happen?" We took a break with a light meal at the cafe terrace near Meiji Shrine. We then strolled along Takeshita Street, though they did not seem very interested. After that, we moved to Shibuya. At the Scramble Crossing, they commented, "Why are there so many people?" and "It's similar to Times Square." We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They also remarked, "The whole city is so orderly and clean," "Everyone is so polite," "It's so quiet on the subway, with no one being noisy," and "I don't see any homeless people. Why is that?" Since they said they wanted to visit teamLab, I saw them off at Kamiyacho Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station~Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station900JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku Station~Kamiyacho Station0JPY
    Section 3SubwayKamiyacho Station~Hibiya Station0JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku Station~Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya Station~Kamiyacho Station0JPY
    Total1,046JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
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    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Sensoji Temple sightseeing

    Tokyo in One Day: Sensoji Temple sightseeing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at hotel
    • 10:10-11:00. Sensoji Temple sightseeing
    • 11:30-12:00 Akihabara sightseeing
    • 12:30-13:30. East Gardens sightseeing
    • 14:00-15:00. Meiji Shrine sightseeing, then lunch
    • 15:00-15:30. Shibuya Scramble Square sightseeing

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's East Gardens Like on a Hot Day? A Licensed Guide's Report It was another hot day, so much so that while walking through the East Gardens the guests even commented that they wanted to take a shower. Since there had been no response to my greeting email, we decided on the course while consulting on the day itself. Fortunately, I was able to get a clear answer about the next destination from one of the guests right away, so I think we were able to cover quite a lot even in that heat. They also asked many questions, which is truly a pleasure as a guide. Some restaurants in Japan cannot accommodate certain requests, so I was even consulted about dinner plans. There were no problems when we ate lunch together, but the group found it difficult to dine all in one place, so I recommended some options.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-ginza~Sensoji Temple220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Tokyo146JPY
    Section 4TrainOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya146JPY
    Total899JPY

    Thank you for your entry in this tour. Nice to meet you in this mail.
    Your tour guide Kappa is my nickname. Kappa is a traditional, imaginary creature who came into being in Japan over 300 years ago. She is good at swimming, like me, for I like swimming. I would like to make our tour operated smoothly as Kappa does when she swims in the river or pond. It is my pleasure to introduce many aspects in our tour, especially cooking, for it is my hobby and I went to the professional cooking and SAKE school, respectively. If you have any questions or requests about Japanese cooking, of course our tour, I am very delighted to answer to you anytime!

    Jul 30, 2025
    Michael_R
    Customized Hakone tour
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kappa-san, modified the typical Hakone tour…

    May 18, 2025
    Leigh_M
    Kappa, our guide met us…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa, our guide met us at the…

    May 4, 2025
    panderhigs
    Kappa A+ Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa was an amazing guide who created a thorough…

    May 4, 2025
    O9621SBscottp
    Kappa is a wonderful tour guide
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    My wife and I were treated…

  • Aomori in One Day: Hotel Aomori Ekihigashi & Seiryuji Temple dept.

    Aomori in One Day: Hotel Aomori Ekihigashi & Seiryuji Temple dept.

    Tour Itinerary

    • Dear Sarah Oslick
    • Welcome to Aomori !
    • 【Aomori Tour】 5th July 2024 *2-persons
    • ~ Proposal Itinerary ~
    • 10:00 Hotel Aomori Ekihigashi
    • To the Seiryuji Temple by taxi.
    • 10:30 Seiryu-ji Temple arr. (Admission fee: 400 yen/one-person)
    • 11:30 Seiryuji Temple dept.
    • By taxi
    • 12:00 Warrase Museum arr. (Admission fee: 620 yen/one-person)
    • * Lunch
    • 14:30 Sannai Maruyama Archeological site -the Unesco World Cultural Heritage
    • Site- (Admission fee: 410 yen/one-person)]
    • 15:30 Sannai Maruyama Archeological site dept.
    • By taxi
    • 16:00 Hotel Aomori Ekihigashi arr.

    What Is a Private Sannai-Maruyama and Aomori Jomon Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests from North America. It was their first visit to Japan. After sightseeing in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara, they visited Aomori. Why Aomori? "We are educators, and we really wanted to visit the Sannai-Maruyama Site, a treasure house of Jomon culture." One of the guests specializes in medieval history, and another teaches English, mathematics, and history. The day before, with another guide, the group had visited Hirosaki Castle, Saishoin Temple, and Tsugaru-han Neputa Village. Today, I guided them to the long-awaited Sannai-Maruyama Site, Seiryuji Temple, and the Nebuta Museum WA RASSE. The guests followed a plant-based, pescatarian diet, so I suggested soba noodles for lunch — but the dipping sauce would not do. In major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto, they had enjoyed dumplings, ramen, and sushi prepared to suit their diet. So, on short notice, I asked an acquaintance who runs a bento shop to prepare a special set meal. They said the lunch at a local Aomori eatery was delicious! One of the guests had studied Jomon archaeological sites beforehand and explained things in great detail to the other. There was hardly any need for my humble explanations, which was a relief. They said that after returning home, they would teach children about the Jomon sites and the Sannai-Maruyama Site, and they purchased items such as miniature clay figurines as teaching materials. I have never been happier to guide anyone through the Sannai-Maruyama Site than on this occasion. Later, I decided to send photos and materials of the Sannai-Maruyama Site to use as teaching materials.

    My name is Tomohiko Kudo.
    I live in Aomori city.
    I already visited more than 30 nations so far.
    After official retirement from the public officer, I could have the Japanese Government Licensed Guide Certificate and am nowadays very pleased to guide overseas tourists all over the world.
    Did you know that the Fuji apple is not from Mt.Fuji…but is actually from Aomori Prefecture’ Fujisaki town. Aomori is proud of the biggest apple product in
    Japan. We provide 40 apple-pie restaurants to guests.
    Let’s enjoy real Japanese culture and history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samuri history, Kimono culture, local traditional festivals, castle,
    Japanese garden, temple, shrine, Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake.
    I often go to the local sea food and vegetable markets and eat fresh foods and would love to show you some secret, hidden restaurants that only Aomori locals know about – let’s go on an adventure together.
    If you like sushi and fresh seafood, let me introduce to Nokkedon ?
    What is it? Come to Aomori and find out! I am waiting for you.

    Jun 2, 2025
    413maryannb
    Tomohiko organized our day beautifully! The car was immaculate, the driver skilled. We thoroughly enjoyed our day!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day…

    Apr 30, 2025
    Jacqueline_F
    Great Guide, great tour
    Viator review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We experienced the wonderful sites of Aomori which…

    Dec 30, 2024
    Scenic33296385055
    Warm and professional guide
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Kudo-san is very professional, meticulate and kind…

    Aug 3, 2024
    Monika R
    Fun and informative tour – great tour guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We were 3…