Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Port & Gion

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Port & Gion

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Osaka Port
    • 10:45 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:15 Nijo Castle
    • 13:30 Lunch @ Kamado-daki Gohan Doi
    • 14:30 Gion
    • 17:00 Osaka Port

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Kyoto for guests visiting from North America. It was their first visit to Japan, and since they were traveling by cruise ship with only one day available for Kyoto, I created an agenda that reflected their wishes as closely as possible, and we agreed on it. However, it turned out that walking long distances or uphill was difficult, so we gave up on the way to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and headed to Nijo Castle by bus. As the guests wanted to take a relaxed meal that also served as a rest, we had lunch at a restaurant in the Shijo-Karasuma area, and both were satisfied with the meal. Afterward, they strolled around Gion, and since they wished to return to the ship, we went directly back to Osaka Port and parted ways there.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Bentencho240JPY
    Section 2TrainBentencho～Inari990JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Kiyomizu-Gojo170JPY
    Section 4BusKiyomizu-michi～Higashiyama-Sanjo230JPY
    Section 5SubwayHigashiyama～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 6TrainNijojo-mae～Shijo220JPY
    Section 7TrainShijo-Karasuma～Shijo-Keihan230JPY
    Section 8TrainGion-Shijo～Yodoyabashi430JPY
    Section 9SubwayYodoyabashi～Osaka Port290JPY
    Total3,020JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

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    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:30 Meet up @Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
    • 2. 10:35 Transfer: Subway (Toei Subway)
    • 3. 11:15 Stay @Asakusa
    • 4. 12:05 Transfer: Subway
    • 5. 12:40 Stay @Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 6. 13:40 Transfer: Subway
    • 7. 14:00 Stay @Takeshita Street
    • 8. 14:20 Disband @Omotesando

    What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tokyo (Asakusa, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Takeshita Street)? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests did not use a messaging app and had not replied to my email just before the tour, so I was a little concerned, but we were able to meet on time without any problems. Since the guests' accommodation was close to Shinjuku Station on the Toei Subway line, we used the Toei Subway for the first leg of the trip and then traveled on the Tokyo Metro afterward. The three spots the guests had requested were Asakusa, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and Takeshita Street, and I had thought it would be difficult to visit all of them in four hours. However, since the guests did not do much shopping along the way, we were able to save quite a bit of time. In Asakusa, I kept the guiding to the area around Nakamise Street. At the final stop, Takeshita Street, I explained the locations of the shops and then we parted ways at the intersection in front of Harakado.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToei Shinjuku Station～Toei Asakusa Station280JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi Station～Meiji-jingumae Station210JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    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.

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    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 in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Nezu Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Nezu Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Tokyu Stay Ginza
    • 9:10 Depart Higashi-ginza Station
    • (Toei Subway Asakusa Line)
    • Daimon Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 9:30 Arrive Shiodome Station
    • Shiodome Hama-rikyu Gardens
    • 10:30 Depart Shiodome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Monzen-nakacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 10:45 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • Break: Doutor Coffee
    • 12:00 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:10 Arrive Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 13:00 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Higashi-ginza Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Higashi-ginza Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Hidden Gardens and Shrines Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Oceania. Some of the guests had visited Hokkaido on a ski trip in 2009, while the rest were visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous night and taken a taxi to their accommodation. They were staying in Tokyo for only two days, after which they planned to travel to Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka, returning to Tokyo and flying home about ten days later. I put together an itinerary that matched their wish to visit places and parks that ordinary tourists do not usually go to. Some of the guests preferred to have lunch on their own, so during the tour we only stopped at a café for a break. In contrast to the previous day, the tour took place under clear skies and hot, humid weather. First, we visited Hamarikyu Gardens. "The Japanese garden is wonderful. The pine trees in particular are beautiful," they said, and they were absorbed in taking photos everywhere. They also asked, "There don't seem to be any ducks," and "Does seawater flow into the pond too?" From there, we went to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Perhaps because of the previous day's rain, there was a large crowd today. They asked questions such as "When was this castle built?", "Can't we go inside the Imperial Palace?", and "Why did Edo Castle become the Imperial Palace?" They also asked, "Does the Emperor live in here?", "Does the Emperor have political influence?", and "Who will be the next Emperor?" As some of the guests seemed tired, we took a break at a café in Otemachi. From there, we went to Nezu Shrine. Passing through the torii gates, they were absorbed in taking photos. Some of the guests also drew omikuji fortunes. "It's calm and quiet here, and we're very satisfied," they said. They mentioned that this evening they would all go to a gluten-free restaurant in Ueno, and that they intended to buy a large amount of gluten-free soy sauce to take home. They made comments such as "The city is clean and quiet," "No one speaks loudly on the trains; everyone is well-mannered," and "We don't see any homeless people." I saw them off at Higashi-Ginza Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-ginza～Shiodome Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayShiodome Station～Otemachi Station286JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi Station～Nezu Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNezu Station～Higashi-ginza Station178JPY
    Total820JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinagawa Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinagawa Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Depart Shinagawa Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Tokyo Skytree Station
    • Tokyo Skytree Tokyo Skytree
    • 11:40 Depart Tokyo Skytree Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Lunch: Hidakaya
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • Don Quijote Kabukicho Store
    • Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:30 Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Shinagawa Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Shinagawa Station

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shinjuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all coming to Japan for the first time. They were originally from Asia and had later relocated to North America. On this occasion, they were traveling to attend a family wedding in Asia and had stopped in Tokyo for a stay along the way. The following day, they planned to take a day trip to Mount Fuji. They mentioned that they wanted to enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes during their visit. Some of the guests had difficulty walking, so we used elevators and escalators whenever possible and proceeded at a relaxed pace throughout the tour. The tour took place in heavy pouring rain. Despite the rain, Asakusa was extremely crowded. The guests asked many questions, such as "What is the history of this temple?", "Is it always this crowded?", and "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" They also asked, "What kind of teachings does Buddhism have?" Seeing many people wearing kimono, they asked, "Do Japanese people wear kimono in daily life?" At the observation deck, the crowds were sparse due to the rain. We went up to the observation corridor and took commemorative photos together. One comment was, "Now I really understand how vast a city Tokyo is." We then moved to Shinjuku. Since they wanted to eat ramen, we went to a ramen restaurant. (The previous night they had gone to a gyudon restaurant, and they said, "It was far more delicious than the gyudon restaurant back home.") After that, they wanted to buy souvenirs, so we went to a large discount store. They bought a large amount of clothing, medicines, and cosmetics, and took commemorative photos in front of the Godzilla head. Their comment was, "The atmosphere here is different from other parts of Tokyo." We then moved to Shibuya. At the scramble crossing, they commented, "Why are there so many people despite the rain?" and "It reminds me of Times Square." We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They shared many observations and questions, such as "The city is so orderly and clean," "Everyone is so polite," "It's so quiet on the subway, and no one is being noisy," and "I can't find any trash cans anywhere in the city." Finally, I saw them off at Shinagawa Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa Station～Ueno Station208JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno Station～Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa Station～Tokyo Skytree Station157JPY
    Section 4TrainSkytree Line Station～Asakusa Station157JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa Station～Shinjuku Station252JPY
    Section 6TrainShinjuku Station～Shibuya Station167JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya Station～Shinagawa Station178JPY
    Total1,297JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet at Hotel Pride Kokkai Gijidomae
    • 2. 09:30 Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Gardens)
    • 3. 11:30 Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 12:00 Lunch at Sushi Mihiro
    • 5. 13:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 6. 15:10 Disband at Ginza

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Before the tour started, I asked the guests about their preferences and decided on the route accordingly. The temperature was a little high, but we were blessed with good weather, and I believe the guests were satisfied overall. Since the guests had requested sushi for lunch, we walked into a sushi restaurant in Nezu without a reservation. It was relatively empty and the staff were quite accommodating, so I would consider using it again if the opportunity arises. This time the guests were traveling through several countries in Asia and could only stay in Japan for a short time, but they shared that they liked it very much and would like to take a little more time to explore at a more relaxed pace. They said they would like to request a tour again next time. I don't know how many years it may be, but I look forward to it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai～Kokkai Gijidomae828JPY
    Section 2SubwayKokkai Gijidomae～Nijubashimae178JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi～Nezu178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNezu～Asakusa502JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Ginza209JPY
    Section 6SubwayGinza～Yakuendai828JPY
    Total2,723JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 2. 10:45 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 3. 12:15 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4. 13:45 Harajuku, Omotesando and Takeshita Street
    • 5. 14:00 Disband at Takeshita Street

    Title: What Can You See on a Short Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, and Harajuku Since the guests' hotel was very close to Seibu-Shinjuku Station, we used the Seibu-Shinjuku Line for one stop to save travel time within the limited tour hours, then transferred to the Tozai Line and traveled from Takadanobaba to Takebashi. By entering through the Hirakawa Gate and exiting through the Ote Gate, we toured the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace in a time-efficient way. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, the guests quickly enjoyed some bluefin tuna, and then at a butcher's storefront, we had Hokkaido wagyu sirloin grilled on the spot. While waiting for it to be ready, we picked up a strawberry candy skewer and tamagoyaki, and the guests were very satisfied with the delicious flavor of the freshly grilled wagyu. As we were running short on time, I took the guests to the final destination of Harajuku, offered some guidance on how to enjoy the area, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSeibu Shinjuku Station～Takadanobaba160JPY
    Section 2Free PassTakadanobaba～Takebashi600JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi～Tsukiji0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 On the morning of the day, the pickup location was changed and we met at Kobe Cruise Terminal, departing by private car ➡10:30 Nunobiki Ropeway & Herb Garden ➡Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum ➡Lunch at Nankinmachi Chinatown ~ Shopping at Motomachi Shopping Street ➡Footbath at HAT Nagisa no Yu (outside) ➡Arrived at Cruise Terminal, disbanded (16:00)

    Title: What Is a Private Kobe Tour Like for Guests Arriving by Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Shortly before the tour, they contacted me asking to change the pickup location from the Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park to the Kobe Port Cruise Terminal. Since I was already near the original pickup location at that time, I contacted the private car driver and we drove to the cruise terminal. Because one of the guests used a wheelchair, I confirmed wheelchair accessibility at the planned destinations in advance. I learned that the Nunobiki Ropeway allows boarding in a wheelchair on its six-person cars, and that at the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, the second-floor exhibition hall could be visited using the elevator at the back intended for luggage and staff. The training I had received on the "Nada Gogo" sake district prior to this tour was very helpful. The guests enjoyed the long-awaited Kobe beef at a stand in front of a restaurant. Since one of the guests wished to try a foot bath, I searched nearby and found the foot bath at HAT Nagisa no Yu. This outdoor foot bath is open to anyone and is free of charge. It was right by the port with a wonderful view. The guests seemed very satisfied.

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

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

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    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle viewing & Stroll through Kokoen

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle viewing & Stroll through Kokoen

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Gather at Himeji Station North Exit
    • 10:00 Himeji Castle viewing
    • 12:30 Stroll through Kokoen Garden
    • 13:20 Disband in front of the udon restaurant "Menme"

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Himeji. We met about 10 minutes ahead of schedule and walked together toward Himeji Castle. Along the way, the guests asked many questions about the castle and about Himeji, and even took photos of the manhole covers, which kept the conversation lively. I had heard beforehand that they were interested in history and castles, so they listened attentively to my explanations. As they were also interested in plants and flowers, they explored Koko-en Garden with great interest. The tour finished right around lunchtime, and since they wanted to eat noodles, I took them to a udon restaurant before we parted ways. Just before the tour, I received a message asking to move the meeting time one hour earlier, so we started ahead of the original schedule. It began to rain right as the tour ended, and we laughed together, saying it was fortunate that we had started earlier, before saying goodbye.

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

    Tour Report by Rie

    Hello, I’m your tour guide, Rie Ito. Please call me Rie. I have been living in Himeji for 40 years. I would like to show you around our beautiful city. Himeji is very famous for its several sightseeing places. Especially, as the most recommended place, we boast Himeji Castle, the first World Heritage Site of Japan. When you see this message, please contact me through WhatsApp. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask me before the tour. I am sure you will enjoy this local city of Japan with me! I’m looking forward to seeing you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Apr 25, 2026
    Alix_M
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Himeji castle
    Fantastic tour of the beautiful Himeji castle!…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    Rie is an excellent guide with a lot of knowledge to share
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

    Aug 6, 2025
    OMAR_A
    Excellente visite avec guide dynamique
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour avec une guide compétente et…

    Apr 30, 2025
    JandK14
    A perfect day in Himeji: We saw the cherry blossoms at their peak and had Rie as our guide!
    Tripadvisor review:…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Shinmachi Bettei>>Fushimiinari>>Kiyomizu>>Lunch>>Houkanji>>Koushindo>>Ishibeikouji>>Yasaka shrine>>Gion>>Gion Kagaigeijyutushiryoukann

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu, and Gion Because rain was forecast from the evening, we first visited Fushimi Inari Shrine and then headed to Kiyomizu. It was as crowded as ever, but fortunately we were able to take a taxi up to the bus parking area. For lunch, it was difficult to find a place to sit due to the large crowds, but we happened to pass a private restaurant that was open on Sannenzaka, where we enjoyed reasonably priced obanzai in a private room. Even though it was a tatami room, the guests were very pleased. However, this place accepted cash only, so please note this point when guiding here. Hokanji Temple was open, and I was able to go inside for the first time. The guests were delighted as well. In Gion, since they wanted to watch a dance performance held at the museum starting at 16:00, that is where the tour ended. It was a very good tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo Nishinotoin～Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Section 2TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Total450JPY

    Tour Report by Mimmy

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Request Booking

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30＠Meet at Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal Osanbashi Pier
    • 2. 10:00＠Tokyo Tower (Main Deck)
    • 3. 11:30＠Sightseeing from the car of Ginza, Kabukiza Theatre (Higashi-Ginza), the Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate), Tokyo Station, etc.
    • 4. 12:00＠Lunch (Suju Dining: inside the Shin-Marunouchi Building)
    • 5. 14:30＠Narita Airport
    • 6. 15:00＠Disband after check-in assistance

    Title: What's a Private Tour from Yokohama Cruise Terminal to Narita Airport Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private Tokyo tour for guests who had visited various parts of Japan by cruise ship and were returning to North America just afterward. The tour departed by vehicle from the Yokohama International Cruise Terminal and headed toward the final destination of Narita Airport. The guests introduced themselves cheerfully, and they were very warm and outgoing, striking up friendly conversations with everyone. During the drive, they kindly shared photos of their family, and the conversation flowed happily. Some of the guests were visiting Japan for the first time, while others had been to Japan decades earlier. We had originally planned to visit Meiji Shrine first, but to accommodate concerns about walking, we changed the plan to take in the views of Tokyo from Tokyo Tower instead. Fortunately, there were no crowds, so we were able to go up to the main deck smoothly and enjoy the scenery. Afterward, I introduced several Tokyo landmarks from the car window (Ginza, the Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Station), and the guests were delighted, saying it was exactly the tour they had hoped for. They also seemed very fond of the atmosphere of the Shin-Marunouchi Building, which I had chosen as the lunch spot. Although they mentioned having no interest in shopping anymore, they expressed admiration at the stylish displays of the various shops. At the soba restaurant chosen for lunch, they also enjoyed a lively conversation with fellow travelers from Europe who happened to be there. After arriving at Narita, we said our goodbyes once check-in was complete and an airport assistant was in place to take the guests to the lounge by wheelchair. Although it was a Tokyo tour that did not allow for visiting many places, I believe that after enjoying a tempura soba lunch, the guests were able to return home with peace of mind.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Noripy

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…