Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Senso-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at hotel
    • 10:30-11:00 Travel to Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00-12:00 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00-13:30 Travel to Shibuya, lunch, experience Shibuya Crossing
    • 13:30-14:00 Travel to Ginza
    • 14:00-14:30 Window shopping in Ginza
    • 14:30-15:00 Travel to Asakusa
    • 15:00-16:00 Visit Senso-ji Temple
    • 16:00-16:30. Travel from Senso-ji Temple, disband at Ueno Station

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe as part of a cruise. Since a bus tour was planned for the following day, I took them to the places they wished to see. When we met, I made a point of pointing out nearby landmarks as often as possible after the tour began, so they could find their way back to the hotel on their own. At Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple, I focused my explanation on the difference in how to worship, since these sites offer a nice contrast between Shinto and Buddhism, and the guests worshipped very enthusiastically. Their wish was to see a market and, along the way, a robot cafe, but since they wanted to avoid the fish market, I took them to the cafe instead. The rain was extremely heavy due to a typhoon, so we took shelter inside a shopping complex, where the guests found a bag for one of the group and seemed to enjoy it very much. Although it was a tour in very heavy rain, I believe it ended safely and well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro~Harajuku178JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya146JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Ginza209JPY
    Section 4TrainGinza~Asakusa209JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa~Ueno178JPY
    Total920JPY

    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
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I were treated…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:50 Meet up @THE KANZASHI TOKYO ASAKUSA (2-27-10 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 11:00 Tea ceremony experience @Tea Utensils Kakinuma (3-21-9 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 3) 12:10 Asakusa
    • 4) 13:30 Imperial Palace Main Gate Nijubashi Bridge
    • 5) 14:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 6) 15:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 7) 15:50 Harajuku Takeshita Street → Omotesando → Cat Street
    • 8) 16:30 Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 9)17:10 Disband @Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Station ticket gate

    Can You Do a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour with a Tea Ceremony? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided guests visiting from Europe. In advance, they had expressed interest in a tea ceremony experience and visiting Tokyo's highlights. Since the experience venue was near the Hotel and started at 11:00, they kindly agreed to meet at 10:50. I was impressed that the guests had such an interest in Japan's traditional culture. After a one-hour tea ceremony experience, at the guests' request I guided them to Nishi-Sando and the Nakamise shopping street to buy a gift lantern (lantern purchased at a shop in Asakusa). We then visited the Nijubashi bridge at the main gate of the Imperial Palace, the Shibuya scramble crossing (including the second floor of a coffee shop), and Meiji Shrine. According to the guests, in the region they come from, due to its historical background of religious suppression during the Cold War era, there is little inclination toward religion, and they rarely buy things like omamori charms, so they did not offer prayers at the shrine. We continued to Harajuku's Takeshita Street and the Cat Street area of Omotesando (strolling only, without shopping), and to the Yanaka shopping street (I guided them there as we had extra time). Thanks to the guests' physical stamina, we were able to visit more places than expected. When our English was hard to understand between us, I made an effort to communicate by showing photos and text on a smartphone (for example, when explaining soba and udon). Finally, at the ticket gate of Ueno Station on the Ginza Line, I instructed them to get off at Asakusa Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Sakuradamon Station~Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station~Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Kita-sando Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Yamanote Line Nippori Station~JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station150JPY
    Total750JPY

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Nikko Station – 11:40 Kegon Falls – 12:30 Lake Chuzenji shore – 13:40 Kanmangafuchi Abyss – 14:20 Lunch – 15:00 Futarasan Shrine – 15:30 Toshogu Shrine – 16:20 Disband at Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Day Trip to Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania on their first trip to Japan, and this was one of the final days of a ten-day itinerary. Given the choice between Kamakura and Nikko, the guests chose Nikko, and fortunately there was no rain or wind from the typhoon that had been a concern. We started at Kegon Falls near Chuzenji Onsen. After strolling along the shore of Lake Chuzenji, we got off the bus partway on our route to lunch at a bakery restaurant of a long-established hotel, and took a walk at Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where the guests fully enjoyed the untouched natural scenery. At Futarasan Shrine, the guests drank the spring water said to have the effect of extending one's lifespan, and enjoyed a ring-toss game, having a wonderful time in Nikko.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nikko Station~Chuzenji Onsen1,250JPY
    Section 2BusChuzenji Onsen~Urami Falls Entrance1,000JPY
    Section 3BusIn front of Taiyuin/Futarasan Shrine~Tobu Nikko Station350JPY
    Total2,600JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion - Chion-in - Maruyama

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion – Chion-in – Maruyama

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 9:30~10:30  Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:00~12:00 Nijo Castle
    • 12:30~13:20 Gion – Chion-in – Maruyama Park
    • 13:40~14:30 Ninenzaka – Yasaka Pagoda – Sannenzaka – Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, and Kiyomizu-dera Body: The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, from North America. They came to Kyoto after passing through Tokyo and Hakone. Due to the impact of a typhoon, they were kept waiting for about two hours inside the bullet train, and the original Kyoto tour had to be rescheduled to the following day because of rain. On the day of the tour, however, there was no rain, and we were able to cover the entire planned course. We used taxis for all transportation between the sightseeing spots. Throughout the itinerary, we discussed Japanese history, the Emperor and the Shogun, Shinto and Buddhism, and Judaism. They were deeply moved by everything, including the thousand torii gates of Mount Inari, power spots such as Kumataka Shrine and Shinike Pond, the Karamon Gate of Nijo Castle, the Japanese gardens, the Sanmon Gate, the Miedo Hall, and the bell tower of Chion-in, and the stage of Kiyomizu-dera.

    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 in One Day: Toyocho Station & Nijubashimae Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Toyocho Station & Nijubashimae Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel East 21 Tokyo
    • 8:15 Depart Toyocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Asakusa Shrine Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 10:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:10 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Tokyo National Museum
    • 11:30 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:45 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:00 Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Toyocho Station
    • 14:30 Dismissal: Toyocho Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Ueno, Tsukiji, and the Imperial Palace The guest was a person visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had decided to visit Japan after being recommended by family and a friend who said, "Japan is safe even at night, and the cities are clean." Having arrived at Narita Airport a few days earlier, the guest had taken a series of trains to their accommodation. On the first and second days of their stay, they visited Disneyland and DisneySea, and the previous day they had explored Shibuya and Harajuku on their own. They planned a day trip to Mount Fuji the next day and were scheduled to return home from Narita Airport the day after. Under cloudy skies, we managed to avoid the rain, and the tour proceeded with several rest breaks along the way. First, we went to Asakusa. I explained about "Senso-ji Temple and the history of Edo/Tokyo" and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as "What kind of religion and teaching is Buddhism?" "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "Are there people who believe in religions other than Buddhism?" We moved on to Ueno and the Tokyo National Museum. I explained "an overview of Japanese history." The guest seemed particularly interested in "Buddhist statues" and "swords," taking many photos with their smartphone. They also bought cookies as a souvenir at the shop. We then moved to Tsukiji. I explained about "the history of Tokyo's fish markets" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were also questions such as "Why are there so many people here? Is it always like this?" and "Do all the people of Tokyo come here to buy fish?" The guest purchased and sampled "tuna sashimi," "grilled beef skewers," and "onigiri (rice balls)." They especially liked the onigiri, commenting, "Since coming to Japan, I've eaten sushi at several sushi restaurants and thought it was very reasonably priced, fresh, and delicious, but now I prefer onigiri." By chance, they were approached by a TV crew and answered a brief interview. We moved to the Imperial Palace. I explained about "the history of Edo/Tokyo," "the Meiji Restoration," and "the current Imperial Family." There were questions such as "When was it built as a castle?" and "Why did Edo Castle become the Imperial Palace?" There were also questions such as "Does the Emperor live inside here?" and "Who will become the next Emperor?" The guest made comments such as "Everywhere in the city is clean and quiet. There is no litter on the ground," and "There are so many subway lines that it's hard to get used to. Yesterday I made mistakes several times and was confused." They also said, "On my next visit to Japan, I would love to go to Kyoto and Hiroshima." I saw the guest off at Toyocho Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToyocho Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station~Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijubashimae Station~Toyocho Station178JPY
    Total921JPY

    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
    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 13:10 Osaka Castle
    • 14:40 Lunch @ Honpoko-tei (Okonomiyaki)
    • 16:20 Shitennoji Temple
    • 17:30 Shinsekai
    • 18:30 Disband at Hotel

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, and Dotonbori The guests were visiting from Asia. The group told me they now live in Europe. The group was very friendly and easygoing. Some of the guests were very interested in the Japanese language, so I taught them useful everyday phrases. As one of the guests was not feeling well, they returned to the Hotel by taxi after visiting Osaka Castle. For the meal, I took the guests to an okonomiyaki restaurant where I had made a reservation the day before. Everyone enjoyed it very much and said it was delicious. After Shinsekai, I had planned to take the group to Dotonbori, but as they were a little tired, I saw them off at the Hotel. I was glad that the guests seemed to enjoy their Osaka tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Umeda~Temmabashi190JPY
    Section 2TrainTanimachi 4-chome Station~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji~Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Section 4BusEbisucho~Higashi-Umeda240JPY
    Total810JPY

    Hello. My name is Momoyo Kanagawa. I’ve been a certified interpreter guide for 7 years. I have experience guiding not only in the Kansai
    area such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, but also in the Tokyo area. I have a passion for sharing the rich history and culture of Japan.
    Japan is a beautiful country with diverse culture and nature. If you come to Japan, you might be able to experience things like:
    Sight: You can see the scenery of cherry blossom petals dancing in the wind, or the majestic figure of Mt. Fuji.
    Hearing: You can hear the sound of traditional instruments such as Japanese drums and shakuhachi, or the lively atmosphere of festivals and fireworks.
    Touch: You can relax in a hot spring, or try on Japanese costumes such as kimono and yukata.
    Taste: You can taste famous Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, ramen, or Japanese drinks such as matcha and sake.
    Smell: You can smell the fragrance of incense and flowers, or feel the unique air of temples and shrines.
    These are just some of the charms of Japan. There are still many things to discover in Japan. Please use your five senses and feel the wonder of Japan.
    I’m excited to be able to explore Japan together with you and make your visit memorable! I will escort you with the best hospitality.

    안녕하세요. 간사이에서 가이드를 하고 있는 카나가와 모모요라고 합니다.
    오사카·교토·나라·고베를 중심으로 역사와 문화, 미의식, 그리고 일본인의 정신성까지를 차분하고 깊이 있게 전하며 오래 기억에 남는 간사이 여행을 안내합니다.

    단순한 명소 방문이 아닌, 봄의 벚꽃, 여름의 신록, 가을의 단풍, 겨울의 고요함 등 일본 사계절 자연의 아름다움을 온전히 느낄 수 있는 여행을 중요하게 생각합니다.
    또한 일식을 비롯한 일본의 식문화와 지역의 제철 식재료, 신뢰할 수 있는 고급 레스토랑과 명점 소개를 통해 미각으로도 일본을 깊이 경험하는 시간을 제안합니다.

    커플 여행부터 가족 여행까지, 어르신부터 어린이까지 다양한 연령대와 상황에 맞춘 무리 없는 일정 구성이 가능합니다. 한일 양국의 문화적 공통점과 차이를 세심하게 고려하여, 편안하고 신뢰할 수 있는 가이딩을 제공하고자 합니다.

    최고의 호스피탈리티로 고객님의 여행 추억 속에 오래 남을 소중한 한 페이지를 장식하는 동반자가 되겠습니다.

    Sep 13, 2025
    O7109SGricardoc
    Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had an excellent experience…

    May 23, 2025
    R
    Road294776
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Mt Koya Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Really smooth experience. Our…

    Sep 10, 2024
    famililuxe
    Amazing Osaka Introduction with Momo
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We love Momo Kanagawa! This…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Simon C
    Best tour guide in Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Momo is the best. She is…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Hotel Rihga Gran Kyoto
    • 10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 12:00 approx. Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:00 approx. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 14:00 approx. Kyoto Station, dismissal

    Title: What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. They had been worried about the effects of a typhoon, but they said they were glad the tour could go ahead today. Since the itinerary was left to the guide's recommendation, we visited Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji. At Nijo Castle, the guests were amazed by the painted sliding doors and the interior decoration. After viewing the garden, we stopped at the rest area within Nijo Castle for a short break. The guests ordered cold matcha. Knowing that one of the guests enjoyed beer, I mentioned that matcha beer is available at Nijo Castle, but they chose cold matcha instead. However, the cold matcha turned out not to be quite to their taste, and with a smile they said they should have ordered the beer. We then took a taxi to Kinkaku-ji. I was a little worried about the weather, but it cleared up and turned into a beautiful day. At Kinkaku-ji, the guests were able to see the tea house that had been under renovation, and they were delighted when I told them it had only recently reopened after being closed off for repairs. After that, at the guests' request, we went to the bamboo grove in Arashiyama. I asked the taxi driver to drop us off at the bamboo path near Okochi Sanso, and we walked from the bamboo grove to the main street of Arashiyama. Before arriving in Kyoto, the guests had climbed all the way to the summit of Mount Fuji and mentioned that their legs were a little tired, so they were pleased that the walking distance was short. We then took the JR from Saga-Arashiyama to Kyoto Station. When I mentioned that there are many restaurants and cafes underground at Kyoto Station, the guests decided to have lunch there, so I showed them to the underground entrance and we parted ways at that point. Since the guests had never experienced a typhoon before, they asked me questions about its path from tomorrow onward. I shared the current location of the typhoon and its projected path, but explained that the information changes daily and asked them to keep checking it as they went.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Saga-Arashiyama Station~JR Kyoto Station240JPY
    Total500JPY

    Hello! I’m Mako. I’m from Nara and live in Kobe city in Japan right now. I used to live in mountainous area in Nara.
    Nara is famous for deer. There is no sea in Nara. On the other hands, Kobe is one of famous port cities in Japan and famous for Kobe beef and night views.
    My favorite food is Yatsuhashi. It is one of famous sweets in Kyoto city. When I was a University student, I used to be a volunteer guide at Kiyomizu temple in Kyoto. There are many shops which sells yatsuhashi in Kyoto.

    I like traveling. I have been to Canada, South Korea, France, Australia and the United States.

    I studied English in South Florida University when I was a university student. I stayed for about 1 year. During stay in the U.S, I visited Las Vegas, New York, Boston, Miami, and so on. After that I worked at the travel company in Japan. Then I got the license of tour guide in 2014. I started to work as a tour guide in 2015. I usually visit Kyoto, Nara ,Osaka and Kobe with my guests. I’m very looking forward to meeting you!

    Apr 29, 2026
    K Q
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent Tour. Highly Recommend. Guide Mako was fantastic.
    Our guide, Mako,…

    Apr 14, 2026
    A2440DSamandao
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Best Day in Kyoto with Mako
    Mako was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    uppervalley1
    Must do in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The private tour of Kyoto and its temples…

    Nov 24, 2024
    Alison_R
    Excellent Kyoto tour!
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  • Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meet up @The Westin Yokohama
    • 2. 9:00 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 3. 10:30 @Tokyo Station from the car window
    • 4. 10:45 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 5. 11:30 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, FUKIURAS)
    • 6. 12:00 Lunch @Matsue (sushi restaurant in Shibuya Scramble Square)
    • 7. 13:15 @Meiji Shrine
    • 8. 13:50 @Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • 9. 14:10 @Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • 10. 16:00 Disband @The Westin Yokohama

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Cruise Stopover Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Their children are independent, and they enjoy traveling by cruise ship. This tour made use of a few days before boarding their cruise the day after next. The day before the Tokyo tour, they had taken a day trip to Okinawa by air. Due to Typhoon No. 10, the weather was a concern today as well, but it only rained a little at Shinjuku, the final stop of the day. At Sensoji Temple, the guests actively experienced drawing omikuji fortunes, the water purification ritual, and prayer, and had a great time. For lunch, the guests expressed a strong wish to eat sushi, so we headed to the sushi restaurant in FUKURAS in Shibuya, where I usually take guests. However, it was fully booked and we could not get in. So, as a first attempt, I searched online for a sushi restaurant in Shibuya Scramble Square and secured a table by phone. We were able to move there ten minutes later. The presentation of the dishes was beautiful, and regarding the taste, the guests were highly satisfied, saying, "This is incomparably more delicious than the sushi at Japanese restaurants back home!" Since there was a little time to spare after lunch, I gave them a brief tour of Meiji Jingu Shrine, which was not originally on the itinerary, and then we headed to Shinjuku. Golden Gai had originally been the requested destination, but when I introduced them to a similar alley of drinking establishments called "Omoide Yokocho," they said either one would be fine as long as it could be visited efficiently. So I guided them to "Omoide Yokocho," where it is easy to see inside the shops from the outside, and we entered a yakitori restaurant that was open at 2:30. Everyone enjoyed Sapporo beer. I struck up a conversation with some inbound visitors who had arrived earlier and ordered the "hatsu" with sauce that they were eating. When the guests timidly tried it, they were relieved and delighted, saying "Delicious!" and seemed to have a wonderful time.

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

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

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
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    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
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    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
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    Lovely experience. My…
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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:25 Meet @ Toei Subway Ushigome-Yanagicho Station, outside the ticket gate
    • 2. 08:30 Transfer: Subway
    • 3. 08:50 Visit @ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 4. 10:10 Transfer: Subway
    • 5. 10:35 Visit @ Asakusa
    • 6. 11:45 Lunch @ Yoroiya
    • 7. 12:20 Transfer: Subway
    • 8. 13:05 Visit @ Meiji Shrine
    • 9. 13:55 Visit @ Takeshita Street
    • 10. 14:15 Disband @ Jingumae Intersection

    Title: What's a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Higashi Gyoen, Asakusa, and Harajuku The guests were visitors to Japan staying at a private rental, so the meeting point was set at Ushigome-yanagicho Station, close to their accommodation. Otemachi Station turned out to be surprisingly nearby, which made the travel easier than expected. At the East Gardens (Higashi Gyoen), I guided them, as on the previous day, to the bamboo grove beside the main keep's large lawn. It is a slight detour, but since the reaction from guests is so positive, I would like to keep incorporating it into the course whenever there is enough time. Since they seemed to enjoy ramen, I took them to Yoroiya, a popular shop in Asakusa. We were fortunate to visit in the morning before it got crowded. At every spot we avoided spending too much time, and the tour progressed steadily from start to finish. I heard that they had a reservation at a cafe in Omotesando after 4:00 p.m., so after guiding them along Takeshita Street, we parted ways at the Jingumae intersection.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUshigome-Yanagicho Station~Otemachi Station220JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi Station~Asakusa Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Meiji-jingumae Station260JPY
    Total660JPY

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

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

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

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

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
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    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:45 Meet @ Hotel
    • 11:20 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 11:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Imperial Palace
    • 13:45 Lunch @ Ao Yuzu Tora (Marunouchi Building)
    • 15:00 Senso-ji Temple
    • 16:10 Ginza
    • 17:00 Disperse @ Hotel

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to depart on a cruise tour from Yokohama. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to the historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji Temple, they were interested in the explanation of the differences between shrines and temples, and also enjoyed shopping for souvenirs. Since I responded according to the guests' wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Ebisu600JPY
    Section 2TrainEbisu~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo~Ueno170JPY
    Section 6SubwayUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 7SubwayAsakusa~Ginza0JPY
    Section 8SubwayGinza~Roppongi0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
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    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
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    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
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    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
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    We had a great time learning about…