Category: Uncategorized

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Odawara Station. After purchasing the Hakone FREE Pass, take the Hakone Tozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto, then Gora, take the cable car to Sounzan, take the cable car from Sounzan to Owakudani, sample the black eggs, take the cable car to Togendai, 11:25 take the pirate ship to Hakonemachi Port, Maruyama Bussan, lunch at Denbei Soba, after sightseeing at the Hakone Checkpoint ruins, took the bus from the checkpoint ruins heading to Odawara Station, but due to road congestion, at the bus driver's suggestion we got off at Ohiradai Station and transferred to the train, arrived at Yumoto at 14:45, arrived at Odawara Station at 15:10, Shinkansen Kodama 16:14, after confirming reserved seats were secured, disbanded at 15:40

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Hakone Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests met me energetically at 8:00. After I explained the route, we purchased the Hakone Free Pass. The guests remarked that the green scenery of Hakone seen from the train was rare and beautiful, different from where they come from in Europe. They felt the same about the views from the ropeway. I had informed them in advance that Mount Fuji would not be visible. On the pirate ship, the guests focused on taking group photos on deck. At the local specialty shop, the guests filmed and enjoyed the demonstration of a traditional puzzle box and purchased it as a souvenir. At the checkpoint, the guests were also intrigued by the jail-cell experience. Since this was a special anniversary trip, I made a handmade celebration board and took a photo. I gave the board to the guests as a keepsake.

    Click here for more details: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station～Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

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

    Request Booking

    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama Monkey Park & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Arashiyama Monkey Park & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @Hotel Kyoto
    • Travel (taxi)
    • 9:30‐11:00　Arashiyama Monkey Park
    • 11:00‐12:00　Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:00‐13:00　Lunch @Arashiyama Chikurintei
    • Travel
    • 13:10‐13:40　Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • Travel
    • 14:10‐14:20　Nijo Castle
    • 14:30　Dismiss @Hotel Kyoto

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Arashiyama and Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group who appeared to be relatives traveling together. At the Arashiyama Monkey Park, some of the guests spent quite a long time feeding the monkeys inside the hut at the top of the hill. They were deeply moved by the beauty of the bamboo grove, and when I introduced Nonomiya Shrine at the end, they were breathtaken by the beauty of the moss-covered garden. For lunch, although a bit pricey, I guided them to a newly opened ramen specialty restaurant. The place is run by the owner and a part-time staff member, so it cannot accommodate many people, but thanks to the cheerful hospitality of the staff, the guests were able to enjoy a bright and pleasant lunch. There was even a special menu where you could enjoy raw Kobe beef prepared shabu-shabu style in the ramen soup. Fitting for its location near the bamboo grove, the menu featured creative touches such as julienned boiled bamboo shoots and tofu-style fish cakes, as this is also an area famous for tofu. However, since they only offer a chicken-based soup, anyone expecting a tonkotsu (pork bone) soup might be disappointed. Still, it allows you to avoid the main street, Nagatsuji-dori, and finish a meal quickly. After that, we moved to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. The guests enjoyed the many rakan statues with their various expressions and the relaxed atmosphere of the hall where they could sit at leisure. Then we moved on to Nijo Castle. Unfortunately, I had not been aware that the Ninomaru is closed on Tuesdays, so we could only take photos in front of the gate. When I apologized, they kindly told me, "We were tired anyway, so please don't worry about it." Even though we traveled by taxi, walking around the Monkey Park requires quite a bit of stamina, so I imagine they were tired. Since they were chatting among themselves in the car, we were not able to talk together at great length, but I was glad the tour ended without any trouble.

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

    Tour Report by Satoko

    I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

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    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Climbing Mount Kurama & Yasui Konpira Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Climbing Mount Kurama & Yasui Konpira Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Meet ＠Kyoto Inn Gion Sano
    • Walk to the front of Yasaka Shrine (passing through Yasaka Shrine on the way)
    • Move (taxi)
    • 10:45～13:10　Climbing Mount Kurama
    • 13:10～13:45　Break＠Kyo Ajisai
    • 14:15～15:00　Move (taxi)
    • 15:00～15:30　Lunch＠Men-ya TORICHU
    • 15:30～16:00　Yasui Konpira Shrine

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour to Kurama and Kifune Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The meeting was scheduled for 9:30, but on the day itself an email arrived saying that preparations were running behind and asking to start from 10:00 instead. There was nothing to be done, so I decided to wait in the lobby. Everyone gathered at 9:50, and we set off from the Hotel. The guests had already strolled around Yasaka Shrine the previous day, so I gave a brief explanation, then hailed a taxi across from Yasaka Shrine and headed toward Mount Kurama. In front of Kurama Station on the Eizan Railway, we took photos in front of the large Tengu, and since there were paintings of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, Kiichi Hogen, and the Genpei War displayed in the station waiting room, I explained those as well. After entering Kurama-dera, the guests chose to go up by cable car, so we used it. We headed to the main hall while enjoying the natural beauty. On the way down there was a moment when one of the guests stumbled, but we managed to arrive safely on the Kifune side. Since the guests said they wanted to eat first, we waited for a while at Kyo Shimei, which looked like it could serve light meals, but we were told it would take about an hour. The guests then said they would rather go into the city, have lunch there, and visit somewhere reachable within the time before ending the tour, so I decided to take them to nearby Yasui Konpiragu after lunch in Gion. At Yasui Konpiragu the guests said they wanted to attach a paper charm and crawl through the stone, so I had them write their wishes on the charm. However, there was already a long line at the stone, so they decided to come back early the next morning, and we said our goodbyes. Regarding the wait for lunch in Kifune, I reflected deeply on having let the guests spend time unproductively. It struck me keenly that in such cases, rather than insisting on Kifune, a flexible response — like the one the guests themselves proposed, of going into central Kyoto for lunch and then heading to the next destination — is necessary. Still, at parting the guests told me they had a great time, so I felt it turned out well.

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

    Tour Report by Satoko

    I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

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    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:15 Meet @ Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji
    • 10:00 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 11:30 @ Namba, Doguyasuji
    • 12:30 @ Kuromon Market
    • 13:15 Disband @ Kuromon Market

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha, Doguyasuji, and Kuromon Market The guests were a group visiting Osaka, and the tour started about 15 minutes late because some of the group were still getting ready. As some of the guests were not feeling well, we took breaks frequently throughout the day. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, the group paid their respects, collected the small "Go-Dai-Riki" stones, and purchased amulet pouches. At the photo booth inside the station near Sumiyoshi Taisha, some of the guests enjoyed taking pictures. At Doguyasuji, the group bought a large number of remarkably realistic food samples as souvenirs. At Kuromon Market, the last stop, the group enjoyed many samples such as strawberries, Kobe beef, pickles, black bean tea, and dried fruit, and also bought souvenirs. They also purchased a "kimono" for their pet dog and seemed very pleased. Since some of the guests were a little hungry, I took them to a local udon shop inside Kuromon Market, and they were extremely satisfied — some of the guests even drank all of the broth, which greatly impressed the shop staff and the other customers there. The group took a commemorative photo with the shop owner at the storefront. In the end, since some of the guests were tired, we parted ways with nearly two hours still remaining. The guests commented that although it was short, it had been a very enjoyable and satisfying tour. They were a truly pleasant and likable group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHonmachi～Namba190JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba240JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

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

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

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Gracery Shinjuku & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Gracery Shinjuku & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Gracery Shinjuku
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:45 Shibuya Scramble
    • 12:45 Tsukiji Market
    • 13:15 Lunch @ Uotsuki
    • 14:30 Tsukiji Hongwanji
    • 15:00 Sensoji Temple
    • 16:05 Disband at Akihabara

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They mentioned having been to Yokohama for work a few times before, but it was their first time sightseeing in Tokyo, and their first visit to Japan overall. They were very pleasant, listened attentively to the guiding, and asked questions such as those about Japanese views on religion. At lunch, everyone was very satisfied with the sushi, which was wonderful. At the end, I explained how to get back from Akihabara and concluded the tour there. I am sure they will enjoy the anime shops and game arcades.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 3Free PassShibuya～Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho0JPY
    Total892JPY

    Tour Report by An

    Very nice to meet you! I’m An, your guide for Tokyo and Kamakura. I’m honored to have the opportunity to show you around this time. (For the Tokyo Tour)Tokyo offers a wide variety of attractions. For first-time visitors, I highly recommend visiting the must-see places, such as Meiji Jingu Shrine, the Imperial Palace East Garden, the Tsukiji Fish Market, and Asakusa (Sensoji Temple). For Anime fans, Akihabara is the place to go. For those who prefer less-known spots, I’d be happy to introduce some hidden gems. As for food, if you’re interested in trying some great ramen, I’d be glad to take you to one of my favorite local spots for lunch. (For the Kamakura Tour) For a 6-hour itinerary, I recommend visiting the Great Buddha, Hase Temple, and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. On the way back to JR Kamakura Station, we can also stop by Komachi Shopping Street. If you’re interested in visiting Zen temples, I’d be happy to include them in the itinerary as well. For both Tokyo and Kamakura tours, I’m always glad to accommodate your requests. I look forward to hearing from you and meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    tkdmom321
    Best way to start a trip to Tokyo!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Ann (An in…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Mariana_V
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This customizable tour…
    This customizable tour worked really well for us…

    Jul 19, 2026
    RC1908
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    6 Hour Tour of Tokyo
    We (four of us) had a…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Marina K
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokio the easy way
    An hat mir eine…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 07:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 2. 07:40 Fushimi Inari
    • 3. 09:20 Sanjusangendo
    • 4. 10:50 Kiyomizu-dera temple gate (photos only)
    • 5. 11:00 Asahido pottery shop (top of Kiyomizu-zaka)
    • 6. 11:20 Sannen-zaka/Yasaka Pagoda/Ishibei-koji
    • 7. 11:40 Lunch at Gion Ishi (soba restaurant at the bottom of the stone steps)
    • 8. 12:30 Zohiko lacquerware shop (Teramachi Nijo)
    • 9. 13:00 Daishodo (ukiyo-e woodblock print specialty shop)
    • 10. 13:10 Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Art-Focused Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and Nishiki Market The guests were a group from Europe. Japan had long been a country they admired and were eager to visit, and this was their first trip here (one of the guests had visited once before, many years earlier). Both of the guests had a strong interest in art, with one particularly drawn to lacquerware and another to ukiyo-e woodblock prints and other paintings. In addition to famous sightseeing spots, they were keen to view and acquire art pieces related to these interests. Despite the intense heat, the guests wished to continue walking the Senbon Torii path at Fushimi Inari as far as the Yotsutsuji intersection, the first midway point. One of the guests also asked about the meaning, significance, and history of the torii gates. The next stop, Sanjusangendo, was especially requested, and the guests admired the thousand-and-one statues of Kannon and the guardian deity statues in the front row with great enthusiasm. After lunch, due to fatigue from the time difference, one of the guests returned separately to the Hotel. I continued to guide the remaining guest to the art-related shops they had wished to visit. After visiting a large shop specializing in ukiyo-e woodblock prints, we exchanged a smiling handshake near the entrance of Nishiki Market and said goodbye. Please note that, at the guests' request, all travel today was by taxi paid for by the guests, so transportation costs have been omitted.

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

    Tour Report by Masa

    Born, raised and married in Kyoto, I am Masaaki Tanaka started English-speaking licensed guide since 2008, guiding mostly those English-speaking inbound tourists in Kyoto, which is my home base, and in Osaka (where I woked so long time until my retirment) and Nara and in other Kansai areas incl. Kobe, Koyasan, etc. If allowed, I can say I am somewhat experinced in Japanese history (especially in its culture). When young, I lived and worked for some 11 years in the Middle East, which areas, accordingly, I am still quite familiar to . My hobby includes : seeing Noh Play and Kabuki, hearing Musics in general (Beethoven, Beatles, Jazz & Rock’n Rolls as well as Japanese classicals), seeing the paintings/artworks in general, playing the piano (all time at beginner’s level, though), playing the guitar and, when younger, I enjoyed skiing and business golf. Also, I am, since my childhoo, a great fan of Tigers in Japan’s pro-base ball. I love cats (keeping now an old female ‘Chee’ chan) , and certainly my wife Tokuko as well.

    Request Booking

    Sep 16, 2026
    Getaway43892457305
    Fantastic two days tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had exceptional…

    Jul 30, 2026
    amydJ3030YT
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Kyoto tour with a licensed guide and separate driver…

    Mar 20, 2026
    moisessG5827VE
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki Tanaka was the best tour guide ever!
    Masaaki Tanaka was an…

    Jun 16, 2025
    896nataliex
    Amazing Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki, was an excellent tour guide and wealth of knowledge…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:15 Meet up @Aloft Tokyo Ginza
    • 2. 09:20 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:45 Stay @Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 10:30 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:00 Stay @Asakusa
    • 6. 12:30 Lunch @Aoi Marushin
    • 7. 13:30 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 14:10 Stay @Tokyo Tower
    • 9. 15:10 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 15:30 Disband @Aloft Tokyo Ginza

    What Does a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nezu Shrine, Asakusa, and Tokyo Tower The guests arrived in the lobby at almost exactly the same time I reached the hotel, so we were able to get off to a smooth start. This time the guests were a group visiting Japan. One of the guests currently lives in Japan and was very familiar with local matters, having advised the others about the spots to visit on this tour, so we were able to follow a comfortable and manageable course. Since our time at the first stop, Nezu Shrine, was relatively short, I gave a slightly longer tour in Asakusa, including the western approach. As on the previous day, I chose Aoi-Marushin for lunch. It is very helpful that you can be seated without waiting even on weekends. If there had been time, I had planned to show the guests Takeshita Street at the end, but perhaps because of the holiday period, Tokyo Tower was extremely crowded and took longer than expected. So I took the guests directly to the hotel via the Hibiya Line, and we parted ways almost as scheduled.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHigashi-Ginza Station～Nezu Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassNezu Station～Yushima Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassUeno-hirokoji Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa Station～Kamiyacho Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassKamiyacho Station～Higashi-Ginza Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet up@THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA
    • 2. 09:35 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:45 Stay@Tsukiji
    • 4. 11:15 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:50 Stay@Asakusa
    • 6. 13:00 Lunch@Aoi Marushin
    • 7. 13:45 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 14:30 Stay@Meiji Shrine
    • 9. 15:35 Travel: Train (JR)
    • 10. 15:40 Stay@Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 11. 16:00 Disband@Tokyo Metro Shibuya Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Europe. I had been unsure how well English would work, but communication went smoothly without any problems. They already had Suica cards, which made getting around relatively easy. For the final stretch between Harajuku and Shibuya, I used the JR line to save time. As with the previous day's tour, the guests especially enjoyed Tsukiji at the start, so we spent more time there than usual. In Asakusa, I took them to a long-established tempura restaurant for the first time in a while. Since this restaurant has a large space that can accommodate groups, I found it very useful for weekends when crowds are expected. Because the guests' hotel was located in Shimbashi, I finished the tour by showing them Shibuya, which is easy to reach via the Ginza subway line, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShimbashi Station～Tsukiji Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station150JPY
    Total750JPY

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

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

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

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

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet up @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 11:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 11:35 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 13:55 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 5. 14:45 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 6. 15:00 Disband @ In front of Egret Himeji

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were first-time visitors to Japan from Europe. The tour was scheduled to begin at 11:30, but when I contacted the guests, they were already at Himeji Station, so we started the tour a little earlier. During the tour, we visited the Castle View spot, Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, and the rooftop of Egret Himeji. It was another hot day. Because it coincided with the Obon holiday period and a substituted public holiday, there were a great many tourists, and we had to wait several times inside the main keep of Himeji Castle. After sightseeing at Himeji Castle, we made frequent stops for hydration as we visited Kokoen Garden and the rooftop of Egret Himeji, and then concluded the tour. On the way to Egret Himeji, the guests headed to a restaurant specializing in grilled Kobe beef skewers that I had recommended. The guests were very pleased.

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

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:05 Meet @Hotel
    • 2. 11:25 @Hiroshima Castle
    • 3. 12:10 @Shukkeien Garden
    • 4. 14:30 @Miyajima
    • 5. 17:10 ＠Peace Park　@Peace Memorial Museum　@National Peace Memorial Hall
    • 6. 18:20 Dismissal ＠Peace Park

    Title: What's a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was originally scheduled to meet at 11:30, but since the group arrived at the hotel early and requested to meet about 30 minutes earlier, we quickly adjusted the meals and transportation. We changed the okonomiyaki lunch to a light meal, and with a little more time in the schedule, we added a visit to Shukkeien Garden. Since some of the guests were drinking a lot of water and becoming tired, I offered them salt candies and we took a break at a café. As the Obon holiday had just begun, everywhere was quite crowded today. Based on a comment from one of the guests, who mentioned having visited Hiroshima once about ten years ago, I guided the group to the Memorial Hall at the end. They were pleased, saying, "What I remember is this underground hall." Finally, so that a single taxi would suffice, we boarded in front of the museum and concluded the tour. The advance email had apparently arrived, but it seems the guest had not read it, and just before the tour there was concern that there had been no contact from the guide. The [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) representative made various arrangements, and eventually we were able to communicate directly via a messaging app, thanks to which everything proceeded smoothly. Thank you very much.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryMiyajimaguchi～Miyajima200JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima～Peace Park1,100JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    Tour Report by Kahori

    Hi, I’m Kahori, a nationally licensed tour guide, and delighted to show people around this area. For the past almost 10 years, I have mainly guided foreign medical professionals around Hiroshima City and Miyajima, gaining a deep understanding of the effects of radiation and the support for A-bomb survivors.
    Hiroshima is a city of rivers and the sea. Along the rivers Cherry trees line, and the calm Seto Inland Sea, dotted with islands, creates a stunning landscape. Also, the sea has many islands called “art islands” which have fantastic arts relating to the art festival “Setouchi Triennale”. In addition to our two World Heritage Sites, this area is rich in attractive resources. I hope many of you will come and experience this fascinating land. Personally, I am very passionate about modern art and enjoy sports like stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on our rivers.
    I look forward to meeting you, interacting with you, and also, learning from you!

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    Oct 6, 2025
    DJ C
    We visited the atomic bomb museum, Hiroshima castle, a beautiful garden, and shrines and Torrey Gate.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima /…

    Sep 23, 2025
    lorrainel669
    Awesome Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The tour was fantastic. It covered everything…

    Jul 26, 2025
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    Tracy_P
    Outstanding Tour of Hiroshima with Kahori…
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our tour of…

    Jun 28, 2025
    Fernando A
    We knew the best of Hiroshima in 8 hrs
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…