Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 　 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:30　 Imperial Palace
    • 10:50　Sensoji Temple
    • 12:00　Akihabara
    • 12:30　Lunch tonkatsu (Shinjuku Suzuya Akihabara Branch)
    • 14:00　Meiji Shrine
    • 14:40　Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:45　Disband at Hotel

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time, having arrived in Tokyo the previous day after sightseeing in Asia, Osaka, and Kyoto. Some of the guests were deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere of the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine. Others in the group were more interested in the game shops in Akihabara, the food shops on Takeshita Street in Harajuku, and a cat café. I accommodated the guests' requests throughout the tour, so I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku～Nijubashimae600JPY
    Section 2SubwayYurakucho～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara～Harajuku180JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nishi-Shinjuku0JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    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

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    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1100 Meet at Hotel Amanek Shinjuku Kabukicho (next to Kabukicho Furin Kaikan)
    • 1100～1115 Godzilla Road, 3D Cat Display, help purchase unregistered Suica at Shinjuku Station Ekitabi Concierge
    • 1130 Tokyo Station～Marunouchi Building Pine Piles～Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 1235 Harajuku, Meiji Shrine visit, Takeshita Street
    • 1425 Shibuya, Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, explain the route to Futako-Tamagawa Station for tomorrow
    • 1450 Escort to Shinjuku East Exit and explain the way back, then disband at 1500

    What's a First-Time Private Tour of Shinjuku and Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a person currently based in Oceania, visiting Japan for the first time. The accommodation, a hotel, was located deep within the Kabukicho area, across from a well-known building — a lively entertainment district. Most of the other guests at the hotel were inbound visitors from Asia. The guest had arrived at Narita Airport the previous day, taken a limousine bus to Shinjuku Station, and then walked to the hotel, which seemed to have been a struggle. Since the guest mentioned being surprised that "there were many people out late last night," I explained that this is probably the liveliest night spot in Japan. Despite that, the guest had not yet been to the nearby Godzilla Road. As this was the guest's first visit to Japan, while giving the above information I also explained how to use public transportation, handed over a Tokyo Travel Guide, and described some other potential destinations to visit. The guest planned to go to Futako-Tamagawa the next day (I deliberately did not ask the purpose), so I explained the route to the Den-en-toshi Line at Shibuya Station. The following day the guest planned to join a bike tour within Tokyo, and the day after that to visit Mount Fuji and Hakone. After that, the guest would be heading to another destination in Asia.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Tokyo208JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Shinjuku167JPY
    Total730JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1200 Meet at Hotel
    • 1240 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 1415 Tofukuji Temple
    • 1500 Kenninji Temple ~ Gion
    • 1540 Nishiki Market
    • 1630 Sannenzaka ~ Ninenzaka
    • 1800 Disband at Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Family Tour Like Including Fushimi Inari and Higashiyama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. Since a member of the group had difficulty walking, I had prepared a wheelchair, but it turned out not to be needed. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, there was an elevator for the ascent, and for Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, I coordinated with the driver to plan a route that avoided uphill sections. Since the group wanted to spend the latter part of the tour shopping for souvenirs, I proceeded while checking their wishes and keeping their comfort in mind. There were no particular problems, and I believe the tour was carried out smoothly.

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

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

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    Oct 10, 2025
    alijohn48
    Just what we were looking for
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Tomy was…

    Aug 8, 2025
    Katherine_G
    Fantastic day touring Kyoto with private tour guide & driver!
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max…

    Jul 22, 2025
    98patrickn
    early morning tour of Kyoto with guide Tomy
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We did an early…

    Jul 20, 2025
    Mark_S
    Great day in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a great…

  • Morioka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Morioka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Morioka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Morioka Ekimae (Meet in front of Hotel)　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
    • Sakurayama Shrine (Sakurayama Shrine)　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 　　　　　　　Morioka-jo Castle Site Park (Strolling around Morioka Castle Ruins)
    • Bank of Iwate Red Brick Building (Iwate Bank Red Brick Building)
    • Strolling around Morioka Government District (Strolling around Morioka City Government District)
    • Nambu Tekki Suzuki Morihisa Studio (Suzuki Morihisa Studio)　　　　　 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
    • Lunch　at Azuma₋ya (Lunch at Azumaya) 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　
    • Morioka Hachiman-gu Shrine (Visit Morioka Hachiman-gu Shrine)

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Walking Tour of Morioka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe. They had come from Tokyo to Morioka City the day before. The guests mentioned that they enjoy walking regularly, and indeed they appeared very used to walking. We departed from their hotel, crossed "Kaiun Bridge," and walked straight along Saien-dori, where the high stone walls of Morioka Castle Ruins Park came into view. Turning left at the end of the street and walking for about five minutes, we arrived at Sakurayama Shrine. The shrine had a "chinowa" (a large ring made of reeds), and the guests enjoyed passing through the "chinowa." They enjoyed passing through the "chinowa kuguri" while praying for good health and protection from illness. After the visit, as we headed toward Morioka's government district, we passed through two torii gates, and the area between the two torii gates is a district of bars and eateries. Since I understood that the area corresponding to the "sacred boundary" is a divine domain, I found it a little difficult to explain. Perhaps the people of the shopping street have always kept their shops within the sacred domain in order to offer "sacred sake." The guests said they had visited a shrine in Tokyo, and they were well aware of the manner that "within the shrine grounds, the deity walks in the center of the path, so worshippers should walk along the edges." Next, we strolled through "Morioka Castle Ruins Park." We climbed up to the main keep ruins. The view from the main keep ruins was very beautiful. The guests enjoyed the distant scenery together. Since there is a steep slope to reach the main keep, it would be a little difficult for those with weak legs. The guests did not seem tired at all. I was a little out of breath. At this time of year the park is covered entirely in green, which is a treat for the eyes. Both of the guests seemed to enjoy the greenery of the maple and cherry trees. After this, we strolled through the government district. We looked around the government area, including the prefectural office, Morioka City Hall, and the Morioka Public Hall. The guests were interested in the buildings from the Taisho and Showa eras. We also visited the Iwate Bank Red Brick Building, but unfortunately it is closed every Tuesday, so regrettably they had to make do with viewing only the exterior. After that, we visited "Suzuki Morihisa Studio," known for Nambu kettles, iron teapots, and ironware. It takes a full year from ordering an iron teapot to delivery. The guests were surprised as well. We visited "Suzuki Morihisa Studio" at the request of the guests. They spent quite a lot of time looking at the ironware on display, especially the iron teapots. However, looking at the prices of the iron teapots, they differ by an order of magnitude. The Suzuki family has served as official casters for the Nambu domain since 1625. They have also produced temple bells, sacred lanterns, and Buddhist ritual implements. "Suzuki Morihisa Studio" is now in its 16th generation, and the 13th-generation Shigekichi Suzuki was designated a Living National Treasure (intangible cultural asset) in 1974. After "Suzuki Morihisa Studio," we visited Morioka Hachimangu Shrine. The vast grounds and the vermilion great torii gate seem to leave a strong impression. Also, the vermilion-painted grand shrine hall with its vividly colored carvings is dignified and exudes an air of distinction. When I visited Morioka Hachimangu before, I received a goshuin (shrine stamp), and in one corner of the hall where you receive the goshuin, there was a model of Morioka Castle on display. This model was arranged with the buildings that no longer exist. Believing that seeing something once is better than hearing about it a hundred times, I had the guests view it as well. As the six hours were about to pass, the guests indicated that the guiding would end here, and I said goodbye to the guests at Morioka Hachimangu Shrine.

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

    Tour Report by Toshi

    Hello and welcome! If you’re an inbound guest, I’d like to extend a warm greeting to you. I hope you have a pleasant stay in our beautiful city. If there’s anything you need, feel free to ask – I’m here to assist! My name’s Toshiya Ozawa. Please call me Toshi. I have 25 years’ experience as National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter guiding in English. Presently, I live in Ohsyu-shi, Iwate-ken where the Major Baseball player Shohei Ohtani was born and bred. The followings are the places where I attended as a tour guide for your reference. [Guide experience] Nara’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Japan’s largest lake Lake biwa and Azuchi-jyo Ruins in Shiga prefecture. Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara:Horyu-ji, Nara Park, Todaiji Temple. Former Site of the Imperial Palace at Heijokyo, Todaiji Temple, along with Kasugataisha Shrine and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest. Koyasan (Shukubo Rengejo-in) shukubo literally means sleeping with the monks. Yagyu-no-sato (or the swordsman village of Yagyu), known as the home of Yagyu Shinkage-Ryu (traditional style of swordsmanship), is located in Northeast of Nara-city with rich natural environment. In Kyoto: JR Kyoto Station, The Golden Pavilion, World Heritage Site Former Imperial Villa Nijo-jo Castle, Ryoan-ji Temple, Nanzen-ji Temple. In Mie Prefecture: Ise Shrine, Wadakin (Japan’s one of the best wagyu-beef restaurant, Matsusaka-shi). In Shiga prefecture: Mother Lake Lake Biwa, Azuchi Castle ruins.
    In Tokyo: Meiji shrine, Odaiba, Imperial Palace, Takeshita Street in Harajyuku, Akihabara (the otaku mecca and has its own unique atmosphere), Asakusa Kannon (Bodhisattva of Mercy) Sensoji Temple, and Tokyo Tower.
    In Shizuoka Prefecture: Mt. Fuji.
    In Aichi prefecture: 1. Atsuta Shrine 2. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology 3. Inuyama Castle (Inuyama-shi) 4. Ohsu Shopping District 5. Konomiya Naked Festival (Inazawa-shi) 6.Tagata Jinja Shrine’s Honen Festival 7. Toyota Automobile Museum (Nagakute-shi) 8. Thousand Rice Paddies of Yotsuya (Yotsuya Senmaida) (Shinshiro-shi) 9. Asuke/Korankei (Toyota-shi Asuke-cho) 10. Chubu Centrair International Airport 11. Rest Stop (Highway Oasis Kariya, Donguri-no-sato Inabu)


    10 years’ experience in a trading operations position and 7 years’ experience as an Exporting Manager and 5 years’ experience as a Domestic Sales Representative: All of the experiences above included contacts with respective customers both externally and internally.
    I spent more than 2 years in the United States and Canada. Attended Kibbutz Hebrew class for six months in Israel.


    Aug1991– present MASPRO DENKOH Corporation, Aichi prefecture in Japan.
    Sales presentative/Exporting Manager “Export of TV reception and related equipment to Hong Kong, Malaysia and Thailand”
    Negotiated prices and specifications with the makers “Drafting and arranging the needed documentations requested by custom houses”
    OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) supply of CS antennas to SONY Corporation
    OEM supply of U.S. DirecTV Satellite Dish Antenna Dual LNB to Sony Corporation
    Attended the customers from overseas when they came to the head office
    Interpreter, translator to the C.E.O. (engaged in direct report to the company president)
    Import of invaluable western style paintings, Japanese potteries and porcelains
    Export of receiver and transmitter for Qualcomm Omni TRACS Ku-band satellite fleet tracking system in the U.S.
    Export of CATV Tap-off for Time Warner Cable in the U.S. OEM supply of ETC In-Vehicle Unit in Singapore to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
    Apr. 1989–March 1991, employed by ESPO Corporation in Tokyo, Japan. Manager of secretarial section to the C.E.O
    Interpreter, translator to the C.E.O “Assisted M&A transactions”
    Formula 1 ESPO-LARROUSSE Team negotiation and interpreter. Was in charge of training new staff (26 university graduates )
    Supervised new graduate recruitment activities as a part of training new staff and successfully recruited 40 prospective employees
    Apr 1976 – March 1991 Nissait English School in Tokyo, Japan
    1989 Director of Nissait English School “Management of English schools in Tokyo and Saitama prefecture”
    Instructor: Taught English conversation more than 1000 students “Was in charge of training new instructors (12 vocational college graduates )”
    Supervised new student recruitment activities as a part of training new instructors and successfully recruited 420 students at ten different schools for 5 years
    Was in charge of International Exchange program
    Chaperoned and supervised 160 Japanese youth delegates for cultural immersion homestays in the U.S.A. and Canada.
    Education: In 1976, Completed the curriculum at a university, received a degree of B.A. in Economics, Aoyama Gakuin University, in Tokyo.


    Windows MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint


    Certified as a National Licensed English-Speaking Tour Guide in 2009 (License No. Aichi EN00307)
    Passed Grade 1 of the EIKEN Test in Practical English Proficiency in 1989.

    Request Booking

    Apr 29, 2026
    447dags
    Tripadvisor review: Morioka Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Full service tour of Morioka
    Full service tour with Toshiya Ozawa, who…

    Apr 2, 2025
    Calder_L
    Best way to spend the afternoon in Morioka.
    Viator review: Morioka Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshisan was an amazing…

    Jun 14, 2024
    Pelle S
    Great insights on Morioka!
    Tripadvisor review: Morioka Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi-san is a very knowledable guide with…

    May 30, 2024
    Juan Ignacio G
    Experiencia recomendable!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiraizumi Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi nos acompañó con mucho entusiasmo a recorrer…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel→Meiji Shrine→Tsukiji→Imperial Palace Nijubashi→13:30 Asakusa

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. Since this was a 4-hour tour, my plan was to cover three locations, and I had proposed Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji or the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa. However, in response to their request to visit four places, I guided them to four locations. By the time we arrived at Asakusa, it was already past the 1:00 finishing time, so I could only give a brief explanation of Asakusa. Even so, we ran 30 minutes over the scheduled time. I should have firmly decided on three locations from the start. Since May, monthly invoicing is no longer required, which has made things simpler, but I think there are also some issues. This time, I submitted the report for the guiding done on May 31 on the same day, but since the confirmation happened after June began, payment is scheduled to be made at the end of July together with the June guiding fees. Having the guiding fees for work done in May mixed together with the guiding fees for work done in June is difficult to handle for guides who file tax returns. I think this is a problem. Also, a month-crossing case may be manageable, but if this crosses over a year — for example, if the guiding fee for guiding done in December is mixed together with the January guiding fee of the following year and paid in February — management becomes even more troublesome. Could this be improved so that each month's guiding fee is paid as that month's portion?

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Yoyogi150JPY
    Section 3SubwayYoyogi～Tsukiji Market220JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 5SubwaySakuradamon～Yurakucho180JPY
    Section 6TrainYurakucho～Ueno170JPY
    Section 7SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Tour Report by kazu

    Hello ! My name is Kazuo Inoue, please call me ,”kazu”.
    I started guide business in 2016, 8 years ago . So I have a lot of experience as a guide .
    Also I have joined Tokyo city guide club ,specialising in Asakusa, Meiji shrine,Imperial Palace.
    I have much of knowledge of Tokyo , especially history. I am a specialist of Tokyo.
    I can guide not only main sightseeing spots , but also Tokyo off the beaten path ,
    like Nezu Yanaka, Shibamata , the surbuarb of Tokyo.
    ( the photo is the ring of the Sumo-stadium in Ryogoku ,Tokyo)

    I am looking forward to seeing you. kazu

    Request Booking

    May 26, 2026
    jilliand744
    Tokyo sightseeing
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a good experience with our guide Kazu. He…

    May 7, 2026
    artsZ6836LO
    Kazu in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was very flexible and knowledgeable

    Made good suggestions…

    Apr 20, 2026
    Fran_R
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    A glance of Tokyo
    A good overview of…

    Apr 7, 2026
    Passenger03573064762
    From ancient traditions to rapid trains
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an ambitious set of…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Tennoji Park - Shinsekai & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Tennoji Park – Shinsekai & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:16 Meet at Shin-Osaka Station platform
    • 8:45~10:00 　Osaka Castle Park – Osaka Castle Tower Keep
    • 10:30~11:30 Tennoji Park – Shinsekai
    • 11:50~12:30 Dotonbori
    • 12:50 Disband at Shin-Osaka Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like from Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Today they arrived at Shin-Osaka Station on an early-morning bullet train from their accommodation in Kyoto, and I met them on the platform. The weather was wonderful, and at Osaka Castle Park and the castle keep they marveled at the magnificent views of the city of Osaka. They were also captivated by the folding screens depicting the upbringing of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and scenes of the Sengoku-era samurai battles at Osaka Castle. In Shinsekai, they enjoyed learning about Billiken and the district's unique history, and had fun eating takoyaki and kushikatsu. Finally, we took photos in front of the Glico sign in Dotonbori, and I escorted them back to Shin-Osaka Station to see them off.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Osaka～Osaka Castle Park190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Tennoji240JPY
    Section 3SubwayEbisucho～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 4SubwayNamba～Shin-Osaka290JPY
    Total910JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    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.

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized 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. 11:00 Meet up at InterContinental Tokyo Bay
    • 2. 12:00 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 3. 13:45 Lunch at Maguroto
    • 4. 15:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 5. 16:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 17:10 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing)
    • 7. 17:25 Disband at Shibuya

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report At first it was a little challenging because it was hard to get the guests to listen, but partway through I learned about the situation and decided not to give too much extra explanation and to convey only what was necessary, after which things went relatively smoothly. For lunch, the guests wanted to eat sushi, so I took them to a sushi restaurant in Asakusa, but since they could only eat tuna, it ended up being an all-tuna meal. When I gently mentioned that it might be better to lower the volume a little when speaking on the train, since the surrounding passengers seemed uncomfortable, the guests were a bit surprised, but afterward they spoke at a more comfortable volume. There was no ill intent involved; it was simply a matter of not being familiar with Japanese manners and rules, and I realized that conveying such things is also part of a guide's job.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai～Takeshiba839JPY
    Section 2SubwayDaimon～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Otemachi178JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Yakuendai826JPY
    Total2,418JPY

    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 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) 9:30 Meet @CHIMNEY COFFEE Shibuya Main Store (25-18 Sakuragaoka-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:15 Shibuya 〈Crossing・Hachiko Statue〉
    • 3) 11:00 Sensoji Temple・Nakamise Street
    • 4) 12:00 Tea Ceremony Experience (~13:20)
    • 5) 14:20 Aqua City Odaiba・Light Meal @TGI Fridays → Statue of Liberty
    • 6) 16:10 Disband @ teamLab Planets TOKYO Entrance (6-1-16 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Asakusa, and teamLab Body: The guests were a group visiting from North America who had requested a tour their group would enjoy, with particular interest in a tea ceremony experience and a visit to teamLab. I created and presented an itinerary in advance and confirmed the details on the day. Before they arrived at their accommodation, they contacted me, and we arranged to meet at a cafe near the Hotel. The group moved at a relaxed pace, and the tour began about 20 minutes after our scheduled meeting time. Although they were staying in Shibuya, they had not really seen the famous crossing or the Hachiko statue, so I explained and guided them around. To make it in time for a 12:00 tea ceremony experience, we set off toward Asakusa. They had already visited Hiroshima, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Takayama before Tokyo, so they seemed well accustomed to traveling. At the guests' request, we took 15 minutes for shopping along Nakamise-dori on the way to Senso-ji Temple. During the tea ceremony experience, everyone followed the tea master's instructions and, though a little unsure at first, each of them enjoyed it in their own way. Afterward, we spent about 30 minutes for lunch and about 20 minutes for shopping in Odaiba, then headed to teamLab for our 4:30 entry reservation. When getting off at Shin-Toyosu Station, I was caught up in conversation with the guests and was late in calling out for everyone to disembark, so some of the guests were left on the train. Fortunately, Toyosu was the final station, so they were able to come back right away, and there was no problem. We arrived safely at the teamLab entrance, and I was given permission to use only the photos from the adult tea ceremony experience before we parted ways. It was a group that thoroughly enjoyed their roughly two weeks of traveling around Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Shimbashi Station0JPY
    Section 3TrainYurikamome Line Shimbashi Station～Yurikamome Line Daiba Station330JPY
    Section 4TrainYurikamome Line Daiba Station～Yurikamome Line Shin-Toyosu Station330JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Toyosu Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kita-Senju Station0JPY
    Total1,260JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Mitsukoshi

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Mitsukoshi

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up　Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
    • 10:30　Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00　Shibuya
    • 13:30　Asakusa & Lunch　＠Tempura
    • 15:00　Mitsukoshi
    • 15:30　Dismissal　Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo

    The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. They first wished to see the major sightseeing spots, requesting Meiji Shrine and Asakusa, and if time and their condition allowed, either the Imperial Palace or Tokyo Skytree. Due to fatigue and jet lag from the long flight from North America the previous day, they decided against visiting the Imperial Palace or Tokyo Skytree. As they wanted to buy souvenirs for friends (nori seaweed and tea), I guided them to the basement floor of a department store for shopping. They were very surprised at how extensive the food section was. I then guided them to the Hotel, where 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 1SubwayMitsukoshimae～Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Mitsukoshimae0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Steve

    Hello, Welcome to Japan! I would like to guide your journey in Japan which will be wonderful and fantastic.
    I was born at Tokyo, have lived 60 years. There are many traditional and modern spots in Tokyo , You can enjoy and feel the contrast between them,
    Please let me know which spots you are interested in, or would you like me to recommend popular spots?
    Japanese food tastes great too. I am also a Sake Sommelier, Sake is Japanese alcohol made from rice with a refined and mild taste.
    Sake tasting would be a fun for you.

    I am sharing self introduction and scenery in Japan(incl outside of Tokyo) by my web site & Instagram,
    Please look at, when you have a time.
    https://stevejpntour.wixsite.com/japan-tour
    Instagram :steve.jpguide
    Thank you very much and looking forward to seeing you ! Steve

    Request Booking

    Jun 11, 2026
    Melissa_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    All the hits in in six short hours in Tokyo
    Lots of…

    Jun 7, 2026
    lornew449
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    4 hour tour in Tokyo with Steve!
    Steve was a great tour…

    May 20, 2026
    KateGolo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour of Tokyo
    We had a wonderful tour of Tokyo, and…

    May 19, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I very interesting tour and also the shopping street.
    Steve was an…

  • Fukushima: Taxi　Departure from Hotel & Ohirayama Cemetery

    Fukushima: Taxi　Departure from Hotel & Ohirayama Cemetery

    Fukushima Hope Tour from Tokyo by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 　　Taxi　Departure from Hotel
    • （Travel　3.5h）
    • 11:30　The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
    • 13:00　TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center
    • 14:45　Lunch at "Michi-no-Eki Namie"
    • 15:35　Earthquake Disaster Remains, Namie Town Ukedo Elementary School
    • 16:30　Ohirayama Cemetery
    • 17:00　Stroll around JR Futaba Station
    • 17:30　Guide departs at the same station
    • Around 21:00　Taxi　Arrival at Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Fukushima Disaster-Area Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Visiting the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum Tour overview: The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They joined this tour in connection with work in engineering. Thirteen years after the earthquake and nuclear accident, they seemed to experience firsthand the situation of a region that is moving toward recovery while still facing many challenges. Guest reactions: The guests focused on the current state of the towns after the nuclear disaster, especially the ambient radiation levels. They also showed great interest in the future of nuclear power plants in Japan. Other impressions: The TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center became reservation-only from April this year, and I learned only one week before the tour that it was fully booked on the tour day. The staff at the archive center kindly consulted with me and managed to create a new time slot. After breaking into a cold sweat, I was greatly relieved. Also, while traveling by car, when guiding through areas such as the difficult-to-return zones, the driver naturally and skillfully slowed down, which was very reassuring. Special notes: Both the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum and the TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center have staff who can provide English guidance. Attendance by staff with specialized knowledge is essential. It is a good idea to consult with the facilities in advance and request their support on the day. Also, because of the timing of the facility visits, it is not possible to have lunch around noon, so I emailed the guests in advance to recommend that they eat a light meal in the car. Requests to Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.): I would appreciate it if we could think together about whether reservations for the TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center should be made by Japan Guide Agency or by the guide, as well as alternative plans for when reservations at the facility cannot be secured.

    Click here for more details: Fukushima Hope Tour from Tokyo by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Miki

    Hello. I’m Mikiko Shiga, a licensed guide interpreter.
    I live in Iwaki, Fukushima, about 200km northeast from Tokyo.
    I was born in Sendai, the capital of Tohoku or the North East area of Japan.
    I ‘ve belonged to a volunteer guide group, I experienced walking tours in Asakusa, and other places in Tokyo.

    Meanwhile, the area I was born and live in is relatively uncrowded.
    Tohoku is blessed with beautiful nature, delicious food and fresh air.
    It is recommendable for tourists who want to avoid busy places.
    It would be wonderful if I could share the attractions in Tohoku or Ibaraki areas with my guests.

    Request Booking

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jenny_A
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide
    Interesting tour to see…
    Interesting tour to see…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Michael_B
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Fukushima & Iwaki – Excellent Tour With Local Guides…

    Mar 23, 2025
    Phillosophizing
    An Unforgettable Journey Through Resilience and Remembrance
    Tripadvisor review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Our Fukushima…

    Oct 11, 2024
    716zaineb
    A wonderful tour worth doing!
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Miki did a wonderful job…