Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00　Hotel
    • 11:00　Miyajima
    • 14:00　Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    • 16:00　Atomic Bomb Dome

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who came to Hiroshima after attending an academic conference in Nagoya. Due to unusually intense heat, the guest began showing signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration at Daishoin Temple. I quickly moved the guest into the shade and fanned them to help cool down. The guest had a smartwatch and rested until their pulse and other readings stabilized, seemingly monitoring their own condition. After a while, I took the guest to an air-conditioned area on the second floor of the Miyajima tourist information center, where they were able to relax for about 30 minutes. This break helped the guest recover, and after having lunch, I took them to the Peace Memorial Park, where we were able to complete the tour safely.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park220JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

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    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @ Hilton Osaka
    • 9:00-11:00 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 11:30-12:40 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:10-13:20 @ Harukas Garden
    • 13:45-15:00 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 15:25-16:10 @ Kuromon Market, National Bunraku Theatre, Dotonbori
    • 16:40-17:00 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 17:10 Disband @ Hilton Osaka

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since their vacation time was limited and this trip to Japan was the longest holiday of their lives, they wished to see as many of each destination as possible, so they extended the tour to 8 hours. At Osaka Castle, they were especially delighted to visit a place featured in films and anime and to see its history and artworks, and at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine they were thrilled to witness the Mikoshi Togyo portable shrine procession, the largest event of the summer festival. They were a pleasant and intellectually curious group to travel with, and I felt that spending time with people like them is one of the greatest joys of being a guide. This full-day private tour of Osaka was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures.

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

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

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    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:15 @ Egret Himeji
    • 11:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 13:30 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 14:00 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 14:30 Dismissal @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. From the start, everyone seemed a little tired, and some of the guests found walking difficult, taking a break every 15 minutes, so the tour ran a bit behind schedule. Some of the guests seemed weary, some were absorbed in their phones, and one member showed keen interest in the sightseeing. That said, the group enjoyed "akashiyaki" (octopus dumplings eaten with a savory dashi broth) near Himeji Castle, and they were very pleased with the full view of the castle from the rooftop of Egret Himeji, which I guided them to along the way. In Himeji Castle Park, they took photos with a dog being walked nearby, which delighted a dog-loving member of the group. Our visit to Kokoen was also considerably shortened. At Nadagiku Sake Brewery, the group enjoyed a tasting (with amazake for the younger members) and purchased some souvenirs. At the brewery, perhaps due to fatigue, one member said, "No need for more sightseeing; let's have some ice cream and then head back to the station," and so we parted ways.

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

    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

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    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…

  • Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel　9:45 Kokubunji　10:30 Miyagawa Morning Market 11:00 Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, Yatai Kaikan (Festival Float Exhibition Hall), Nikko Kan　12:00 Higashiyama Walking Trail　13:03 Disband at the old townscape

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hida Furukawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe with a deep appreciation for the arts. It seemed they had also enjoyed the fireworks the previous night. They were delighted, saying it was the first time they had seen fireworks that continued nonstop for a full hour. Today's temperature exceeded 36°C, so we made sure to stay well hydrated throughout. Feeding the koi carp was a big hit. We walked along the Enako River, climbed the Higashiyama Walking Trail, and stopped by the Kanamori family gravesite and Higashiyama Shinmei Shrine, so the course was full of forest bathing and turned out to be quite a physically demanding one. Even so, I was glad they seemed to fully enjoy it. The city was also starting to get crowded.

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

    Tour Report by Mitsu

    I was born, raised, and still live in Takayama, and I am a licensed National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.

    My guiding philosophy is to create unforgettable memories through warm, cheerful, and engaging experiences. I enjoy sharing not only the highlights of the region, but also the history, culture, and stories that make each place unique.

    I studied International Relations at a national university and have built a diverse career in the tourism industry, including hotels, travel agencies, and the local tourism association. Today, I primarily guide luxury travelers, as well as private and group tours, offering authentic cultural experiences, visits with local artisans, and in-depth insights into Japanese traditions.

    I also practice Japanese calligraphy, the Omotesenke school of tea ceremony, Sencha (Baisa-ryu), and kimono dressing, allowing me to incorporate traditional Japanese culture into my tours.

    I mainly guide in Takayama, Okuhida, Shirakawa-go, Gokayama, Kanazawa, and Kamikochi. I look forward to helping make your visit to Japan a truly memorable experience.

    Request Booking

    Sep 26, 2024
    L9503LEstephenr
    Amazing experience and best guide ever ✨️
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We did the tour…

    Aug 29, 2024
    Stay19758434714
    Takayama tour with Mitsu!
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mitsu was an amazing…

    Aug 24, 2024
    Joy L
    Mitsu introduces us to the heritage of Takayama
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed…

    Aug 13, 2024
    sall450
    Mitsu the BEST tourist guide in Takayama
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mitsu…

  • Kyoto: Dhawa Yura Kyoto & Nijojo

    Kyoto: Dhawa Yura Kyoto & Nijojo

    Kyoto Japanese Gardens Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Dhawa Yura Kyoto,
    • 10:00 Ginkakuji (500) Keihan train & bus
    • Philosopher’s Path by walking
    • 11:30 Nanzenji (600 + 600) by walking
    • Sanmon
    • Hojo
    • Suirokaku
    • 13:00 Lunch （Colorado Massan）
    • 14:00 Nijojo (1300) by walking
    • 　　 15:00 End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like When Guests Skip the Usual Highlights? A Licensed Guide's Report I meant to submit this report earlier but had missed it, so I am submitting it belatedly. Thank you for your understanding. The guests were visitors from Europe. Photos were taken, but they asked that these not be sent to the agency. They were traveling from Okinawa to Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. Since they had joined a tour the previous day and already visited the must-see spots, they asked me to avoid the same places, so we proceeded with an itinerary I put together the night before. Partly due to the heat, none of the sites were particularly crowded. The itinerary included admission fees, but the guests held a pass, so no admission fees were charged anywhere. At Nijo Castle, however, a procedure at the office was required, where they signed and a copy of the pass was made. Initially they had mentioned they wanted to see a little of the Gion Festival, so at the end of the tour I tried to show them the assembly of the floats for the later festival, but as it was too hot they decided to return to the hotel, so we took the subway and parted ways along the way. Unlike the large-group tour of the previous day, this was a more relaxed experience that let them move at their own pace, and they were very pleased.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Japanese Gardens Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo～Demachiyanagi230JPY
    Section 2BusDemachiyanagi Station～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainKeage～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 4TrainNijojo-mae～Karasuma Oike220JPY
    Total940JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Guided tour of Meiji Jingu & Guided tour of Sensoji

    Tokyo in One Day: Guided tour of Meiji Jingu & Guided tour of Sensoji

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet at the 28th floor lobby of Conrad Tokyo. We will listen to the details of this tour itinerary, discuss the places to visit for the day, and depart. Travel via the Toei Shinjuku Line from Shiodome, passing through Aoyama 1-chome and Omotesando to Meiji-jingumae.
    • 08:45-09:40 Guided tour of Meiji Jingu.
    • 09:40-10:00 Stroll around and tour the Harajuku Station area. After finishing, travel to Shinjuku-sanchome and head to the Shinjuku Gate of Shinjuku Gyoen.
    • 10:15-11:00 Guided tour of Shinjuku Gyoen. After finishing, travel to Asakusa.
    • 11:50-13:00 Lunch of okonomiyaki at "Kamiya" on the 2nd floor of a building right after turning right heading north on Kannon-dori from the subway Asakusa Station.
    • 13:00-13:50 Guided tour of Sensoji Temple.
    • 13:50-14:20 Escort you back to Conrad Tokyo and say goodbye.

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Orientation Tour of Tokyo Like Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived in Tokyo the day before and planned to stay for several days before boarding a cruise ship in Yokohama that would call at Shimizu, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Busan. Since they planned to explore Tokyo on their own afterward, I guided them in an orientation-style manner, including how to get around the city. The guests, who live in North America, said they had come to Japan expecting it to be about as hot as their home region, but while walking they remarked that they had not imagined Japan would be this hot. I explained the unusual summer weather Japan has experienced since last year, and the guests commented, "The weather is abnormal all over the world," a sentiment I share. That said, they had come well prepared for the heat with cooling towels and an insulated bottle, and by taking breaks along the way we finished the tour safely. Of the okonomiyaki, the guests said, "This is delicious. I know sushi and tempura well, but I had no idea there was something this tasty," and finished the entire dish. One of the guests had taught at a university before retiring, and they said they found my explanations of Japanese history and economics very interesting, which I was pleased to hear. 08:45-09:40 Guided tour of Meiji Shrine. 09:40-10:00 Strolled and guided around the Harajuku Station area. Afterward, moved to Shinjuku-sanchome and to the Shinjuku Gate of Shinjuku Gyoen. 10:15-11:00 Guided tour of Shinjuku Gyoen. Afterward, moved to Asakusa. 11:50-13:00 Okonomiyaki lunch at a restaurant on the second floor of a building just after turning right heading north along Kannon-dori from the subway Asakusa Station. Due to the extreme heat, we had a relaxed lunch with plenty of rest. 13:00-13:50 Guided tour of Senso-ji Temple. 13:50-14:20 Saw the guests off at Hotel and said goodbye.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome～Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Section 3SubwayShinjuku Gyoen～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shiodome0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by MINORUASAI

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

    Request Booking

    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Nagatacho Station & Otemachi Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Nagatacho Station & Otemachi Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel, Tokyo
    • 10:10 Nagatacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
    • Aoyama-itchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Asakusa Shrine Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:40 Depart from Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive at Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 12:30 Depart from Akihabara Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kayabacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • Break: Starbucks
    • 14:00 Depart from Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
    • 14:15 Arrive at Nagatacho Station
    • Dispersal: Nagatacho Station

    Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Report: What Can You See in Asakusa, Akihabara, and the Imperial Palace with a Licensed Guide? The guests were a group of two visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan for both of them. Two weeks earlier, they had first traveled from North America to Seoul. After staying in Asia for a week, they came to Tokyo three days ago. After spending two days at Disneyland, they came into Tokyo. They plan to stay mainly in central Tokyo for four days before returning home. They mentioned that tomorrow they will go to a cooking class experience. In the intense heat, the tour proceeded with many breaks along the way. First, we went to Asakusa. I explained the history of Senso-ji Temple and the history of Edo and Tokyo. There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" "What kind of religion is Buddhism?" "Are there people who believe in religions other than Buddhism?" and "What is the difference between Shinto and Buddhism?" They drew an omikuji fortune and were delighted to draw "Daikichi" (great blessing). After that, we went to the Akihabara electronics district. They said, "I love Japanese anime," and "I'm a big fan of LEGO." At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we walked around the grounds in the intense heat. I explained "the history of Japan and the Imperial family." There were questions such as "When was it built as a castle?" "Why did Edo Castle become the Imperial Palace?" and "What was the Meiji Restoration?" There were also questions such as "Does the Emperor really live inside this Imperial Palace?" "What is the relationship between the Emperor and the Prime Minister?" "How is the Prime Minister chosen?" and "Who will become the next Emperor?" They also commented, "The city is clean. There is no litter on the ground." "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable. Very different from the New York subway." There was also a question: "During our stay in Seoul, the local guide explained the delicate relationship between Japan and Korea many times. Honestly, what do Japanese people think of Korea?" After a break at a coffee shop, I saw them off to Nagatacho Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagatacho Station～Asakusa Station600JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Suehirocho Station0JPY
    Section 3SubwayAkihabara Station～Otemachi Station0JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi Station～Nagatacho Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meet at Hotel Amanek Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • 2. 8:40 Asakusa Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise
    • 3. 9:50 Yanaka
    • 4. 11:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 5. 12:00 Lunch Soba Yanaka
    • 6. 13:00 Ueno Ameyoko Yodobashi Camera
    • 7. 13:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 8. 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 9. 16:00 Disband at Meiji-jingumae

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo History Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, and Meiji Shrine The guests had a deep interest in the transition from Japan's Warring States period to the Tokugawa shogunate, as well as the Westernization and modernization that accompanied the Meiji Restoration. We began in Asakusa, the origin of Edo, and then strolled through Yanaka, a district partly spared from the Tokyo air raids, where we explored prewar merchant houses, residences, and temples. Despite being so close to the Marunouchi city center, the guests were surprised by the quiet, peaceful, almost rural atmosphere. At Nezu Shrine, after explaining an overview of Shinto, I noted that the current shrine buildings feature the flamboyant decorations of the Genroku era, when Edo culture experienced its first great flourishing, making it somewhat different from a typical shrine. Because of the intense heat, we took an early break combined with lunch and relaxed at a soba restaurant. The guests greatly enjoyed not only the soba but also the dipping sauce and tempura. Walking through underground passageways as much as possible to avoid the blazing sun, we made our way to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, taking frequent breaks, and then took a shortcut to Takebashi Station. Thanks to the shade of the trees, Meiji Shrine was comfortable to visit, and we appreciated the characteristics of traditional Japanese architecture. Before parting, I thoroughly explained how to get back to the Hotel, since there was a risk of getting lost and running into trouble under the blazing sun.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHigashi-shinjuku～Kuramae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassNezu～Yushima0JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Tokyo170JPY
    Section 4SubwayTakebashi～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimiinari by Subway and JR train & Ryoanji

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimiinari by Subway and JR train & Ryoanji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel Kyoto
    • 11:00 Fushimiinari (0) by Subway and JR train
    • 12:00 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Ninenzaka by walking
    • Lunch (ichiren Kyoto: Yuzu Ramen)
    • 14:30 Kennninji (800)by walking
    • Hanamikoji by walking
    • 15:40 Kinkakuji(500) by taxi
    • 16:20 Ryoanji(600)
    • 17:00 Hotel Kyoto
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji The guests were visitors from North America, traveling in Japan during a break. The day before, they had visited the monkey park, the bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji, and Nara Park, where they enjoyed feeding the deer, and they told me they had walked about 30,000 steps. The day of the tour was extremely hot, so we proceeded while sweating a great deal and staying hydrated. On the approach to Kiyomizu-dera, some of the guests had mango shaved ice and others had soft serve ice cream, and they asked me why Japanese soft serve is so delicious. For lunch, since they said they did not want Indian or Chinese food, I suggested ramen and took them to a yuzu ramen shop on Ninenzaka. They were delighted, saying this ramen was more delicious than the ramen they had at a famous chain restaurant in Tokyo. They did not do any souvenir shopping at all, so since we had a little time left at the final planned stop, Kinkaku-ji, I also guided them to Ryoan-ji. After that, we returned to the Hotel and ended the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKarasuma Oike～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Total370JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

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    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.09:00@Hotel Ginza
    • 2.09:30@Yanaka Cemetery
    • 3.10:00@Tennoji Temple
    • 4.10:30@Yoshidaya Liquor Store
    • 5.11:00＠Ueno Sakuragi Area
    • 6.11:30@Nezu Shrine
    • 7.12:10@Yanaka Ginza
    • 8.12:30@To the hotel
    • 8.13:00 Dismissal＠Hotel

    What Is a Private Yanaka Walking Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. They wanted to see places away from the busy city tourist spots, so we went to Yanaka. They had already traveled to Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Osaka, and the day before they had gone to Shinjuku on their own, though some of the guests said they did not care for Shinjuku. They commented that areas such as Yanaka Cemetery and Tennoji were beautiful and that they were able to see a different side of Tokyo. They mentioned that the heat in Tokyo felt more manageable compared to the Kansai region. Around Ueno Sakuragi, they took a liking to a balsamic vinegar made from champagne at an olive shop and purchased some. They also enjoyed ice cream at a shop specializing in sweet potato treats, and at Nezu Shrine they said it was very beautiful and took many photos. On the train back, one of the guests left an earphone case on the train, so we reported it at the station. When we told the staff, they gave us a phone number where English was available, and when we called, they said they would contact us if it was found. I hope it turns up. I saw them off to their hotel, and we parted ways. They were a very talkative and enjoyable group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYurakucho～Nippori178JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori～Yurakucho178JPY
    Total356JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…