Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:45 Depart from hotel (Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto Hachijoguchi)
    • Travel from JR Kyoto Station to JR Inari Station
    • 14:10 – 15:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • Travel from JR Inari Station to JR Tofukuji Station, transfer to bus to Gojozaka
    • 16:00 – 17:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • Walking through Sannenzaka → Ninenzaka → Yasaka Shrine
    • 18:00 Arrive at Gion, dismiss

    What Is a Private Afternoon Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report At the agency's request made in advance, the tour started a little earlier, beginning at 14:00. The guests were a group visiting from North America. They arrived in Kyoto this morning, traveling via Tokyo and Kanazawa. Despite the heat, everyone was full of energy and completed the planned course on foot as scheduled. Some of the guests enthusiastically took photos, while others especially enjoyed strolling along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka and shopping for souvenirs. We arrived at Hanamikoji Street in Gion just as our time was up, and we parted ways there. The next day they planned to visit Nara, followed by Osaka and Hiroshima. Although their stay in Kyoto was short, it seems they were able to enjoy it to the fullest in a condensed way.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji～Gojozaka230JPY
    Total530JPY

    Tour Report by SAM

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Request Booking

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM14:20 Kuromon Market
    • PM15:00 Osaka Castle
    • PM16:40 Namba Yasaka Shrine　　
    • PM17:40 Dotonbori disband

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Nara and Osaka Like from Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They were staying in Kyoto and did Nara sightseeing until 1:00 PM, then moved on to Osaka before heading back to Kyoto in the evening — an ambitious schedule. Keeping in touch by smartphone, we met up at Kuromon Market 40 minutes earlier than planned. Given the heat, the guests understandably seemed tired. After visiting Osaka Castle, there was an idea to head straight back to Kyoto, but we concluded that we would visit Yasaka Shrine near Namba and then go to Dotonbori. By the time we reached Dotonbori, the heat had eased, and the guests were amazed by the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori. I introduced some places to shop and eat. Since the guests wanted to enjoy strolling around the streets and having a meal on their own, we parted ways a little early. I had been a bit worried that moving to Osaka might be difficult in the heat, but the group was full of energy, and I hope they enjoyed Osaka's famous local dishes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNipponbashi～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Namba240JPY
    Total430JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Harajuku Takeshita Street & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Harajuku Takeshita Street & Akihabara

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:20　Meet up @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 09:50　Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko
    • 10:20　Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 11:20　Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:50　Lunch @ Uotsuki (Tsukiji)
    • 13:10　Akihabara
    • 14:30　Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho, Golden Gai & Hanazono Shrine
    • 15:35　Disband @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour Beyond the Classic Sights? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan, and they planned to travel to Kyoto after sightseeing in Tokyo. The guests requested, "Since we will visit Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji Temple, and Tokyo Skytree with another guide tomorrow, please show us other places," which resulted in the tour route described above. Some of the guests were interested in the 100-yen shops on Takeshita Street, as well as the anime books and the Don Quijote store in Akihabara. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed Japanese food such as sushi. In Shinjuku, they enjoyed strolling through Omoide Yokocho, Golden Gai, and Hanazono Shrine. Since I responded exactly to the guests' wishes, 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 1TrainShinjuku～Shibuya170JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Akihabara0JPY
    Section 5SubwaySuehirocho～Shinjuku0JPY
    Total920JPY

    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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    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • All transportation by Hakone Mobility, Mr. Okuba
    • Waiting at Ten-yu 11:06 Received an email from John requesting pickup from Kowakidani Station. Met the driver and headed there. After meeting, returned to Ten-yu, stored luggage, and discussed the itinerary.
    • Hakone Open-Air Museum and lunch. Then Sounzan, ropeway, Owakudani, Mt. Fuji and black eggs. By ropeway to Togendai 7. 15:10 pirate ship cruise, disembark at Hakonemachi Port.
    • At Maruyama Bussan, presentation experience and yosegi marquetry shopping. Then returned to the hotel, dismissed at 16:45

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like from Odawara? A Licensed Guide's Report The pickup point was originally set for Odawara at 9:30, but at the guests' request it was changed to a hotel meeting at 11:00, and ultimately the pickup took place at Kowakidani Station. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private tour for a group who were in very high spirits. Naturally, they were hungry, so we headed first to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, but the buffet was temporarily closed to new entries due to a large group. Since they preferred not to spend too much time and were interested in something quick, we had lunch at a café instead. Inside the museum, they enjoyed themselves, including interacting with some kindergarten children. At Owakudani, Mount Fuji unexpectedly came into view, so they took many photos and tried the famous black eggs. On Lake Ashi, they thoroughly enjoyed the pirate ship cruise on deck. At Maruyama, after a presentation on yosegi marquetry woodwork, they tried opening a puzzle box, each purchased items to their own liking, and also took photos with the shop staff, all of which they enjoyed. They were looking forward to the hot spring tonight. They kindly invited me to join them, but of course that would not be appropriate.

    Click here for more details: Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car 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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Depart from Edition Tokyo Ginza
    • 13:25-14:20 Asakusa sightseeing
    • 14:40-15:45 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 16:10-16:50 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya PARCO, guide on how to return via the Ginza Line and disband

    What Can You See in a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America. They had already traveled through Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, and had moved to Tokyo by shinkansen that morning. They wanted to see Asakusa, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing within four hours. Since the guests were strong walkers, we moved at a fast pace, and as a result we finished with a little time to spare, so I guided them to Parco before ending the tour (as one of the guests was interested in anime and manga). The guests listened carefully to the explanations, which made guiding very easy. We were lucky to be able to proceed with the tour without being caught in any thunderstorms.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTakaracho Station～Asakusa900JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi～Shibuya0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Maki

    Hello!
    I’m Maki. Nice to meet you.
    I used to work at a travel agency as a tour escort so I have traveled to more than 50 countries and all 47 prefectures in Japan.
    When I came back to Japan from abroad, I always noticed virtues in Japan anew.
    I’m thrilled to introduce such kinds of stories and favorite places to you.
    I like bar hopping, cooking, history, and outdoor activities such as camping, cycling.
    I have a licence of International Sake Sommlier and Wine Expert. I’m happy if I would have a chance to introduce you about sake and wine.
    I’m also a mother of high school girl. Let’s have fun together!

    Request Booking

    Oct 9, 2025
    301catherinep
    Fabulous customised tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki is a wonderful, well informed guide. She customised…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Gene L
    Our 6 hour tour with Maki was fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and…

    Aug 31, 2025
    T
    tmay2921
    Maki is the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day exploring…

    Jul 12, 2025
    O6400ONsaram
    Maki san kakkoii desu
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki was generous and flexible! She met us…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hilton Tokyo Odaiba
    • 10:20 Daiba Station
    • 11:05 Asakusa Station
    • Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:20 Asakusa Station
    • 13:00 Tsukiji Station
    • Lunch @ Rotating Sushi Zanmai
    • 14:20 Tsukiji Station
    • 14:40 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 16:00 Disband @ Takeshita Street

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. I felt a natural rapport with the group, and we had an interesting conversation about differences between Japan and North America regarding health-conscious eating. Since they had eaten a large breakfast, we sightseed in Asakusa first and then headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market. Because they wanted to eat fresh sushi, I chose a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant where the portions are easy to adjust. They were delighted that even conveyor-belt sushi in Japan is extremely delicious. Our final stop was Meiji Shrine, where we spent about 50 minutes, and with the remaining time we visited Takeshita Street. After picking out and guiding them to some recommended shops, I explained how to get back to Harajuku Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba Station～Shimbashi Station330JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station～Asakusa Station220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station290JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station～Meiji-jingumae Station210JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Recovery of Phone and End

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Recovery of Phone and End

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00/Meet at Hotel
    • 11:30/Asakusa
    • 13:30/Pokemon Center Nihonbashi・Takashimaya
    • 15:00/Lunch (Kanda)
    • 16:15/Disband at Hotel
    • 17:00/Recovery of Phone and End

    What Is a Wheelchair-Accessible Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa and Nihonbashi This was my first opportunity to guide guests using a wheelchair. The group had recently started using a wheelchair. Because it had only been a short time since they began using it, and because the plan involved subway travel with transfers, this was a fairly challenging itinerary. Before the tour started, I explained that using the subway would take considerably more time and that crowding on the subway was to be expected, and once they understood and agreed, I focused the guiding on Asakusa and the Pokémon Center in Nihonbashi. The guests described themselves as beginners with the wheelchair, but they were very cheerful and were understanding even when things did not go as planned. I had checked the subway transfers and the wheelchair routes at the ticket gates in advance, but once we actually started moving, everything took twice as long as usual. Basically, the accompanying person pushed the wheelchair, but depending on the situation I also helped out, and it was a day full of new discoveries. Since this is an unusual case, I would like to share some notes: – It is safest to travel after the end of rush hour, around 10:30 or later, and to return to the hotel by 16:00. – As was the case this time, you should assume that a taxi will be needed at the end. – Keep subway transfers to about one, and minimize the use of elevators as much as possible. – Most important is to check in advance where the wheelchair-accessible train cars are, and to let crowded trains pass. – Wheelchairs compete with stroller users who are also waiting for less crowded trains. – Use the wider ticket gates near the station staff. – This is just my personal impression, but for wheelchair routes, the Tokyo Metro is easier to understand and navigate than JR. Although the number of destinations was limited due to various conditions, unlike sightseeing by car, we were able to enjoy sightseeing from a different perspective, and I believe the guests were satisfied. For lunch, we had tonkatsu at a famous restaurant, and although there was a bit of a wait, the thick cut of meat was well received. Finally, on the taxi ride back to the hotel, the guests left a smartphone in the vehicle. Because I had kept the receipt, I was able to quickly contact the driver using the vehicle number, and we recovered the smartphone in about 40 minutes. I was reminded once again that even if it seems unnecessary, you should always keep taxi receipts. This concludes my report for this time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Asakusa252JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Nihonbashi178JPY
    Section 3TrainNihonbashi～Kanda178JPY
    Total608JPY

    Tour Report by tani

    Japan Guide Award Finalist
    A nationally available guide with a background in international journalism, field logistics, and custom travel planning.

    With more than 30 years of experience as a broadcast journalist, including many years in current affairs, I bring a calm, practical, and flexible approach to guiding. I served as bureau chief in Cairo for 4 years and in London for 5 years, and reported from more than 30 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

    I have also visited all 47 prefectures of Japan while working as a news supervisor for a local affiliate station. This nationwide perspective helps me design tours that are both realistic and rewarding.

    I offer custom itineraries tailored to each guest’s interests, pace, and priorities. I am especially well-suited to walking-based, outdoor, and hands-on experiences, drawing on many years of mountaineering and other active pursuits such as tennis, skiing, canoeing, and biking. Golf rounds can also be arranged upon request.

    In addition, I served as a volunteer team leader for the press at the canoe slalom venue during the Tokyo Olympics. I am available throughout Japan, and I also publish weekly travel tips for international visitors on Substack, Japan A to Z.

    Contact
    Newsletter (Substack): https://tani.substack.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/japanatoz/
    Email: treasurehuntinjapan@gmail.com

    Request Booking

    Oct 21, 2024
    jaysonn708
    Outstanding Guide: A Memorable Tokyo Experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tani was an exceptional guide who…

    Oct 15, 2024
    Q3332TBnicholasl
    Great introduction to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tani was exceptional! He communicationed ahead of time…

    Oct 8, 2024
    X3846HRmiken
    Wonderful Tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour! Our guide, Tani (Hideo Tanikawa) was very knowledgeable,…

    Oct 8, 2024
    RAQUEL N
    Tour with Tani
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideo Tanikawa was an amazing tour guide! He…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:30 @ Himeji Castle (via Egret Himeji)
    • 11:45 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 13:15 Disband @ Food Court inside JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest visited Japan and moved smoothly through the itinerary even in the heat. The guest showed a strong interest in Japan and listened attentively to the guide's explanations. Photography seemed to be a hobby, and the guest took many photos throughout the day. Before visiting Himeji Castle, the guest was very impressed by the full view of Himeji Castle from the rooftop of "Egret Himeji." At Koko-en Garden, the guest wished to experience tea in the tea house, and I guided them there, which they greatly enjoyed. On the way back to Himeji Station, the guest wished to try soft-serve ice cream at a popular Japanese tea shop, but unfortunately, due to a machine malfunction, it was not available for sale. When I told the shop staff how much the guest had been looking forward to it, they were very apologetic and said, "Please at least have some tea," offering complimentary chilled green tea, which the guest happily described as "very delicious." Afterward, the guest stopped by a specialty shop in the local shopping street known for handmade "maneki-neko" (beckoning cat figurines) and purchased souvenirs. Feeling a bit hungry, the guest ordered the local specialties "ekisoba" and "akashiyaki" (octopus dumplings eaten with broth) at the food court inside Himeji Station, where we then 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
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    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
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    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
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    Castle journey worth your time!
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinagawa

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinagawa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Royal Park Haneda
    • 9:00 Ueno Park, Shinobazu Pond
    • 10:00 Asakusa
    • 11:00 Akihabara
    • 12:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:30 Shibuya Crossing, PARCO
    • 14:30 Shinagawa

    Title: What's a One-Day Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. After spending time visiting friends in Oceania, they stopped in Japan for a few days on their way home. Since they plan to take a more thorough trip to Japan next time, this time they wanted to briefly visit Tokyo DisneySea and the major sights of Tokyo. The group was deeply moved by Shinobazu Pond with its blooming lotus flowers, which one of the guests had wished to see. In the intense summer heat, we quickly toured five locations, and the guests were also thrilled at Akihabara and the Nintendo store in PARCO. I was very touched to receive a cap, cookies, and a kitchen cloth as gifts. I saw the guests off at the Keikyu Shinagawa platform for the train to Haneda Airport, ending my duties. It was a wonderful group, and everyone was very well-mannered.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHaneda Terminal 3～Hamamatsucho519JPY
    Section 2TrainHamamatsucho～Ueno178JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukuba Asakusa～Akihabara210JPY
    Section 5TrainAkihabara～Otemachi324JPY
    Section 6SubwayOtemachi～Shibuya209JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya～Shinagawa178JPY
    Total1,796JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

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    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
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    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Osaka: Shitennoji Temple & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka: Shitennoji Temple & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Regale Dotonbori East
    • 9:55- 11:45 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 12:05-12:30 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:40-12:55 @ Shinsekai
    • 13:10-14:20 Lunch @ Harukas
    • 14:50 -15:10 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 15:35-15:40 @ Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:55 Dismiss @ Regale Dotonbori East

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. Some of the guests live in Asia, some in Europe, and others also joined the trip. One of the guests had a long relationship with Japanese companies and had visited Japan several times before, so they were quite familiar with the country. From the start I had been told that one of the guests loved history and would ask many questions, and indeed the questions continued throughout the drive, so much so that we lost track of time. The sunlight was very strong, and as it was the final day of their trip they were also tired, but with the cooperation of the driver we were able to visit the famous sights of Osaka at a brisk pace, and the guests were very satisfied. After the sunlight softened, they visited Dotonbori near their hotel, and afterward one of the guests reported to me that they had a wonderful time at the sushi restaurant I had recommended.

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