Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nijubashimae Station & Conrad Tokyo Hotel

    Tokyo in One Day: Nijubashimae Station & Conrad Tokyo Hotel

    Hello and how do you do?
    My name is Nobuo Kokure, and please call me Nobby for short, if you want.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born in Hayama, a beach resort area, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. And I’m now living in Saginuma, Kawasaki city.
    When I was a university student, I had the opportunities of doing a home stay with a family In U.S.A., Australia, and England, as a youth exchange student.
    After graduation from the university, I started working at American Life Insurance Company, Japan (Alico, Japan), which is a group member company of AIG, now MetLife Insurance Company. I could have a chance to visit the head office and the field offices of U.S.A., Wilmington in Delaware, New York, Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale in Florida, Los Angeles, while I was working for Alico, Japan (Now, MetLife Insurance company).
    I had been working for MetLife Insurance Company for about 38 years, in total.
    After retiring from the life insurance company, I started working as a tour guide, because I wanted to become a tour guide to introduce culture, history, and manners and customs of Japan in English. It’s so different between my previous job and the guide business, but I like guide business a lot.
    I can meet so many people from all over the world and the guide business has been thriving after the pandemic.
    I have implemented the tour over 240 times, introduced Japan to more than 4300 tourists from 53 countries.

    Not only Tokyo, but I have experienced touring around Nikko, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji & Hakone area, Takayama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima, etc. which are all very famous as a tourist spot in Japan.
    If you go on a tour in Tokyo, you must see and visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple which is the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo with histories and Nakamise Shopping Street where you can buy the souvenirs and try to taste Japanese sweets, such as doll cake which is the sponge cake in various shapes filled with red bean paste and Japanese powdered tea ice cream. Another my recommendation in Tokyo to visit is Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya. Meiji Shrine is one of the biggest shrines in Japan with quiet and peaceful atmosphere and magnificent site.
    Harajuku and Shibuya are both fun to visit for shopping and experience the Shibuya Crossing.
    I usually propose my tentative itinerary and ask if my plan is all right with the customer or not. My hobby is traveling around Japan and foreign countries and going to the gym for exercise.
    I would like to work as a guide as long as possible if I’m in good health and my legs are strong, because I love this job.
    I put my importance on the mind of OMOTENASHI which means sincere hospitality, though safety during the tour takes precedence, number one priority, before anything else.

    I’m very looking forward to seeing you and touring with you in Japan soon.
    Thank you!

    Best regards,

    Nobuo Kokure (Nobby)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Guide (Kogure) arrives at Conrad Tokyo Hotel
    • 9:00 Meet the guests in the hotel lobby, conduct briefing
    • 9:05 Depart Conrad Tokyo Hotel, walk to Shimbashi Station
    • 9:15 Arrive at Shimbashi Station, guests purchase PASMO
    • 9:21 Depart Shimbashi Station, head to Asakusa Station via Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
    • 9:40 Arrive at Asakusa Station, walk to Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 9:45–9:55 Guide the 8F observation deck of Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 9:55–10:45 Guide Senso-ji Kaminarimon, Nakamise Shopping Street, Hozomon, Five-Storied Pagoda, Giant Straw Sandals, Omikuji, Incense Burner, Chozuya, Main Hall, Asakusa Shrine, Chawawa Matcha Ice Cream shop
    • 10:56 Depart Asakusa Station, head to Shibuya Station via Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
    • 11:30 Arrive at Shibuya Station, walk to Shibuya Station 2F where the Shibuya Scramble Crossing can be seen
    • 11:30–11:50 Guide Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Dogenzaka Seven-Eleven
    • 12:00–12:45 Lunch at Shibuya Hikarie (Rikyu Beef Tongue)
    • 12:58 Depart Shibuya Station, head to Harajuku Station via JR Yamanote Line
    • 13:00 Arrive at Harajuku Station, walk to Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00–13:35 Guide Meiji Shrine (First Torii, Sake Barrels, Second Torii)
    • 13:40 Guide the entrance of Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 13:44 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station, head to Nijubashimae Station via Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
    • 13:57 Arrive at Nijubashimae Station
    • 14:00–14:20 Guide the Imperial Palace Nijubashi
    • 14:40 Depart Hibiya Station, head to Shimbashi Station via Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line through Higashi-ginza Station, then Toei Asakusa Line
    • 14:49 Arrive at Shimbashi Station, walk to Conrad Tokyo Hotel
    • 15:00 Arrive at Conrad Tokyo Hotel

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan the day before, and it was their first time in the country. They thoroughly enjoyed today's tour. At Senso-ji Temple, they learned about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as the different ways of praying at each. They also happily enjoyed matcha ice cream (Chawawa) at Senso-ji. At the busy Shibuya Scramble Crossing, they took many photos with great interest. One of the guests mentioned wanting to see a Japanese convenience store, so I took them to a convenience store on Dogenzaka in Shibuya. (It seemed to be different from the convenience stores they had imagined back home.) When we arrived at Harajuku Station, it suddenly began to rain, and from that point on I guided them while using umbrellas. During the visit to Meiji Shrine, the rain became heavy, and due to time constraints, I guided them as far as the sake barrels and the second torii gate. Takeshita Street in Harajuku was extremely crowded as it was a Sunday, and the guests said there was no need to go inside. They mentioned they had rarely seen a street with so many young people gathered, and they took photos at the entrance of Takeshita Street. While holding umbrellas, I guided them to the statue of Kusunoki Masashige and the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace, then returned to the Hotel on schedule, ending today's Tokyo sightseeing tour. It seemed they had a wonderful first day in Japan. They mentioned that starting the day after next they would travel by ship to Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Korea, Hiroshima, and the Osaka area. Since they planned to stay one more day in Tokyo, I informed them about the Tokyo sightseeing spots we did not visit today. The guests and I enjoyed a good rapport, and our conversation flowed easily.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 5SubwayHibiya~Shimbashi290JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    Hello and how do you do?
    My name is Nobuo Kokure, and please call me Nobby for short, if you want.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born in Hayama, a beach resort area, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. And I’m now living in Saginuma, Kawasaki city.
    When I was a university student, I had the opportunities of doing a home stay with a family In U.S.A., Australia, and England, as a youth exchange student.
    After graduation from the university, I started working at American Life Insurance Company, Japan (Alico, Japan), which is a group member company of AIG, now MetLife Insurance Company. I could have a chance to visit the head office and the field offices of U.S.A., Wilmington in Delaware, New York, Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale in Florida, Los Angeles, while I was working for Alico, Japan (Now, MetLife Insurance company).
    I had been working for MetLife Insurance Company for about 38 years, in total.
    After retiring from the life insurance company, I started working as a tour guide, because I wanted to become a tour guide to introduce culture, history, and manners and customs of Japan in English. It’s so different between my previous job and the guide business, but I like guide business a lot.
    I can meet so many people from all over the world and the guide business has been thriving after the pandemic.
    I have implemented the tour over 240 times, introduced Japan to more than 4300 tourists from 53 countries.

    Not only Tokyo, but I have experienced touring around Nikko, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji & Hakone area, Takayama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima, etc. which are all very famous as a tourist spot in Japan.
    If you go on a tour in Tokyo, you must see and visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple which is the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo with histories and Nakamise Shopping Street where you can buy the souvenirs and try to taste Japanese sweets, such as doll cake which is the sponge cake in various shapes filled with red bean paste and Japanese powdered tea ice cream. Another my recommendation in Tokyo to visit is Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya. Meiji Shrine is one of the biggest shrines in Japan with quiet and peaceful atmosphere and magnificent site.
    Harajuku and Shibuya are both fun to visit for shopping and experience the Shibuya Crossing.
    I usually propose my tentative itinerary and ask if my plan is all right with the customer or not. My hobby is traveling around Japan and foreign countries and going to the gym for exercise.
    I would like to work as a guide as long as possible if I’m in good health and my legs are strong, because I love this job.
    I put my importance on the mind of OMOTENASHI which means sincere hospitality, though safety during the tour takes precedence, number one priority, before anything else.

    I’m very looking forward to seeing you and touring with you in Japan soon.
    Thank you!

    Best regards,

    Nobuo Kokure (Nobby)

    Jul 20, 2026
    JEFF_D
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo In A Day Tour with Nobuo
    The excursion…

    Apr 18, 2026
    Traveler10250323486
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great day with a Japanese guide who seemed like…

    Sep 23, 2025
    johnsL7185LE
    Brilliant family day trip with Nobuo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobuo Kokure is a wonderful guide.…

    Aug 4, 2025
    leslie_w
    Nobby was an awesome tour…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobby was an awesome tour guide. Very…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    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!!
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    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Hotel NAZUNA lobby meet. 12:30 From in front of the hotel, take the Izuhakone bus to Sounzan, arriving at 12:45. Take the ropeway to Owakudani. 13:45 Take the ropeway to Togendai. 14:30 Pirate ship. 14:55 Arrive at Hakonemachi Port. Maruyama Bussan, Donburi Chaya (lunch). Hakone Checkpoint Ruins entrance. Afterwards, 16:45 bus from Hakonemachi Port. 17:30 Disband at the bus stop in front of the hotel. Guests walk to the hotel on foot.

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a warm and pleasant private one-day tour of Hakone for the guests, who reside in North America. Their visit to Hakone fell on the day before their return home. I made a celebration board and, after taking a commemorative photo, we headed to Owakudani, where Mount Fuji was not visible, but the guests happily enjoyed the black eggs. On the pirate ship, the scenery was shrouded in mist over the water, yet the guests took many photographs. When I introduced a puzzle box, the guests were already familiar with it, and they attentively watched a presentation at Maruyama Bussan and made many purchases. On top of that, one of the guests performed magic for all the staff, and everyone cheered with great delight. After a meal at Donburi Chaya, magic was performed there as well, and everyone was amazed. Rather than us providing entertainment, the guests kindly entertained everyone for free.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Section 2BusIn front of the hotel / Izuhakone bus~Sounzan Station entrance / Izuhakone bus490JPY
    Total6,490JPY

    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

    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…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet up at Toyosu Market
    • 05:10-05:30 In advance, explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through the Tsukiji inner market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Private Toyosu Tuna Auction and Sushi Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The group showed great interest in the tuna auction, asking many questions right from the moment we met. Thanks to this, I was able to explain how the auction proceeds and about tuna fishing in a lively atmosphere, and I too was excited to guide them through the tour. At the sushi restaurant after the auction, the whole group enjoyed a "tuna feast," savoring the different flavors of each cut. When I asked everyone to choose their favorite tuna sushi, opinions split between fans of medium-fatty tuna (chutoro) and fans of marinated tuna (zuke), and they enjoyed their sushi in a cheerful mood. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, the group loved the strawberry daifuku and were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShin-Toyosu Station / Toei Bus~Tsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Yasaka Shrine

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Yasaka Shrine

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Tour Itinerary

    • 17:00 Hotel Meet
    • 17:00-17:30 Travel (Keihan Railway; Kiyomizu-Gojo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 17:30-18:20 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 18:20-19:00 Travel (Keihan Railway; Fushimi Inari → Kiyomizu-Gojo)
    • 19:00-20:20 Visit Kiyomizu-dera (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Yasaka Pagoda)
    • 20:20-20:35 Visit Yasaka Shrine
    • 20:35-21:00 Stroll through Gion (Hanamikoji, Gion Shirakawa)
    • 21:00 Tour ends   We said goodbye to the guests at Gion Shirakawa

    Title: What Is a Private Evening Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion The guests were visitors from North America. Despite several emails sent beforehand, there was no reply until the morning of the tour, when a message arrived requesting a change to the following day. Unfortunately, I had another commitment the next day and could not accommodate this, so in order to confirm the details of the tour I made an international call to reach them (prepared for the higher cost, as the messaging app was not available on their side). In the end, we kept the original schedule and met at the Hotel at 17:00. I guided them to Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera (evening visit), Yasaka Shrine, and Gion. I have guided nearly 300 tours so far, and this was the first time I had received no contact until the day itself. The guests seemed to enjoy the evening visit to Kiyomizu-dera very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Kiyomizu-Gojo240JPY
    Total480JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
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    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Self-Background

    During my university years, I lived in a dormitory for four years and had the opportunity to live with many international students.
    Of course, we spoke English.
    After graduating from university, I started working as an English teacher at a junior high school.
    I was able to have a fun teaching life while interacting with many students. During that time, I continued to study English on my own and obtained the pre-1st grade English proficiency test.
    After that, I worked for the Board of Education as a supervisor in charge of English education, and then managed a school as a vice principal, and later principal.
    After retiring from teaching, I took the TOEIC (L&R) and achieved my highest score of 945.
    I also obtained a license as a national guide-interpreter, and began working as a guide for overseas visitors in English.
    Currently, I guide tourists to several places around the country.
    Many customers have told me that I am a good guide, saying that my guidance is easy to understand and that I have a lot of knowledge about sightseeing spots and history.
    Furthermore, I will continue to improve my skills and make efforts to give you a better experience in Japan, so please come and enjoy your trip in Japan with me.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel, from Keikyu Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station to Asakusa Station
    • 10:55 Arrive at Asakusa Station, visit Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, Sumida River embankment, then to Asakusa Station
    • 12:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station, to Otemachi Station via Nihonbashi
    • 12:40 Arrive at Otemachi Station, visit Nijubashi Bridge from Otemon Gate, then to Nijubashi Station
    • 13:20 Arrive at Nijubashi Station, to Meiji-jingumae Station
    • 13:50 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station, stroll around Takeshita Street and Harajuku Station area, then visit Meiji Shrine (light meal break on the way), then to Harajuku Station
    • 15:10 Arrive at Harajuku Station, to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station via Shinagawa
    • 15:50 Arrive at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, confirm with bus staff about boarding the bus to Yokohama the next day, then disband

    What's a 6-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine Today I guided a 6-hour private tour for guests visiting from Oceania. This was their first full day of proper sightseeing in Japan. We headed from Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, the nearest station to their accommodation, to Asakusa. At Nakamise, one of the guests purchased a folding fan as requested. After visiting Senso-ji Temple, we viewed the Skytree from the Sumida River embankment, then took the subway and transferred at Nihonbashi to head to the Imperial Palace. Although it was the anniversary of the end of the war, the Imperial Palace Outer Garden had its usual tranquility, and the guests seemed surprised that such a quiet place could exist in prime central Tokyo. We especially explored the area around the Nijubashi Bridge of the Imperial Palace. I explained the surrender of Edo Castle, how Emperor Meiji moved from Kyoto to Tokyo and made Edo Castle the Imperial Palace, how after Emperor Meiji's death his remains were buried in Kyoto where he was born and raised, and how Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken are enshrined as deities at Meiji Shrine. After that, we headed from Nijubashimae Station to Meiji-jingumae Station. Along the way, after strolling through Takeshita Street and around Harajuku, we visited Meiji Shrine. I explained Japanese shrine culture, including the manner of worship, omikuji fortunes, and torii gates. The guests seemed deeply impressed by the serene atmosphere of the shrine and the beauty of its historic architecture. From Harajuku we took the JR Yamanote Line to Shinagawa, then took the Keikyu Line to arrive at Haneda Airport Terminal 3. We checked the bus service to board a cruise ship departing from Yokohama the next day, and as it was just about time, we parted ways within the terminal.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHaneda Airport Terminal 3 (Keikyu)~Asakusa610JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (Keikyu)540JPY
    Total1,540JPY

    Self-Background

    During my university years, I lived in a dormitory for four years and had the opportunity to live with many international students.
    Of course, we spoke English.
    After graduating from university, I started working as an English teacher at a junior high school.
    I was able to have a fun teaching life while interacting with many students. During that time, I continued to study English on my own and obtained the pre-1st grade English proficiency test.
    After that, I worked for the Board of Education as a supervisor in charge of English education, and then managed a school as a vice principal, and later principal.
    After retiring from teaching, I took the TOEIC (L&R) and achieved my highest score of 945.
    I also obtained a license as a national guide-interpreter, and began working as a guide for overseas visitors in English.
    Currently, I guide tourists to several places around the country.
    Many customers have told me that I am a good guide, saying that my guidance is easy to understand and that I have a lot of knowledge about sightseeing spots and history.
    Furthermore, I will continue to improve my skills and make efforts to give you a better experience in Japan, so please come and enjoy your trip in Japan with me.

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Hello.
    My name is Masayo Shirai.
    I have been a national licensed tour guide of English since April in 2014.
    I was born. raised, and still living near the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
    I have guided lots of foreign guests in my hometown Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takaymam, Kaga, Fukui, and Toyama.
    I have guided FIT, highend FIT, group tour, and bus tours.
    I have been learning tea cemoney, flower arrangement, and noh performance of noh chanting and playing the hand drum.
    I can take you to the experience spot of such traditional cultural spots in my hometown, Kanazawa,

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at the Kinjo Sakura entrance, walk to Musashigatsuji and stroll around the streets.
    • 10:00 From Musashigatsuji, take the local bus to Korinbo.
    • 10:15 From Korinbo, go to the Nagamachi Samurai District, stroll along the canal, and visit the Nomura Family Residence. Also visit the Takada Family Ruins.
    • 11:10 From Korinbo, take the local bus to Hirokoji, then head to the Ninja Temple.
    • 11:30 Visit the Ninja Temple. Guides are not allowed to give explanations inside the temple, so I will wait outside.
    • 12:15 Finish the Ninja Temple tour, and from Hirokoji take the local bus to Musashigatsuji.
    • 12:35 Arrive at Omicho Market from Musashigatsuji.
    • Stroll around Omicho Market, and at the customers' request, eat items purchased in the market standing up in the eating space. After that, go to a nearby Starbucks.
    • 13:10 Walk from Omicho Market to Higashi Chaya District via Kazuemachi Chaya District.
    • 13:30 Stroll around Higashi Chaya District and enjoy shopping.
    • 14:00 Escort the 4 customers to the kimono rental shop Kirara, located right near Higashi Chaya District, and finish the tour.

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had a strong interest in samurai and samurai culture, and they loved Japanese cuisine and Japanese food. The night before, they had stayed at a Hotel and thoroughly enjoyed delicious Japanese cuisine, which made them very happy. At the guests' request, they wanted to visit the Nagamachi samurai district, the Ninja Temple, Omicho Market, and the Higashi Chaya District, so I fulfilled all of their requests. They listened enthusiastically to explanations about the relationship between Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Maeda family that appears in the "Shogun" series, as well as the life of samurai during the Warring States period and the Edo period. They also enjoyed touring the Ninja Temple. At Omicho Market, they bought sushi and Wagyu beef skewers and happily ate them in the market's eating space. It seemed they wanted to eat in an environment different from a traditional restaurant. In the Higashi Chaya District, they were interested in the story of geisha culture and also enjoyed shopping. Afterward, I took them to a kimono rental shop, where the tour concluded. They said that tonight they wanted to wear kimono and take many photos amid the beautiful garden and room furnishings of the Hotel, and once again enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMusashigatsuji・Omicho Market/Hokutetsu Bus~Korinbo/Hokutetsu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusKorinbo/Hokutetsu Bus~Hirokoji (Kanazawa City)/Hokutetsu Bus220JPY
    Section 3BusHirokoji (Kanazawa City)/Hokutetsu Bus~Musashigatsuji・Omicho Market/Hokutetsu Bus220JPY
    Total660JPY

    Hello.
    My name is Masayo Shirai.
    I have been a national licensed tour guide of English since April in 2014.
    I was born. raised, and still living near the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
    I have guided lots of foreign guests in my hometown Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takaymam, Kaga, Fukui, and Toyama.
    I have guided FIT, highend FIT, group tour, and bus tours.
    I have been learning tea cemoney, flower arrangement, and noh performance of noh chanting and playing the hand drum.
    I can take you to the experience spot of such traditional cultural spots in my hometown, Kanazawa,

    Oct 5, 2025
    L
    LightPacker147788
    Kanazawa visit
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very interesting tour with Masayo. She took us…

    Jun 27, 2025
    H6092PZsuem
    Pleasant and interesting morning
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo was our guide for the morning.…

    Mar 16, 2025
    952bonnieh
    Wonderful!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We loved our time with Masayo! Thank you for a…

    Jan 3, 2025
    U5110ZKjades
    A day in Kanazawa with Masayo!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo Shirai was an excellent…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajimaguchi Station & Miyajimaguchi Port

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajimaguchi Station & Miyajimaguchi Port

    Hello, my name is Soshi Ebisuda. My first name is Soshi but my nickname may be easier to remember, so please call me Sebastian!

    My guiding as a government-licensed interpreter in English is specialized in the areas of Tokyo (where I live now) and Hiroshima (my hometown). Professionally I have a long track record in the finance industry, working for a multinational company, and therefore am quite experienced to host international visitors. My areas of interest include Japanese and western history, travel (especially by railroads), and mountains. I also have a trekking guide license of Japan Mountain Guides Association, so will be happy to guide you to beautiful mountains from spring to autumn.

    I look forward to seeing you in Japan!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Gather at the reception lobby of Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate
    • 12:45 Board the westbound Sanyo Main Line train from Hiroshima Station; all guests bring their JR Pass
    • 13:12 Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 13:30 Board the JR Ferry from Miyajimaguchi Port
    • 13:40 Arrive at Miyajima Port
    • ・There was a prior request to have lunch during the tour, but in reality everyone had already eaten, so the meal on the island was skipped
    • ・Visited Itsukushima Shrine via the shopping street
    • ・After leaving the shrine, presented the next options (Daishoin Temple or resting at a cafe), but they said they wanted to drink beer, though they disliked trendy pale ales
    •  and the like, so I looked for and guided them to a nearby shop (Marucafe) that serves regular draft beer rather than craft beer
    • ・Left the cafe around 15:15, and following the guests' request to return to the hotel, headed to the pier
    • 15:55 Board the JR Ferry from Miyajima Port
    • 16:05 Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Port
    • 16:17 Board the eastbound Sanyo Main Line train at Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 16:45 Arrive at Hiroshima Station; after explaining an overview of restaurants around the station, escorted them to the hotel lobby to conclude the tour

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of friends visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They had researched the trip very thoroughly beforehand — for example, they understood why public transportation was crowded in mid-August and knew what "Obon" was. Perhaps because they had already toured Tokyo and Kyoto extensively, they showed little reaction when I gave the usual explanations about Japanese religion and nature, keeping their eyes down. On the other hand, they showed strong interest in food and drinks. They passed on okonomiyaki, saying they would have it in Osaka, but they were very fond of alcoholic beverages and seemed delighted to enjoy some Japanese beer at a cafe. They also seemed interested in conger eel (anago), which many guests tend to avoid, so I focused my conversation on that topic and recommended a restaurant to them.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2FerryMiyajimaguchi Port~Miyajima Port300JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajima Port~Miyajimaguchi Port200JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima420JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Hello, my name is Soshi Ebisuda. My first name is Soshi but my nickname may be easier to remember, so please call me Sebastian!

    My guiding as a government-licensed interpreter in English is specialized in the areas of Tokyo (where I live now) and Hiroshima (my hometown). Professionally I have a long track record in the finance industry, working for a multinational company, and therefore am quite experienced to host international visitors. My areas of interest include Japanese and western history, travel (especially by railroads), and mountains. I also have a trekking guide license of Japan Mountain Guides Association, so will be happy to guide you to beautiful mountains from spring to autumn.

    I look forward to seeing you in Japan!

    May 6, 2026
    Dan_S
    Daily Day in Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day…

    Oct 18, 2024
    Mark_N
    Hiroshima – Fantastic one day.
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing…

    Jun 28, 2024
    W491UCangelak
    Knowledgeable and personable
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Soshi, our private tour guide, (who…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at the hotel lobby
    • 13:00 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
    • 14:00 Nijo Castle (Ninomaru Palace)
    • 15:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 16:30 Kyoto Station (Tour Ends)

    What's a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Taxi Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari I guided a group visiting from North America. They came to Kyoto from Tokyo by bullet train and planned to return to Tokyo immediately after the tour, so with only one day in Kyoto, we used a taxi to efficiently cover Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari Taisha in four hours. As the weather had cleared after a typhoon, the temperature was lower than usual, making sightseeing relatively comfortable. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, there was a question about how the shrine is maintained given that there is no admission fee. I explained that it is supported through donations and mentioned that it would be helpful if they could make a purchase (donation) if possible, and they bought two ema plaques featuring the red torii gates as souvenirs. This was a short trip and they were returning home the next day, but they said, "Next time we'd like to travel more slowly. We'd like to visit Arashiyama as well." As for photos, I took pictures only of the guest who gave consent.

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car

    Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car

    Hello, I’m Hiroshi Kuribayashi, but you can just call me Hiro. I’m thrilled to be your guide around my hometown, Sasebo City, and the neighboring areas, such as Nagasaki, Omura, Hirado, Arita, Imari, and more. I love showing guests around these beautiful places, including their nature, history, food, and more.

    Before I ventured into guiding, I worked as a businessman, handling international business affairs with various countries such as the U.S.A., U.K., Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Egypt, and more. Drawing from my business background, I offer interpretation services for business meetings and translation services for engineering and contractual documents. If there’s something specific you’d like assistance with, feel free to let me know.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Matsugae International Terminal →9:45 Mount Inasa → 10:20 Peace Park → 10:50 Hypocenter Park → 11:10 Atomic Bomb Museum → 12;00 AMU Plaza Shopping Center → 14:30 Meganebashi Bridge → 14:50 Chinatown→ 15:00 Glover Garden → 16:00 Matsugae International Terminal

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Nagasaki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America who seemed to be thoroughly enjoying the tour. They especially remarked that the view from the Inasayama Observatory, which I showed them first, was wonderful. After that, I guided them through Peace Park, the Hypocenter Park, and the Atomic Bomb Museum, where they observed the exhibits on the atomic bombing very attentively. The day was clear with strong sunshine, so at Peace Park and the Hypocenter Park I made sure to guide them into the shade as much as possible. For lunch we stopped by the AMU Plaza shopping center, but as it was the first day of the Obon holiday, the restaurant area was extremely crowded and it took more time than expected. For lunch they had Chinese cuisine, which they seemed to enjoy. Afterward, I guided them to Meganebashi Bridge, Chinatown, and Glover Garden, but since lunch had taken about an hour longer than planned, our stays there were somewhat shorter.

    Hello, I’m Hiroshi Kuribayashi, but you can just call me Hiro. I’m thrilled to be your guide around my hometown, Sasebo City, and the neighboring areas, such as Nagasaki, Omura, Hirado, Arita, Imari, and more. I love showing guests around these beautiful places, including their nature, history, food, and more.

    Before I ventured into guiding, I worked as a businessman, handling international business affairs with various countries such as the U.S.A., U.K., Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Egypt, and more. Drawing from my business background, I offer interpretation services for business meetings and translation services for engineering and contractual documents. If there’s something specific you’d like assistance with, feel free to let me know.

    Jun 15, 2026
    GGuy_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent guide with good knowledge
    Excellent guide with good knowledge…

    Mar 4, 2026
    S943KUrobertb
    The best of Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our tour guide Hiro, was just…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Ian_M
    Walking with Hiro
    Viator review: Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our Guide, Hiro, was very knowledgeable and engaging. We…

    Sep 3, 2025
    BdaVisitor
    Nagasaki Full Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had a lovely day exploring…

  • Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Hello, I’m Hiroshi Kuribayashi, but you can just call me Hiro. I’m thrilled to be your guide around my hometown, Sasebo City, and the neighboring areas, such as Nagasaki, Omura, Hirado, Arita, Imari, and more. I love showing guests around these beautiful places, including their nature, history, food, and more.

    Before I ventured into guiding, I worked as a businessman, handling international business affairs with various countries such as the U.S.A., U.K., Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Egypt, and more. Drawing from my business background, I offer interpretation services for business meetings and translation services for engineering and contractual documents. If there’s something specific you’d like assistance with, feel free to let me know.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Nagasaki Station Front → 9:20 Peace Park → 10:00 Hypocenter Park → 10:30 Atomic Bomb Museum → 12:00 Dejima → 13:00 Chinatown (dismissal)

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Nagasaki Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Peace Park and Dejima The guests were a group from Asia who appeared to be enjoying the tour. At their request, I guided them to Peace Park, the Hypocenter Park, the Atomic Bomb Museum, and Dejima. At Peace Park, they attentively viewed the Peace Statue, the remains of the Urakami Prison, the Fountain of Peace, and Urakami Cathedral, which is visible from Peace Park. At the Hypocenter Park, they listened with great interest to how the hypocenter was identified. At the Atomic Bomb Museum, they attentively viewed the exhibits depicting the devastation caused by the atomic bomb. At Dejima, they attentively viewed the reconstructed exhibits showing what Dejima looked like during the period of national isolation. For lunch, they wished to go to Chinatown, so I guided them there, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNagasaki Station Front~Peace Park150JPY
    Section 2TrainPeace Park~Dejima150JPY
    Section 3OtherDejima~Shinchi Chinatown110JPY
    Total410JPY

    Hello, I’m Hiroshi Kuribayashi, but you can just call me Hiro. I’m thrilled to be your guide around my hometown, Sasebo City, and the neighboring areas, such as Nagasaki, Omura, Hirado, Arita, Imari, and more. I love showing guests around these beautiful places, including their nature, history, food, and more.

    Before I ventured into guiding, I worked as a businessman, handling international business affairs with various countries such as the U.S.A., U.K., Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Egypt, and more. Drawing from my business background, I offer interpretation services for business meetings and translation services for engineering and contractual documents. If there’s something specific you’d like assistance with, feel free to let me know.

    Jun 15, 2026
    GGuy_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent guide with good knowledge
    Excellent guide with good knowledge…

    Mar 4, 2026
    S943KUrobertb
    The best of Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our tour guide Hiro, was just…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Ian_M
    Walking with Hiro
    Viator review: Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our Guide, Hiro, was very knowledgeable and engaging. We…

    Sep 3, 2025
    BdaVisitor
    Nagasaki Full Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had a lovely day exploring…