Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Sounzan & Kowakudani

    Kanagawa in One Day: Sounzan & Kowakudani

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Hakone Kamigora
    • 10:20 – 10:35 Sounzan → Owakudani (Travel: Hakone Ropeway)
    • 10:35 – 11:15 Stay at Owakudani (Photo taking, buying black eggs, etc.)
    • 11:20 – 11:55 Owakudani → Togendai (Travel: Hakone Ropeway)
    • 12:40 – 13:05 Togendai → Hakonemachi Port (Travel: Pirate Ship)
    • 13:15 – 14:00 Lunch at Tatsumi
    • 14:15 – 14:18 Hakonemachi Port → Moto-Hakone Port (Travel: Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 14:30 – 15:40 Stay at Hakone Shrine
    • 15:58 – 16:14 Moto-Hakone Port → Kowakudani (Travel: Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 16:28 – 16:34 Kowakudani → Gora (Travel: Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 17:00 Disband at Hyatt Regency Hakone

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group who came to Japan from North America, a very pleasant and close-knit group, and it was clear they were enjoying the tour, which kept me feeling happy throughout to the very end. During the preliminary discussions, there was a request to have ramen for lunch, but I had explained that while Hakone is famous for soba, ramen is not something to expect there. On the day, however, we did end up going for ramen. The shop that served the ramen was a bit disappointing, so as a point of reflection I would like to take this into account for future tours. At Hakone Shrine, everyone drew omikuji fortunes, and I translated and conveyed the main parts of the results, which they seemed to greatly enjoy, and it went very well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSounzan~Owakudani1,500JPY
    Section 2FerryTogendai Port~Hakonemachi Port2,000JPY
    Section 3BusHakonemachi Port~Moto-Hakone Port200JPY
    Section 4BusMoto-Hakone Port~Kowakudani650JPY
    Section 5TrainKowakudani~Gora160JPY
    Total4,510JPY

    I registered as a national guide in February 2015 and began working as an interpreter guide in 2019. I have been guiding throughout Tokyo (I was born and raised in Setagaya and went to elementary and junior high school in Aoyama, Minato-ku. I am familiar with sightseeing spots and gourmet food in this area, including Shibuya), and I now live in Kanagawa (Yokohama where I have lived more than 30 years, and Kamakura, Odawara, Hakone)
    I worked for the Japanese branch of an American advertising company for over 30 years and, thus, have deep knowledge of marketing and branding.
    My hobbies are travel (domestic and international) and bicycling (I have participated in the Tour de Okinawa citizens’ race every year since 2017. I ride approx. 7,000 kilometers a year). When traveling in Japan, I enjoy traditional crafts, local products, food, and sake from each region. I am also active in a band as a third hobby, performing live once a year for ten years.
    As a guide, I mainly guide small groups (about 4-5 people), where I can communicate more closely and politely with them, rather than large groups.
    My activity aims to deepen the understanding of Japanese traditional culture and the Japanese people among foreign visitors and to make a small contribution to making Japan the number one country to revisit in their hearts.

    May 31, 2026
    Carol_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great way to start a trip
    Hidecki reached out a couple of…

    May 7, 2026
    Alain_V
    Viator review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Belle visite
    Merci beaucoup à notre guide Ideaki qui nous a permis…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Julia_S
    Viator review: Kamakura Private Tour from Yokohama with Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent Guide made for an Excellent Tour
    We enjoyed our…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Jeff_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Short tour of a huge city
    Hideiki obviously wanted to give us…

  • Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Enoshima

    Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Enoshima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30  Meet up @ Kamakura Station East Exit
    • 10:00 Hokokuji Temple
    • 11:00  Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 11:30 Komachi Street
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Ginza Kagari Kamakura Branch (Ramen Shop)
    • 13:30 Hasedera Temple
    • 15:00 Enoshima
    • 16:00 Disband @ Fujisawa Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip to Kamakura and Enoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time, traveling with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). Before coming to Japan, the group had traveled through Asia. At Hokokuji Temple, they were impressed by the beautiful bamboo grove garden, and at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine they admired the lotus flowers in full bloom on the Genpei Pond. On Komachi Street, the group showed interest in the wide variety of souvenir shops and enjoyed a lunch of ramen. At Hasedera Temple they were struck by the enormous Kannon statue, and on Enoshima they took interest in the beautiful ocean scenery and the shops along the approach to Enoshima Shrine. As I responded to all of the group's requests, I believe they were satisfied with the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKamakura Station~Jomyoji220JPY
    Section 2BusJomyoji~Hachimangu220JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura Station~Hase200JPY
    Section 4TrainHase~Enoshima260JPY
    Section 5TrainKatase-Enoshima~Fujisawa170JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    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

    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…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Heian Shrine

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Heian Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet  JR Kyoto Station
    • 12:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 13:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 14:45 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 15:45 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 16:10 Heian Shrine
    • 17:40 Disband JR Kyoto Station

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report This tour was for guests visiting Kyoto on a private day trip from Tokyo. We began exchanging messages to decide on a meeting point at Kyoto Station, but since the replies to my questions were not quite on point, I felt a little uneasy about whether we would be able to meet successfully. Thanks to the support from the staff at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), however, we were able to meet without any trouble. I am very grateful. As for the tour itself, in front of the Niomon Gate at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the guests became friendly with some junior high school students who were on a school trip, and in the end they happily posed together for a photo. I believe the guests enjoyed this tour.

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Asakusa Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point @MIMARU Tokyo Hatchobori
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:20 Tsukiji Station
    • 12:50 Asakusa Station
    • 14:00 Dismissal: Near Sensoji Temple

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Tsukiji and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and it was their first trip to Japan. Some of the guests were especially knowledgeable about Japanese history and politics, and remained enthusiastic throughout, asking questions and checking with me about the things they saw and heard. At Tsukiji Market, the guests enjoyed and were impressed by Japanese food culture through tastings and explanations. In Asakusa, I gave an overview of the history and the differences between shrines and temples, but the heatwave was severe and some fatigue was visible, so I kept the area around the main hall brief and we finished by cooling off at a nearby cafe before parting ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKayabacho Station~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Total470JPY

    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!!

    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…

  • Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel-9:15 Fukagawa Fudodo-10:00 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine-10:45 Pokemon Center DX-11:20 Lunch-12:30 Tsukiji Outer Market-13:10 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace-14:30 Dismissal at Tokyo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Central Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nihonbashi, Tsukiji, and the Imperial Palace The group visiting from North America was interested in trying many different things. To save time buying tickets one by one, I explained the benefits of an IC card, and they purchased four PASMO cards at Takadanobaba Station, after which getting around became smooth and easy. At a long-established washi (Japanese paper) shop in Nihonbashi, the guests shopped for souvenirs. They enjoyed an early sushi lunch and savored the lively atmosphere of the Tsukiji Outer Market. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, although there was no direct sunshine, walking for a while in the hot and humid weather left them feeling a bit worn out. After a rest at an air-conditioned rest area, they seemed to recover their energy. The private tour was led by a government-licensed guide from [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.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Okubo~Takadanobaba146JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakadanobaba~Monzen-Nakacho209JPY
    Section 3SubwayMonzen-Nakacho~Nihonbashi178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNihonbashi~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji~Otemachi178JPY
    Total889JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet at the hotel 8:55 Head to Kenrokuen from Kanazawa Station on the Kanazawa Loop Bus 9:10 Tour Kenrokuen  
    • 9:30 Tour the Ishikawa Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts next to Kenrokuen
    • 10:00 Return to Kenrokuen  10:25 Stroll through Kanazawa Castle Park
    • 10:55 Go from Nezumita Gate to Oyama Shrine for a stroll and visit
    • 11:20 Head toward the Nagamachi Samurai District and tour the Ashigaru Museum
    • 11:40 Tour the Takada Family Residence 11:55 Tour the Nomura Family Residence
    • 12:30 Take a taxi from Korinbo toward the Higashi Chaya District
    • 12:45 At Sakuda Gold Leaf, tour and receive an explanation of the gold leaf production process 13:15 Walk through the Higashi Chaya District.
    • 13:25 At the plaza of the Higashi Chaya District, explain the Higashi Chaya District and its highlights, ending the tour in front of Shima

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Despite the rainy season, it stayed sunny for the first three hours after the tour began, so the guests enjoyed strolling through Kanazawa's famous sights and the back streets along the canals. The guests were especially interested in Kanazawa's traditional culture and gold leaf. For this reason, they loved the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts, and at the shop they purchased a small replica of the Kaga lion dance figure unique to Kanazawa. At Hakuza gold leaf shop, they were fascinated by the gold leaf manufacturing process, listening attentively to the explanations and watching the work closely. They remarked that Kanazawa is a beautiful and wonderful city.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station~Kenrokuenshita, Kanazawa Castle210JPY
    Total210JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:50 Meet up @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 2. 10:05 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:40 Stay @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 4. 11:00 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:20 Stay @ Harajuku
    • 6. 12:20 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:05 Lunch @ Hong Kong Market (Sunshine City)
    • 8. 13:55 Stay @ Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo
    • 9. 14:15 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 15:05 Stay @ Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No. 1, South Observatory
    • 11. 15:30 Travel: Subway
    • 12. 15:45 Stay @ Omoide Yokocho
    • 13. 16:20 Disband @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

    What Is a Private Shopping-Focused Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, Ikebukuro, and Shinjuku Since I had been told the group was a larger party, I set up a route that would let them enjoy shopping as much as possible. There was not much of a reaction on Takeshita Street, but the Nike store in front of Meiji-Jingumae Station was very popular, and in the end the group purchased three pairs of sneakers. The guests were from Europe, and they were delighted that the prices were far cheaper than in Europe. Sunshine City in East Ikebukuro has a spacious restaurant floor, and like Mark City in Shibuya, I think it is well suited as a lunch venue for a larger group. Since the guests' Hotel was in Shinjuku, I added the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to the route. Because you can get there from Nishi-Shinjuku Station without ever going outdoors, I felt it was an ideal destination in the summer. I would like to actively incorporate it into future tours.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku-sanchome Station~Shibuya Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassShibuya Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station~Higashi-Ikebukuro Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassHigashi-Ikebukuro Station~Nishi-Shinjuku Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassNishi-Shinjuku Station~Shinjuku Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 The Westin Miyako Kyoto Meet-up
    • 9:30~10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 11:15~12:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:40~13:20 Sanjusangendo
    • 13:40~14:15 Lunch break (Sanjo)
    • 14:15~15:15 Gion – Yasaka Shrine – Chion-in   Disband

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari, and Sanjusangendo The guests were a group visiting from North America. The weather was fine, but daytime temperatures in Kyoto rose to 36 degrees and the humidity was high, so we toured while making sure to stay hydrated and checking on everyone's condition. At Nijo Castle, the guests were impressed by the Karamon Gate, the buildings of the Ninomaru Palace, and the wall paintings. In the scene depicting the audience with the shogun in the great hall, they admired the mannequins of the shogun and the feudal lords. One comment was that it would be nice to have a female mannequin placed in the Shiro-shoin as well. At Fushimi Inari, the guests were captivated watching a Shinto priest's ritual and were amazed at the number of people climbing the thousands of torii gates up Mount Inari. At Sanjusangendo, they reflected on the political power of the rulers of the time who relied on Buddhism, as well as on the lives of ordinary people.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeage~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari~Shichijo170JPY
    Section 5TrainShichijo~Sanjo170JPY
    Total1,010JPY

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:05 Meet up @ Onyado Nono Asakusa Bettei
    • 2. 09:20 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:50 Visit @ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 4. 11:00 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:20 Visit @ Tsukiji, Lunch @ Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 6. 12:50 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:35 Visit @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Scramble Square
    • 8. 14:10 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:30 Visit @ Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 10. 14:55 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 15:25 Visit @ Nezu Shrine
    • 12. 16:05 Travel: Subway
    • 13. 16:40 Disband @ Onyado Nono Asakusa Bettei

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, and Shibuya In Asakusa, some hotels have two nearby buildings, such as the View Hotel and Richmond Hotel, and the hotel for this tour also had an annex. I did not realize the guests were staying in the annex until they sent me a photo, so our meeting was slightly delayed. When I apologized for the delay, the guests laughed and said, "We got confused too." The entrance to the annex was on a back street and hard to find, and the guests said they had walked around the area several times. It is probably rare for such a place to be designated as a meeting point, but it may require caution. Since it was a family group, at the East Gardens I also guided them toward the main keep area, but they seemed a little tired, so afterward I made sure to keep a comfortable pace. In Tsukiji, before lunch we took a break at a café and had ice cream, and in Shibuya, after showing the guests the Scramble Crossing, we stopped by Shibuya Scramble Square for some shopping. It was too hot to guide them around Yanaka after visiting Nezu Shrine, so I saw them back to the Hotel a little earlier than planned and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAsakusa Station~Otemachi Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi Station~Tsukiji Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji Station~Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station~Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassNezu Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 Meet at Hotel Sequence Miyashita Park (9 min from JR Shibuya Station)
    • 0830 Walk to the first torii gate of Meiji Shrine, overview explanation
    • 0915 From Nijubashimae Station along Gyoko-dori Avenue, Marunouchi Building wooden piles, Tokyo Station, walking and explaining as far as around Nihonbashi Takashimaya
    • 1010 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 1100 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
    • 1150 Okachimachi ~ Ameyoko ~ Ueno Park (Kiyomizu Kannon-do Hall, statue of Saigo Takamori)
    • 1230 Akihabara, Yodobashi, Radio Kaikan
    • 1305 Kabukiza Theater ~ Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1340 Shibuya, Hachiko statue, explain how to get to the next meeting place
    • 1400 Disband at the Scramble Crossing

    **Title:** What Can You See on a Private Half-Day Tokyo Photography Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report **Body:** The guest was a solo traveler visiting from North America. Even through our email exchanges beforehand, I had not been able to fully grasp where they wanted to go. The guest informed me that a tour they would be joining the following week would cover these destinations in Tokyo: – Tsukiji Fish Market – Sensoji Temple – Meiji Jingu Shrine – Shibuya Sky Observation Platform – Harajuku district – Shinjuku-gyoen – Yoyogi Park – Imperial Palace So I planned the itinerary to avoid these places. Since the tour started at 8:00 in the morning and many shops were not yet open, I suggested starting a little later, but the guest had a go-kart reservation at 3:00 in the afternoon and needed to return to Shibuya before then, so we proceeded with the above itinerary. The guest carried two professional-grade cameras, and it seemed that taking photographs was more important than the guide's explanations. The guest had no interest in shopping at all, and since we completed each location earlier than planned, I added the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck along the way. Unfortunately, the humidity was high and the air was hazy, but we were still able to photograph the view. From the observation deck, I was able to explain both today's route and next week's route. Since photography became the main focus, I could not tell from the guest's reactions whether I had provided a satisfactory guided experience. After this, the guest planned to head to Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassNihonbashi ~ Ueno-hirokoji~Ueno-okachimachi ~ Iidabashi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassIidabashi~Tochomae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTochomae~Ueno-okachimachi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno~Akihabara0JPY
    Section 6Free PassAkihabara~Higashi-ginza0JPY
    Section 7Free PassGinza~Shibuya0JPY
    Total900JPY

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
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    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

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

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