Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour

    Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour

    Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel lobby (Hotel Graphy Shibuya) → 08:30 Meiji Shrine → 09:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, viewing the Hachiko Statue (combined with transfer) → 10:30 Asakusa sightseeing → 11:30 Ginza sightseeing, 12:00 tour ends in Ginza at guest's request

    What's a 4-Hour Early Morning Private Tour of Tokyo Like on a Transit Layover? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a young group from North America who, after a two-week trip to another Asian country, were transiting through Tokyo with a one-night stay before returning home. They booked a four-hour early morning tour before their afternoon flight departing from Haneda around 5:00 PM. In line with their wish to see as many spots as possible even if the time at each place was short, I arranged the tour accordingly. 1. Since the Hotel is located a little away from Shibuya Station, I set the end point of the four-hour tour in Ginza (guiding them to a Keikyu line that goes directly from Higashi-Ginza to Haneda Airport). 2. Initially, the idea was to return to the Hotel once to check out and pick up their luggage, but I suggested checking out and departing beforehand. As a result, since their luggage was only backpacks, they ended up doing the sightseeing while carrying their bags. I was a little concerned, but they had stored their larger luggage in a locker at Haneda Airport the night before, and the group was in good spirits and had no trouble walking at all, so we were able to finish smoothly. 3. They listened attentively to my explanations and were cooperative with the schedule management, so we completed the tour very smoothly. At the end, we visited the Kabukiza Theatre, which is directly connected to Higashi-Ginza Station on the Keikyu (Asakusa) line that goes straight to Haneda. I showed them the garden and gallery on the fifth floor, guided them to the train platform, and ended the tour there. 4. As a special note, since they had initially also wished to have lunch, I planned to guide them to a restaurant that could accommodate their dietary preference after the tour ended at noon, and I suggested a restaurant. However, since they ended up having plenty of free time in Ginza, they decided to stroll around and have lunch on their own before heading to the airport. Although their first visit to Japan was only a transit and a short amount of sightseeing, they said they would like to come to Japan again. Overall, it was a warm and pleasant tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Shibuya Station～JR Harajuku Station146JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Harajuku Station～JR Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 3TrainGinza Line Shibuya Station～Ginza Line Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 4TrainGinza Line Asakusa Station～Ginza Line Ginza Station209JPY
    Total753JPY

    Tour Report by HIDE

    About HIDE

    Hello, my name is Hideki (HIDE), a licensed tour guide based in Tokyo.
    I spent more than 40 years working in the airline industry, including 12 years living and working overseas.
    During that time, I had extensive opportunities to interact with people from Europe, the United States, and Asia. These experiences strengthened my appreciation for cultural exchange and shaped the warm, attentive hospitality I now bring to my tours.

    My goal is to help visitors enjoy Japan in a relaxed and meaningful way—through not only sightseeing, but also friendly communication, small discoveries, and genuine local experiences. I want guests to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of the culture and a lasting fondness for the country.

    I mainly guide private tours (FIT) in Tokyo, introducing both iconic highlights and hidden local spots that are often missed by first-time visitors. Tours to Kamakura, Hakone, and Nikko can also be arranged upon request.

    Guests often tell me that touring with me feels like traveling with a knowledgeable local friend—something I consider the greatest compliment. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing an enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable time together.

    Languages: English, Indonesian
    Max group size: Up to 4 people
    Contact:
    📱 +81-80-5118-2800 (WhatsApp available)
    📧 morikin57@yahoo.co.jp

    Request Booking

    Apr 6, 2026
    Mercedes_G
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great guide in Tokyo
    Wonderful tour with friendly…

    May 30, 2025
    Paradise22352245597
    Great! Hide was the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I did this with my brother on…

    May 15, 2025
    TrishaK454
    Personalized tour with a very lovely guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hide was a delightful guide.…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Imelda_B
    Grateful
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hide was amazing tour guide. He organised our itinerary very well.…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji & Kappabashi Shopping Street

    Tokyo: Tsukiji & Kappabashi Shopping Street

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @Peninsula Tokyo
    • 9:45 Tsukiji (Honganji Temple ~ Outer Market)
    • 11:15 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 12:30 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 13:45 Yanaka (Cemetery ~ Yanaka Ginza)
    • 15:15 Kappabashi Shopping Street
    • 15:30 Disband @KAMATA Knife Shop

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kappabashi, Tsukiji, and Yanaka The guests were visitors from South America. The unseasonable heat was hard on guests coming from the Southern Hemisphere, so we gave up on the planned Shinjuku Gyoen and instead went to Kappabashi, where the guests bought a kitchen knife that had been requested by a chef they knew back home. At the Tsukiji Outer Market and in Yanaka, the guests were interested in small shops selling traditional Japanese items and enjoyed shopping, which was a pleasant and unexpected discovery for me as well. The contact information for the guests that I received from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) was actually the contact of a local travel agency, and although we had aligned on the places they wanted to visit, that information had not been passed on to the guests, so we ended up confirming the destinations on the morning of the tour. That said, the itinerary needed to be reworked anyway because of the heat. There is nothing to be done about it as far as [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is concerned, but it was genuinely difficult that the travel agency avoided any direct contact between me and the guests until just before the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi～Suidobashi167JPY
    Section 3TrainSuidobashi～Nippori167JPY
    Total512JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Request Booking

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet up @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 9:35 @ Starbucks
    • 3. 10:10 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 12:20 Lunch @ Kassuiken
    • 5. 13:30 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 15:20 @ Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple
    • 7. 17:30 Disband @ Himeji Station

    What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. When we met at Himeji Station, they said they wanted some coffee, so we began the tour with a short break at a Starbucks. Since the plan for the day was to visit Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, and Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, I first purchased discounted round-trip tickets for the bus and ropeway at the Shinki Bus Center, and then we headed to Himeji Castle. The guests enjoyed taking photos and asked many questions, so we toured Himeji Castle at a relaxed pace without rushing. I had asked about lunch in advance, but there was no reply. When I asked the guests, they said they didn't mind waiting because they wanted to eat at Kokoen Garden, so we had lunch after quite a wait. They planned to return to Osaka after the tour, but had not yet purchased their tickets and said they had plenty of time. After lunch, we leisurely toured Kokoen Garden and then went to Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, where we also took our time. As a result, the tour took longer than expected. We ended the tour after purchasing the return tickets to Osaka at Himeji Station, and the guests were very pleased.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Koko-en-mae] Station～[Shinki Bus Shosha-zan Ropeway] Station310JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinojo Ropeway Summit Station ~ Maniden)]～[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinojo Ropeway Summit Station ~ Maniden)]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha-zan Ropeway] Station～[Shinki Bus Himeji Ekimae] Station310JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9：00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2.10:00 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 3.11:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 4.11:10 @ Tenryu-ji
    • 5.12:10 Lunch @ Gyoza no Ohsho
    • 6.14:00 @ Sanjusangen-do
    • 7.15:00 @ Meidi-ya Sanjo Store
    • 8.16:00 Disband @ Nishiki Market

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for Guests Preferring Taxis and Fewer Crowds? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was for a group whose members preferred to travel entirely by taxi throughout the day. To ensure they could return to the hotel quickly whenever tired, we visited Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama first, then had lunch in Kyoto city. Since the guests wanted to enjoy delicious gyoza, I took them to Gyoza no Ohsho, a popular casual restaurant loved by locals, and they were delighted that it was inexpensive and tasty. Because I chose a location near the hotel, they said they would come back to eat there again during their stay in Kyoto. As the guests expressed a wish to avoid crowds, we suddenly changed the route to Fushimi Inari Taisha and then Sanjusangen-do. They loved Sanjusangen-do very much and even took photos in the garden. The guests said they wanted to cook using Japanese spices after returning home and asked me to accompany them shopping at a supermarket, so we went to Meidi-ya near the hotel. As I also enjoy cooking, it was fun to chat about various dishes while standing in front of the spice shelves. Finally, we walked together to Nishiki Market and parted ways at the entrance. The guests were very pleased to have spent such a wonderful time and said they would love to show my business card to their friends and recommend me.

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

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:00 Meet @ Hotel Osaka Umeda
    • 2.10:00 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 3.11:00 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 4.12:00 Lunch @ Gontaro
    • 5.14:00 Meet @ Gion
    • 6.15:00 @ JR Kyoto Station
    • 7.16:10 Disband @ Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Gion Body: There was a bit of a scramble right before departure due to a double booking of the taxi. I began the tour while keeping calm so the guests would not notice. Since nothing was said all the way to the end, I was relieved that they seemed unaware of it. The guests were scheduled to return home the next day, and perhaps because fatigue had built up, everyone fell asleep once we left central Osaka. By the time we reached Arashiyama they had woken up, and I guided them from the vehicle to the Hozu River and the Togetsukyo Bridge, had them walk through the bamboo grove, and then headed to Kinkaku-ji. Lunch was originally planned at Nishiki Market, but the guests grew tired of the crowds at Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji and suddenly said they wanted to sit down and enjoy Japanese cuisine at a relaxed pace away from the crowds, so I quickly contacted a restaurant, made a reservation, and we went there. They kindly invited the driver as well and took a commemorative photo, and it became a very pleasant lunch, which was a relief. After taking photos in Gion and Higashiyama, we had planned to head to Fushimi Inari Taisha, but of the group, some said they would take the Shinkansen from Kyoto and asked to be dropped off at Kyoto Station. At that point I explained that going to Fushimi Inari Taisha would result in overtime and additional charges, and since they did not want to go into overtime, we decided not to go to Fushimi Inari Taisha. It was not only a matter of overtime, but also because some of the guests found stairs difficult and felt they would not be able to walk around even if we went to Fushimi Inari Taisha. After dropping off some of the guests at Kyoto Station, I returned to Osaka with the rest of the group. The return trip was very smooth, so we were able to arrive back at the Hotel by 16:10. The guests seemed tired but were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meeting point　Hotel
    • 2. 8:30 Travel Hiroshima Station→Miyajimaguchi→Miyajima
    • 3. 9:30 Visit Miyajima　Itsukushima Shrine, Daiganji Temple, Daishoin Temple, Five-story Pagoda, Toyokuni Shrine
    • 4. 11:30 Visit Lunch Kurawanka
    • 5. 12:10 Visit Miyajima Great Torii Gate　
    • 6. 12:40 Travel Miyajima→Miyajimaguchi→Peace Park
    • 7. 13:50 Visit　Peace Park　Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 8. 16:00 Travel　Peace Park→Hiroshima Station
    • 9. 16:25 Hotel

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting Japan from North America. They had arrived in Hiroshima the day before and seemed to have enjoyed watching a Carp baseball game in the evening. The weather was good, and the view from the summit of Mount Misen looked promising, so I mentioned that on Miyajima you can take the ropeway up to the summit, and the guests said they wanted to go. However, as the tour went on, walking appeared to become tiring for them, so I guided them along a different route. When I showed the guests the Great Torii Gate at low tide, I led them to a spot in the shade where they could see it well and rest for a while. The scenery from the city streetcar also seemed to be a novelty, and one of the guests filmed a video from near the driver's seat at the very front. Since they were staying two nights in Hiroshima, I was glad to be able to give guidance on the next day's route and transportation options, and they were pleased with it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Genbaku Dome-mae Station270JPY
    Section 3BusPeace Park-mae～Hiroshima Station-mae220JPY
    Total910JPY

    Tour Report by Namitsu

    Hello, my name is Namitsu Katayama. I’m from Hiroshima. It would be my pleasure to show you around Hiroshima, the place which I love so much.
    Hiroshima is beautiful, interesting and fun! I would be happy if you could enjoy our tour, and I hope that it will make you want to visit Hiroshima again in the future. I hope you will like our local food and Hiroshima specialties, too.
    I look forward to talking with you. I would be delighted if I could help you deepen your understanding of Japan and come to love it even more.
    I love travelling and enjoy both domestic and international travel. I would like to make use of my experience to be able to respond flexibly to your requests. If you have any questions or requests, please feel free to contact me.

    Request Booking

    May 30, 2026
    wheatbreadmartin
    Tripadvisor review: Onomichi Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the beaten path with a great guide!
    Our guide, Namitsu, was…

    Apr 10, 2026
    165bozenam
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A fascinating and highly recommended tour.
    We had a…

    Jul 28, 2025
    Reggie_R
    This tour was a great way…
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This tour was…

    Apr 1, 2025
    ruthl654
    Great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Namitsu was a wonderful guide. She was…

  • Fukuoka in One Day: JR Hakata Station to Kido-Nanzoin-mae

    Fukuoka in One Day: JR Hakata Station to Kido-Nanzoin-mae

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:10　Start from Nakasu-Kawabata to Hakata Station
    • 10:12　JR Hakata Station to Kido-Nanzoin-mae
    • 10:35 　Arrive at Kido-Nanzoin　Sightseeing
    • 12:06 　Depart Kido-Nanzoin
    • 12:35 　Arrive at Hakata Station　Buy lunch at Hankyu
    • 12:45-13:30　Lunch
    • 13:40 　By bus from Hakata Station to Gion-machi
    • 13:50-14:15　Tochoji Temple sightseeing
    • 14:15-14:45　Shofukuji Temple sightseeing
    • 14:45-15:15　Kushida Shrine sightseeing
    • 15:30 　Disband at Nakasu-Kawabata Street

    Title: What Happens If Guests Double-Book a Private Guide in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report After arriving at the Hotel, I met a fellow guide I knew a little while later. It turned out that this guide was also scheduled to meet the same guests, which meant the guests had accidentally double-booked. The guide from the other tour company was scheduled from 9:00 to 4:00. Since my tour was a 6-hour tour, I asked the guests, and they confirmed that they had requested the 6-hour course, so I took over as their guide. I also called the emergency line of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). The guests were very good walkers and had no problems throughout the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNakasu-Kawabata～Hakata Station210JPY
    Section 2TrainHakata Station～Kido-Nanzoin-mae380JPY
    Section 3TrainKido-Nanzoin-mae～Hakata Station380JPY
    Section 4BusHakata Station～Gion-machi150JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Tour Report by Sasuke

    Hello, my nickname is Sasuke. I have been working as a National Government Licensed Guide since 2006. I was born and raised in Fukuoka city. I also work as a teacher. Recently my work as a grandmother has become busier and busier. What I like about being a guide is that I talk to people from different countries, get exposed to different ideas, and grow as a person. I would be happy to help make your trip more enjoyable. If you have any requests, please feel free to ask me. I will do my best to fulfill your request as much as possible. Looking forward to seeing you.

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    Inspire07663535521
    Amazing Fukuoka
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sasuke, was very prepared and…

    Jul 8, 2026
    jdtudor
    Great day!
    Viator review: Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This is a great way to see…

    Oct 8, 2025
    jacquiwinn62
    A great day sightseeing in Fukuoka and ate the best Ramen ever!
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Raeanne101184
    City tour of popular shopping and shrines and temples.
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Sasuke showed…

  • Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 hotel 10:35 Hida Kokubunji Temple　10:45 Miyagawa Morning Market　11:15 Kusakabe Folk Museum　11:45 Yatai Kaikan (Festival Float Exhibition Hall), Nikko Toshogu Shrine　13:00 Old Townscape　14:00 Local Sake Tasting　14:30 Disband at the Old Townscape

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a lovely group visiting from North America. They were not very talkative, and while they did not eat a great deal, they were remarkably strong drinkers and enjoy California wine. One of the guests is a great cat lover and was especially fond of cat cafes, keeping three cats at home. Since they had asked someone to look after their cats while away, they wanted to find a thank-you gift as a souvenir. They had very clear preferences — cats were a must, along with other cute items. Fortunately, there was a shop selling cat goods, which was a great help. We had to give up on visiting Takayama Jinya due to time, so I gave a brief explanation of it just beforehand. They had requested a sake flask (tokkuri), so I guided them to an acquaintance's shop, and happily it was a hit. It was wonderful to see them smile.

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

    Tour Report by Mitsu

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel ➡ Kinkaku-ji Temple by subway + bus ➡ Jojakko-ji Temple by taxi ➡ Bamboo grove on foot ➡ Tenryu-ji Temple garden ➡ Around Togetsukyo Bridge ➡ JR Saga-Arashiyama Station ➡ JR Kyoto Station ➡ Lunch (sushi set meal) ➡ Kyoto Station Building Odora Plaza ➡ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine by JR ➡ Gion-Shijo by Keihan Electric Railway ➡ Disband at Gion

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like on the First Day in Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were lovely visitors from Europe who had just arrived in Japan the day before. The trip they had booked four years earlier had finally come true. Since it was their first day of sightseeing, I first helped them purchase IC cards and explained how to use them (they already had a JR Pass), and I also provided information on how to get to their planned destinations, such as Osaka and Himeji, so that the rest of their journey would go smoothly. They were very pleased with this. For lunch they chose sushi, and they enjoyed the chawanmushi and udon that came with the set meal. They were surprised by how many school-trip students there were at every place we visited. Since they wanted to enjoy a drink around Gion, I made Gion the final stop, and after sightseeing we parted ways. They told me they were very satisfied with today's tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayFrom Marutamachi to Kitaoji ➡ Kitaoji Bus Terminal ➡ In front of Kinkaku-ji,～JR Arashiyama Station ➡ JR Kyoto Station, JR Kyoto Station ➡ JR Inari Station, Fushimi Inari Station ➡ Gion-Shijo Station1,100JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

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    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Conrad Tokyo
    • 2. 10:35 Tokyo Station~Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Gardens)
    • 3. 13:00 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, Kappabashi Kitchenware Street)
    • 4. 14:45 Ginza (Mitsukoshi, Onitsuka Tiger)
    • 5. 15:10 Dismissal at Ginza

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour of the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Ginza? A Licensed Guide's Report Because the guests had made specific requests in advance to visit the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Ginza, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided them in that order. At the Imperial Palace, Kitanomaru Park had originally been included, but since the guests did not seem to have a particular purpose there, it was skipped with their consent. After visiting Sensoji Temple, the guests wanted to buy chopsticks in Kappabashi, so I took them to "Mikura." We then moved to Ginza, and after I took them to Mitsukoshi and Onitsuka Tiger, the guests said, "From here it's just shopping, so we don't really need a guide anymore. It's a little early, but let's finish here," and the tour ended at 15:10. The weather was fine as well, and I believe the guests were satisfied with the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai～Shimbashi650JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi～Tokyo178JPY
    Section 3TrainTakebashi～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 4TrainTawaramachi～Ginza209JPY
    Section 5TrainGinza～Yakuendai828JPY
    Total2,074JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

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    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…