Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya & Shinjuku

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Meet at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 15:40 Shibuya
    • 17:00 Walk along Cat Street to Omotesando
    • 17:30 Takeshita Street
    • 18:15 Shinjuku
    • 18:30 Dinner
    • 19:30 Kabukicho and Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 20:30 Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • 21:00 Tour ends

    What Is an Evening Private Tour of Shinjuku, Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. I guided them smoothly according to the itinerary we had agreed upon in advance. The weather was fine and conditions were comfortable. Unlike a typical tour, this one started at 3:00 in the afternoon, and since the guests wished to experience the city of Tokyo, especially its energy at night, we designed the tour around lively, vibrant spots. As the guests wanted to enjoy Japanese wagyu beef at a reasonable price for dinner, I took them to a wagyu yakiniku restaurant in Shinjuku, which they thoroughly enjoyed. In the evening I guided them through Kabukicho, Golden Gai, and Omoide Yokocho, and finally saw them off in a taxi back to their hotel, ending the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal～Shibuya650JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku160JPY
    Total810JPY

    Tour Report by Takeshi

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

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    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
    Kim_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Experience Tokyo like a local…,
    It was a wonderful way…

    May 11, 2026
    Trenee_J
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takeshi did an amazing…
    Takeshi did an amazing job helping us plan…

    Apr 17, 2026
    Dianne_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Takeshi was our guide. He…
    Takeshi was our guide. He…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Nanzenji Sando Kikusui 830→905 Bamboo Grove Path 1020→1040 Ryoanji Temple 1130→1145 Lunch Time 1230→1245 Kinkakuji Temple 1350→1430 Nijo Castle (end on site)

    What Is a Private Family Day Tour with a Licensed Guide in Japan Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour was carried out along their requested course, which was finalized after repeated discussions via a messaging app. The group got along wonderfully, and the weather was pleasant for a break in the rainy season. None of the sites we visited were crowded, so the group was able to stroll and explore at a leisurely pace. After the planned sightseeing spots, the guests expressed a wish to visit a particular sweets shop, so I adjusted the final destination of the itinerary accordingly and had the vehicle proceed there, offering flexible arrangements to accommodate their request.

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

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

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    Aug 7, 2026
    D1494MYdanielleg
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    One day walking tour in Tokyo
    Yoshi was great!…

    Aug 6, 2026
    dg89
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Private Führung in Kyoto
    Die Tour mit Yoshi war…

    Aug 3, 2026
    PaulaLondon2017
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A customized tour with guide around Kyoto
    We had…

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．10:00　Meet @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • ２．10:45　@ Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Asakusa Shrine) + [From the vehicle] Tokyo Skytree
    • ３．11:30　@ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • ４．11:50　[From the vehicle] @ Marunouchi side of Tokyo Station building
    • ５．12:00　@ Ginza Main Street (pedestrian paradise around Ginza 4-chome intersection)
    • ６．12:20　[From the vehicle] Kabukiza Theater
    • ７．12:30　@ Zojoji Temple
    • ８．12:50　@ Tokyo Tower (including Main Deck)
    • ９．13:45　@ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • １０．14:20　@ Meiji Shrine
    • １１．15:30　@ Odaiba Seaside Park observation deck + Statue of Liberty
    • １２．16:00　Dismissal @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour Like for Cruise Passengers Disembarking in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We traveled by car, and they were amazed by how clean Japan is. They had already toured various parts of Japan aboard a cruise ship, with Tokyo being their disembarkation point. However, due to Typhoon No. 6, which had just struck Japan, they were unable to do their planned sightseeing in Kyoto. According to them, although they had visited shrines, this Tokyo tour was their first time visiting a Buddhist temple. At Sensoji Temple, one of the guests, who has asthma, avoided the smoke from the incense burner. When I introduced the Grant Pine (a Himalayan cedar) at Zojoji Temple, planted by General Grant, one of the guests mentioned that their own roots are connected to General Grant. They also referred to the story of when General Grant met General Lee of the Confederacy. Back in May, a guest I had guided was also a descendant of General Grant, so I was inwardly surprised. At Tokyo Tower, they wished to go up to the observation deck to look out over Tokyo. Taking in a 360-degree view from a height of 150 meters, they seemed to realize with amazement the sheer scale of the city of Tokyo. At the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, I helped photograph the guests as they strode across the intersection, which they greatly enjoyed. For lunch, we satisfied our appetites with egg sandwiches and rice balls bought along the way at a convenience store, and since we did not spend time on a sit-down restaurant lunch, we ended up with more time to spare than planned. We took a short stroll along the Ginza pedestrian promenade, and just before returning to the international cruise terminal, the guests thoroughly enjoyed the view from the observation deck at Odaiba Seaside Park. They took many photos of the Statue of Liberty, Rainbow Bridge, and more. Tomorrow, they plan to disembark and stay at a Hotel, spend another day sightseeing in Tokyo, and, before returning home, take the Shinkansen for a day trip to Kyoto, which they were unable to visit.

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

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in One Day: Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station
    • 09:50 Otaginenbutsuji
    • 10:20 Hiranoya Matcha and snacks
    • 10:40 Gioji
    • 11:00 Bamboo path
    • Lunch(Ozuru)
    • 12:40 Kinkakuji
    • 13:50 Fushimiinari
    • 14:30 Nishiki Market
    • End of the tour

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari The guest was a person visiting Japan for work, staying in Kyoto before taking an early Shinkansen to Tokyo the next morning and returning home from Narita. Although I had sent a tentative itinerary in advance, the guest expressed a wish to visit Arashiyama the day before, so we finalized the plan after meeting today. The previous day, the guest had taken part in a maiko experience tour in the Miyagawa-cho area of Gion. Today the requests were broadly for Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari, so we started at the recently popular Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, then went via Gio-ji to the bamboo grove. It was a little quieter thanks to the rain. It rained all day, and at Kinkaku-ji it came down heavily. To save time, we took a taxi to Fushimi Inari, and since the guest wanted to finish at Nishiki Market, I guided them to its entrance and concluded the tour there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total610JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

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

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

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

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

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

  • Nara in One Day: Nara Park & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Nara in One Day: Nara Park & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hotel Nara,
    • 09:30 to 10:10 Nara Park
    • 10:20 to 11:00 Todai-ji Temple　　　　
    • 11:30 to 12:10 Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 12:30 to 13:10 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:30 Disband at Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of five visiting from North America. Despite the unfortunate rain, we carried out the tour with umbrellas and a stroller in hand. We used the bus as much as possible. The children were very well-behaved and followed along without any fuss at all. We had also planned to visit Wakakusayama, but canceled it due to the rain. After lunch at the Higashimuki shopping street, we had planned to go to Naramachi, but the guests said they wished to have lunch together and then return to their hotel, so we parted ways one hour and thirty minutes earlier than scheduled.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNara City Hall / Nara Kotsu～Todai-ji Daibutsuden・Kasuga Taisha-mae / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusTodai-ji Daibutsuden / Nara Kotsu～Kasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 3BusKasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu～Kintetsu Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    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 !!

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    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…

  • Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Okayama Korakuen – 11:10 Okayama Castle – 12:20 Lunch – 13:30 Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter – 15:50 See-off to accommodation

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Okayama and Kurashiki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Under a cloudy sky, while I was waiting at the Hotel, the guests appeared about ten minutes before our appointed time. My first impression was that they were very punctual. I had known in advance that they were from Oceania, and it was a little unexpected to learn they came from that region, as in my past experience I had often welcomed guests from other areas. The guests requested that we return to the Hotel by around 5:00 in the evening, as work commitments meant staying in touch by smartphone during the trip. I paid the utmost consideration throughout the itinerary. Our first sightseeing spot was Korakuen Garden. The guest photo was taken here. When we parted around 4:00 p.m., I was asked to send the photos to the smartphone, so although they were not the best shots, I sent them along. At Korakuen we had a variety of experiences. I had heard the news that a baby red-crowned crane had been born about two weeks earlier, but upon arriving I received the sad news that it had passed away. However, another crane was in the process of hatching, and we were able to witness a heartwarming scene. On this day there was also a special exhibition at Kakumeikan, and we were able to enter and view the Noh stage and other displays. Furthermore, plums were being harvested in the plum grove within the garden, and we were able to see a rare sight. I was told they would be processed into plum wine and jam and sold at the shop within the garden. Next we went to Okayama Castle and toured the exhibits on every floor. Before heading to Kurashiki, it was time for lunch, so at the famous Azuma Sushi inside Okayama Station, the guests enjoyed Okayama's specialty barazushi and other dishes. We then took the JR line to Kurashiki and explored the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. Wishing to see the oldest wisteria trellis in Japan, boasting a history of 300 to 500 years, we climbed Tsurugatayama. After visiting Achi Shrine and descending the hill, we came upon the Morita Sake Brewery, where the guests sampled some sake. There was no time to enter the Ohara Museum of Art, but water lilies transplanted from Claude Monet's pond in France were in full bloom in the garden pond, and the guests admired them. We explored Denim Street, Ivy Square, the banks of the Kurashiki River, and others, and were able to return home safely. Throughout the tour, the guests participated eagerly and it turned out to be a satisfying day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOkayama Station Front / Chugin-mae / Uno Bus～Shiroshita (Okayama Prefecture)160JPY
    Section 2TrainShiroshita (Okayama Prefecture)～Okayama Station Front / Okaden Bus160JPY
    Section 3OtherOkayama Station～Kurashiki Station660JPY
    Total980JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

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    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet
    • 11:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:30 Nishiki Market, lunch, coffee break
    • 15:30 Nijo Castle
    • 17:00 End

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan for the first time. The guests left the itinerary up to me. We had lunch around Nishiki Market, which meant travel took some time. Although it rained during the tour, I believe the guests enjoyed themselves without being bothered by the weather. At Nijo Castle, I showed them the carp feeding, the gardens, and the site of the former castle keep. Since they planned to visit Arashiyama the next day, I explained how to get there and gave some recommendations. I would have liked to guide them around Gion as well if there had been time. We parted ways at the exit of the station nearest to the guests.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)／Kyoto Municipal Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto Municipal Bus～Kawaramachi Sanjo／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①10:30〜11:30 Meet at the cruise terminal, travel to Asakusa via Yurikamome and subway
    • ②11:30〜12:30 Asakusa・Sensoji Temple
    • ③12:45〜14:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • ④14:30 Guide to Omotesando vintage shop【Q O O Tokyo】and disband

    What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Cruise-Port Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan for the first time, arriving by cruise ship from Europe. During our correspondence beforehand, they left the choice of sightseeing spots to me, with one request: to be guided to a vintage brand-bag shop at the end of the tour. From the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, we traveled by the Yurikamome line and subway to visit Asakusa. After that, we moved by taxi to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The Japanese irises were in beautiful full bloom, which delighted the guests greatly. We then went to a vintage shop in Omotesando before parting ways. They seemed very satisfied with this fulfilling 4-hour course.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTokyo International Cruise Terminal～Shimbashi390JPY
    Section 2OtherShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3OtherNijubashimae～Omotesando180JPY
    Total790JPY

    Tour Report by SAM

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

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お迎え）
    • 10:15 浅草文化観光センター
    • 11:50 インテルフォーラムビル
    • 12:30 皇居（朝食をたっぷり食べたので、昼食はなし）
    • 14:20 明治神宮
    • 15:43 コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お送り）

    What Is a Private Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide in Japan Like? A Guide's Report 1. The guests mentioned that where they live there are two seasons, summer and a little winter, along with hurricanes. I explained that in Japan we have summer, winter, and a little spring, too. 2. The guests said that where they live, cormorants and a related bird called the anhinga dive into the water to catch fish. 3. We talked about scooters. The guests noted that it used to be mandatory to wear a helmet, but that rule was removed where they live, and that it differs from region to region. They also mentioned that people don't always observe traffic signals there. 4. One of the guests said they are retired and don't fight over the kitchen, but make their own lunch. 5. The guests shared that they have been married for 61 years, having married when they graduated from college. They also spoke about their past work lives. 6. One of the guests mentioned having retired some years ago and being fortunate to have good retirement arrangements and a pension. 7. The guests said they have five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, with another one coming soon. 8. The guests mentioned using a ramp so they don't have to worry about steps, and asked whether people avoid stepping on the threshold. 9. The guests said they would be leaving later in the month after an international cruise. 10. The guests showed me a pedometer on the phone, noting they had made 8,190 steps that day, and that they usually aim for 10,000 but often manage between 5,000 and 6,000. 11. The guests kindly said I had made it a beautiful day, and thanked me.

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

    Tour Report by Hideaki

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

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    Sep 27, 2026
    Jan_v
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    Hideaki was our guide today and…

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    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 8:00 Meet up @ ASA Takasago, 5-39-1 Takasago, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
    • 2) 8:30 Asakusa <Senso-ji Temple・Nakamise Shopping Street>
    • 3) 9:50 East Gardens <Hirakawa Gate → Ninomaru Garden → Ote Gate>
    • 4) 11:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 5) 13:00 Shibuya <Crossing・Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA 2F Store>
    • 6) 13:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 7) 14:10 Disband @ CHRISTIE Harajuku Main Store (1-16-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were said to be staying at a private lodging near Keisei-Takasago Station, but since the meeting point was listed as being in front of a newspaper delivery office, I asked [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) for assistance and received confirmation that the meeting-point address was correct. However, the main guest was not using any messaging app, so I could not reach them individually. Two days before the tour I received a personal email address and sent a greeting along with some notes and a request for any preferences, but received no reply. On the morning of the tour I also emailed about the guide's attire, what to bring, and my plan to arrive ten minutes before the meeting time, but again received no reply, so I felt somewhat uneasy as the meeting time approached in front of the newspaper delivery office. At the meeting, I asked whether they had received my emails and messages, and the main guest explained that the WiFi had been unreliable and they had not been able to receive email properly. During the tour the WiFi seemed to improve, as they were able to receive an email with photos I had taken and recommended information attached, which was reassuring. I presented the itinerary I had prepared, and with the guests' agreement we began the tour. Three of the guests had already purchased a "Welcome SUICA," and two had downloaded the SUICA app in advance. Since we started at 8:00, Nakamise-dori was still before opening, with few people around and a refreshing atmosphere. As I was about to guide them to the main hall of Sensoji and we were walking beside the incense burner, a local elderly person who appeared to have just finished praying bumped into me while shouting something. It was unexpected and a little startling, but since all sorts of people are out and about, I decided it required no particular response and let it pass (I explained this to the guests as well, and they understood), and we continued to the main hall. In hindsight, my way of guiding may have been in the elderly person's way. Since many local worshippers likely visit Sensoji early in the morning, I resolved to be more careful going forward. At the East Gardens we admired the irises and toured briefly. Having learned on the day of the tour that cash would be needed, the guests withdrew cash from an ATM inside a station on the way to Tsukiji. At Tsukiji they enjoyed wagyu skewers, yakitori, sushi (lunch at a sushi restaurant), and ice cream. Since one or two of them occasionally went off on their own, I took care not to lose sight of anyone in the crowds (and asked the guests to be mindful of each other as well) as we headed to Shibuya. We crossed the Shibuya scramble crossing and I guided them to the second floor of a Starbucks. When I looked away for a moment, I lost sight of everyone for a few minutes (I had assumed they would be by the window, but before I knew it they were gone). I sent an email asking where they were and searched around outside the building and on the second floor of the Starbucks, and it turned out that four of them were taking a restroom break or ordering at the cafe, while one was at an anime pop-up store on the fifth floor of the same building. It gave me quite a scare, but I then guided them to our final stop, Meiji Shrine. Afterward, they said they were tired because it was their first trip abroad, the flight had been long, and they had arrived at their lodging late the previous night, so I guided them to a cafe in Harajuku, and we parted ways safely and with smiles.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeisei-Takasago～Asakusa380JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Takebashi290JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Market～Shibuya290JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

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    Sep 6, 2026
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    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
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    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
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    10/10 would do again!
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    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
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    I would definitely…
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