Category: Uncategorized

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 09:35 @ Himeji Castle (Nishinomaru Hyakken Corridor, Main Keep)
    • 4. 11:50 Short break @ Otemon Chaya
    • 5. 12:15 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 6. 13:00 Disband @ Himeji Station Shinkansen Transfer Gate

    What's a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We met at Himeji Station and toured Castle View, Himeji Castle, and after a short break at the Otemon Chaya, we visited Kokoen Garden before returning to Himeji Station, where the tour concluded. It rained all day today. It was fortunate that the guests had brought umbrellas. At Himeji Castle, we encountered a large group of high school students. Because of this, the top floor of the main keep was quite crowded. After Himeji Castle, we took a short break at a café near Kokoen Garden. The guests were very fond of the almond toast with ice cream they had there. Although the weather was not good today, I believe the tour turned out to be a good experience overall.

    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!

    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…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet at Hilton Yokohama
    • 2. 10:00 Tokyo Skytree
    • 3. 11:00 Asakusa
    • 4. 12:45 Lunch (Shinjuku Shina Soba Sawada)
    • 5. 13:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 6. 14:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 7. 16:30 Disband at Hilton Yokohama

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour from Yokohama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. It was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived the day before, staying at a hotel in Yokohama to sightsee in Tokyo and around Mount Fuji, and were scheduled to board a cruise on Friday. They planned to visit three places in Japan (Aomori, Hakodate, and Sapporo) before continuing by ship to North America, and by coincidence they seemed to be on the same ship as guests I had guided two days earlier. I guided them to Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Meiji Shrine. They enjoyed listening to my explanations and taking photos along the way. They seemed to prefer places with plenty of greenery, saying that Shinjuku Gyoen and Meiji Shrine felt very pleasant. Since it was a national holiday and Asakusa was crowded, we moved near Shinjuku Gyoen and had lunch at a ramen shop. Both on the way from Yokohama and on the return to Yokohama, the trains were somewhat crowded, and we were only able to get seats partway through each ride. Because the destinations involve a fair amount of walking, I wanted the guests to be able to sit on the train as much as possible, but this is often difficult for tours that depart from and return to Yokohama. Fortunately, the guests today had no trouble walking, but after finally getting a seat on the return train, they seemed tired and dozed off a little. At the end, we returned to the hotel and concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYokohama~Oshiage630JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo Skytree~Asakusa160JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shinjuku-gyoemmae260JPY
    Section 4TrainSendagaya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Yokohama490JPY
    Total1,700JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Tokyo: Hotel Tokyu & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo: Hotel Tokyu & Tokyo Tower

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Tokyu
    • 9:20 Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge, Sakuradamon Gate
    • 10:10 Ameyoko
    • 10:40 Ueno Park, Toshogu Shrine
    • 11:30 Senso-ji Temple
    • 12:20 Rikugien Garden
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Komatsuan
    • 13:50 Tokyo Station
    • 14:20 Tokyo Tower
    • 15:00 Hotel Tokyu

    What Is a Private Car Tour of Tokyo Like for Guests With Limited Walking? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on their first full day in Japan, on a private tour with a car and driver. It was a fairly demanding day. One of the guests could only walk short distances, and the stretch from the Nijubashi bridge to the Sakuradamon Gate seemed difficult, so they rested on a bench along the way. Since they could not stay long in any one place, the driver kindly adjusted the route, going through Ginza and Tsukiji before heading to Ameyoko, where they walked a little. At Ueno Park afterward, one of the guests waited in the car. The other bought coffee as a souvenir at a booth at an environmental festival and briefly visited Toshogu Shrine. In Asakusa, they walked from Nakamise-dori to the Nitenmon Gate, and along the way bought a bag as a souvenir for a friend. They seemed dissatisfied with the kimono-style robes, feeling they were expensive and aimed at tourists. We had planned to have lunch in Asakusa, but since they were not hungry yet, we headed to Rikugien, where we borrowed a wheelchair and toured the garden. They liked the garden very much. As they wanted Japanese food for lunch, I called ahead to confirm that a nearby soba restaurant was open, and they enjoyed a set of soba and tempura rice bowl. Since we had time left over, we stopped by Kagurazaka, but as one of the guests with difficulty walking seemed tired, we only passed through by car, then stopped at Tokyo Station and Tokyo Tower, where one of the guests got out to take photos. Because the guests had many requests and complaints, I was quite careful throughout, but in the end they said it had been a good tour and gave me a gratuity, so I felt a little relieved. It was a great help that the driver was so cooperative. When I asked whether they might like to buy a folding chair along the way, they said they had one at the hotel, so I recommended bringing it on the following day's tour.

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari & Gion

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:00 Fushimi Inari
    • 10:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:40 Gion
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market, disband

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were friends visiting from Europe. It was their first time in Japan. They had traveled through Asia before arriving in Kyoto the previous day, and both were deeply impressed by the politeness of the Japanese people and their respect for rules. Although it was raining, this actually meant fewer people than usual, and one of the guests enjoyed taking photographs throughout the tour, wanting to capture the beauty of Japan's scenery on camera. We parted ways at Nishiki Market around lunchtime.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3TrainTofukuji / Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Gion / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total760JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Ishikawa in Half a Day: a kimono shop in Omicho

    Ishikawa in Half a Day: a kimono shop in Omicho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the terminal
    • 11:00 Transfer to a taxi (hire car) at Kanazawa Station
    • 11:20 Visit a kimono shop in Omicho
    • 12:00 Visit Myoryuji Temple
    • 13:10 Enjoy soft serve ice cream with gold leaf at a tea house near Kenrokuen Garden
    • 14:00 Return to the terminal

    What Is a Private Guided Tour in Kanazawa Like from the Cruise Port? A Licensed Guide's Report Up until just before the tour I was unable to get in touch, and I did not know what the guests were looking for, but once we met their goals were very clear. First, one of the guests said they wanted to purchase an obi (kimono sash) to display at home, and the group also requested that they wanted to try gold-leaf topped soft serve ice cream. The guests also mentioned that some of them practiced karate in North America, so when I suggested a visit to Myoryuji Temple, they were interested, and I guided them there. As reflected in the tour review, I believe the guests enjoyed the tour. However, I felt that the lack of transportation from Kanazawa Port to Kanazawa Station was a problem. Taxis are available, but there were long lines of people waiting for them, and the shuttle bus costs 30 dollars per person round trip to Kanazawa Station and is tied to the ship's room arrangement, so guides cannot ride it, which I found inconvenient.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Port Cruise Terminal / Hokutetsu Bus~Kanazawa Station / Hokutetsu Bus310JPY
    Total310JPY

    I’m Akiko Homma, who is a government-licensed guide of the Japan Guide Agency.
    I have good communication ability and cooperative skills in spoken English.
    Also, I have detailed knowledge of the features and attractions of Hokkaido, Kanazawa, Shizuoka and Yokohama as well as local culture, history, society, geography, nature, and food.
    I have had the pleasure of satisfying all of my clients with my guiding so far.
    My above skills and knowledge will help you make your trip more enjoyable and memorable!!
    I’m looking foward to seeing you and showing you around!

    Apr 15, 2026
    F9244DCevar
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Loved Kanazawa!
    Akiko was wonder! We had three generations, grandma, mom…

    Mar 9, 2026
    Karthik_R
    Akiko was very…
    Viator review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Akiko was very knowledgeable and showed everything at…

    Mar 23, 2025
    A8444ZRsimonm
    Great morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour by Aki in Kanazawa. He…

    Dec 18, 2024
    L5714WWmichaelm
    Wonderful Otaru Private Tour with Akiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Akiko was an absolute gem! From…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 8:15-10:00 Nakanoshima Park, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kameyama Park, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Heiseiin
    • 11:00-12:20 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:00 Disband @ Nishiki Market

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like When the Itinerary Changes on the Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. We had agreed in advance on an itinerary of Fushimi Inari Taisha → Kiyomizu-dera → Yasaka Shrine → Kennin-ji, so when we met and one of the guests said they wanted to discuss the day's plan, I was unsure why. I explained the previously decided schedule again and we started the tour. We headed from Pontocho toward the Keihan station, but the guest still seemed unconvinced, and in front of the children's park in Pontocho they said they wanted to reconsider the day's plan. As it seemed the Arashiyama bamboo grove and Nishiki Market were must-sees, I rearranged the itinerary to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove → Tenryu-ji → Nijo Castle → Nishiki Market. The guests seemed very pleased with the scenery in Arashiyama, and I truly felt glad to have listened to their wishes and rearranged the itinerary, which I also expressed to them. We decided to enter the bamboo grove from the Kameyama Park side, and along the way they watched with interest as a local person fed carp in the Katsura River. We had originally planned to enter Tenryu-ji from the north gate, but one of the guests said they did not want to go in because it was crowded, so we saw Nonomiya Shrine and then left Arashiyama. At a shop selling Japanese sundries before reaching Nagatsuji Street, some of the guests did some shopping, while others bought steamed buns. After the shopping was finished, we sat in front of the shop and they kindly treated me as well, so I enjoyed a steamed bun. Continuing on the way to the JR station, they found a shop selling strawberry daifuku and enjoyed some. At the neighboring Heisei-in, I was asked why stones were stacked there, so I shared the story of Jizo Bodhisattva and the children stacking stones at Sai no Kawara. Heisei-in had an advertisement stating that offerings could be made via QR code, which also caught their interest. We had intended to go to Nijo Castle, but since the guests did not seem to enjoy crowded places, I suggested changing the destination to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and they readily agreed, so we changed the plan. At the Kyoto Imperial Palace, they were impressed by the beautiful architecture, the building techniques, and the beautifully maintained gardens. We then moved on to Nishiki Market. I took them to the entrance of Nishiki Market on the Takakura Street side, gave directions for the way back to their hotel, and said goodbye. Everyone was very warm, and I greatly enjoyed conducting the tour. The photo was taken in front of a manhole cover featuring a character motif at Nakanoshima Park.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Kawaramachi~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Nijo200JPY
    Section 3TrainNijo~Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 4TrainImadegawa~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)260JPY
    Total960JPY

    I am a 53-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Depart from Hotel Sendai Station West Exit 13:07 Travel from Sendai Station to Matsushimakaigan Station on the Senseki Line 14:17 Arrive at Matsushimakaigan Station 14:30 Arrive at Osakana Market 15:00 Have a meal at the market 15:30 Travel from Matsushimakaigan Station to Sendai Station on the Senseki Line 16:10 Arrive at Sendai Station 16:15 — 16:30 Pokemon Center Tohoku 16:30 Disband

    Title: What Is a Private Sendai and Matsushima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The meeting point took a long time to finalize, and it was only decided three days before the tour, with the meeting place being the guests' hotel. The destinations also changed several times. In an email just before the tour, there was a request to visit a Kirin Beer factory in Sendai, but this was later cancelled. Right before departure, it was decided that the group wanted to visit a fish market, so we chose to go to the "Osakana Ichiba" fish market on the Matsushima coast. In the end, I think it turned out well. Along the way, the guests mentioned wanting to buy character goods as a souvenir, so I looked it up online. As a result, I found that the Pokemon Center Tohoku, located in the PARCO building near Sendai Station, had a considerable selection of items. This became the final stop of the tour, and after taking them there, the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSendai~Matsushimakaigan440JPY
    Section 2TrainMatsushimakaigan~Sendai440JPY
    Total880JPY

    Hello. My name is Kohmin Iwabuchi, but please call me KOH for short. I have been working as a tour guide for more than 10 years. So far, I have visited hundreds of scenic spots, but there is one place I will not go. Guess what is it? That’s the top of Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. I can climb the mountain, but it’s hard for me to guide people while climbing.

    I am interested in traditional sports in Japan, particularly sumo wrestling. Sumo is time honored sports. We can trace its origin back to some thousand years ago. First it was played as an entertainment in a Shinto shrine. The rule of sumo is simple. The match is played by two participants in a ring. If any parts of the body of one of the participants except the sole touches the ground or he was pushed out of the ring, he will be defeated.

    The appearance of sumo wrestlers is very traditional, because their samurai like hairstyle “chonmage” originates from feudal ages.

    Unlike boxing and wrestling, there are no weight restrictions or classes, meaning that your opponent can be many times your own size. As a result, weight gain is an essential part of sumo training. Personally my weight is about 200 pounds which enables me to be a sumo wrestler.

    Sumo wrestlers live in a sumo stable. It’s the place where they eat, drink, train and sleep together. In greater Tokyo area, there are about 40 sumo stables, many of which are located in Ryogoku area. A small number of stables welcome people to come and see the morning practice. I hope some day I can visit there with you.

    Jul 18, 2024
    OnAir13534982348
    Tour curated to my family’s interests!
    Tripadvisor review: Takachiho Gorge Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Koh contacted me ahead of…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa (Skytree photos) & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa (Skytree photos) & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up Hotel Kyobashi
    • 9:30 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:25 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:10 Lunch @Forest Terrace Meiji Shrine
    • 13:55 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 14:25 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:00 Disband Shinjuku Gyoen

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report It was an overcast, gloomy day, but it did not rain, so the tour proceeded smoothly. We started by purchasing a 24-hour Tokyo Metro pass. The guests enjoyed photography and took many pictures. At Asakusa, perhaps because it was early, there were not many crowds, so they were able to take photos at a relaxed pace. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, there were quite a lot of visitors from abroad, and the same was true at Meiji Shrine. Since the guests were hungry, they had a light meal at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. On Takeshita Street they showed interest in an animal cafe but did not stop, and instead took many photos at Shinjuku Gyoen (which was free of charge today). When the time came, the tour ended within the garden.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKyobashi~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa~Takebashi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassMeiji Shrine~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total700JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove) & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove) & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:30 Meet at Hilton Kyoto
    • 15:15 Kinkaku-ji Temple (Kinkaku-ji → Arashiyama, travel by taxi)
    • 16:20 Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove)
    • 17:30 Fushimi Inari
    • 18:30 End at Hilton Kyoto

    What's a Private Kyoto Taxi Tour Like When You Only Have Limited Time? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 15:00, but around 12:00 they contacted me asking to start earlier, so we moved it up by 30 minutes. Since I had not received any reply about which places they wanted to visit before the day of the tour, we decided after meeting in person. As they had only a day and a half in Kyoto, they wished to see as many places as possible. By using a taxi, we were able to visit three popular spots efficiently for a fast-paced sightseeing experience. They were able to take plenty of photos and cover three locations, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Inari240JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari~Sanjo (Kyoto)240JPY
    Total970JPY

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…

    May 16, 2026
    sydneybA4751LA
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 private tour of Kyoto!
    Kuni was amazing as our private tour…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Koishikawa Korakuen

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Koishikawa Korakuen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Grand Prince Takanawa
    • 09:40 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10:45 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Okuyama, Ura Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise)
    • 12:00 Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 13:30 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 15;00 Disband at Keikyu Shinagawa Station Takanawa Exit

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Koishikawa Korakuen, and the Imperial Palace The guests were visitors from Europe, on their first trip to Japan, having arrived the previous day. The tour proceeded according to the itinerary agreed upon before their arrival. At Tsukiji, I showed them the former market site and explained the seafood supply chain and how the former grounds are being repurposed. In Asakusa, I took them through the back streets so they could experience how the neighborhood's atmosphere differs from the city center. At Kuhachiya in Koishikawa Korakuen, I explained the Japanese national character and its strengths and weaknesses in comparison with several other countries. I also explained the daimyo system of the Edo period, how the sites of former samurai residences have been used since the Meiji Restoration, and the water supply and drainage systems of the Edo period. Since one of the guests had experience related to urban planning, I added explanations about land and development throughout this tour. Both guests were deeply impressed by the beauty of Koishikawa Korakuen, so at the Imperial Palace I devoted more time to the Honmaru than to the Ninomaru Garden. It was unfortunate that both Korakuen and the Imperial Palace were between the blooming seasons of azaleas and irises.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinagawa~Tsukiji Market370JPY
    Section 2SubwayHigashi-ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Suidobashi340JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuidobashi~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 5SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Shinagawa370JPY
    Total1,480JPY

    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, Norway, 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

    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…