Category: Uncategorized

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Himeji
    • 2. 09:10 @ Castle View, Shinki Bus Center
    • 3. 09:40 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 11:50 Light meal @ Otemon Chaya
    • 5. 12:20 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 13:40 @ Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple
    • 7. 16:00 Disband @ Festa Building 3rd Floor

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. We met at a hotel in Himeji, then visited Castle View (an overview of Himeji Castle), the Shinki Bus Center (to purchase discounted round-trip tickets for the bus and ropeway), and Himeji Castle, taking a short break at the Otemon Chaya teahouse. After that, we visited Koko-en Garden and Enkyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, and finally guided the guests who wished to have shabu-shabu to a restaurant near Himeji Station, ending the tour. It was cloudy today, but it did not rain, and Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, and Enkyoji Temple were all fresh and beautiful. The guests were very pleased and took many photos.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusSchool for the Deaf・Koko-en Garden/Shinki Bus~Mount Shosha Ropeway/Shinki Bus320JPY
    Section 2BusMount Shosha Ropeway/Shinki Bus~Himeji Station (North Exit)/Shinki Bus320JPY
    Total640JPY

    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 One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 11:30 Asakusa
    • 13:00 Ginza, Soba lunch
    • 15:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 17:00 Disband @ Shibuya Station Ginza Line ticket gate

    What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of friends visiting from North America, who had been traveling through Japan and other parts of Asia by cruise and arrived on the morning of the tour. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 12:00, but since the guests arrived at the hotel early, it began at 11:00 instead. The weather was lovely, and everyone seemed to have a wonderful time. For lunch, they enjoyed a set of soba noodles and tempura rice bowl, which they finished completely while having some beer. The subway was very crowded during our travels, but even that seemed to be an enjoyable experience for them. At the end, we visited the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where they were amazed by the sheer number of people. Finally, I explained how to get back to the hotel, and we parted ways at the ticket gate of the Ginza Line.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Ginza210JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total760JPY

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

  • Tokyo in One Day: 1 HAMA-RIKYU GARDENS & 4 shopping

    Tokyo in One Day: 1 HAMA-RIKYU GARDENS & 4 shopping

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
    • 11:45 1 HAMA-RIKYU GARDENS
    • 13:45 2 ASAKUSA
    • 15:00 3 MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 16:00 4 shopping
    • 16:45 See off at Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like for Guests Who Need Frequent Rest? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. As requested beforehand, I tried to confirm their wishes via a messaging app, but received no reply. On the morning of the tour, I greeted them, presented an itinerary proposal, and we set off. Upon meeting, I realized that they had not understood that this was a walking tour, and that they needed to take frequent rests while walking. When the guests said they would prefer to travel by subway rather than head to the Tsukiji Outer Market as shown in the itinerary proposal, I changed the destination on the spot to Hamarikyu Gardens. Taking many breaks on the benches and resting at the tea house, the guests enjoyed Hamarikyu Gardens. Afterward, we moved by taxi. As the guests wished to do some shopping, we stopped by a discount store in Ginza, then I saw them off at their Hotel and took my leave.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Shiodome370JPY
    Total370JPY

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spear time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Station & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Station & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Kyoto Station
    • 10:00-11:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:30-12:10 Nijo Castle
    • 12:30-13:10 Kinkaku-ji
    • 13:30-14:00 Lunch
    • 14:30-15:20 Bamboo Grove Path, Tenryu-ji
    • 14:00-14:30 Nishiki Market

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had a very quiet and calm demeanor. I took them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where they experienced the Omokaru-ishi stones and the Negiagari-no-Matsu pine. They seemed to enjoy it very much and bought a torii gate votive plaque as an ornament for their Christmas tree. We moved by train to Nijo Castle and toured it quickly, then took a taxi to Kinkaku-ji. They sampled items such as sweets and peanuts and bought wasabi peanuts. After enjoying some ice cream, time passed quickly, so we hurried to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, then took a taxi to the Bamboo Grove path. At Tenryu-ji, many flowers were in bloom, so they took many photos. We then took the Randen tram and the Hankyu line to Nishiki Market, where we concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)240JPY
    Section 3SubwaySanjo Keihan~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 4TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Omiya (Kyoto Prefecture)250JPY
    Section 5TrainShijo Omiya (Highway/Connecting Bus)~Kyoto Kawaramachi170JPY
    Total1,030JPY

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour starts from Kobe port terminal 4Q1/2
    • Travel by rail to Arashiyama
    • AM 10:30 – 11:40 Visit the bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji Temple
    • Travel by rail and bus to Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • PM12:30-13:10 Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • Travel by bus & subway to Nijo Castle
    • PM 13:45-14:25 Visit Nijo Castle
    • Travel by subway & rail to Inari
    • PM 15:00 -15:40 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • Travel by rail, tour ends in Osaka PM16:45

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for Cruise Ship Guests Arriving at Kobe Port? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived from a cruise ship and were visitors from North America. The day before the tour, the guests directly requested changing the meeting point from Osaka Port to Kobe Port, so I had to accommodate this on short notice, which is why my report is coming later than usual. The tour was completed without any issues, and the guests enjoyed their visit to Kyoto. It seems they had assumed the ship would dock at Osaka Port based on the information in the cruise ship's brochure. Since I ended up traveling all the way to Kobe, I tried to claim reimbursement for the extra costs I had covered, but the system did not allow it, so I submitted the claim based on the Osaka departure fee.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port~Umeda (Subway)290JPY
    Section 2TrainOsaka~Saga-Arashiyama960JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 7SubwayNijojo-mae~Kyoto230JPY
    Section 8TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 9TrainInari~Osaka840JPY
    Section 10SubwayUmeda (Subway)~Osaka Port290JPY
    Total3,730JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Kanagawa in One Day: 〜13:40 Hakone Shrine & Take the ropeway

    Kanagawa in One Day: 〜13:40 Hakone Shrine & Take the ropeway

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Yoshiike Ryokan
    • 11:45 Take the bus toward Motohakone Port
    • 12:50〜13:40 Hakone Shrine
    • 14:00 Board the pirate ship
    • 14:25 Arrive at Togendai
    • Lunch at the "View Restaurant" at Togendai Station
    • 15:30 Take the ropeway
    • 15:50 Owakudani, eat black eggs
    • 16:20 Take the ropeway
    • 16:46 Take the cable car departing from Sounzan
    • 17:08 Take the mountain train departing from Gora Station
    • 17:48 Arrive at Hakone-Yumoto, disband

    Title: What's a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Lake Ashi and Owakudani The guests were a group from North America. We started the tour right on time, but a problem came up at the station. Four of the guests had their own free passes loaded onto their smartphones, which was fine. One of the younger guests had a pass shared onto another guest's smartphone. However, this was not accepted on the Odakyu line, and we were told that the principle of one ticket per person had to be observed. As a result, they had to purchase a new paper free pass for 1,500 yen. One of the guests was a little upset, asking whether this meant a young child was expected to carry a smartphone. I felt sorry about the situation. Once we boarded the bus, everyone changed their mood and we passed the time cheerfully talking about the trip. It was raining, so there were few people and the bus was not crowded. At Hakone Shrine we offered a prayer, and the guests wrote their individual wishes on ema votive plaques and dedicated them. They fully enjoyed the solemn atmosphere. The Peace Torii had no line, so we took a commemorative photo from the front. We rode the pirate ship and transferred at Togendai, then had a meal at a view restaurant. We also tried a Japanese restaurant near Koshiri, but at 14:30 everything was already closed. After the meal, we took the ropeway to Owakudani. The wind was quite strong and the temperature was 10°C, so it was cold. After taking photos, we quickly bought souvenirs and black eggs and hurried back down. Because of the bad weather this time, there was a possibility that the ropeway and pirate ship would be canceled, so we headed to Lake Ashi first by bus. Fortunately both were running, which was a relief, but it was rainy and cold, and we could not see Mount Fuji, which was a shame. The guests were respectful of Japanese culture and customs.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShin-Yurigaoka~Hakone-Yumoto6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Fish Market & Shibuya crossing

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Fish Market & Shibuya crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting up
    • 9:30-10:50 Tsukiji Fish Market
    • 11:10-11:30 Omotesando Street
    • 11:30-12:10 Takeshita Street
    • 12:10-12:40 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 12:50-13:00 Shibuya crossing

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This tour was booked through a travel agency, but I was able to communicate directly with the guests via a messaging app the day before, which resulted in a change to the tour start time. Since the guests had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, and Kiso, we discussed their overall plans during their stay in Tokyo, and based on their wishes, today we visited Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Shibuya. As the guests both enjoy cooking, at Tsukiji they purchased knives, matcha, and dashi, and we had a lively conversation about cooking. I shared various shopping tips, including vintage shops around Omotesando. They were not particularly familiar with the differences between Shinto (shrines) and Buddhism (temples), but they listened carefully to my guiding and asked many questions.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiodome~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Omotesando180JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total520JPY

    Hi,
    Thank you for contacting the Japan Guide Association to request a licensed guide for your upcoming visit to Japan. My name is Motoko Tanaka. I’m so happy to be assigned to you.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born and raised in Tokyo, so it is nice to hear that you are excited about your visit to this wonderful city. There is much to be excited about here in Tokyo. I have really enjoyed guiding in Tokyo and the surrounding areas for more than 10 years.
    I live with my husband and a dog named Alice. She was a rescue dog and I adopted her about 4 years ago. Now she is a very precious family member. I have two daughters, the elder one has a child and the younger has a aroma shop in a town near Mr. Fuji. I sometimes visit there with Alice.
    I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to create a special day.
    Regards,
    Motoko

    Apr 25, 2026
    catvila
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Primeira vez em Tóquio
    A Motoko foi excelente para nos guiar pelos…

    Apr 22, 2026
    72breannaj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour highly recommend! And loved our guide
    We had an amazing…

    Apr 17, 2026
    denisemD3032GY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)
    Tokyo walking tour
    Our guide Motoko was so polite &…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Dennis_M
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Very nice and very…
    Very nice and very…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hotel Groove Shinjuku & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Hotel Groove Shinjuku & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Groove Shinjuku
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market, Fish Market, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 11:00 Asakusa
    • 12:00 Ueno – Statue of Saigo Takamori, Tomb of the Shogitai, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:50 Lunch @ Hinazushi
    • 14:00 Yanaka Cemetery, Yanaka Ginza
    • 15:10 Dismissal @ Kokkai-gijidomae Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ueno, and Yanaka I guided a group from Europe on a private one-day tour of Tokyo. They had eaten a large breakfast, so they did not eat anything at Tsukiji, but they explored the area with great interest. Fond of flowers and plants, they entered the peony garden at Ueno Toshogu Shrine and were moved by the magnificent blooms. Afterward, they finally became hungry and requested sushi, so we went into a sushi restaurant. Rather than a set menu, they preferred to order individual pieces, and enjoyed a small amount of sushi along with miso soup. Just when I thought they had a light appetite, they immediately bought a crepe (which they called a pancake) right afterward, and we enjoyed it together. At Ueno Station, I helped them issue their Shinkansen tickets to Kanazawa for the following day. They especially liked the quiet, local atmosphere of Yanaka. I accompanied them to the transfer station on the way to their hotel, and the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Nippori160JPY
    Section 5SubwaySendagi~Kokkai-gijidomae210JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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 One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Seiouro
    • 10:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:20 Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 12:50 Lunch near Kiyomizu-dera
    • 13:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 14:45 Gion
    • 15:30 End at Kawaramachi

    What Is a Private Kyoto Family Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They spoke their native language among themselves. The itinerary progressed smoothly without any traffic. Since the group wished to visit the Nintendo shop in the Takashimaya department store at the end, we concluded the tour in the Kawaramachi area. For lunch, I guided them to a noodle restaurant. As one of the guests preferred not to have pork, they chose beef udon and enjoyed it. The driver was also very cooperative, which was greatly appreciated.

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at ANA Holiday Inn Tokyo Bay (3 minutes from Tennozu Isle Station on the Tokyo Monorail)
    • 0930 Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabukiza Theater, Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1050 Asakusa, Azumabashi Bridge, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1245 Return to hotel and disband

    What Can You See on a Half-Day Private Tokyo Tour Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Although they had been to Japan a long time ago, they said they had almost no memory of it. In recent years they had been enjoying cruise trips around Southeast Asia, and this time their journey brought them to Japan. They had arrived in Japan the previous night. Since they were scheduled to board their cruise ship in the evening and needed to return to their hotel by 1:00 PM, I planned the tour with this in mind. At Tsukiji Market, they were interested but did not sample any food, as they were concerned about jet lag and the meals they would have after boarding the ship. In Asakusa as well, they were interested but did not purchase any souvenirs, since their cruise was about to begin. As we had a little time to spare, I suggested we might stop somewhere else, but they were mindful of their hotel departure time and decided to head back early.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTennozu Isle~Hamamatsucho230JPY
    Section 2SubwayDaimon (Tokyo)~Tsukijishijo180JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Daimon (Tokyo)220JPY
    Section 5OtherHamamatsucho~Tennozu Isle230JPY
    Total1,070JPY

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

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

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

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…