Category: Uncategorized

  • Niigata in One Day: Bakauke Observatory & Niigata West Port

    Niigata in One Day: Bakauke Observatory & Niigata West Port

    Niigata Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 　　　Meet at Niigata West Port, use private taxi
    • 10:20-11:20　Niigata City, Former Saito Residence
    • 11:40　　　 Photo shoot at a spot with a good view of Bandai Bridge
    • 12:00　 Bakauke Observatory
    • 12:30-13:40　Market tour at Pier Bandai, lunch at Minato Shokudo
    • 14:00-15:20　English tour and tasting at Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery
    • 16:00　 Niigata West Port

    What Is a Private Cruise Port Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of visitors from North America. The cruise ship was a relatively small vessel with a capacity of 600 passengers, so there was no crowding at any of the destinations, which allowed for calm and relaxed guiding. Some of the guests needed to move at a slower pace, so the tour proceeded gently overall. One of the guests took a strong interest in the architecture of the former Saito residence, the first place we visited, and I was glad they were able to enjoy the day at a leisurely, unhurried pace. Since the guests had a very busy schedule, it was difficult to get responses through the route arranged via [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). I eventually managed to reach them by following up through a messaging app. In the end, I arranged the private taxi on my own responsibility, but there were no particular problems as a result.

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

    Tour Report by KAYOKO

    Hello. I’m Kayoko. I’m registered as a National Licensed Guide Interpreter by Tokyo Metropolitan City Government.
    I had been living in Yamagata City, 400 kilometers north up to Tokyo for 1 and 3 months, and now just have come back to Tokyo. I really enjoyed living in Yamagata.
    My hobby is horse riding and playing some musical instruments such as piano, clarinet, euphonium and tuba.
    Thanks to my riding experience, I had a special opportunity to do volunteer works at 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in the equestrian venue in Tokyo.
    I am also a certified kimono instructor and can help you dress in the traditional Japanese kimono.
    I’m really looking forward to meeting you.

    Request Booking

    May 28, 2025
    X3079KNdeans
    Sado Island Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Sado Island was a beautiful place with many attractions and sites to see.…

  • Kochi: Observation deck & port

    Kochi: Observation deck & port

    Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Depart from port
    • 10:20　Observation deck
    • 10:40　Makino Botanical Garden
    • 12:40　Travel
    • 13:10　Hirome Market (lunch)
    • 14:00　Kochi Castle
    • 15:00　Obiyamachi Shopping Street
    • 15:40　Travel
    • 16:00　Arrive at port

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kochi Like from a Cruise Ship Port? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One member of the group used a walker and could not walk very much, so during visits to the observation deck and shopping areas they waited in the car, and at the botanical garden and the castle they waited alone at a cafe. Fortunately, both cafes had wonderful views. The weather was clear and pleasantly mild, neither hot nor cold, making it a perfect day for sightseeing. We first went to the observation deck to look out over the city, then moved on to the botanical garden. At the garden, the cherry blossoms were already over, but the spring flower zone was beautiful, and the rice paddies where planting had just finished spread out below, which the guests enjoyed very much. Because we spent a long time at the Makino Botanical Garden, we viewed Harimaya Bridge only from the car window. Hirome Market is packed every day, but this time the cruise ship was small in scale, and since it was just after 1 p.m. on a weekday, we quickly found a place to sit, which was a relief. At the shopping arcade the guests looked at various things, but in the end they only purchased some stomach medicine.

    Click here for more details: Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by KAY

    Hi! I’m Kay.
    It’s my pleasure to be your guide.
    I was born and raised in Kochi city, and I worked for Kochi City Hall for nearly 30 years, so I think I know a lot about Kochi.

    Firstly, I can guide you to the Kochi castle. Most castles you can find in Japan have been rebuilt after fires, wars, or natural disasters. However, Kochi Castle is one of the very few castles that still have the whole structure of its original tower and the mail palace from the Edo period (1603–1868). This makes it especially valuable for understanding Japan’s history and traditional architecture. You’ll like it!

    Other major tourist sites are adventurous Ryugado limestone cave, Makino botanical garden, Chikurinji temple with historical stonesteps, Zenjibuji temple with the spectacular panoramic view, paper-making activity, Oboke gorge, Nakatsu gorge, Niyodo river with a historical bridge and so on.
    If you like sake, you can visit sake brewery, and if you are interested in walking local streets, you can stroll my neighborhood.

    Kochi is a small city, but it’s very popular among tourists for its beautiful nature and good food. I took my kids to rivers and mountains when they were little. If you are interested in those places, please ask me. And I know many good restaurants, too.
    I’m looking forward to enjoying them together with you!

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    A_J
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent tour with Kay
    Had an amazing time with our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    romankU9693SM
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our trip to Kochi
    Kay was a wonderful guide, very…

    May 28, 2026
    nancykotr
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Kay was a wonderful…
    Kay was a wonderful guide. We…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Jörg R
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Ein toller Ausflug in Kochi
    Pünktliche Abholung, kurze Transferzeiten…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Hotel
    • 10:10 Hotel
    • (on foot)
    • 10:20 Arrive Tokyo Station
    • Tokyo Station Eki Tabi Concierge
    • 10:30 Depart Tokyo Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 10:50 Arrive Shiodome Station
    • Shiodome Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 11:40 Depart Shiodome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 11:50 Arrive Akabanebashi Station
    • Shiba Tokyo Tower
    • 13:00 Depart Akabanebashi Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line9
    • Aoyama-itchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Omotesando Station
    • Aoyama Nezu Museum
    • Break: café
    • 14:45 Depart Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line9
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 15:50 Arrive Tokyo Station
    • 16:00 Disband: Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like at a Gentle Pace? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Both were staying in senior care residences back home. The previous evening they had arrived at Haneda Airport by flight and taken a taxi to their hotel. One of the guests had discomfort in the right leg and was scheduled to undergo surgery after returning home. For this reason, the tour proceeded at a slow pace, prioritizing the use of elevators. The main purpose of this visit was a 12-day cruise around Japan starting the following day. After the cruise made its final stop in Tokyo, the guests planned to enjoy three more days of sightseeing in Tokyo before flying home. They expressed a wish to see cherry blossoms if possible. The tour took place under cloudy skies with strong winds. The guests very much wanted to buy a Suica card, so we first went to the travel concierge at Tokyo Station. After obtaining it, we headed to Hamarikyu Gardens. I explained the history of the gardens and the history of Edo and Tokyo. The guests commented, "Japanese gardens are wonderful," and mentioned that there is a Japanese garden back home where a gardener comes from Japan once a year to maintain it. We then moved to Tokyo Tower. Being mindful of the guests, we walked slowly from the station to Tokyo Tower. Unfortunately, the air was hazy, so the surrounding views were not very clear, and we were unable to see Mount Fuji. The guests remarked, "I now understand that Tokyo is a city that spreads out widely." From here, at the guests' request, we visited the Nezu Museum, as one of the guests had worked at museums for a long time. The comments were, "The exhibitions are very thoughtfully arranged and wonderful," and "I was deeply moved by the Japanese garden and the tea house." We took a short break at a nearby coffee shop. We then moved to Shibuya and actually crossed the Scramble Crossing. There were questions such as "About how many people cross here?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photographs in front of the Hachiko statue. There were various comments and questions, such as "The streets are clean and there is no litter," "The public restrooms are clean," "There are no trash bins on the streets. Why is that?" "Everyone is quiet on the trains," and "There are vending machines everywhere." I saw the guests off at their hotel, and the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo～Shimbashi160JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi～Shiodome190JPY
    Section 3TrainShiodome～Akabanebashi180JPY
    Section 4TrainAkabanebashi～Omotesando290JPY
    Section 5TrainOmotesando～Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Tokyo210JPY
    Total1,210JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:30 Meet up @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 2.10:20 @ Higashi-Gyoen (East Gardens)
    • 3.11:45 @ Nezu Shrine
    • 4.12:40 Lunch @ Osakana Shokudo Nezu
    • 5.13:30 @ Strolling around Yanaka Ginza, Tennoji, and Yanaka Cemetery
    • 6.15:30 Disband @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Historic Districts Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had already traveled around Japan by cruise, with Tokyo as their final destination. They kindly told me that all Japanese people were friendly. Since they preferred to avoid crowded places and were interested in history, we first visited the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. They took many photos of the various buildings and scenery. After that, we went to Nezu Shrine. The Azalea Festival happened to be taking place, so we enjoyed the beautiful azalea scenery. For lunch, we ate at a nearby restaurant. Afterward, we strolled through Hebi-michi (the winding "snake path"), Yanaka Ginza, Yanaka Cemetery, Tenno-ji Temple, and the grave of Tokugawa Yoshinobu, before returning to the Hotel. It started raining partway through, but fortunately it never rained heavily, which was a relief.

    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～Shimbashi390JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Nezu180JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori～Shimbashi210JPY
    Section 5TrainShimbashi～Tokyo International Cruise Terminal390JPY
    Total1,350JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • JR Shinjuku Station 10:50
    • JR Harajuku Station 11:15
    • Ginza Line Shibuya Station 13:50
    • Ginza Line Asakusa Station 14;30
    • Ginza Line Asakusa Station 15:45
    • Hanzomon Line Otemachi Station 16:1０
    • JR Tokyo Station 17;20

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour began by meeting the guests at a hotel in Shinjuku. The group enjoys traveling together regularly and had requested no lunch break, as they had eaten a late and hearty breakfast. Although it was a walking tour in the rain, the guests seemed to enjoy everything, remarking, "The weather forecast really was accurate," "It's a quiet, steady rain," and "The greenery in the rain is beautiful." They said their feet were "not so wet after all," and apart from the time spent on the train, they walked for nearly six hours straight. Guided by a guide from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), the private walking tour covered Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, Cat Street, and Miyashita Park, then took in the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue, before heading to Asakusa on the Ginza Line, and afterward walking through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The guests paid attention to a wide variety of things, listened to my explanations, and took many photos even in the rain. When changing from the Ginza Line to the Hanzomon Line at Mitsukoshimae, I introduced the reproduction of the "Kidai Shoran" scroll, which caught their interest. They were particularly moved that Mount Fuji was depicted in it, reflecting, "Back then there were no buildings, and you could see Mount Fuji from around here." Finally, at Tokyo Station, the guests asked me to show them how to use the Shinkansen in preparation for a later date, so I guided them through it. There was a request to extend the tour, and following [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/)'s guidance, I agreed at my own discretion and extended the tour by one hour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Maddie

    Hello!
    I’m Maddie, an English-speaking tour guide.
    As a guide, I have been attending bus tours, Tokyo walk-around tours, and also, sumo wrestling tournaments tours.
    I have lived in Tokyo for nearly 30 years and have enjoyed walking around this city, full of wonder, mixture of nature and artificial structures. I am happy to share my experience with you.
    My hobbies are reading books including Manga, watching films including Anime. I like to watch various sorts of sports. I like to visit museums. And I am a tea ceremony practitioner, so I am quite familiar with green tea (matcha) and Japanese sweets.
    I am looking forward to seeing you!

    Request Booking

    Jun 4, 2026
    vadk2026
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo2026
    We had an excellent 6-hour walking tour around Tokyo with Maddie.…

    May 30, 2026
    Heather_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfect intro to Japan!
    We had a 4 hour private tour on…

    May 29, 2026
    jasonbO4660LV
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Afternoon in west Tokyo
    Maddie was an excellent, knowledgeable guide who maintained…

    May 8, 2026
    sebastianzO2366GR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great
    We had a good time walking with Maddie through Tokio. She…

  • Tokyo: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Otemachi Station

    Tokyo: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Otemachi Station

    Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Start time changed at the guest's request
    • 9:00 Meeting place：
    • Hotel New Otani Tokyo The Main
    • 9:10 Depart Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Station Eki Tabi Concierge Ueno
    • 9:50 Depart Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Komagome Station
    • Komagome Rikugien Garden
    • 10:45 Depart Komagome Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:45 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:45 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 　 Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • 13:00 Disband: Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Rikugien, Asakusa, and the Imperial Palace East Gardens The guests were two visiting groups of friends from North America. It was everyone's first visit to Japan. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous night on a direct flight and taken a taxi to their Hotel. The day before, they had explored the area around their Hotel and enjoyed teppanyaki for dinner. This time, they were on a trip of about two weeks in Japan. They would stay in Tokyo for four days, then take the Shinkansen to Kanazawa, and further visit Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. After returning to Tokyo, they planned to continue on to another destination for about four days of vacation before returning home. Today, their wish was to "take a general walk around the city and get a feel for the transportation, atmosphere, and overall situation." The tour took place under cloudy skies, and partway through it turned to light rain. Since they wanted to buy a "Suica Card," we first stopped at the Ekitabi Concierge at Ueno Station on the way. After completing the purchase, we first went to Rikugien in Komagome. I explained "the origins and current state of Rikugien." The weeping cherry trees had completely turned to green leaves, but the azaleas were in full bloom. They said, "The Japanese garden is wonderful. The view is superb." We moved on to Asakusa. We started from the front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the differences between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various other spots, and strolled slowly through the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are Japan's major religions?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" and "How many Christians are there?" There was also a question: "We see many people wearing kimono within the temple grounds. Why is that? Are they all Japanese?" We moved to the Imperial Palace East Gardens. I explained "the history of Japan from Edo to Meiji," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history of the Imperial Family," "World War II and the air raids on Tokyo," and "how the stone walls were built." There were questions and comments such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political power?" "Who will be the next Emperor?" and "Can a woman become Emperor?" They said, "The pine trees are wonderful." There were comments and questions such as "It's so quiet on the trains. No one is speaking loudly," "The city is clean with no litter on the ground," and "It's surprising that the public restrooms are clean and free." We parted ways at Akasaka-mitsuke Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAkasaka-mitsuke～Ueno210JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno～Komagome200JPY
    Section 3TrainKomagome～Ueno200JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 6OtherOtemachi (Tokyo)～Akasaka-mitsuke180JPY
    Total1,150JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Egret Himeji Rooftop & @ Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Egret Himeji Rooftop & @ Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meet at 11:30 @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:45 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 12:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 14:30 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 15:30 @ Food Court inside JR Himeji Station

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Oceania, and the tour proceeded smoothly. Although the weather was unfortunately poor with quite heavy rain, this meant that both Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden had fewer tourists than usual, allowing us to sightsee slowly and comfortably. Before visiting Himeji Castle, we stopped at the rooftop of Egret Himeji, which offered a wonderful panoramic view of the castle, and the guests seemed very pleased. Himeji Castle in this weather also conveyed a grandeur of a different kind. The guests listened attentively to the guide's explanations at Himeji Castle. As they were heading to Osaka after the tour and wished to have a light meal beforehand, I recommended the famous "eki soba" (Chinese-style noodles with Japanese dashi broth) inside Himeji Station, and we parted ways there. The tour was arranged through a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) assignment. I had exchanged messages with the guests nearly ten times by email and messaging app but rarely received replies, so I was quite anxious about whether we would be able to meet on the day; however, we met without any problem. This time, the intermediary local travel agency in charge asked me to refrain from contacting the guests directly until the day itself and to communicate through the agency until then, which made communication somewhat less smooth. I also contacted [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and since the name of the bullet train was noted in the contact information from the guests, I was advised to wait at Himeji Station. Responses vary depending on the local travel agency, and some seem to present difficulties.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet 9:55 Hotel shuttle to Gora Station 10:05 Taxi 10:20 Hakone Shrine 11:00 Bus from Motohakone Arrive at Hakone Checkpoint 11:05 Maruyama Bussan Donburi Chaya lunch Hakone Checkpoint Old cedar avenue After From Onshi Park bus stop Motohakone Port Arrive 13:00 13:25 Pirate ship 13:50 Togendai By ropeway 14:15 Owakudani By ropeway Sounzan 14:55 Disperse

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Hakone Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were seasoned travelers from Europe. We had exchanged messages via a messaging app the previous day, and since they had already seen Mount Fuji from a ropeway, there was no disappointment about not seeing it clearly today despite the rainy weather, and we spent an enjoyable time together. Their requests were the ropeway, Owakudani, Hakone Shrine, and Lake Ashi, but since we used a taxi (at the guests' request) between Gora and the shrine, we saved a significant amount of time and were able to add the Hakone Checkpoint area and the cedar avenue. The guests were very warm and cheerful, and there was a continuous stream of laughter and jokes throughout our time together. They also listened with great interest to my explanations of Japanese culture at various points along the way.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station～Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Request Booking

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Hokkaido in Half a Day: Vintage kimono shop

    Hokkaido in Half a Day: Vintage kimono shop

    Otaru Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Otaru Port
    • 10:00-10:15 Take a taxi from Otaru Port to the Nishin Goten (Herring Mansion)
    • 10:15-11:30 Tour the Nishin Goten (Herring Mansion)
    • 11:30-12:00 Take a bus from the Nishin Goten to Otaru Station
    • 12:00-13:00 Tour the Former Otaru Warehouse and the Otaru Museum Canal Hall
    • 13:00-13:40 Lunch
    • 13:40-14:00 Vintage kimono shop
    • 14:00 Disband

    Title: What's a Private Otaru Tour Like for a Cruise Ship Passenger? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had a deep interest in the history of Otaru and had requested to visit the Nishin Goten (Herring Mansion) in Shukutsu, the Otaru Canal, and the museum. Due to weather conditions, the cruise ship arrived in port one day earlier than scheduled, and the guests had already visited the Otaru Canal the previous day, so we skipped it today. We only took a few commemorative photos at Asakusa Bridge. Since the lunch spot was very close to Asakusa Bridge, after lunch I accompanied the guests to a vintage kimono shop at their request, and we parted ways there. The guests were great fans of Japan, with repeat visits to the country, and they explored both the Herring Mansion and the museum with great enthusiasm. They were seasoned, friendly travelers who clearly enjoyed themselves.

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

    Tour Report by Toshi

    Hello and welcome !
    My name is Toshiko, a licensed English-speaking tour guide based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.

    Hokkaido is famous for its beautiful nature in every season. I especially enjoy introducing guests to the natural landscapes of this region, including peaceful parks, scenic viewpoints, and light hiking trails.

    If you enjoy walking or hiking, I would be happy to guide you through some of Hokkaido’s wonderful nature spots while sharing stories about local history, culture and wildlife.

    Of course, I also love introducing our delicious food and charming towns such as Sapporo and Otaru.

    Please feel free to ask questions anytime during the tour.
    I look forward to sharing the beauty of Hokkaido with you !

    Request Booking
  • Hokkaido in One Day: Otaru Canal & Sankaku Market (Lunch)

    Hokkaido in One Day: Otaru Canal & Sankaku Market (Lunch)

    Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Otaru Port
    • 9:10 Otaru Canal
    • 9:30 Ukiyo-e Art Museum
    • 10:30 Nitori Art Museum
    • 12:00 Sankaku Market (Lunch)
    • 13:15 Sakaimachi Street – Shopping and Coffee Break
    • 14:30 Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch
    • 15:00 Tour Ends

    What Is a Private Otaru Cruise-Port Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan by cruise ship, arriving from North America. It was their first time in Japan. The Otaru Art Base offers a combined ticket (3,500 yen) that grants entry to all five facilities. However, after discussing it together, the guests chose the three they most wanted to see, and we paid the individual admission for each. Together the three came to 3,100 yen. The first one we entered, the ukiyo-e museum, seemed to be greatly enjoyed. One of the guests wanted to buy a T-shirt featuring Kiyoshi Yamashita's fireworks artwork at the Nitori Museum, but unfortunately there was no size that fit, which was a shame. We had made a reservation in advance at the Sankaku Market and finished lunch there, then took a coffee break on Sakaimachi Street and did some shopping. The guests purchased a music box for a family member. Finally, we visited the former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch. The guests had previously worked in banking, and they showed interest in Japanese banking operations. The photo was taken along the Otaru Canal.

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

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…