Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the Toyosu Market main gate
    • 05:00-05:30 Explanation of related information such as tuna capturing methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers in advance
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through the Tsukiji inner market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    Title: What Is a Private Tsukiji and Toyosu Tuna Auction Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. Tour highlights and guest reactions The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They enjoyed watching the tuna auctions proceed one after another, as well as the bidding competition between the major wholesalers. One of the guests observed the hand signals of the intermediate wholesalers and got into the spirit of the auction by spotting the bidding prices and imagining taking part. Another guest, who enjoys photography, took many photos of the auction and the market atmosphere with a Canon film SLR camera and had a wonderful time. At the sushi restaurant after the auction, everyone enjoyed a tuna-focused meal, and they were amazed, saying, "We thought all tuna tasted the same, but the flavor changes so much depending on the cut and the way it's prepared." Everyone's favorites were the chutoro (medium fatty tuna) and the seared tuna. At the intermediate wholesalers in Tsukiji, we happened to come across a shop assistant at a wholesaler I know well cutting a 168 kg fresh bluefin tuna, and the guests were delighted. Since I'm a regular there, when I personally bought some fresh tuna offcuts, the assistant welcomed the guests in, saying, "Thank you as always, and sure, feel free to take a photo together," and the guests were deeply moved. With the guests' smiles, the assistant's warmth and good cheer, and me getting my bluefin tuna offcuts as well, it was a wonderful "win-win-win" moment. Afterwards, I guided them to a Japanese knife shop, where they purchased a nakiri vegetable knife and a Japanese-style petty knife, and the guests looked very pleased. 2. Tour highlights and guest reactions After buying tuna for many years at this intermediate wholesaler, I was finally allowed to take a photo together with the guests. The shop assistant told me, "You always buy from us, and when lots of tourists come, you explain the rules in English to other visitors and help clear a path for the customers who are here to shop, so you really help us out," which made me happy today. This is something AI cannot do, and I felt it is a strength of us licensed guide-interpreters.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market/Toei Bus~Tsukiji 6-chome/Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku & Disperse @ in front of Hachiko

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku & Disperse @ in front of Hachiko

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @ b hotel
    • 10:00 Shinjuku
    • 11:00 Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 13:00 Shibuya
    • 13:30 Disperse @ in front of Hachiko

    What's a Half-Day Private Walking Tour of West Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They were strong walkers, and although it was a rainy day, we walked a great deal. They had already traveled through Asia and had toured the Hiroshima and Kansai areas, with Tokyo being their final destination. They appeared to be completely accustomed to using the public transportation system. Since they wanted to see as much as possible on a half-day tour, I guided them mainly around the western side of Tokyo, including Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya. As the weather was poor that day, we skipped the Metropolitan Government Building observation deck and instead visited Omotesando. Having already seen many temples and shrines in the Kansai area, the guests were very satisfied to experience the modern side of Tokyo. They were delighted, saying it was exactly the image they had of Tokyo, which made me happy as well. Especially for guests who start their trip from the Kansai area, I felt that Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya are stimulating and enjoyable places to visit.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku160JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4SubwayOmotesando~Shibuya180JPY
    Total680JPY

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Station & Gion (Tour End)

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Station & Gion (Tour End)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Kyoto Station
    • 11:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market
    • 14:00 Gion (Tour End)

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Nishiki Market, and Gion Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour of Kyoto for guests visiting from Europe. One of the guests found communication in English difficult, so the other translated during the tour. Although the meeting point had been shared in advance as the hotel lobby via a messaging app, it was mistaken for the lobby of Kyoto Station, and upon receiving word that the guests had arrived at Kyoto Station, I returned to the station to meet them. The guests apologized, but since the hotel was near the station, there was no major issue. At Kinkaku-ji, the guests purchased a charm shaped like a Japanese school backpack (randoseru) as a souvenir for their grandchild. At Nishiki Market, they considered buying a bonsai potted plant set, but decided against it after learning that bringing seeds into their home country required an application. On the way to Gion, they purchased a T-shirt for their grandchild at the Hard Rock Cafe. Finally, we took photographs at the Gion Kaburenjo Theater alongside a maiko signboard, and the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus410JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Shijo Takakura/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total640JPY

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: @Osaka Castle & @Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in Half a Day: @Osaka Castle & @Umeda Sky Building

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @Hotel Osaka
    • 10:30-11:55@Osaka Castle
    • 12:30-13:00@Dotonbori, Hozenji
    • 13:30-14:20@Umeda Sky Building
    • 14:35 Disband @Near Osaka Station

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, on a family trip to celebrate a birthday. Blessed with clear skies after the rain, the group enjoyed viewing and photographing the azaleas in Osaka Castle Park, and strolled through Dotonbori, the Umeda Sky Building with its carp streamers fluttering in the air, and the greenery of Osaka. While experiencing Japanese culture through a matcha tea experience at the Umeda Sky Building, one of the guests asked specific questions about the climate of Kyushu, showing such enthusiasm about possibly moving to Japan that the rest of the group was surprised. After the tour, they planned to enjoy shopping and Osaka's local cuisine.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSakurajima~Osakajo Koen240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Section 3SubwayNamba (Subway)~Umeda (Subway)240JPY
    Total720JPY

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50 Meet up @ Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon
    • 10:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 13:30 Lunch @ Hakata Menbo Akanoren (Marunouchi Building)
    • 14:30 Imperial Palace
    • 16:00 Sensoji Temple
    • 17:00 Disband @ Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen, the Imperial Palace, and Sensoji The guests were visitors from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. Before coming to Tokyo, they had already visited western Japan (Kyoto, Kochi, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, etc.) on a cruise tour, and they were scheduled to return to North America the next day. At Meiji Shrine, they appeared to be impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they seemed impressed by the beautiful Japanese garden. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Sensoji Temple, they listened with interest to explanations about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as Kaminarimon Gate. Since I accommodated the guests according to their wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Shimbashi220JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-gyoenmae180JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku-gyoenmae~Tokyo210JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijubashimae~Ningyocho180JPY
    Section 7SubwayNingyocho~Asakusa180JPY
    Total1,310JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet up@Hotel Tokyo
    • 2. 10:00 @Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:00 @Harajuku (Takeshita Street, Omotesando)
    • 4. 11:50 @Ginza (Mitsukoshi basement food hall, 4-chome intersection, Kabukiza Theater, Kobiki-cho)
    • 5. 12:20 @Tsukiji Market
    • 6. 12:40 Lunch@Sushisei (Tsukiji Market)
    • 7. 13:40 @Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Taiyaki
    • 8. 14:00 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate, Outer Garden)
    • 9. 14:30 @Tokyo Station (station square, station building, Midori no Madoguchi ticket office)
    • 10. 15:20 @Asakusa (Azumabashi Bridge, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 11.16:15 Dismissal@entrance to Asakusa Shin-Nakamise Street

    Private Tokyo Walking Tour Report: What Can You See in a Day with a Licensed Guide from Meiji Shrine to Asakusa? The guests were a young group who had arrived from North America the previous day. One of them had briefly seen Tokyo before during a flight layover, but for the group this was essentially their first time sightseeing in Japan. After Tokyo, they planned to visit Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. They had also done thorough research in advance and signed up for programs to experience authentic Japanese culture, such as watching morning sumo practice and attending a kabuki performance in the evening the following day. During conversation on our walk, we happened to discover that we had attended the same university, which gave us a sense of familiarity as we chatted. Meiji Shrine was their very first visit to a Shinto shrine, and they experienced purification at the water pavilion and offered their prayers. In Ginza, I guided them through the basement food floor of the Mitsukoshi department store, and being interested in Japanese sweets, one of the guests bought sakuramochi from among the many options to try back at the hotel. On the way toward Tsukiji Market on foot, I introduced the Kabukiza Theatre in Higashi-Ginza; with their kabuki performance booked at the Kabukiza the day after this tour in mind, I showed them the souvenir and bento shops in Kobikicho, as well as the corner in the Kabukiza Tower where one can learn about the history of kabuki. At Tsukiji Market, they thoroughly enjoyed and finished a set of nigiri sushi, and afterward savored anko-filled taiyaki and warabimochi at a long-established taiyaki shop. At the ticket counter of Tokyo Station, I helped them reserve and issue Shinkansen tickets for their upcoming journey around Japan. At Senso-ji Temple, our final stop, they tried drawing an omikuji fortune for the first time; one of the guests drew a "bad luck" slip but reacted cheerfully with a laugh, saying it contained quite a good lesson. We parted ways on Shin-Nakamise Street, as they said they would have a coffee on their own before heading back.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Oedo Line Tochomae Station~Yoyogi Station1,100JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Omotesando Station~Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station~Kasumigaseki Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassToei Subway Asakusa Line Nihombashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total1,260JPY

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

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

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

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

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa→Ropeway→11:00 Owakudani→Togendai (Lunch)→13:15 Lake Ashi Cruise→Sake Tasting→Tokaido Cedar Avenue→15:00 Hakone Shrine→16:15 Farewell at Gora Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After meeting the guests at a hotel in Hakone, we headed to Owakudani by cable car and ropeway. On this day, Mount Fuji was clearly visible, so we took photos at a popular viewpoint, ate the famous black eggs, and then left this well-loved spot. We had lunch at Togendai, and at Hakonemachi Port the guests enjoyed a sake tasting. Walking along the Tokaido cedar avenue, we reflected on the travelers of the past, and at the final stop, Hakone Shrine, the guests received a brief lecture on shrine etiquette, the differences between shrines and their customs, and how to pray. In this way, they fully enjoyed Hakone, a place rich in nature, history, and culture.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Hakone-Yumoto Station6,000JPY
    Section 2Free PassHakone-Yumoto Station~Gora Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassGora Station~Kami-Gora Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassKami-Gora Station~Sounzan Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassSounzan~Togendai0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTogendai~Hakonemachi Port0JPY
    Section 7Free PassMoto-Hakone~Kowakudani Station0JPY
    Section 8Free PassKowakudani Station~Gora Station0JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    My name is Kazunori Honma, I live in Odawara city near Hakone facing Pacific Ocean, so I am familiar with Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. In particular, nature, history, culture and food in the region are my specialty. I know a lot of Shinto shrines, temples, and hiking trails. Plus, I love art, so I am able to guide you to a wide variety of art museums in Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. If you are an art lover, you will be able to spend a fulfilling time with me.
    I thoroughly make preparations for your interests and needs to satisfy you with all my effort in advance. I’m sure you will definitely be happy with spending a day with me.

    Jun 4, 2026
    Companion12422328239
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Great views of Mt Fuji and local tea
    We had…

    May 28, 2026
    kam_g
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    The guide was very nice…
    The guide was very…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Brandon2116
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Personalized Tokyo Experience
    Booking a private tour with Kaz was the perfect…

    Mar 29, 2026
    Stacy_A
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thanks, Kaz! We recommend this tour.
    Great experience – it was…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine. & Tour the Hakone Checkpoint.

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine. & Tour the Hakone Checkpoint.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Depart from hotel to Owakudani.
    • 09:45~10:15 Sightseeing at Owakudani, head to Komagatake Ropeway.
    • 10:40~11:10 Round trip to the summit on the Komagatake Ropeway. After getting off, head to Hakone Shrine.
    • 11:30~12:00 Visit Hakone Shrine.
    • 12:10~12:50 Lunch at Hakone Bakery.
    • 13:00~13:40 Appreciate contemporary Japanese paintings at the Narukawa Art Museum.
    • 13:50~14:10 Shop for marquetry at Maruyama Shoten in front of the Hakone Checkpoint.
    • 14:10~14:35 Tour the Hakone Checkpoint.
    • 14:35 Head to the hotel via the Ashinoko Skyline. Take a break at Mikuni Pass along the way.
    • 15:20 Arrive at hotel, disband.

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, and the Narukawa Art Museum The guests had been visiting various parts of Japan by cruise ship over the preceding weeks, enjoying fine weather and the cherry blossoms during that time. On the day of the tour, the wind was a little strong, but the weather was reasonably good, and although there were many clouds, we were also able to see Mount Fuji. One of the guests walked slowly with the aid of a cane, but was able to manage stairs of about one building floor, so getting on and off the ropeway and going between the first and second floors of the Narukawa Art Museum was not a particular problem. At Hakone Shrine, we parked the car in a parking lot on the same level next to the main hall, so this was also no problem. The guests seemed to find each of the places we visited interesting and enjoyable, and they were especially impressed by the various works depicting Mount Fuji at the Narukawa Art Museum, as well as the works by the painter Reiji Hiramatsu depicting Monet's water lilies (the theme being the exchange and fusion of East and West). This booking was also made through a travel agency. Although I had exchanged emails with the agency two or three times just beforehand, when I met the guests on the morning of the tour, they told me, "There was no contact from you, so I was worried about whether you would really come." I explained that I had been in contact with the agency, that I had not been able to reach them directly because they did not seem to use a messaging app, and that I had asked the agency to confirm their phone number but had received no reply. They seemed to understand after that. They mentioned that they had started using a messaging app just before the tour.

    I have worked as a diplomat for 48 years until last year(2024), so I think I am good at explaining anything about Japan in English. Though I’m a novice as tour guide, l promise that I will make detailed and thorough preparations for guiding you and to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. I myself like to experience various means of transportation and interested in local culture, history and food. You may be a bit concerned about my age(71 years old), but I am quite fit for work. Just to prove this I wish to say that I played 5 rounds of golf this summer month of August, 2025.

    Apr 16, 2026
    127dougg
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable to have a day being toured about with no…

    Oct 25, 2025
    Julia_G
    Tokyo gardens and museums.
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi is an excellent guide. He crafted a…

    Oct 14, 2025
    M
    Manohar_S
    Superb must see
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very scenic and beautiful trip… Mr Toshi…

    Oct 7, 2025
    Robert_H
    Lots of walking. We are…
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Lots of walking. We are…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nanzen-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nanzen-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Kyoto Station (Meet at West Exit / Hachijo Exit)
    • 10:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:00 Lunch (Wafu Joy Kinkaku-ji Branch)
    • 14:40 Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 16:00 Gion (Tour ends)

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka Like for Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. The [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) private tour began with a visit to Fushimi Inari, where I guided the group along the wheelchair-accessible route, but a slope along the way was steeper than expected, and there were moments where the wheelchair tended to roll forward. At Kinkaku-ji, I guided the group as far as the stone structure of the Dragon Gate before the staircase, and afterwards we had lunch at a nearby Japanese restaurant. The food was very well received, and nearly all of it was finished. Next, at Nanzen-ji, only the entrance to the abbot's quarters was reached by using a cane to climb the steps, and the interior was explored using a dedicated wheelchair. In the quiet surroundings, the group especially enjoyed the views of the temple gate and the garden. When we got off at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo, we happened to encounter maiko from another entertainment district just after the end of the Miyako Odori, which delighted the group greatly. I guided the group back toward Osaka, ending the tour. This was my first time guiding while accommodating a wheelchair, and I felt that even at facilities described as barrier-free, in reality there were steep slopes, level differences, and stairs, so they were not completely barrier-free.

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Courtyard by Marriot Tokyo Ginza
    • 9:20 Tsukiji Market
    • 10:40 Asakusa
    • 11:40 Akihabara Quick Lunch
    • 12:20 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Nakameguro Disband at the platform

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Tour with Tsukiji, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Cherry Blossoms Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. The day before the tour, they contacted me because their flight had been canceled, asking whether the tour could be postponed by one day, and I was able to accommodate the change. They were very grateful, saying it felt almost impossible that this could be arranged. At Tsukiji Market, they were delighted to enjoy tamagoyaki (grilled egg), yakitori, sashimi, and eel. Since this took longer than expected, I changed the original plan of preparing lunch at the Isetan depachika (department store food hall) and having it on the lawn at Shinjuku Gyoen, and instead we had a quick lunch of noodles and onigiri in Akihabara. They seemed to enjoy the Kansai-style dashi broth and said it was very delicious, which was reassuring. As for the cherry blossom viewing they had requested, we were able to see the double-flowered cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen and take photos, and they were very satisfied. They thanked me for adjusting the date and for being a wonderful guide.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa (TX)~Akihabara230JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara~Yotsuya200JPY
    Section 5SubwayYotsuya~Shinjuku-gyoemmae180JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 7SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nakameguro290JPY
    Total1,470JPY

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…