Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Observe the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Observe the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet at Toyosu Market Building 7
    • 05:00-05:30 Beforehand, explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Observe 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 around Tsukiji Inner Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Private Toyosu Fish Market and Tsukiji Food Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America. Both were looking forward to observing the tuna auction, and right after we met at Toyosu Market, they asked detailed questions about tuna distribution, so the conversation became lively from the very start of the tour. They were very surprised that each tuna auction is decided within a few seconds per fish, and admired how efficient it was. For the sushi breakfast after the auction, the guests both ordered "omakase" and enjoyed the seasonal ingredients. Since "omakase" allows you to add two pieces of sushi of your choice at the end, the guests requested "we'll have what the guide recommends," so I suggested conger eel and golden eye snapper, which are rarely available to eat in North America, and they were very satisfied. One of the guests requested to buy dried bonito again, as they had found it delicious on a previous visit to Tsukiji, so I guided them to a specialty dried bonito shop in Tsukiji. After sampling several types of dried bonito, they bought their favorite and were delighted, saying "I feel like I could finish this in a single day."

    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…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:10 Hotel meet 10:45 Hotel shuttle to Odawara Station, then 11:15 By bus to Hakone Checkpoint Ruins, arrive 12:20, lunch at Donburi Chaya, Maruyama Bussan, then 13:15 From Hakonemachi Port by pirate ship, arrive Togendai 14:25, by ropeway to Owakudani at 15:00, 15:30 From Owakudani by bus to Odawara Station, arrive 16:30, accompany and guide to the Hilton-bound shuttle bus stop, disperse at 16:45 (Customers return to Hilton Odawara by shuttle bus at 17:15)

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani and Lake Ashi The guests were a group visiting from North America, and the atmosphere was very relaxed and pleasant. Since we were not able to start at 9:00 as planned, I had them hurry a little along the way to make sure they could catch the last shuttle bus from Odawara at 17:15, so it may have felt somewhat rushed. However, in the end, Mount Fuji appeared at Owakudani, though a bit hazy, which was a great help. The guests had their cameras ready and waited to photograph Mount Fuji from the moment they boarded the ropeway. Being fans of Japanese food, they happily finished their meal at a donburi restaurant. They were also amazed by Maruyama yosegi marquetry, which they experienced for the first time, and did various shopping. On the boat, they thoroughly enjoyed the scenery surrounded by greenery from the deck.

    Transportation cost per person

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

    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

    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…

  • Tokyo: Blossom Hibiya. & Sendagi

    Tokyo: Blossom Hibiya. & Sendagi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Blossom Hibiya.
    • 09:40 Hibiya Station
    • 10:00 Shin-Ochanomizu
    • 10:20 Yushima Seido
    • 11:00 Kanda Myojin, Akihabara
    • 11:30 Nippori, Yanaka Ginza
    • 12:15 Sendagi
    • 13:00 Hibiya
    • 13:00 Yurakucho, Ginza,
    • 14:40 Lunch at Tamatoya (monjayaki)
    • 15:22 End

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They shared that they take a family trip every year, and that they are a very education-focused group. One of them mentioned that after school, the first thing they were often asked was whether they had finished their homework, and noted that they studied hard and value education. During our conversation, several topics came up, including questions about whether visitors from North America are well liked in Japan and observations that they had not seen many but had noticed some at the hotel. There was also discussion about minimum wage levels back in their region. The guests asked a number of thoughtful questions about Japan. They wondered why dementia seems common in Japan despite the reputation of healthy Japanese food. They noted that in their region there is a high proportion of female lawmakers. They commented that cyclists often do not wear helmets, which can lead to accidents. They also asked where the seniors were and why they did not see many. I explained the current situation regarding land prices in Tokyo. The guests were heading to teamLab at a nearby complex, so we parted ways there. The tour concluded at Kyukyodo.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya~Shin-Ochanomizu180JPY
    Section 2TrainAkihabara~Nippori200JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi~Hibiya180JPY
    Total560JPY

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

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

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

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

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

    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
    CJW324
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Guided Tour & Tablet Guided Origami Experience
    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

    May 20, 2026
    olgalA154QQ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with an excellent guide
    Great experience! Our guide WADA Hideaki…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Sightseer57474900023
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
    Hideaki was an incredible guide and…

  • Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour

    Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Transfer by bus to Kenrokuen
    • AM 10:40- PM 12:00 Tour of Kenrokuen and matcha experience at Shigure-tei
    • PM 12:00- 13:00 Tour of Kanazawa Castle Park and Gyokusen-in
    • Transfer on foot to Omicho Market via Oyama Shrine
    • PM 13:20- 14:20 Lunch at Omicho Market
    • Transfer on foot to Higashi Chaya District via Kazuemachi
    • PM 14:30 – 16:00 Higashi Chaya District, tour of Shima and Gold Leaf Sakuda, shopping
    • Transfer by bus to Kanazawa Station, tour ends

    What Is a Private Family Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. On the day of the tour, one of the guests could not join due to feeling unwell. Since we had not discussed the itinerary in advance, we confirmed the plan on the morning of the tour. As the weather was not too hot, we decided to include Kanazawa Castle Park instead of the Kanazawa Confectionery Wooden Mold Museum and the Ohi Pottery Museum. The guests enjoyed nodoguro and a seafood rice bowl at Omicho Market, and at the Higashi Chaya District they enjoyed Kaga bocha tea, kintsuba from a local shop, and shopping for gold leaf products at a gold leaf shop.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Hirosaka・21st Century Museum/Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusHashiba-cho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kanazawa Station/Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total440JPY

    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。

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 2. 10:45 Tsukiji
    • 3. 11:30 Akihabara
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch (Gonpachi Asakusa Azumabashi)
    • 5. 13:15 Asakusa
    • 6. 15:00 Rikugien Garden
    • 7. 16:00 Disband at JR Shin-Okubo Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Akihabara, and Asakusa The guests were visiting from Europe. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to travel to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and other areas after Tokyo before returning to Tokyo, staying in Japan for about two weeks. One of the guests was visiting Japan for the first time, while the other had visited more than twenty years earlier. I guided the group through Tsukiji, Akihabara, Asakusa, and Rikugien Garden. Both were very friendly and listened attentively to my explanations, and they asked a variety of questions. Since there was no strong preference for lunch, we went to a restaurant in Asakusa with a nice atmosphere, and the guests told me it was a "Good Choice." We ended the tour at JR Shin-Okubo Station, the nearest station to their hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Okubo~Tsukiji Market380JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Akihabara180JPY
    Section 3SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Komagome380JPY
    Section 5TrainKomagome~Shin-Okubo210JPY
    Total1,330JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: By taxi to Peace Park Pier & By taxi to hotel

    Hiroshima in One Day: By taxi to Peace Park Pier & By taxi to hotel

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel pickup
    • 8:00-8:10 By taxi to Peace Park Pier
    • 8:30-9:15 World Heritage Sea Route, Peace Park – Miyajima
    • 9:15-11:15 At Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine and other historical buildings
    • 11:30-12:15 World Heritage Sea Route, Miyajima – Peace Park
    • 12:30-13:30 Lunch
    • 13:40-15:10 Peace Memorial Park, Museum
    • 15:10-15:25 By taxi to Shukkeien Garden
    • 15:25-15:45 Shukkeien Garden
    • 15:45-16:00 By taxi to hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Summer Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Oceania. According to their advance messages, they had arrived at Haneda the previous day and traveled to Hiroshima, with this tour being the first day of their time in Japan. Since they were coming from the Southern Hemisphere in its winter season, I was concerned they might struggle in the hot and humid conditions, so I prepared some cooling gear to welcome them. In fact, they were visiting Japan as an extension of a trip through Europe, so I felt somewhat reassured that there was less worry about a sudden change in weather affecting their health. They were very energetic, but they did find the humid environment with temperatures exceeding 34 degrees challenging, so I made sure to keep the pace of our activities relaxed.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park~Miyajima2,400JPY
    Total2,400JPY

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

    Jul 31, 2026
    Helene R
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Experienced guide Hiroshi
    Hiroshi was a great experienced…

    Jul 26, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Miyajima Half-Day customized tour with licensed local guide (Hiroshi)
    We went…

    Jul 17, 2026
    oswaldom406
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour, Fantastic guide!
    We had an absolutely wonderful…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Jennifer L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Perfect day in Miyajima and Hiroshima
    Hiroshi is…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa (Skytree photos) & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa (Skytree photos) & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Niwa
    • 10:30 Shibamata, Taishakuten Temple and the temple town
    • 12:00 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 13:15 Lunch @ Irori-an Kiraku Soba, Ueno
    • 14:10 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:30 Disband in front of Fender Guitar, Harajuku

    What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibamata, Asakusa, and the Imperial Palace It was humid but not too sunny, and there was almost no rain, making it a perfect day for guiding. The guests had a Welcome Suica card, so the tour proceeded smoothly. In Shibamata, they looked closely at the carvings of Taishakuten Temple. They also enjoyed the Japanese garden. In front of the temple gate, they enjoyed some dango. Asakusa was crowded, but they enjoyed shopping at Nakamise. The guests expressed a wish to have lunch, so I took them to a station soba shop in Ueno. Everyone finished their meals completely. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, I received many questions about the history and the gardens. When our scheduled time came at the entrance to Meiji Shrine, I continued guiding, and we finished in front of the Fender Guitar shop as requested.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSuidobashi~Shibamata540JPY
    Section 2TrainShibamata~Asakusa380JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Takebashi180JPY
    Section 5TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Total1,490JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:00 Hotel Resol Kyoto Shijo Muromachi Meet-up
    • ② 09:05 Explanation of today's itinerary & about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 09:30 Departure
    • ④ 10:00 Daitoku-ji (Obai-in)
    • ⑤ 11:45 Nijo Castle
    • ⑥ 13:00 Lunch
    • ⑦ 13:45 Stroll along Pontocho
    • ⑧ 14:15 Sanjusangendo
    • ⑨ 15:00 Disband at Gion-Shijo

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were visiting from Oceania, from a place rich in nature where you can see a large mountain that resembles Mount Fuji. They showed me photos, and it was indeed a beautiful mountain that looked just like Mount Fuji. This was their first time in Japan, traveling from Tokyo and Kanazawa to Kyoto. Both were educators, so they were skilled at both speaking and listening. They were very interested in history and culture. Whenever I explained something, one of the guests would compare it, saying that in their home region it works this way, and in their ancestral homeland it works another way, sharing the differences and similarities between cultures. Thanks to this, I gained many new insights. The other listened intently and responded with nods, and would sometimes ask about the significance of something, or the history behind it. As a guide, they were the kind of guests who made explaining truly worthwhile. We were of a similar generation, so we got along well. I heard they have a very young grandchild, and I privately wondered whether their family might be having a hard time while they traveled abroad. It seems that, given their profession, this was the only time they could take a vacation. When I taught them "ookini" (thank you in the Kansai dialect), they taught me "Nga mihi," which means thank you in Maori. For lunch, at their request for gyoza dumplings, we went with the classic style of gyoza and beer at a well-known chain, which they enjoyed very much. And so, I believe they were able to spend a pleasant day in this hot and humid Kyoto. The rainy season in the Kansai region ended last week, and this week it suddenly turned very hot and humid, marking the arrival of summer at last. I spent the day a little worried about my own summer fatigue and whether a headache might start, but I managed to make it home after gulping down some rehydration drink on the way back.

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:55 Meet@Hotel Lobby
    • 2. 09:00 Travel: Train
    • 3. 09:20 Visit@Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 10:10 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 10:30 Visit@East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 6. 11:40 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 12:05 Visit@Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 8. 12:30 Lunch@Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan
    • 9. 13:15 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 13:50 Visit@Asakusa
    • 11. 14:55 Travel: Subway
    • 12. 15:15 Dismissal@Toei Subway Sengakuji Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Although it was their first time at the hotel where they were staying, prior communication went smoothly and we were able to meet up without any trouble. I guided them along a classic route covering Meiji Shrine, the East Gardens, Tsukiji, and Asakusa. We used routes with elevators or escalators and avoided stairs as much as possible. Since the guests enjoyed tuna, the sushi at Tsukiji was very well received. After lunch, we traveled on the Toei Asakusa Line, which required no transfers, and after touring Asakusa, I saw the guests off at the station nearest their hotel before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakanawa Gateway~Harajuku210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 4SubwayHigashi-ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Sengakuji280JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Kyoto: Ryokan Tori & Nintendo Store

    Kyoto: Ryokan Tori & Nintendo Store

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Ryokan Tori
    • 10:15 Kinkakuji (500)
    • 11:20 Bamboo Path
    • 11:30 Arashiyama
    • Lunch(Kura Sushi Nishioji Shichijo Store)
    • 13:00 Fushimiinari
    • 14:15 Kiyomizudera (500)
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Ninenzaka by walking
    • Tatsumibashi
    • 16:00 Nintendo Store
    • End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for Guests Not Interested in Temples? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were from Oceania, and one of them had been traveling before meeting up in Tokyo, where they did some sightseeing before coming to Kyoto. There was no reaction to the emails I had sent beforehand. When we met on the day, I confirmed the itinerary, and they said it was fine as it was, but since they did not seem interested at all in shrines, temples, history, or shopping, I left out Tenryu-ji, which requires an admission fee, and instead passed through Kameyama Park to reach the Oi River. On the way to Fushimi Inari, we stopped for lunch at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, where both of them had ramen after eating shrimp sushi. After the classic spots of Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera, we went to a character goods shop on Ninenzaka, took a few photos at Tatsumi Bridge in Gion, and finally I guided them to the Nintendo Store. Of all the destinations that day, they looked happiest there.

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

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…