Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:50 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:20 Asakusa / Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:30 Shibuya
    • 14:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00 Tour ends at Shinjuku Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from Europe. They had already traveled through Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagano, and were now staying in Tokyo. Since this was their first day in Tokyo, I focused on visiting the main areas so they could get an overall sense of the city. We started at the Tsukiji Outer Market. The guests enjoy seafood and had been eating it frequently since arriving in Japan, and here too they were delighted to have sushi. In Asakusa, it happened to be a Sunday, so they were surprised by the large crowds, but they seemed to enjoy the unique atmosphere. At the Shibuya crossing they were equally amazed by the sheer number of people, though they said it was a place they had really wanted to visit. At our final stop, Meiji Shrine, we were fortunate to see two wedding processions, and the guests seemed captivated by the traditional attire and the atmosphere. We ended the tour at Shinjuku Station, near their hotel.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Kyoto Station
    • 10:00 Kintetsu-Nara Station
    • taxi
    • 10:20-50 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 10:10-40 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance 700 yen
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 11:00-12:00 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • Lunch at Shiroganeya
    • former katana sword manufacturer's, craft shop etc.
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:20- Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • lunch at Emado-chaya?
    • 12:20-50 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:00-10 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 13:30-14:00 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall:
    •    (walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:10-20 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate):
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:30-15:00 Yoshikien Garden
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 15:10-40 Rooftop of Nara Prefectural Office
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 16:00 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station
    • 17:00 Kyoto Station (End of Tour)

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Park Tour with Young Children Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America and Asia, traveling together with a young child. Everyone in the group had a rather reserved and gentle manner. Lunch at a restaurant where we could always relax at a leisurely pace was perfect for a group traveling with a small child. During lunch, the group asked whether there was a convenience store nearby where they could buy milk for the child, but there were no such shops within the park. We managed to get by with udon. Toward the end of the tour, at the Nara Prefectural Office, I remembered there was a convenience store there, and we were finally able to buy milk. Since the child was old enough, regular milk was fine rather than infant formula. We said our goodbyes, telling them to come back again once the child was old enough to play with the deer.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Kintetsu-Nara760JPY
    Section 2TrainKintetsu-Nara~Kyoto760JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace Front Plaza & Suehirocho Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace Front Plaza & Suehirocho Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at hotel lobby
    • 10:15 Imperial Palace Front Plaza
    • 11:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Ueno Park
    • 13:40 Ueno Station
    • 14:40 Suehirocho Station

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? Nezu Shrine, Ueno, and Akihabara — A Licensed Guide's Report We met at the hotel lobby at the scheduled time. After discussing the day's itinerary, we walked past the plaza in front of the Imperial Palace and boarded the Chiyoda Line from Otemachi Station. At Nezu Shrine, the guests enjoyed the azalea festival, which was the main highlight of the day. We then walked past Shinobazu Pond to the peony garden. Some of the guests entered and took their time enjoying the peony garden, while the guide waited nearby with the rest of the group, taking in the surroundings of the garden. We walked through Ueno Park toward Ueno Station and had lunch at "Juraku" near the station. Finally, from Ueno Station we took the Ginza Line, got off at Suehirocho, and I took the guests to the Yodobashi Camera in front of Akihabara Station, where we parted ways at 15:30.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Nezu180JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total360JPY

    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!

    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: Tsukiji & (JR Yamanote Line)

    Tokyo: Tsukiji & (JR Yamanote Line)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo lobby, head to Roppongi Station (on foot)
    • 08:47 Depart Roppongi (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 09:00 Arrive Tsukiji
    • 09:10 Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10:00 End, head to Hama-rikyu Gardens (on foot)
    • 10:15 Stroll through Hama-rikyu Gardens
    • 11:00 End, head to Hinode Pier (on foot)
    • 11:20 Arrive Hinode Pier
    • 11:35 Depart (Tokyo Cruise Ship HOTALUNA)
    • 12:15 Arrive Asakusa, Asakusa (Asakusa Underground Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 13:40 End
    • 13:53 Depart Asakusa (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:58 Arrive Ueno
    • 14:05 Depart (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:15 Stroll through Yanesen (Yanaka Ginza, Hebi-michi, Nezu Shrine, Otome Inari Shrine)
    • 15:45 End, head to Nezu Station (on foot)
    • 16:05 Depart Nezu (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 16:22 Arrive Nogizaka, head to hotel
    • 16:37 Arrive Grand Hyatt Tokyo, tour ends

    One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Hamarikyu, a River Cruise, Asakusa, and Yanaka The group chose this tour as the first tour of their trip to Japan. One member of the group was making a second visit to Japan, while the others were visiting for the first time. At the suggestion of one of the guests, we started at Tsukiji. When I met the group in the lobby, it turned out that they had skipped breakfast at the hotel, intending to have breakfast at Tsukiji instead. Starting with tuna and salmon sushi outside the main branch of a well-known sushi restaurant along Tsukiji Nishi-dori, I guided them to several shops where they enjoyed snow crab, butter-grilled scallops, strawberries, and more. Everyone was full of praise, saying, "Everything was so delicious. This place (Tsukiji) was worth coming to." After that, we moved on to Hamarikyu Gardens. Although we had a limited time of 45 minutes, we saw the 300-year-old pine, the flower fields, the Shinji duck hunting ground, the Matsu no Ochaya, the Taka no Ochaya, the Tsubame no Ochaya, and Mount Fujimi via the Otsutai Bridge. One of the guests took quite a lot of photos with a DSLR camera. Immersed in the quiet nature, so different from the bustle of Tsukiji, the guests marveled, "It's hard to believe this is the same Tokyo," and showed great interest in the historical background of the Tokugawa shogunal garden and the unique style of the tidal pond, asking many questions. We chose to walk to Hinode Pier, taking about 20 minutes at a leisurely pace and arriving 15 minutes before departure. The HOTALUNA, designed by Leiji Matsumoto, was very popular, but since the three guests and I had each made reservations in advance, we were able to secure seats without trouble. Heading upstream along the Sumida River, the boat proceeded at a relatively fast speed beneath a total of 14 bridges of various shapes from Tsukiji Ohashi to Azuma Bridge, and all three guests remarked that it "felt just like a spaceship." Unfortunately, the onboard announcements about the scenery through the windows were only in Japanese, and with the noise of the boat, they were hard to hear even for a Japanese speaker. One of the guests expressed some dissatisfaction, saying, "It's in Japanese, so I have no idea what they're saying," but they listened attentively to my explanations of the various spots along both banks and were satisfied. In Asakusa, we passed through the Kaminarimon, along Nakamise-dori, and through the Hozomon, then paid our respects at the main hall and at the neighboring Asakusa Shrine. On the way to Asakusa Station, they showed interest in the Bentendo as well, so I guided them there. At Asakusa Shrine and the Bentendo, they enthusiastically imitated me in the two-bow, two-clap, one-bow style of worship. After that, we changed trains and moved to Nippori. Initially, one of the guests, who has a strong interest in old townscapes and architecture, had wished to visit Nezu, but through our advance discussion I suggested touring the Yanesen area, which they gladly accepted. Passing along Goten-zaka, Kyoo-ji, Yuyake Dandan, Yanaka Ginza, the Yomise-dori shopping street, Okakura Tenshin Memorial Park, Sansaki-zaka, and Hebi-michi, they were fascinated by the old downtown townscapes and the way people live, taking many photos as we headed to Nezu Shrine. Nezu Shrine was in the middle of the Bunkyo Azalea Festival, and there was a long line, but I explained that the beautiful azaleas could be viewed from the grounds even without entering the azalea garden, so we bypassed the line and entered the grounds. Since there was a long line at the main hall of Nezu Shrine, we gave up on worshipping there. Instead, we walked beneath the vermilion torii gates of Otome Inari Shrine. Along the way, they listened attentively to my explanation of the placenta mound of Tokugawa Ienobu. There were many street stalls in the grounds, and they enjoyed candied strawberries. After that, they watched a dedicatory taiko drum performance by a local women's drum group with great interest, and seemed very satisfied. As we parted at the hotel, they told me, "You showed us so much of Tokyo in just one day. It was truly wonderful. Thank you."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2OtherHinode Pier (Water Bus)~Asakusa (Water Bus)1,400JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Nippori160JPY
    Section 5SubwayNezu~Nogizaka210JPY
    Total2,130JPY

    Hi everyone!

    I am Tatsu Nakayama, Japan Licensed Guide (2009-), Certified Travel Supervisor (2025-) and Domestic Itinerary Manager (2024-).

    I am originally from Kannami Town of Shizuoka Prefecture, which is located just south of Hakone.

    My guiding areas cover all over Japan, but I mainly guide in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Enoshima, Yokohama, Nikko, Mt. Fuji, Izu and Chiba.

    I am ready to help my guests have wonderful experiences and unforgettable memories in Japan.
    I always make sure everyone is happy and joyful while your needs are fully met with my big smiles and warmest hospitality. Lots of fun and new discoveries are an essential part of my tours.

    Here is my guide history:

    (In 2025)
    – DEC 31: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a group from USA & El Salvador (10 PAX) – Tokyo Character Street, Ginza, Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo, Asakusa
    – DEC 30: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a group from USA & El Salvador (10 PAX) – Tsukiji Outer Market, teamLab Planets
    – DEC 29: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a family from USA & El Salvador (5 PAX) – Shibuya, Omote Sando/Takeshita Street
    – DEC 28: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (* Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – NOV 15: Kamakura & Enoshima private walking tour for a group from Ghana (9 PAX) – Enoshima Shrine, Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden, Kotoku-in Temple (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    – NOV 14: Nikko private walking tour for a group from USA (3 PAX) – Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi Abyss, Kirifuri Falls (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – NOV 1: Nikko private walking tour for a family from Mexico (4 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple Shoyoen Garden, Shinkyo Bridge (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – OCT 27: Tokyo private car tour and airport transfer for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Hotel, Tokyo Sumo Show, Meguro, Haneda Airport
    – OCT 16: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from UK & Norway (4 PAX) – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tsukiji Outer Garden, Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Tokyo Tower
    – OCT 12: Tokyo private car tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Asakusa (Kimono & tea ceremony experience), Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza
    – OCT 11: Hakone private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone, Hakone Open Air Museum
    – OCT 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA (4 PAX) – Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – SEP 28: Fuji Hakone private car tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Oshino Hakkai, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
    – SEP 27: Tokyo private car tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Asakusa (Kimono & tea ceremony experience), Kappabashi Street, Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya)
    – AUG 7: Hakone private walking tour for a family from USA (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Open Air Museum (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – JUL 24: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Canada (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUL 22: Hakone private walking tour for a family from Austria (3 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone, Hakone Gora Park (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – JUL 9: Hakone private walking tour for a family from Canada (3 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 15: Hakone private walking tour for a couple from New Zealand (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone
    – MAY 3: Hakone private walking tour for a couple from Spain & Mexico (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Open Air Museum (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 30: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Scotland (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Kabuki-za Tower, Ginza (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 18: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (2 PAX) – Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, Akihabara Electric Town, Ginza, Kabuki-za Tower, Shibuya
    – APR 13: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Shinjuku (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – APR 12: Hakone private car tour for a VIP couple from Canada (2 PAX): Onshi Hakone Park, Hakone Shrine, Hotel de Yama, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Owakudani Valley
    – APR 7: Tokyo private car tour for a VIP family from USA (3 PAX) – Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Skytree, teamLab Borderless, Shibuya
    – APR 6: Airport transfer for a VIP family from USA (3 PAX) – Narita Airport to Tokyo
    – APR 5: Nikko private car tour for a couple from USA & Colombia (2 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    – MAR 31: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers (Yokohama DEP.) from USA (22 PAX) – Tokyo Tower, Meiji Jingu Shrine & Asakusa
    – MAR 30: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from USA, UK, Canada, Mexico & the Philippines (40 PAX) – Asakusa & Ginza
    – MAR 29: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Asakusa, Kappabashi Kitchenware Street, Ameyoko Shopping Street
    – MAR 22: Hakone private walking tour (Tokyo DEP.) for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, Hotel de Yama, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Owakudani Valley, Choanji Temple (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – MAR 20: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from Australia (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Skytree
    – MAR 17: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA (3 PAX) – Hamarikyu Gardens, Shibuya, Daiba, Ginza
    – MAR 16: Tokyo private tour with a vehicle for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Imperial Palace, Nezu Shrine, Asakusa
    – MAR 2: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2024)
    – DEC 30: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (4 PAX) – Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Viator)
    – DEC 29: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (5 PAX) – Ueno, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Shinjuku, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street
    – DEC 19: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – DEC 3: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace Inui Street
    – NOV 16: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from Mexico (4 PAX) – Shibuya, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Asakusa, Tokyo Tower (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – NOV 13: Nikko private walking tour for a family from Colombia (3 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Shinkyo Bridge, Rinnoji Temple, Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    – OCT 27: Airport transfer for a couple from Mexico (2 PAX) as Spanish-speaking assistant guide – Tokyo to Narita Airport
    – OCT 22: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from India (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – OCT 14: Hakone private walking tour a guest from Austria (1 PAX) – Hakone Open Air Museum, Choanji Temple, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
    – OCT 13: Hotel transfer for a couple from Mexico (2 PAX) as Spanish-speaking assistant guide – Narita Airport to Tokyo
    – OCT 9: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – AUG 10: Tokyo private walking tour for a VIP family from Brazil (3 PAX) – teamLab Borderless, Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa, Nishiazabu, Omote Sando, Shibuya
    – JUL 20: Tokyo private car tour for a VIP family from USA (8 PAX) – teamLab Borderless, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUL 19: Airport transfer and Tokyo private tour for a VIP family from USA (8 PAX) – Tokyo Haneda Airport Private Jet Terminal to Tokyo, Kamiyacho, Akihabara
    – JUL 15: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Scotland (2 PAX) – Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUN 23: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (5 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUN 1: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA & Albania (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – MAY 15: Tokyo bus tour for VIP participants of “SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 – City Leaders Program (Hosted by Tokyo Metropolitan Government),” representing 41 world cities (some 120 PAX) as one of guide team members – teamLab Borderless, Happoen, Toyosu Fish Market & Senkyaku Banrai, Tokyo Big Sight
    – APR 13: Tokyo bus tour & Narita Airport transfer for a group of cruise passengers from USA (30 PAX) – Tokyo Tower
    – APR 12: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from UK & USA (14 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa
    – APR 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Ireland & USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 6: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from the Netherlands (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 4: Tokyo private car tour for a group from India (10 PAX) – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Shibuya, Rainbow Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and Decks Beach Tokyo Odaiba, Ginza Six
    – MAR 31: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from New Zealand & USA (25 PAX) – Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Tower
    – MAR 30, 2024: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from USA & Australia (28 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Asakusa

    (In 2023)
    – JUL 8: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from India & USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa
    – JUN 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from Ireland (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Garden, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 18: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Germany (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 14: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa
    – MAY 5: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from France, Sweden, UK, USA, etc. (16 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Hamarikyu Gardens, Yokohama Hammer Head
    – APR 23: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from the USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2019)
    – SEP 21: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Marunouchi, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2014)
    – APR 6: Tokyo bus tour & airport transfer for top executives from a German company (10 PAX) – Odaiba, Narita Airport
    – APR 5: Hakone bus tour for top executives from a German company (10 PAX) – Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani, Lake Ashi, Sengokuhara

    Apart from my experience as a professional guide, I traveled to, worked, studied, volunteered in approx. 50 countries and regions of the world. It includes 1-year travel in North America and Europe, 4-year work experience in Viet Nam and 1-year study in Spain.

    I have worked for a non-profit organization for 25+ years, working extensively with foreign ambassadors and diplomats from over 100 countries.

    From my rich experience of communication with people from all over the world, I look forward to serving you for your unforgettable memories in Japan.

    I am highly skilled in photo-shooting. So, you can return home with some great photos!

    I hope to see you all soon !

    May 10, 2025
    P8195NRcaroliner
    A Truly Special Day in Japan – Unforgettable Experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full-Day Private Tour(Tokyo DEP.) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

    May 4, 2025
    PabloCarrionFlo
    Excellent Guide Made Our Hakone Trip Unforgettable
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha visit & Kinkaku-ji visit

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha visit & Kinkaku-ji visit

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@The Ritz Carton )
    • 9:00-9:30 Transfer (chartered car; hotel → Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 9:30-10:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha visit
    • 10:20-11:00 Transfer (Fushimi Inari Taisha → Arashiyama/Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 11:00-12:15 Arashiyama walk & visit (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Garden [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakkaen], Bamboo Grove)
    • 12:15-13:05 Lunch (@Cafe Dining Sera / near Shakado)
    • 13:05-13:35 Transfer (chartered car; Arashiyama → Kinkaku-ji)
    • 13:35-14:25 Kinkaku-ji visit
    • 14:25-15:00 Transfer (chartered car; Kinkaku-ji → hotel)
    • 15:00 Tour ends upon arrival at hotel    Said goodbye to the guests in front of the hotel.

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were an older group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan. I took them to Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge, the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakkaen], and the bamboo grove), and Kinkaku-ji. Today the sunlight was not as strong as the day before, making it a pleasant and ideal day for sightseeing. Because it was the tourist season, there were large crowds at each location, but thankfully the guests did not mind much and enjoyed the tour. Some of the guests especially liked Kinkaku-ji, while others found the Sogenchi Garden at Tenryu-ji the most memorable. Since it was the tourist season and a Sunday, I was concerned about traffic congestion, but the driver took back roads so we avoided most of the traffic and were able to proceed with the tour on schedule.

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet at 10:00 @ In front of the central ticket gate of JR Sannomiya Station
    • 2. 10:30 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 3. 12:20 @ Nankinmachi (Chinatown)
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch @ Kobe Beef, Meriken Wharf (guests only)
    • 5. 13:30 @ Kobe Meriken Park, Kobe Harborland
    • 6. Disband at 14:00 @ Kobe Harborland

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from JR Sannomiya Station Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from Oceania. It was their third time in Japan, but their first visit to Kobe. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private day tour of Kobe. We met at JR Sannomiya Station and visited Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Nankinmachi (Kobe's Chinatown). After the guests had a meal at a restaurant in Nankinmachi, we regrouped and continued to Kobe Meriken Park and Kobe Harborland, where the tour concluded at Harborland. The weather today was cloudy, but it did not rain, which was fortunate. The guests also enjoyed the Kobe beef they had in Nankinmachi, which was wonderful. Today's route included many spots ideal for taking photos, and the guests took plenty of pictures and thoroughly enjoyed the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line (Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal)~Shin-Kobe)110JPY
    Section 2OtherKobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line (Shin-Kobe~Kenchomae (Hyogo Prefecture))110JPY
    Total220JPY

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

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

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

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

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10 :30     Meet the guests at the hotel
    • 11:00~11:40 Tour of Tamozawa Imperial Villa
    • 11:40~12:30 Lunch
    • Travel by bus
    • 12:40~12:50 Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing
    • 13:00~15:00 Toshogu Shrine sightseeing
    • 15:00~15:40 Rinnoji Temple sightseeing
    • 15:50~16:15 Futarasan Shrine sightseeing
    • 16:30    Disband at the hotel

    What Can You See on a Private Nikko Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests this time were a group who did not mind walking and were open-minded about food. They also had a strong interest in Japan, which made them very easy to guide. Since they mentioned that a light meal would be enough and that they wanted to visit as many sightseeing spots as possible according to their wishes, I first guided them to the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, where they appreciated Japanese architecture. They then enjoyed a meal at the tea room within the villa grounds. After that, I guided them to Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Shrine, and was able to fulfill nearly all of the guests' requests. Toshogu Shrine in particular seemed to leave a very strong impression, and they gazed intently at its beauty. Laughter never ceased throughout the day, and they sightseeing with great curiosity, so I am sure the guests were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassJR Nikko Station~Yasukawacho600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTamozawa Imperial Villa~Shinkyo Bridge0JPY
    Section 3Free PassYasukawacho~JR Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Guide (Kogure) arrives at Hotel InterContinental Tokyo Bay
    • 9:50 Meet the guests in the Hotel InterContinental Tokyo Bay lobby
    • 10:00 After meeting with the guests, depart the hotel and walk to Yurikamome Takeshiba Station
    • 10:06 Depart Takeshiba Station, head to Shimbashi Station on the Yurikamome
    • 10:10 Arrive at Shimbashi Station, walk to Ginza Line Subway Shimbashi Station
    • 10:19 Depart Shimbashi Station, head to Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line Subway
    • 10:40 Arrive at Asakusa Station, walk to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 10:45–10:55 Guide the 8F observation deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 11:00–12:10 Guide Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Street
    • *Kaminarimon Gate, Hozomon Gate, giant straw sandals, five-story pagoda, omikuji fortunes, amulets, incense burner, purification fountain, main hall, Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:15–13:15 Lunch at Asakusa soba and udon restaurant Towada (hot udon with ginger ➕ mini tendon)
    • 13:23 Depart Asakusa Station, head to Shibuya Station on the Ginza Line Subway
    • 13:58 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • 14:12 Head from Shibuya Station to Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line
    • 14:15 Arrive at Harajuku Station, walk to Meiji Shrine
    • 14:20–15:20 Guide Meiji Shrine (sake barrels, wine barrels, second torii gate, waka poems, purification fountain, main hall, Meiji Shrine coffee shop)
    • 15:20 Depart Meiji Shrine, walk to Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:20–15:40 Guide Omotesando and Harajuku Takeshita Street (due to heavy crowds on Harajuku Takeshita Street, went only to the entrance at the guests' request)
    • 15:46 Depart Harajuku Station, head to Shibuya Station on the JR Yamanote Line
    • 15:50 Arrive at Shibuya Station,
    • 15:50–16:00 Guide Hachiko and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 16:05 Depart Shibuya Station, head to Shimbashi Station on the Ginza Line Subway
    • 16:18 Arrive at Shimbashi Station, walk to Yurikamome Shimbashi Station
    • 16:28 Depart Yurikamome Shimbashi Station, head to Takeshiba Station on the Yurikamome
    • 16:32 Arrive at Takeshiba Station, walk to Hotel InterContinental Tokyo Bay
    • 16:35 Arrive at the Hotel InterContinental Tokyo Bay lobby, end of duties

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were visiting from North America and were experiencing Japan and Asia for the first time, and they greatly enjoyed today's tour. They took many photos at Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku's Takeshita Street, and in front of the Hachiko statue in Shibuya. At Sensoji Temple they drew omikuji fortunes, and the guests were delighted that they both received "good luck." They learned about the difference between temples and shrines, the respective ways to pray, and how to pass through a torii gate, engaging with Japanese culture. As they had rarely eaten Japanese food, they enjoyed a warm udon with ginger plus a mini tempura rice bowl at Towada, a soba and udon restaurant in Asakusa that I guided them to today, and they seemed to savor it. The guests arrived in Japan yesterday and plan to watch a Giants versus Swallows game at Jingu Stadium tomorrow. After staying in Tokyo, they plan to take a cruise from Shimizu Port to Osaka Port, Kochi Port, Kagoshima Port, Nagasaki Port, and on to Busan, so I shared candidate places to visit and highlights to see during their stay in Tokyo. The conversation flowed easily, and time passed by in what felt like an instant.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakeshiba~Shimbashi190JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 7TrainShimbashi~Takeshiba190JPY
    Total1,350JPY

    Hello and how do you do?
    My name is Nobuo Kokure, and please call me Nobby for short, if you want.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born in Hayama, a beach resort area, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. And I’m now living in Saginuma, Kawasaki city.
    When I was a university student, I had the opportunities of doing a home stay with a family In U.S.A., Australia, and England, as a youth exchange student.
    After graduation from the university, I started working at American Life Insurance Company, Japan (Alico, Japan), which is a group member company of AIG, now MetLife Insurance Company. I could have a chance to visit the head office and the field offices of U.S.A., Wilmington in Delaware, New York, Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale in Florida, Los Angeles, while I was working for Alico, Japan (Now, MetLife Insurance company).
    I had been working for MetLife Insurance Company for about 38 years, in total.
    After retiring from the life insurance company, I started working as a tour guide, because I wanted to become a tour guide to introduce culture, history, and manners and customs of Japan in English. It’s so different between my previous job and the guide business, but I like guide business a lot.
    I can meet so many people from all over the world and the guide business has been thriving after the pandemic.
    I have implemented the tour over 240 times, introduced Japan to more than 4300 tourists from 53 countries.

    Not only Tokyo, but I have experienced touring around Nikko, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji & Hakone area, Takayama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima, etc. which are all very famous as a tourist spot in Japan.
    If you go on a tour in Tokyo, you must see and visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple which is the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo with histories and Nakamise Shopping Street where you can buy the souvenirs and try to taste Japanese sweets, such as doll cake which is the sponge cake in various shapes filled with red bean paste and Japanese powdered tea ice cream. Another my recommendation in Tokyo to visit is Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya. Meiji Shrine is one of the biggest shrines in Japan with quiet and peaceful atmosphere and magnificent site.
    Harajuku and Shibuya are both fun to visit for shopping and experience the Shibuya Crossing.
    I usually propose my tentative itinerary and ask if my plan is all right with the customer or not. My hobby is traveling around Japan and foreign countries and going to the gym for exercise.
    I would like to work as a guide as long as possible if I’m in good health and my legs are strong, because I love this job.
    I put my importance on the mind of OMOTENASHI which means sincere hospitality, though safety during the tour takes precedence, number one priority, before anything else.

    I’m very looking forward to seeing you and touring with you in Japan soon.
    Thank you!

    Best regards,

    Nobuo Kokure (Nobby)

    Jul 20, 2026
    JEFF_D
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    The excursion…

    Apr 18, 2026
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    We had a great day with a Japanese guide who seemed like…

    Sep 23, 2025
    johnsL7185LE
    Brilliant family day trip with Nobuo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobuo Kokure is a wonderful guide.…

    Aug 4, 2025
    leslie_w
    Nobby was an awesome tour…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobby was an awesome tour guide. Very…

  • Gifu: Takayama Jinya & Higashiyama Walking Course

    Gifu: Takayama Jinya & Higashiyama Walking Course

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Starting the tour at the meeting point
    • 9:30 Takayama Jinya
    • 10:30 Sanmachi Suji
    •  (Onoya Brewery:Miso)
    • 11:30 Miyagawa Morning Market
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:00 Takayama Museum of History and Art
    •  (Only a section of Takayama Castle)
    • 13:40 Takayama Castle ruins
    • 14:40 Higashiyama Walking Course
    • 15:00 Conclusion of the tour at the last site

    Title: What Is a Private Cultural Walking Tour of a Traditional Japanese Town Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who came to Japan out of an interest in Japanese culture and history. They enjoyed sightseeing, strolling, and taking photographs in areas of the town that retain a traditional atmosphere. For lunch, they enjoyed seasonal wild vegetables at a restaurant serving local cuisine, and during the meal the guide introduced them to a festival being held that day in a neighboring city (the Furukawa Festival). The guests showed interest in it, and also asked questions about the current interests of Japanese people, enjoying conversations about Japanese society and culture. Afterward, since they wished to reserve a table for dinner, I guided them to the restaurant. Following a visit to the city's history museum, where they took interest in materials about the castle and its lords, they enjoyed strolling around the castle hill area and the temples of the Higashiyama district.

    I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English).
    I have lived in Takayama city more than 30 years and worked for the city office, mainly at sectioin of cultural preservation and at local museums. So, I’ve enjoyed learning about traditional lifestyles and peopple’s history of Takayama and its surrounding areas for last few decades. Let’s enjoy them while you are walking with me! I would like to take you to popular spots such as Takayama Jinya, a national historic landmark, and old town atmosphere, morning markets, and The Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall in the city. And I also take you to Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kamikochi, a famous mountain resort as well.
    I love to communicate with foriegn visiters and share our Japanese traditonal ideas with you!

    May 24, 2026
    benhJ5330ZF
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Enjoying a morning in Takayama
    Micasa was an excellent and knowledgeable…

    Apr 26, 2026
    Abbie_O
    Viator review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent Tour
    Micasa was an excellent tour guide.…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Richard_S
    Viator review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Connection to Japanese history and culture
    An exceptional…

    Apr 7, 2026
    Jon_S
    Viator review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Cold Weather, but Warm Tour Guide
    Our tour guide, Micasa-san, had…

  • Kagoshima in One Day: am		Travel to Chiran & pm		Senganen Garden Tour

    Kagoshima in One Day: am Travel to Chiran & pm Senganen Garden Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00am Pick up at Marine Port Kagoshima
    • 09:00am -9:40am Travel to Chiran
    • 9:40am -11:00am Chiran Peace Museum Tour.
    • 11:00am -11:10am Travel to Samurai Residence Area
    • 11:10am -12:00pm Samurai Residence Area Tour
    • 12:00pm -01:00pm Travel to Senganen Garden
    • with the Bento Box in the car
    • 01:00pm -02:50pm Senganen Garden Tour
    • 02:50pm -03:20pm Travel back to Marine Port Kagoshima

    Title: What's a Private Car Tour of Kagoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Chiran and Sengan-en The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The group had a wide range of interests across many fields, and one of the guests in particular had a deep knowledge of history and was memorable for asking questions about many different topics with genuine curiosity. There were some complications before switching to a tour with a private car this time, but in the end the guests seemed very satisfied with the tour, which I was very glad about. This time we departed from Kagoshima City and visited the Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots, the Chiran Samurai Residences, and Sengan-en, moving quickly through each location within a limited amount of time. I myself was not particularly familiar with the Chiran area, but by studying in advance for this tour I was able to deepen my knowledge of the history and each of the sightseeing spots. The taxi driver, Mr. Sueyoshi, also supported us in various situations, which allowed the tour to proceed smoothly. In the end the guests seemed satisfied, which was a great relief to me, and I would like to make use of this experience in my future guiding.

    I am a World Cultural Heritage Regional Interpreter Guide in Kagoshima Prefecture and live in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, so I can accommodate travel plans that include combinations of people visiting sightseeing spots in Tokyo and Kanagawa, and World Cultural Heritage Sites in Kyushu and Kagoshima.
    ***Strengths***
    -I’m still nervous, but I will be certified as a Kagoshima Prefecture World Cultural Heritage Interpreter Guide in 2024!
    -I love fishing and trekking in Amami and Yakushima. Amami had been staying in Setouchi Town for a long time due to my father’s work.
    -Fukuoka is my hometown where I grew up until high school! I’ll even explain it in Fukuoka dialect!
    -Since I worked at the Nagasaki Shipyard for nearly 20 years, I can also guide you on trips to visit Kagoshima and other sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution.
    -I have spent long periods of time working overseas in Hong Kong, the Philippines, Kuwait, Iceland, Pakistan, the United States, Chile, Kenya, and other countries, so I can work with people from any country.
    -I have spent long periods of time in Kagoshima (Kirishima), Saga, Oita, Sendai, and Fukushima for domestic work, so I can also provide guidance.