Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet up
    • 0940 Asakusa
    • 1140 Komagome Lunch
    • 1300 Rikugien Garden
    • 1440 Yanaka
    • 1620 Nezu Shrine
    • 1700 Board a taxi and finish

    What's an 8-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Rikugien, and Yanaka The guests were visiting from Oceania and requested an 8-hour tour. I planned the day with plenty of time, paying careful attention to walking pace and the ease of getting around. Toward the end, as the guests grew a little tired, one of them chose to skip the visit to Nezu Shrine. The guests were delighted by the lively atmosphere of Asakusa. They enjoyed a soba steak set at a long-established soba restaurant in Komagome, finishing it completely and remarking how delicious it was, and they also loved the atmosphere of the restaurant. They were captivated by the beauty of the Japanese garden at Rikugien and by the charm of Yanaka. They expressed their gratitude, saying it had been a wonderful and thoughtfully arranged day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusabashi~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Komagome200JPY
    Section 4TrainKomagome~Nippori160JPY
    Section 5SubwaySendagi~Nezu180JPY
    Total900JPY

    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.…

  • Tokyo Japanese Gardens Private Tour

    Tokyo Japanese Gardens Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 9:00 Meet @Hyatt Regency Tokyo (2-7-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 9:10 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 3) 10:10 Meiji Jingu Gyoen
    • 4) 11:40 Hamarikyu
    • 5) 13:10 Lunch @Shiodome City Center Sachifukuya CAFE
    • 6) 14:20 Higashi Gyoen (East Gardens)
    • 7) 15:00 Dismissal @Taxi stand in front of Hotel Tokyo (1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Private Garden-Focused Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who had requested, in pre-tour messages, to see as many gardens as possible and to travel by taxi. Based on this, I sent a proposed itinerary in advance. At the meeting point, we confirmed the plan again and, with the guests' understanding that they would cover the taxi fares, we began the tour by taxi. We arrived at the Shinjuku Gate of Shinjuku Gyoen and purchased tickets with the senior discount (from this year, ID presentation is no longer required) before entering. It turned out that one of the guests volunteers as a garden guide at a local garden back home and has even appeared on YouTube. As we walked through the garden, we stopped here and there to check the names of trees, plants, and flowers, and I also looked them up using the photo function on my smartphone. The other guest, who also loves nature, cheerfully enjoyed the stroll. After leaving the Japanese garden, we took a taxi from the taxi stand in front of Sendagaya Station on the JR line to Meiji Shrine. The guests had already visited Meiji Shrine two days earlier on a bus tour on a rainy day, so this time we entered from the North Approach and I guided them to the Inner Garden. We viewed the South Pond (where lotuses were blooming, and water striders were mistaken for mosquitoes), the Iris Field (with some flowers at their peak), and Kiyomasa's Well (they were surprised by the coldness of the spring water and the many visitors). Perhaps because taxi travel was smooth on a holiday, we progressed ahead of schedule and moved on to Hamarikyu Gardens. In the tidal pond, fish jumped several times, and many jellyfish were drifting on the water's surface. We rested briefly at Fujimi Hill, and I introduced the ruins of the falconry facility and the Takeshiba water gate. The guests were captivated by the branch shape of the three-hundred-year-old pine. For lunch, I guided them to a restaurant inside a nearby commercial mall, where the guests each ordered a fried chicken set meal. At the East Gardens, we entered from Hirakawamon Gate to the Ninomaru Garden, where they admired the golden carp and the many pines. After exiting the Otemon Gate, I showed them to a nearby taxi stand, and we parted with smiles and a hug.

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 ホテルで待ち合わせ。
    • 2. 9:10 博物館を見学
    • 3. 10:10 平和記念公園を見学(原爆ドーム、その他の記念碑、広島国立追悼平和祈念館を含む)
    • 4. 11:30 縮景園を見学
    • 5. 13:00 ホテルの前でお別れ

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like for Guests Visiting from Europe? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe. During the tour, communication was assisted so that everything could be conveyed clearly. Despite these circumstances, the guests showed a strong interest in the atomic bombing and the devastation of Hiroshima, carefully touring the exhibits at the museum. Since walking was difficult for part of the group, I stayed close throughout, while another member of the group moved separately to take photographs. At Shukkeien Garden, the group seemed to enjoy the greenery and the carp. While I guided part of the group around the various spots, another member of the group spent time reading. I was relieved to complete the tour without any falls or health issues. We traveled by taxi throughout the tour.

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Apr 13, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with Yoshi
    Yoshi was truly one of the…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Liesbet N
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Boeiende reis door geschiedenis
    Een boeiende rondleiding van Yoshiko…

    Oct 26, 2025
    COYS100
    Great Hiroshima experience
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    A great tour with a very informed…

    Jun 25, 2025
    O1135UVraymondp
    Highly recommended to everyone to this tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Joshi is…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @Hotel
    • 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:00 Asakusa
    •   Lunch (Kanaya)
    • 15:00 Disband @Cerulean Tower

    What's a Private Full-Day Highlights Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. As it was their first day of sightseeing in Tokyo, I led a highlights tour covering the main attractions of the city, including Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge), and Asakusa. At Nijubashi Bridge, we were lucky to see a ceremonial horse-drawn carriage procession for a newly appointed ambassador. At Asakusa Shrine, we were able to see a portable shrine (mikoshi). After having udon for lunch in Asakusa, we returned to the hotel in Shibuya. The driver was very kind and took us past sights along the way, including the Ryogoku Kokugikan sumo arena, the State Guest House, and the National Diet Building. Before returning to the hotel in Shibuya at the end, the driver kindly stopped the car just before the Shibuya Scramble Crossing so the guests could watch people crossing from the front, which they were delighted by. During the drive, I explained recommended sightseeing spots in the city and how to use luggage delivery services for suitcases. I am grateful to have spent such an enjoyable time with these friendly and easygoing guests.

    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.

    Sep 22, 2026
    grenfell69
    Half-day tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    While visiting Tokyo we chose the Customized…

    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…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji Market & Sumo experience

    Tokyo: Tsukiji Market & Sumo experience

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:45 Meet at hotel
    • move by train
    • 10:15 – 11:15 Tsukiji Market (best market for foodies)
    • move by train
    • 12:00 – 13:40 Asakusa for Sushi making experience (pre-booked/ Lunch)
    • 13:40 – 15:10 Asakusa Sensoji and Nakamise shopping street
    • move by train
    • 15:30 – 16: 10 Ueno Park (Big park with historical statue & buildings and museums/ near to your hotel)
    • move by train
    • 16:30 – 17:45 Ryogoku Sumo town tour (Sumo stadium at the last day of the tournament/ Japanese style garden)
    • 17:45 (18:00) Sumo experience (pre-booked/ Dinner)

    What Is an 8-Hour Private Food Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Ryogoku [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led an 8-hour private tour of Tokyo for guests visiting from North America, one of whom was returning to Japan and the other visiting for the first time. Since the guests had already visited many Buddhist statues and temples across Asia, we did not go too deeply into shrines and temples, and instead focused on their strong interest in food and drink, including tastings at Tsukiji and Asakusa, which they thoroughly enjoyed. The 8-hour tour included a sushi-making experience and a sumo show experience, and as the guests were a little tired from walking, we took breaks along the way and simplified the itinerary to accommodate them. In Ryogoku it was the final day of the May sumo tournament, and the guests were lucky to see the top-division wrestlers' ceremony up close after the bouts. As the guests were planning a day trip to Hakone in the future, I gave advice so that they could explore Ueno near their hotel on their own.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUeno~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Ryogoku200JPY
    Total770JPY

    Hi I am Yosh, very nice to meet you!
    I am a tour guide around Tokyo and surrounding areas including Nikko, Kamakura, Hakone and Mt. Fuji area with qualification of nationwide professional tour guiding.
    I have been practicing Japanese martial arts, Karate and Aikido, from my childhood and I teach kids and beginners at Dojo school as an instructor.
    From my background I am especially into a tour guiding about Samurai, Sumo and Zen style temples deeply related with Japanese martial arts.
    I was born, raised and live in Tokyo and Kanagawa prefecture for over 50 years, so I am familiar with Tokyo capital area and I can arrange the free choice tour for you based on your taste and interest.
    I also want you to enjoy Japanese cuisine and Sake at traditional or modern restaurants as part of Japanese precious culture experience.
    I really like my profession of tour guide because I am always shared with happy emotion of the guests through the tour.
    I am really look forward to seeing you soon!
    Yosh

    Sep 28, 2026
    K3747HYmarks
    A wonderful day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our day in Tokyo…

    Aug 24, 2026
    kennethtK422SR
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great Hakone experience
    Yosh was great. Very knowledgeable, informative…

    Apr 28, 2026
    W2790JIlorih
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun and Informative
    We had a wonderful 4hr walking tour with our…

    Mar 21, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    100% worth the money and time
    Amazing tour walking through beautiful…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Tsukiji Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet at the main gate of Toyosu Market
    • 05:00-05:30 Advance explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of primary 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 Travel to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through Tsukiji Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group who came to Japan from North America. They had a strong interest in Japanese "food culture," which is why they joined this tour. When I explained the tuna fishing methods before the auction began, the guests were impressed by the careful attention Japanese food handling receives, as they learned how fishermen carefully hoist the tuna and process it on board to preserve its freshness. They were also amazed at how systematically the auction proceeded. At the sushi breakfast after the auction, everyone ordered the "all-tuna" set, and the moment they placed the first piece of lean tuna sushi in their mouths, their eyes widened in delight at how delicious it was. After enjoying the different flavors of various tuna cuts, we held a popularity vote for the tuna sushi, and the results were chu-toro (medium fatty tuna) in first place, marinated tuna in second, and o-toro (fatty tuna) in third. While strolling through the Tsukiji Outer Market, the guests had already researched popular shops online in advance. Since most of the shops opened after 8:00, following the end of the tour, I guided them around the outer market while pointing out the location and opening times of each shop, so they could enjoy them at their leisure after the tour. During our walk, we stopped by a sweets shop where they enjoyed strawberry daifuku, strawberry skewers, and a strawberry smoothie.

    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!

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ginza & Otemachi Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Ginza & Otemachi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Tokyo by Hulic
    • 10:40 Exploring Ginza
    • 11:30 Asakusa Culture Tourist Info. CTR
    • 13:50 Kanda
    • 15:15 Lunch FUJIRO
    • 16:00 Imperial Palace
    • 17:20 Otemachi Station

    Please provide the Japanese tour report text you would like me to anonymize and translate. The text you have shared appears to be a set of English sentences or notes, not a Japanese tour report with the specified fields (title, tour report body, tour route, guide transportation, etc.). If you intended to submit a tour report for processing, please paste the Japanese source text and I will apply the anonymization and translation rules accordingly.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Kanda (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainKanda (Tokyo)~Tokyo160JPY
    Total550JPY

    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?

    Sep 27, 2026
    Jan_v
    City tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very kind and knowledgeable guide. Taylor made…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Yolanda_S
    Tokyo walking tour with Hideaki
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Hideaki was our guide today and…

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meet up @Kimpton by IHG in Shinjuku
    • 2. 8:45 @Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 9:40 @Takeshita Street
    • 4. 10:20 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 5. 11:30 @Zojoji Temple
    • 6. 12:00 @Tokyo Tower
    • 7. 12:30 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 8. 13:00 @Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building)
    • 9. 13:20 Lunch@Naokyu (Shimbashi Station Underground Mall)
    • 10. 14:00 Dismissal@JR Yamanote Line Shimbashi Station Ticket Gate

    What's a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. At the hotel meetup, the group promptly downloaded and set up Mobile Suica together, and I felt a strong sense of unity among the group. At Meiji Shrine, our first stop, we came across a wedding procession, which the guests watched with great interest. Next, I guided them along Takeshita Street, where they were curious about the various animal cafes, though it was a little unfortunate that they had not yet opened due to the time of day. After sampling items at a dried fruit shop, the group purchased several kinds of dried fruit and wasabi-flavored nuts. At the Shibuya scramble crossing, I took photos of everyone crossing, which was a lot of fun. At Zojoji Temple, they enthusiastically offered incense at the main hall. For lunch, ramen had been firmly decided upon at the group's request, so I guided them to the ramen street underneath Tokyo Station, but every shop had a long waiting line, and given the time we gave up on it. So we took the Yamanote Line to Shimbashi and went to a ramen shop inside the station. There we were able to get in without waiting, and everyone enjoyed various kinds of tsukemen. After the meal, they tried three types of cream puffs from a nearby cream puff shop, eating them while standing. I had planned to continue guiding them to Ginza, but in front of the Yamanote Line Shimbashi Station ticket gate, they said they were tired and wanted to head back to Shinjuku from there, so we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Oedo Line Tochomae Station~Yoyogi Station1,100JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Hamamatsucho260JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station~Kasumigaseki Station0JPY
    Section 6TrainTokyo~Shimbashi160JPY
    Total1,680JPY

    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!

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    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…

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel
    • (Hankyu + Taxi)
    • 10:20-10:50 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • (Taxi)
    • 11:20-11:50 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • (Taxi)
    • 12:40-13:20 Nijo Castle
    • (Taxi)
    • 13:30-14:20 Lunch (Kyo-ryori Teramachi Yoshikura)
    • (Walk)
    • 14:40-15:15 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • (Taxi)
    • 15:30 Hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Nijo Castle The guests were a group from North America. On this day, one of the guests was not feeling well, so the tour was arranged flexibly, adjusting the itinerary as we went. In the end, the route was Hotel → Arashiyama Bamboo Grove → Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple → Nijo Castle → lunch → Kyoto Imperial Palace → Hotel. At the start, one of the guests was feeling so unwell that it was uncertain whether they would be able to join, but out of a strong wish not to miss the Arashiyama area including the Bamboo Grove, the guests enjoyed many photogenic landscapes. For lunch, the guests requested a menu centered on fish and vegetables, so I guided them to a Japanese restaurant, where they enjoyed a set meal of saikyo-yaki grilled fish served with simmered Kyoto-style vegetables and tofu. The guests had already been in Japan for nearly two weeks and were very knowledgeable about the country. For example, they asked in-depth questions based on the knowledge and information they had already gathered on topics such as how the imperial family has maintained a paternal line since the first emperor, the background and circumstances of making Tokyo the political center during the Edo period, the relationship between the imperial family and the shogunate, the impact of the situation in the Middle East on energy prices, and the tuition and difficulty levels of national/public versus private universities. At each sightseeing spot, the guests also showed keen interest in the decorations and fittings of the buildings, as well as the beautiful and detailed craftsmanship of the roof tiles and cypress-bark roofing.

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Hotel Oike
    • 10:30-11:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 12:00-13:00 Nijo Castle
    • 14:00 Disband @ Nishiki Market

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour of the Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. It seemed they had come to Japan for a leisure trip. Since they had requested to learn about Kyoto's history and to enjoy delicious food, I proposed the course described above. This was my first time guiding guests from this region, but recalling that this area also has a royal history, I brought up that topic. They told me that castles in their home region tend to be built on hills with fortifications to prevent enemy attacks, which is completely different from the Kyoto Imperial Palace that spreads out across flat ground. They also taught me about a historical queen who was the first to send children to school. One of the guests mentioned that a relative had once managed a castle, and that they had been given a tour of it as a child. In particular, some of the guests seemed very interested in the buildings, and before I knew it they had stopped to take photos, so the pace was slower than usual. Perhaps the Kyoto Imperial Palace has become popular recently, as I was surprised to see a line at the baggage inspection at the entrance. The guests listened carefully to all of my explanations. I feel I was able to fully introduce the charms of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The guests were especially moved by the beauty of the Oike Garden. Just then, there were three herons on the small island in the Oike Garden, and I mentioned that this too was a rather rare sight. We then left the Kyoto Imperial Palace and headed to Nijo Castle. Nijo Castle is very large, but since we needed to move on to Nishiki Market next, I had told them in advance that we would only visit the Ninomaru Palace and the Ninomaru Garden. As I had asked them to purchase tickets in advance, we were able to enter smoothly. Some of the guests seemed to have a strong interest in the gates and doors, and looked at them very closely. I had never had guests do this before, so I was quite surprised. Here too they listened carefully to my explanations, and I feel I was able to fully convey the charms of Nijo Castle. The magnificence of the ranma carvings in the great hall is famous, but the guests also pointed out the carvings on the ranma in the corridor. We then admired the Ninomaru Garden. The Ninomaru Garden is of course splendid, but I felt it seemed somewhat less impressive after having seen the garden at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, so I asked the guests which garden they preferred, and they had the same impression as I did. Next, we moved by subway toward Nishiki Market, guiding them through Teramachi along the way. On the way, the guests showed me photos from a wedding. Seeing a person in a relative's photo wearing short trousers, I wondered about it, and they explained that this was their traditional folk costume. They also told me that the traditional women's costume is a dress with a bib front, and showed me a photo of a relative. I had known nothing about this, but recalling that a character in "The Sound of Music" wore such clothing, I mentioned it, and they told me that people in the southern part of that region wear such clothes. Finally, I guided them to Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine and saw them off as they headed into Nishiki Market, where we parted ways. The photo was taken in front of the Oike Garden at the Imperial Palace, which everyone loved.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Shiyakusho-mae~Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 2TrainImadegawa~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3TrainNijojo-mae~Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae220JPY
    Total700JPY

    I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…