Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in One Day: Danjo Garan & Okunoin

    Osaka in One Day: Danjo Garan & Okunoin

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:55 Meet at Hotel Osaka Umeda
    • 11:40 Danjo Garan
    • 12:30 Daishi Kyokai
    • 12:40 Kongobuji Temple
    • 13:00 Tokugawa Family Mausoleum
    • 13:30 Shojoshin-in Goma Prayer Viewing
    • 13:40 Okunoin
    • 17:57 Dismiss at Hotel Osaka Umeda

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Koyasan from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a person visiting from North America. The weather was cloudy and it was a little cold on Koyasan, but since their home region can be quite cold, I believe the tour was carried out relatively comfortably. The guest was interested in natural scenery and buildings, and took many photos with their smartphone. I asked about their preferences on the train beforehand, and we visited Danjo Garan, Daishi Kyokai, Kongobuji Temple, Tokugawa Family Mausoleum, the Goma fire ritual observation at Seishinin Temple, and Okunoin. On the train heading to Koyasan, I handed over an English pamphlet and information from a website, and it left an impression on me how carefully they read through it. As souvenirs, they enthusiastically selected and purchased amulets at the shops at Danjo Garan and Okunoin. The guest photo was taken in the lobby of a hotel in Osaka at the time we parted ways, and since they said it could be used for PR purposes, I am sending it.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFukushima (Osaka Loop Line)~Shin-Imamiya200JPY
    Section 2TrainShin-Imamiya~Gokurakubashi930JPY
    Section 3TrainGokurakubashi~Koyasan500JPY
    Section 4BusKoyasan Station/Nankai Rinkan Bus~Kondo-mae/Nankai Rinkan Bus410JPY
    Section 5BusKongobuji-mae/Nankai Rinkan Bus~Okunoin-guchi/Nankai Rinkan Bus160JPY
    Section 6BusOkunoin-mae/Nankai Rinkan Bus~Koyasan Station/Nankai Rinkan Bus610JPY
    Section 7TrainKoyasan~Gokurakubashi500JPY
    Section 8TrainGokurakubashi~Shin-Imamiya930JPY
    Section 9TrainShin-Imamiya~Fukushima (Osaka Loop Line)200JPY
    Total4,440JPY

    I have guiding experience for 6 years. The name of my web site is “gururin kansai” which means to go around Kansai district.
    Kansai district includes Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe, Wakayama (Koyasan).
    I provide more than 2,000 sightseeing spots information in Japanese, English and Chinese.
    In 2021 I walked through four pilgrims loads in Koya and Kumano area.
    I also have the license of official guide of Kongobuji temple and world heritage master of Wakayama Prefecture.
    I would like to engage in the guide in English at Wakayama prefecture (Koyasan) and neighboring area.

    Jun 3, 2026
    388aneliap
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Opening your heart to the wonders of Japan.
    Naka,…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Javier_V
    Que es un recorrido…
    Viator review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Que es un recorrido agradable…

    Sep 12, 2025
    saraamann
    Interessante Tour mit kompetentem und freundlichen Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wir reisen…

    Aug 12, 2025
    NorthStar52593639505
    Great informative tour about Koya.
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The tour was thorough…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Arashiyama Monkey Park & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Hyogo in One Day: Arashiyama Monkey Park & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30   Meeting at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:15 to 11:30 Arashiyama Monkey Park
    • 11:45 to 12:15 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 12:30 to 13:15 Lunch at Gusto
    • 13:45 to 14:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 15:00 to 15:20 Gion
    • 15:40 to 16:15 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 17:30 Dismissal at Kobe Port Terminal

    Title: What Is a Private Family Tour of Kyoto's Monkey Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: Today's guests were a group visiting Kyoto from North America. Their main goal in coming to Kyoto was to spend time with the monkeys at the Monkey Park, and the whole group enjoyed feeding the monkeys together. I have guided many group tours before, but what stood out this time was that one of the guests would happily strike up a conversation with anyone and would quickly wander away from the group. In just this one day, I had to go searching three times. In some of the photos, that person had disappeared and was not included in the picture. It was a very enjoyable day.

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Inside Takanawa Gateway Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Inside Takanawa Gateway Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @Royal Park Iconic Tokyo
    • 11:10 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Okuyama, Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise)
    • 12:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:00 Lunch @Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 14:30 Meiji Jingu
    • 16:00 Inside Takanawa Gateway Station (rest, care)
    • 17:15 Transfer guidance at Shimbashi Station (let husband rest on the bench, only with wife)
    • 17:30 Disband @Royal Park Iconic Tokyo

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like for Senior Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. They had arrived in Japan the previous day, planned to sightsee in Tokyo for a few days, and would then board a cruise ship to travel around various parts of Japan before continuing on to another destination. We discovered that they lived near the North American headquarters of my former company, which helped us quickly warm to each other, and we had a lively conversation as they asked me questions about history and national character as a cultural background. Just before reaching the main hall of Meiji Shrine, one of the guests began to feel unwell, so we proceeded slowly with frequent rest stops. We gave up on the planned visit to Shibuya Scramble Square and headed from Harajuku toward Shimbashi, but the guest felt worse at Takanawa Gateway, so we got off partway, took a break, and I assisted them, including getting advice on medication from a doctor. Lesson learned: For senior guests who arrive the day before the tour, arrange a relaxed itinerary even if the guests and their agency request otherwise. I often feel that guests and agencies underestimate the walking distances at the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa, so it is important to help them understand that the walking distances at the Imperial Palace versus Buckingham Palace, or at Meiji Shrine versus Notre-Dame Cathedral, are quite different.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shimbashi260JPY
    Total870JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Kyoto Station 9:55 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple 11:15 Okochi Sanso Villa 12:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 13:20 Yasaka Pagoda 13:40 Lunch (Kiyomizu-dera)14:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple 15:40 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji 16:10 Yasaka Shrine 16:45 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, and Yasaka Shrine The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. One of the guests had recently celebrated a birthday while in Japan. To reach Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, we took a bus from Arashiyama (Nonomiya). Today an extra bus came for us. There have been occasions in the past when an extra bus was arranged as well. Since this area, along with Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, has been growing in popularity recently, I would like to see the number of buses increased in the regular timetable itself, rather than relying on extra buses. On the bus today, once again everyone except me was a visitor from abroad. One of the guests is studying Japanese and Chinese at school. They had memorized a few kanji, setting aside the correct stroke order. It seemed breakfast had not been quite enough, so we stopped for light snacks a few times along the way as we walked. There were requests to visit Kennin-ji Temple and Nanzen-ji Temple as well, but keeping the guests in mind, we took our time over lunch and explored Kiyomizu-dera Temple at a relaxed pace, ending the tour at Yasaka Shrine. The photo was taken at the bamboo grove in Arashiyama.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2BusNonomiya / Kyoto Bus~Toriimoto / Kyoto Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Tofukuji240JPY
    Section 4BusTofukuji / Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total940JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: JR Hiroshima Station & Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: JR Hiroshima Station & Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Pick up at Hiroshima Station
    • 9:45 Depart JR Hiroshima Station
    • 10:15 Arrive at JR Miyajimaguchi
    • 10:25 Arrive at Miyajima Port
    • Visit Itsukushima Shrine and other historical buildings,
    • Lunch
    • 14:20 Depart Miyajima via World Heritage Sea Route
    • 15:05 Arrive at Peace Park
    • Visit Peace Memorial Park and museum
    • 17:00 Head to Hiroshima Station by taxi
    • 17:30 Tour ends at the Shinkansen platform of Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia and Oceania. In the morning at Miyajima, the guests used their cameras to photograph many places that made an impression on them. After lunch at Miyajima, we went directly to the Peace Memorial Park via the World Heritage Sea Route. There, everyone's attitude toward the explanations of the memorials and monuments turned very sincere, and I received many questions from the guests as well, which was a truly memorable experience for me.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherMiyajima Port~Peace Park Motoyasu Pier1,200JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Total1,620JPY

    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: Tokyo Tower & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Tower & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:50 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 08:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko
    • 09:30 Tokyo Tower
    • 10:40 Imperial Palace
    • 11:30 Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Zushi Marunouchi Building Branch
    • 12:40 Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:50 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 14:15 Disband @ Shinjuku Gyoen

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Oceania visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they were planning to go on a cruise tour. At Tokyo Tower, they seemed impressed by the magnificent views of Tokyo. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji Temple, they were intrigued by explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as the Kaminarimon Gate. At Shinjuku Gyoen, although the peak bloom period had already passed, they seemed impressed by the remaining cherry blossoms and the beautiful Japanese garden. Since they said they could return to their hotel on their own after shopping in Shinjuku, we parted ways at Shinjuku Gyoen. As I accommodated the guests' wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Ebisu160JPY
    Section 3SubwayEbisu~Kamiyacho180JPY
    Section 4SubwayKamiyacho~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo~Ueno200JPY
    Section 6SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 7SubwayAsakusa~Shinjuku-gyoemmae260JPY
    Total1,340JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama Houseboat & Haradani-en

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama Houseboat & Haradani-en

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
    • 9:40 Arashiyama Houseboat
    • 10:40 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk ~ Tenryu-ji Garden
    • 11:50 Haradani-en
    • 13:00 Disband at Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

    What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Sakura Today I guided a group visiting from Oceania. They had already visited Tokyo before coming to Kyoto. The weather was fine, and we began with a boat ride on the traditional pleasure boats at Arashiyama. Afterward, we strolled through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and explored the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple. Various flowers were in full bloom and beautifully in season. The guests were surprised by how many tourists there were inside the bamboo grove. After that, at the recommendation of our driver, I took them to Haradani-en Garden. Weeping cherry blossoms and a variety of flowers were blooming beautifully, and there were quite a lot of Japanese visitors there as well. I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Hotel (8 min from JR Hamamatsucho Station) Meeting
    • 1010 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 1215 Asakusa Azuma Bridge Kaminarimon Nakamise Sensoji Temple Asakusa Shrine Lunch at "Towada" on Kannon-dori
    • 1410 Ueno Park Shogitai Monument Kiyomizu Kannon-do Tokyo National Museum
    • 1530 Tour ends at Tokyo National Museum
    • Since the return route is in the same direction, we will take you back to the hotel and disband

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Cherry Blossom Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report from Shinjuku Gyoen to Ueno The guests were from Oceania, visiting Japan for the first time. Between them the group had twelve grandchildren. A cruise they had been planning since before the pandemic was finally coming to fruition. They had arrived the previous night. Tonight some of their relatives were due to arrive, and the next day they planned to visit Mount Fuji (Hakone?) together. The day after, they would explore central Tokyo on their own, and the following day they would board a cruise ship from Yokohama. During the pre-tour coordination, the topic of cherry blossoms came up. Since Ueno Park is unpredictable, I had included Shinjuku Gyoen in the plan. Shinjuku Gyoen was the right choice, as some kind of cherry blossom is in bloom there from the Kawazu cherry blossoms in February through the mountain cherries in late April. Today, the Yaezakura and Kanzan varieties were nearly in full bloom, and the azaleas were also beginning to flower, which delighted the guests greatly. Originally, the plan for today was to finish in Asakusa and then visit the Samurai Ninja Museum Asakusa, but since they had been unable to make a reservation, we changed the course from Asakusa to the Tokyo National Museum. The cherry blossoms in Ueno Park had already given way to green leaves, so we could not see them, but the guests were still surprised to see people (a small number) holding gatherings beneath the trees.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOnarimon~Suidobashi220JPY
    Section 2TrainSuidobashi~Sendagaya200JPY
    Section 3SubwayShinjuku-gyoenmae~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 5TrainUeno~Hamamatsucho210JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Osaka in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Kinkakuji

    Osaka in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Kinkakuji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet (@Osaka Port Terminal)
    • 8:30-9:40 Travel (contracted car; Osaka Port Terminal→Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 9:40-10:30 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • 10:30-11:10 Travel (contracted car; Fushimi Inari Taisha→Gion)
    • 11:10-11:50 Stroll around Gion (Hanamikoji, Gion Shirakawa)
    • 11:50-12:10 Travel (contracted car; Gion→Nijo Castle)
    • 12:10-13:20 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 13:20-13:40 Travel (contracted car; Nijo Castle→Hama Sushi/Kinkakuji branch)
    • 13:40-14:30 Lunch (Hama Sushi)
    • 14:30-14:40 Travel (contracted car; restaurant→Kinkakuji)
    • 14:40-15:30 Visit Kinkakuji
    • 15:30-17:00 Travel (contracted car; Kinkakuji→Osaka Port Terminal)
    • 17:00 Said goodbye to the guests at Osaka Port Terminal.

    **Title:** What's a Private Cruise Excursion from Osaka Port to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were an older group visiting from North America. They were cruise ship passengers whom I met at the Osaka Port. One of the guests had previously visited Kyoto for sightseeing, while the others were visiting Kyoto for the first time. I took them to Fushimi Inari, Gion (Hanamikoji, Gion Shirakawa), Nijo Castle, and Kinkaku-ji. For lunch, we went to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. Some of the guests had difficulty walking and moved slowly, so at Fushimi Inari we used the wheelchair-accessible route. At Kinkaku-ji, since there were stairs partway along, some of the guests returned to the entrance gate and waited there while the others continued. Of the guests who waited, one enjoyed Fushimi Inari and the sushi lunch the most, and another enjoyed Gion Shirakawa and Kinkaku-ji the most. Others said that Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari were their favorites. Due to traffic congestion, combined with the fact that some of the guests could only walk slowly, the tour ended up running about 30 minutes over the scheduled time. At the end of the tour, the guests paid the overtime fee for the vehicle, and we said our goodbyes.

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in Half a Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Leave the hotel
    • 10:40-11:30 Tour Senso-ji Temple, eat sushi
    • 11:40-12:30 Tour the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 13:00-13:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 hotel

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Since the group included a very young child, we moved around while looking for elevators whenever possible. The guests showed a strong interest in Japanese history. At Senso-ji Temple they were especially interested, and we extended our walk toward the Tawaramachi area. At the Imperial Palace, I guided them through the East Gardens. They seemed a little disappointed that there were no cherry blossoms. For sushi, since the group included a young child, I took them to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, which they greatly enjoyed. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the historical background, and they told me that coming here had been a dream of theirs. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji Shrine (Harajuku Station) / Shibuya Ward, Tokyo280JPY
    Total750JPY

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…