Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Purchase Suica at Shinjuku Station & Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Purchase Suica at Shinjuku Station & Senso-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00〜 Departure from Hotel Shinjuku
    • 10:00〜10:15 Purchase Suica at Shinjuku Station → Move to Harajuku
    • 10:15〜11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30〜12:15 Stay at an animal cafe (cats) in Harajuku
    • 12:15〜13:00 Stroll around Harajuku
    • 13:00〜14:15 Lunch (Kura Sushi)
    • 14:15〜15:00 Move to Monzen-Nakacho
    • 15:00〜16:00 Fukagawa Fudoson
    • ※The guide was supposed to end here, but the guide was extended because they wanted to stroll to Senso-ji Temple.
    • 16:00〜16:30 Move from Monzen-Nakacho to Asakusa
    • 16:30〜17:30 Stroll around Senso-ji Temple
    • 17:30〜18:00 Return from Asakusa to Hotel in Shinjuku

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report On this tour, I guided a group visiting from North America who had a strong interest in history. Even though the timing coincided with jet lag, everyone seemed to enjoy the day very much. In particular, the goma (sacred fire) ritual at Fukagawa Fudoson Temple in Monzen-Nakacho left such a deep impression that the guests thanked me many times, saying how glad they were to have been brought there. The guests had a strong intellectual curiosity and asked questions about the religious perspectives of Buddhism and Shinto, and I was able to explain in a way they found satisfying. As for the meal, which had been a point of concern beforehand, I took the group to a Kura Sushi as arranged in advance, and they were delighted to find a favorite dish there.

    Hello! I’m Ken, your National Government Licensed Guide.

    Having lived in the UK, Mexico, and the USA for a total of six years, I am fully fluent in English and possess a deep appreciation for diverse cultural backgrounds. My international experience allows me to connect with guests from all over the world through meaningful and seamless communication.

    My guiding style goes beyond simply reciting historical facts. I strive to provide a window into the “real Japan”—from our daily lifestyles and housing to intriguing social insights like longevity and demographics. When sharing our history and culture, I enjoy finding parallels or unique differences with your own home country, making our journey together more personal and engaging.

    As an avid runner who has completed ultra-marathons, I have the energy and stamina to lead active tours and long walking explorations with a smile. Let’s dive deep into the authentic heart of Japan together!

    May 16, 2026
    pavlin_panayotov
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great time with Kaiseki Ryori visiting Tsukiji Fish…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shiomi Station & Otemachi Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shiomi Station & Otemachi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Depart Shiomi Station
    • (JR Keiyo Line)
    • Hatchobori Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:30 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Station Ekitabi Concierge Ueno
    • 9:40 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 10:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:45 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line 9
    • Kayabacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line 9
    • Hatchobori Station
    • (JR Keiyo Line)
    • 13:00 Shiomi Station
    • 13:00 Dismiss: Shiomi Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report from Asakusa to the Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting Japan from Oceania. It was their first visit to Japan for all of them. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening and taken a taxi to their hotel. Customs procedures took some time, so they reportedly reached the hotel around 4:00 p.m. Exhausted, they had dinner at the hotel that night. This time, they were on an 11-day trip to Japan. They would stay in Tokyo for several days, visiting Disneyland and other places, and then travel by Shinkansen to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. They planned to fly home from Kansai International Airport. For today, they said, "We'd like to take a rough walk around the city to get a feel for the traffic situation, the atmosphere, and the general vibe," and "In the evening, we plan to visit teamLab." It was a pleasant tour under clear skies and comfortable weather. They wanted to buy a "Welcome Suica Card," so we first stopped at the Eki-Tabi Concierge at Ueno Station on the way. After the purchase, we moved to Asakusa. We started from in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "What is the purpose of the five-story pagoda," "What is Buddhism," and "The difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various spots. We slowly strolled through the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the major religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" and "How many Christians are there?" There was also a question: "We see many people wearing kimono within the temple grounds, why is that? Are they all Japanese?" We went to Tsukiji, which was as crowded as ever. I explained "The history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "The difference between Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Outer Market." There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it really seems like there are a lot of tourists." They said, "We'd like to try something." In the end, they purchased and sampled "tuna nigiri." We moved to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained "Japanese history from Edo to Meiji," "The Meiji Restoration," "Why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "The history of the Imperial Family," "World War II and the Tokyo air raids," and "How stone walls are built." There were questions and comments such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political authority?" "Who is the next Emperor?" and "Can a woman become Emperor?" They also remarked, "The pine trees are wonderful." There were comments and questions such as "It's quiet on the trains. No one is talking loudly," "The city is clean with no litter on the ground," and "It's surprising that public restrooms are clean and free." I saw them off at Shiomi Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi~Hatchobori (Tokyo)200JPY
    Section 2TrainHatchobori (Tokyo)~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 5OtherTsukiji~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 6TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Shinkiba390JPY
    Section 7TrainShinkiba~Shiomi160JPY
    Total1,500JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: JR Hiroshima & Peace Memorial Park Monument

    Hiroshima in One Day: JR Hiroshima & Peace Memorial Park Monument

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:37 JR Hiroshima Station
    • 8:06 JR Miyajimaguchi
    • 8:25-8:35 JR Miyajima Ferry
    • 9:00 Miyajima Ropeway First Station
    • 9:30 Shishiiwa Observatory
    • 10:30 Miyajima Ropeway First Station
    • Itsukushima Shrine, historical buildings, lunch, etc.
    • 13:40-14:25 World Heritage Sea Route Miyajima – Peace Park Motoyasu Pier
    • 14:30-15:30 Peace Memorial Park Monument (Atomic Bomb Dome) Museum
    • 15:30 Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Peace Park Tour in Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. While each person showed their own individuality and moved about freely at times, both on Miyajima and at the Peace Park, at key moments they came together, listened closely to my explanations, and asked pointed and thoughtful questions, making them a very rewarding group to guide. On Miyajima, we took the ropeway up to the Shishiiwa Observatory, where they enjoyed the beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea on a typical clear May day.

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Sep 25, 2026
    philiprA2432ZA
    Hiroshima & Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Hiroshi picked us up…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Sygeplejersken78
    The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Pioneer19650761736
    You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had the most amazing…

    Sep 11, 2026
    stephanie782022
    Fantastic tour experience
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi,…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Takeshita Street & Rikugien Garden

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Takeshita Street & Rikugien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet the guests at the hotel
    • 9:50 Shibuya Station Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue
    • 10:20 Takeshita Street
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:40 Rikugien Garden
    • 12:50 Asakusa Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Main Hall
    • 13:30 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Meiji Shrine, Rikugien, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America. They started by enthusiastically taking photos at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and in front of the Hachiko statue. As the Yamanote Line happened to be suspended at the time, we traveled by subway and headed to Meiji Shrine, passing through Takeshita Street on the way. After talking about an overview of Japanese history and the differences between shrines and temples, we walked along the approach with explanations at key points, and paid our respects at the main hall. We then took the Yamanote Line to Komagome and strolled through Rikugien Garden, where at the teahouse the guests enjoyed a set of matcha and Japanese sweets and relaxed at their leisure. After that, we moved on to Asakusa, walking through the Culture and Tourism Center, Kaminarimon Gate, and the Nakamise shopping street, and paid our respects at the main hall. I guided them to a lunch spot, which concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEbisu~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 2SubwayShibuya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Komagome260JPY
    Section 4TrainKomagome~Asakusa380JPY
    Total980JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Sep 29, 2026
    532yeldarbs
    Insights to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We were fortunate to have had…

    Sep 28, 2026
    G3219WFjoshp
    A great day with Shigeru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is a fantastic…

    Sep 28, 2026
    E8957WUnathanb
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shingeru was great and very…

    Sep 23, 2026
    scottmR2068WG
    Tokyo walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent time being…

  • Fukushima in Half a Day: Aizu Samurai Residence & Tsuruga Castle

    Fukushima in Half a Day: Aizu Samurai Residence & Tsuruga Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00-15:00 Visit Aizu Samurai Residence
    • 15:30-17:30 Visit Tsuruga Castle

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Aizu, Fukushima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America on their first trip to Japan. Although Tokyo was the main focus of their stay, they spent four nights in Fukushima. They had hoped to visit the prefectural museum, but as it was closed on Mondays, we visited only the samurai residence and Tsuruga Castle. Even so, time felt a little tight. I talked about Japanese history and the Boshin War, and the guests listened with great interest, so I wished I had been able to explain it even better (I was not able to say much about the Byakkotai, for example). At the first stop, the samurai residence, the guests spent quite a bit of time shopping at the gift shop, which reduced the time we could devote to Tsuruga Castle. They were also interested in matcha (one of the guests is studying Japanese and even owns a tea whisk and matcha bowl at home), so at the Rinkaku tea house I showed them a casual way to enjoy matcha. After that we climbed the castle keep, so we ended up staying until closing time at 17:00. I was reminded once again that I need to find ways to explain things more concisely within a limited time. Even though it was their first time in Japan, the group was very active, staying at hot spring inns for all four nights in Fukushima and driving a rental car to Urabandai and Abukumado. They said they would like to come to Japan again during the autumn foliage season. I would be delighted if they visited Fukushima again. (At first I was hesitant about riding in the rental car driven by one of the guests, but since it was the third day of driving and they seemed quite used to it, and the distances were short, we traveled in the guests' rental car.)

    Hello, I am Yoko Nemo, happy to be your guide. Fukushima/Tohoku area is full of beautiful nature and traditional culture. There are many unknown charms. Get away from the crowded tourist areas to enjoy the relaxing local atmosphere!
    I also can take you to the coastal area of Fukushima. There are several memorial museums related to the Great East Japan Earthquake and nuclear power plant accident. You will see how people are working hard for the revitalization of the area.
    I love traveling both inside and outside of Japan. So I also look forward to hearing about your hometown. Thank you!

    May 19, 2026
    Jessica_H
    Viator review: Aizu 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A calm & educational day
    We had a very pleasant time touring…

    Mar 23, 2026
    Steven_M
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Incredible experience with a great team. I could not…

    Sep 3, 2024
    Ricarda_S
    Great half day tour!
    Viator review: Ouchijuku 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This tour was amazing thanks to Yoko!!…

  • Tokyo: Guide through Meiji Shrine & Guide through Shibuya

    Tokyo: Guide through Meiji Shrine & Guide through Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Leave the hotel
    • 12:50-13:30 Guide through Meiji Shrine
    • 13:55-14:25 View the Imperial Palace's Nijubashi Bridge from outside
    • 14:35-14:45 Stroll through Ginza, coffee break
    • 16:10-15:00 Explain the history and culture of Sensoji Temple in Asakusa
    • 17:40-18:00 Guide through Shibuya
    • 18:30 Hotel

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like for Guests Who Prefer a Slower Pace? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since they asked to walk at a slow pace, we took our time going around. At Meiji Shrine, I carefully explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. The guests were very knowledgeable about the history of Edo and asked some quite in-depth questions. When asked why Tokyo has so much greenery, I explained the history dating back to the Edo period with various episodes, and they were satisfied with the explanation. In Ginza, rather than walking around much, we exchanged views on social issues over coffee. In Shibuya, they were amazed to watch the flow of people from a rooftop.

    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…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 meet 9:45 take the bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Yama no Hotel 10:25 view the azalea garden 11:00 take the hotel shuttle bus to Moto-Hakone Port 11:30 pirate ship 11:55 Togendai take the ropeway to Owakudani take the ropeway to Sounzan light lunch cable car via Gora take the mountain railway to enter the Hakone Open-Air Museum at 14:00 after strolling around the museum depart the Open-Air Museum at 16:25 arrive at Hakone-Yumoto at 17:07 by the mountain railway disband at 17:15 the customers head to Shinjuku on the 17:45 Romancecar

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Hakone Tour from Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a friendly group visiting from North America, and they were all in great spirits. It was cloudy, so I explained at the start that seeing Mount Fuji would be difficult, and we set off with their understanding. At the mountainside hotel the azaleas were just past their peak, but the guests still enjoyed them, and they also had the chance to try the famous black eggs they had been looking forward to. Since the guests' main destination appeared to be the Hakone Open-Air Museum, I allocated the final two hours of the tour to it, and they took photographs enthusiastically. They had also hoped to try a foot bath, which they thoroughly enjoyed. Along the way, whenever there was time, we talked about Shinto, Buddhism, the emperor and the shogun, and even Japanese kanji, and had a very pleasant time together.

    Transportation cost per person

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

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

  • Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Park & Kintetsu-Nara

    Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Park & Kintetsu-Nara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:21 Meet at the WEST ticket gate of Kintetsu-Nara
    • Bus 250y .
    • 10:40-11:00 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Park
    • Walk 5 min
    • 11:10-20 Todaiji Nandaimon South Great Gate
    • Walk 5 min
    • 11:30-12:00 Todaiji Daibutsuden (the great Buddha)
    • Walk 10 min
    • 12:20-30 Todaiji Shoro Bell Tower
    • 12:40-13:10 Todaiji Nigatsudo Hall and
    • Walk 5 min
    • 13:20-30 At the foot of Wakakusayama hill: →Kasuga Taisha (no visit inside)
    • bus
    • 13:50 Totogin Sushi-go-round restaurant near Kintetsu-Nara station temporarily closed
    • They have gluten-free shoyu (soy sauce).
    • Walk 5 min
    • 14:00-20 Nakatanidou & convenience store (buy non-gluten food)
    • → Lunch on a bench by Sarusawa Pond
    • Walk 5 min
    • 14:30-15:30 Nara-machi Old merchant quarters:
    • sword collection, Nigiwai-no-Ie house, sake tasting
    • Walk 5 min
    • 15:40-16:10 Kofukuji
    • Walk 5 min
    • 16:20 Kintetsu-Nara

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Walking Tour Like When a Restaurant Closes Unexpectedly? A Licensed Guide's Report We had planned to go to a restaurant in front of Kintetsu Nara Station, but although it was supposed to be open year-round, it happened to be closed for an unexpected temporary holiday! So instead, we had lunch by the shore of Sarusawa Pond, eating mochi from Nakatanido along with items bought at a nearby convenience store. The weather was very pleasant, so this actually turned out to be a nice alternative. While eating and chatting, I learned that a little cross-contamination would be fine and that plain rice alone would also be acceptable. In that case, our usual Emado Chaya or Shiroganeya would have worked out just fine. I thought I had exchanged enough information in advance, but perhaps I hadn't nailed down the details. One of the challenges in Nara is that there are too few restaurants that can accommodate specific dietary needs. Still, we had a great time and it was very lively!

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu-Nara Station / Nara Kotsu~Todaiji Daibutsuden・Kasuga Taisha-mae / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusKasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu~Kintetsu-Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total500JPY

    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: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
    • 10:00 Tsukiji Outer Market, Fish Market, Namiyoke Shrine, Honganji Temple
    • 11:40 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Chikuan
    • 14:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Center Street
    • 14:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Dismissal @ Harajuku Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Shibuya The guests were visiting from Europe, spending their first day in Japan before a day trip to Nagano tomorrow, another day in Tokyo, and then joining a cruise ship tour. Although I had explained it in advance, they tried to use a single Welcome Suica card for the whole group, so I had one PASMO card purchased. They enjoyed sightseeing at each location with great interest. At Tsukiji, they bought wasabi snacks, wasabi sesame, and wakame snacks. Since they do not eat raw fish, for lunch we went to an udon restaurant, where they happily enjoyed tempura udon, chicken and wakame udon, and draft beer. The omikuji fortune drawn at Sensoji Temple was a rare "daikichi" (great blessing). Since the route from Asakusa to Shibuya is long, we deepened our rapport by sharing family photos with each other. When asked about a station where three types of trains can be seen, I introduced Ochanomizu Station, and since they said they would stop by there on the way back after the tour, I explained how to get there and concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba~Tsukiji Market510JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel to Kanazawa Station by hotel shuttle bus
    • Travel by bus to Hashiba-cho
    • AM 10:30-11:30 Stroll through Higashi Chaya District, visit Utasu Shrine
    • Travel by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 12:00-12:45 Visit Kenrokuen Garden
    • PM 12:45-13:30 Kanazawa Castle Park, visit Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, and Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • Travel on foot to the Nagamachi Samurai District area
    • PM 13:45-14:00 Stroll through Nagamachi Samurai District, tour ends in front of the Nomura Family Residence

    What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. This was a tour company request to cover Kanazawa's main highlights — the Higashi Chaya District, Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park, and the Nagamachi Samurai District — in four hours. I always try to design such tours so that I introduce the highlights at each spot, allowing the guests to revisit any places of interest on their own in the afternoon. Before the tour began, I had confirmed that the guests were interested in gardens, so I focused the tour around Kenrokuen Garden. The weather was also fine, and I believe the guests thoroughly enjoyed Kanazawa.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station/Hokutetsu Bus~Hashiba-cho/Hokutetsu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusHashiba-cho/Hokutetsu Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokutetsu Bus220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…