Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Conrad Tokyo & East Gardens

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Conrad Tokyo & East Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:30 Hamarikyu
    • 10:30 Tsukiji, Fish Market, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 11:50 Zojoji Temple
    • 12:50 East Gardens
    • 13:40 Lunch @ Sushi Tomi
    • 14:30 Dismissal @ Tsukiji

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of the Imperial Palace East Gardens Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. It was their first day in Japan, and they were set to depart on a 14-day cruise two days later. As they had an interest in history, the tour was extended by one hour so that we could visit all the places they had requested. They had written in an email that they wanted to learn the secrets of the stone walls, which made me a little nervous, but a recent TV program had just featured the Honmaru of Edo Castle, which turned out to be very helpful. When I actually met them, they explained that their interest had been sparked by Japanese dramas and films, and they seemed satisfied with my knowledge, which was a relief. After guiding them through the East Gardens, I asked for their impressions, and they said they would watch the drama "Shogun" again. Thirty minutes before the tour ended, they invited me to lunch, and we took a taxi back to Tsukiji, where they treated me to sushi. Also, when we first met, they gave me a pastel-colored tote bag from Trader Joe's, which is currently very popular in Japan. They were very friendly and pleasant guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji Market~Daimon (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOnarimon~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total360JPY

    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!!

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Kyoto
    • 10:00 Nijo Castle
    • 12:00 Arashiyama
    • 13:00 Nishiki Market
    • 14:00 Fushimi Inari
    • 15:30 Disband at Fushimi Inari

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like for an International Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time. Before meeting me, they had rented a car in Tokyo and driven through Hakone, Kanazawa, Takayama, and the Nakasendo route, then dropped off the car in Kyoto. It appeared to be their annual family trip. As some of the guests were tired from traveling, they preferred to move around by taxi, so we did not use public transportation during the day. One of the guests interpreted for the others who did not speak English, but that person also seemed worn out from looking after the group along the way. Nishiki Market appeared to be their favorite, and we visited four shops in a row. They mentioned they would spend the following day resting. Since the conversation was in a language I did not understand, I could not follow the details, but the group discussed what they wanted to eat that evening, and I felt a little sorry that I was unable to assist with that part.

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Ryogoku by HULIC (1-2-13 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:15 Akihabara
    • 3) 11:10 Tsukiji Market <exterior only>
    • 4) 11:30 Tokyo Tower <exterior only> → Toranomon <Shueisha Manga-Art Heritage>
    • 5) 12:30 Harajuku <Japanime Art Gallery → Takeshita Street>
    • 6) 14:30 Lunch @ Salon Tamago to Watashi Harajuku Store (Jpr Jingumae 432, 4-32-13 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
    • 7) 15:00 Meiji Jingu
    • 8) 15:30 Shibuya <JR Pass and JR ticket reservation purchase>
    • 9) 16:10 Disband @ JR Shibuya Station South Ticket Gate

    Title: What's a Private Anime and Art Gallery Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, including someone interested in anime and manga. Before the tour, they requested art galleries not found in guidebooks, along with Harajuku for shopping and Meiji Shrine. Based on these requests, I prepared a proposed itinerary and presented it in advance, which the guests happily accepted. On the day, when we met at the Hotel and reviewed the itinerary, the guests explained that they wanted to collect their pre-booked JR Pass and purchase train tickets for Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Kyoto, so they hoped to finish at Shibuya. I gladly agreed and we began the tour. At JR Ryogoku Station, they purchased a Suica card and charged it with 2,000 yen. Adjusting the timing to match the guests' interests, we took our time exploring the Radio Kaikan and Animate in Akihabara, where they purchased some goods at Animate. With time to spare, we passed by Tsukiji and Tokyo Tower (both just the surrounding areas) on the way to Toranomon. We confirmed the location of a manga art gallery that was closed on Mondays, and after introducing Azabudai Hills, we headed to an art gallery in Harajuku. While one of the guests carefully looked over the artwork, I had a pleasant conversation with the other guest about various current topics such as education, community, AI, crime in Tokyo, and modern Japanese history. They found a piece of manga art they wanted (quite expensive), but since they were about to travel around Japan starting the next day, they planned to revisit the following week just before returning home to purchase it if it was still available. On Takeshita Street, the guests looked at goods for a family member who likes Sanrio and shopped at anime goods stores (purchasing chopsticks). At a clothing store, they were amused by T-shirts printed with unique messages. After purchasing more anime goods, we took a lunch break. I recommended a specialty omurice restaurant that also had vegetarian-friendly options (I assisted with ordering, then waited outside and rejoined them after about 20 minutes). At Meiji Shrine, the guests asked about the Meiji Restoration (they even knew about Saigo Takamori!), and as I explained, we arrived at the main hall and they offered their prayers. At Shibuya Station, I guided them to the ticket office right outside the south exit. They successfully collected their JR Pass and purchased train tickets for Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Kyoto (the staff advised that the regular JR route between Takayama and Kanazawa was partly under restoration work on the tracks and bridge piers, so a detour route or bus would be needed for the time being, which the guests happily accepted, planning to arrange it locally). We parted ways with smiles.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainRyogoku~Akihabara160JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Market~Akabanebashi180JPY
    Section 4SubwayKamiyacho~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total860JPY

    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!

    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…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Hotel
    • Metropolitan Tokyo
    • 11:00 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 12:00 Stroll around Shinjuku Isetan area
    • 12:45 Travel to Shibuya by taxi
    • 13:00 Walk across Shibuya Crossing
    • 13:15 Lunch at Shibuya Fukuras "Arakiyama"
    • 14:30 Stroll around Akihabara
    • 15:30 Asakusa, Senso-ji Temple
    • 16:30 Get on a taxi near Asakusa Station and disband

    What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tokyo Tour in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. We had discussed and decided on a tour plan in advance, but when we met in the morning they mentioned they also wanted to see the Shibuya Crossing, so I added it to the plan. The cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen were in full bloom. The weather was fine, and the cherry blossoms stood out beautifully against the blue sky, allowing them to take many photos of the lovely scenery. Afterward we walked around the Isetan area in Shinjuku, and at their request we took a taxi to Shibuya. They experienced the Shibuya Crossing and were also able to see the 3D advertising screen. One of the guests was delighted by the video of a large dog. In Akihabara, they enjoyed looking at electronics and shopping at Don Quijote. By the time we reached Asakusa, some of the guests were tired, so instead of sightseeing at a leisurely pace they only visited the temple for a prayer before returning to the Hotel. In a single day of touring, I was able to show them the cherry blossoms in full bloom, the lively crossing and electronics district, and Sensoji Temple, and they were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo~Shinjuku-gyoenmae210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Akihabara260JPY
    Section 3SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Total650JPY

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Fukuoka in One Day: Kokura Castle & Moji Port First Pier

    Fukuoka in One Day: Kokura Castle & Moji Port First Pier

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Moji Port First Pier・
    • 10:05 Kokura Castle
    • 1:10pm Lunch
    • 2:00pm Einstein Memorial Room
    • 2:55pm Shiranoe Botanical Garden
    • 4:05pm Moji Port First Pier

    Title: What Is a Private Cruise Port Tour of Kitakyushu Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The ship arrived at port about 45 minutes later than scheduled. One member of the group was unable to join, so the tour proceeded with the other guest. The guest coughed frequently during the tour, and I asked several times whether everything was all right; the guest said it was fine, so we continued. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom and very beautiful at both Kokura Castle and Shiranoe Botanical Garden. At Shiranoe in particular, the contrast between the sea, the mountains, and the cherry blossoms was striking. Before returning to the ship, we checked the remaining balance on the IC card at Mojiko Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMoji Port~Kokura (Fukuoka Prefecture)340JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Kokura~Moji Port340JPY
    Section 3BusMoji Port Station Front/Nishitetsu Bus~Shiranoe 2-chome/Nishitetsu Bus360JPY
    Section 4BusShiranoe 2-chome/Nishitetsu Bus~Moji Port Station Front/Nishitetsu Bus360JPY
    Total1,400JPY

    Hello everyone .
    Please call me Peko.
    I’m National government licensed Guide Interpreter.
    I like travelling, Japanese archery, and tea ceremony.
    I visited 17countries.
    Also I lived in Netherlands for a year and three months.

    local people always showed me their hospitality. So, I think it’s my turn to show visitors to Japan the spirit of hospitality.
    Currently, I live in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka.

    Fukuoka has been an important place of defense and trade since ancient times, because it is close to the continent,
    So, Fukuoka is blessed with historic, cultural sites, as well as beautiful scenery and fresh seafood.

    Especially, channel between Yamaguchi and Moji is must see spot for you.
    If you come to Mojiko, I highly recommend the “Shimonoseki & Moji Port Full Day Tour”.
    Kanmon Strait round tour is so fascinating, varied and exciting for you.
    You can enjoy breathtaking scenery ,historical places, walking under the sea tounnel, ferry ride, bus, stream of first current and gourmet.
    Let’s enjoy Kanmon with me!

    Also Kitakyushu city got the first prize of “New three Major Night Views of Japan in 2023.
    We can see and enjoy panoramic night view from mountain.
    Why don’t you go around and enjoy Fukuoka with me.
    Endless discover is waiting for you.

    Apr 6, 2026
    Sandra_V
    Viator review: Kitakyushu 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Peko was delightful,…
    Peko was delightful, knowledgeable and very informative. She planned…

    Mar 27, 2026
    junk1961
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Hakata Private Tour Licensed Guide& Vehicle
    Great day in Fukuoka
    Excellent day in Fukuoka with our guide…

    May 25, 2025
    Susan_L
    Peko was a very nice &…
    Viator review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Peko was a very nice…

    Mar 20, 2025
    Florencio_J
    I had a great time! My…
    Viator review: Kitakyushu Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    I had a great time! My…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 & Here Meet at Hotel 11:45 Shinjuku Gyoen 13:00 Harajuku 13:20 Lunch break 14:30 Imperial Palace 15:45 Sensoji Temple 16:15 Tour ends at guest's request (they wish to spend the rest of the time as a family)

    Title: What Is a Private Family Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. Before the tour, I suggested that we walk at a relaxed pace and take breaks along the way as needed. As it turned out, at our first destination, Shinjuku Gyoen, the group saw about half of the garden before asking to stop for a meal somewhere. I had suggested trying street food along Takeshita Street in Harajuku, but upon arriving they were taken aback by the crowds and declined. We quickly changed plans and went to the food court at "Harakado," but the group indicated they preferred to dine on their own, so we ate separately. Throughout the tour, most of the conversation was led by one of the guests, while others spoke very little. As mentioned above, after visiting Sensoji Temple, just before I was about to see the group off to their accommodation, they expressed a wish to end the tour so they could spend time on their own. I have guided several tours that included young children, and a six-hour walking tour can be physically demanding, which is often a source of concern for the accompanying guests. [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.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainInaricho (Tokyo)~Shinjuku-gyoenmae210JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa260JPY
    Total630JPY

    Before I started the guiding job in 2022, I had worked for private companies and been engaged in overseas business, which led me to be stationed in various English-speaking countries. Taking advantage of such experiences and also wishing to reciprocate the kindness extended to me during my career, I have decided to help visitors to Japan enjoy their stay and obtained a national guide license.
    I am very honored and pleased to assist guests from overseas and enjoy seeing them having a great time visiting interesting spots in Japan and learning about the country. I look forward to serving more new guests and seeing them smile at the end of my private tours.

    Jun 8, 2025
    T1516LOmarkg
    Tokyo tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
    LaToya_S
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…

    Feb 27, 2025
    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly!…

    Feb 17, 2025
    Trip29223434750
    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    For those not wanting to…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Grand Hyatt Tokyo
    • 09:20 Asakusa
    • 10:40 Tokyo Skytree
    • 11:50 Lunch
    • 13:20 Takeshita Street
    • 14:10 Shibuya

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Skytree, and Shibuya The guests were a family visiting from Oceania. We met on time and first purchased a one-day subway pass at Roppongi Station. I guided them around Asakusa, where they enjoyed the cherry blossoms along the Sumida River, and then we walked to Tokyo Skytree. However, although reservation slots for Skytree had been available in the morning, they became fully booked as the time approached, so we had to give up on going up to the observation deck. Instead, since they mentioned they would be going to Shinjuku that evening, I suggested the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. After that, the guests enjoyed Takeshita Street and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, which concluded the tour. On Takeshita Street, they had a great time at a micro pig café.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayOshiage~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total650JPY

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
    Kim_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Experience Tokyo like a local…,
    It was a wonderful way…

    May 11, 2026
    Trenee_J
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takeshi did an amazing…
    Takeshi did an amazing job helping us plan…

    Apr 17, 2026
    Dianne_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Takeshi was our guide. He…
    Takeshi was our guide. He…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Indigo Hakone - 9:00 Hakone-en/Komagatake Ropeway (suspended due to strong winds and dense fog) ー 
    • 9:30 Kuzuryu Shrine ー 10:30 Hakone Shrine/Great Torii Gate ー 
    • 13:00 Hakone Open-Air Museum ー 16:00 Chokoku-no-Mori Station ー 16:00 Hakone-Yumoto ー 17:20 Odawara Station (transfer to Shinkansen bound for Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Hakone Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kuzuryu Shrine and the Hakone Open-Air Museum At the guests' request, the tour started early in the morning and was scheduled to end with a 19:30 Shinkansen back to Tokyo. Since visiting Kuzuryu Shrine and the Komagatake Ropeway were essential, and public transportation on Sundays is difficult, I reserved a taxi one month in advance. Unfortunately, the weather was poor, with strong winds and thick fog, so the Komagatake Ropeway was suspended and we were unable to reach the summit of Mount Komagatake, which was a shame. We were able to visit Kuzuryu Shrine by motorboat, and also visited Hakone Shrine. Furthermore, the Great Torii Gate has recently become popular as a power spot, and the photo spot in front of the torii had a one-hour wait. The guests understood this and were satisfied to take their photos. We had planned to take a boat from Moto-Hakone to Togendai Port, but gave up due to the strong winds. As a result, we used a taxi to go to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where we were able to take our time and fully enjoy the museum, which pleased the guests. I saw them off at the Shinkansen platform at Odawara Station, and they were very happy. They told me it had been a wonderful Hakone trip and that they were a lovely group to guide.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdawara~Gora770JPY
    Section 2TrainChokoku-no-Mori~Odawara770JPY
    Section 3OtherHakone-en~Kuzuryu Shrine2,200JPY
    Total3,740JPY

    I am Mr. Hotta Kenji from Yokohama. I am pleased to introduce myself as a Government Licensed Guide registered in Kanagawa Prefecture, having an ample exeperience as a English speaking guide in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kamakura, and Hakone areas for last 4 years. I would be happy to introduce Japanese culture, social activities and history, etc. I have had a rich business experience for over 40 years visiting more than 40 countries in Asia, Middle East, USA, Europe and others in the field of business development, international taxation, invester relations, corporate management, etc. I enjoy playing Japanese classical musical instrument (Shakuhachi or bamboo flute) and performing martial art (Aikido) .
    I will be happy to share happy moments with our important guests in Japan.

    Mar 27, 2026
    TinaS196
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best way to see Tokyo- Kenji
    Our tour with Kenji exceeded our…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00     Zentis Osaka  Meet
    • 13:40~14:40 Osaka Castle Park, Castle Tower
    • 15:10~16:00 Shitennoji Honbo Garden, Shitennoji Temple
    • 16:10 Returned to the hotel by taxi. End

    What's a Private Osaka Tour Like with Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America on a trip that had taken them through Tokyo and Kyoto before arriving in Osaka. When I explained the tour route at the start, they mentioned that one of the guests was not in the best physical condition for walking. We set off with the plan to walk as slowly as possible and to take breaks whenever needed. At Osaka Castle Park, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and the area was lively with people enjoying hanami and events such as an entrance ceremony at Osaka-jo Hall. Walking at a relaxed pace, we explored the outer moat, inner moat, and the outer defensive perimeter, then climbed the main keep, discussing the history of Osaka. The guests were deeply moved by the story of the Summer Siege of Osaka and took many photos. At the Honbo Garden of Shitennoji Temple, the atmosphere was very tranquil and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, which they found very moving. After that, walking became difficult, and around 16:10 there was a request to return to the hotel by taxi, and the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKitashinchi~Kyobashi (Osaka)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayYotsubashi~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka240JPY
    Total420JPY

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Gathering 12:00 @ Hotel Lobby
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and view the Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle tower 12:00-13:30・・・To Nagoya Castle, travel by subway
    • 3. Move to the Nagoya Token Museum – Nagoya Token World and view the exhibits 13:30-15:00・・・To the Nagoya Token Museum, travel by subway
    • 4. Move to Oasis 21 and view the shopping area and the Water Spaceship rooftop 15:00-15:40・・・To Oasis 21, travel by subway
    • 5. Move to Hotel (near Fushimi Station) and disband 15:40-16:00・・・To the hotel, travel by subway

    What Can You See on a Private Nagoya Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle and a Sword Museum The guests were a group visiting from North America. The original itinerary included Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and Oasis 21. On the day of the tour, I learned that the Nagoya Touken World sword museum was open specially on a Monday, which is usually its closing day, so I recommended it to the guests, and they agreed to visit the sword museum instead of Atsuta Shrine. At Nagoya Castle, although the peak season had passed, they enjoyed the cherry blossoms that were still blooming in abundance. At the sword museum, they viewed with great interest the enormous collection of swords, armor, and firearms, along with a special exhibition of nationally designated masterpiece swords. The younger members of the group also enjoyed the corner where they could try on samurai costumes and take photos inside the museum. I guided them to a dining area near their accommodation, then returned to the Hotel and concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayFushimi (Aichi)~Nagoya Castle210JPY
    Section 2SubwayNagoya Castle~Yabacho210JPY
    Section 3SubwayYabacho~Sakae (Aichi)210JPY
    Section 4SubwaySakae (Aichi)~Fushimi (Aichi)210JPY
    Total840JPY

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…