Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:30 Meet @JR Inari Station→Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 2.11:05@Gion
    • 3.11:50@ Nishiki Market
    • 4.12:45@Arashiyama
    • 5·13:00@Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 6.13:40@Bamboo Grove Path
    • 7.14:50@Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 8.15:40 Disband @Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from the Middle East. Since they were coming from Osaka, we met at the easy-to-find JR Inari Station and started right away with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha. As requested, we went to Gion, where we explored Gion Shirakawa and Hanamikoji, and then, as it was a bit of a distance, we took a taxi to Nishiki Market. There, the guests selected and enjoyed two or three items they liked. From Karasuma we took the Hankyu line to Arashiyama, where we strolled around Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the bamboo grove. From Arashiyama we took the Randen tram to Kitano-Hakubaicho, then a taxi to Kinkaku-ji. After touring Kinkaku-ji, I suggested we continue to Nijo Castle, but as one of the guests was feeling unwell and strongly wished to end the tour, we parted ways at Kinkaku-ji as the guests preferred. They were satisfied with the tour. A notable stop on the tour was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, making it one of Japan's most iconic sights. Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for a shogun, it was later converted into a temple. The pavilion is set beside a reflecting pond, and the surrounding strolling garden is considered a fine example of the gardens of its era.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFushimi Inari~Sanjo (Kyoto)240JPY
    Section 2TrainKarasuma~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Total730JPY

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Kagoshima in One Day: Kagoshima Port & Marine Port

    Kagoshima in One Day: Kagoshima Port & Marine Port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Depart from Marine Port
    • 9:00 Kagoshima Port (Sakurajima Ferry Terminal)
    • 9:30 Sakurajima Visitor Center
    •    Lava Nagisa Park
    • 10:20 Arimura Observatory
    • 11:00 Sakurajima Port (Ferry Terminal)
    • 11:40 Sengan-en
    • 12:30 Tenmonkan
    • 14:30 Marine Port

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Kagoshima and Sakurajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We first took a ferry across to Sakurajima and visited a museum and a foot-bath park. As early-season mandarin oranges were in season, I handed one to each person, and the guests enjoyed the oranges while soaking in the hot spring. The sky was cloudy that day, and Sakurajima appeared hazy from the city and was not very clearly visible, so we headed to the Arimura Observatory, where we were able to see the overall shape of the mountain and enjoy the scenery. Returning to the city, I gave a brief tour of Sengan-en and then we had lunch in Tenmonkan. When I asked about their lunch preferences, the guests showed me a note that read "kibinago and satsuma-age," so I took them to a restaurant serving local cuisine. They mentioned that "a hearty dinner would be served on the cruise ship, so we cannot eat too much," so I explained the situation to the restaurant staff and the guests shared two course meals among the group. With sweet potato shochu, kibinago, bonito, tonkotsu, chawanmushi, miso soup, and more, everything seemed delicious to those visiting Japan for the first time. The atmosphere of the restaurant was also like a traditional Japanese house, which made for a wonderful experience.

    I have been living in Kagoshima since 2019. I love talking with people, and I look forward to guiding you around this beautiful city.
    Kagoshima has many attractions: the active volcano Sakurajima rising right before your eyes, the lively atmosphere of the city, its rich history, and its delicious local cuisine. I hope you will be able to feel the charm of this place through the many stories it has to offer.
    I will do my best to share the wonders of Kagoshima with all who visit, and to provide a special experience with heartfelt hospitality.

    Jul 23, 2026
    Dawnery_V
    Viator review: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    Delightful guide and very fun day.
    Mio was delightful. She was…

    Jul 17, 2026
    Amanda_Q
    Viator review: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    Super city and great & driver!
    What an intriguing city! Our…

    May 25, 2026
    Stephen_D
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kagoshima Private Tour Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    Thoughtful, knowledgeable and excellent tour
    Mio was awesome! She took…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 11:15 Arrive at Miyajima, visit Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:00 Lunch, explore Miyajima
    • 15:00 Depart from Miyajima
    • 16:00 Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 18:00 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    What's a Private Hiroshima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Peace Park and Okonomiyaki Today's tour was for guests visiting from North America. However, as the plans changed, only part of the group came to Hiroshima while others chose to enjoy shopping in Kyoto. The original plan was to visit Miyajima, the Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Peace Memorial Museum. Due to time constraints on the guests' side, however, the schedule was significantly revised: we skipped Miyajima and instead visited the Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Peace Memorial Museum, returning to Hiroshima Station by 2:30 p.m. In addition, since they had made the effort to come all the way to Hiroshima, the guests expressed a wish to try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. After finishing at the Peace Memorial Museum, we enjoyed okonomiyaki at Hiroshima's Okonomimura, and the tour concluded at Hiroshima Station. A notable stop on the tour was the Atomic Bomb Dome. The Atomic Bomb Dome is the ruins of a building that survived the atomic bombing in 1945 and has been preserved as a symbol of peace. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 and stands as a powerful reminder of the destruction caused by nuclear weapons and the enduring hope for lasting peace. Located along the river near the Peace Memorial Park, it draws visitors from around the world who come to reflect on history and the importance of peace.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~In front of the Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Section 2TrainHatchobori (Hiroshima Prefecture)~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total480JPY

    I obtained my guide certification in 2018 and can provide a wide range of services in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Hiroshima. I guided an average of more than 100 guests per year. I do not just take you to tourist attractions, but also conduct tours flexibly according to your interests, hobbies, physical condition, and weather conditions. In addition, I will take you to places where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Japan’s four seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, azaleas and hydrangeas in early summer, and autumn foliage in fall.

    Jul 31, 2026
    Michele_L
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our half-day private tour…
    Our half-day private tour of Tokyo was…

    May 18, 2026
    Maria_H
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Best Tour Guide Bar None!
    No words can express how…

    May 2, 2026
    Gurmeet_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous
    Kenji was a fabulous, knowledgeable tour guide! We really enjoyed his…

    Apr 7, 2026
    acZ4971TV
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Truly amazing, meaningful experience! Very happy we chose this…

  • Tokyo: Shijomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo: Shijomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Meeting place: Yurikamome: Shijomae Station
    • 7:40 Depart Shijomae Station
    • (on foot)
    • 7:45 Toyosu Market
    • Toyosu Market Seafood Wholesale Building
    • Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building
    • 9:00 Depart Shijomae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 10:15 Tsukijishijo Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Namiyoke Shrine
    • Tsukiji Hongwanji
    • 10:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • 11:30 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    Title: What Is a Private Toyosu and Tsukiji Fish Market Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time, staying at a hotel in Tokyo. The purpose of this trip was a 10-day journey to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. They had arrived two days earlier, and the previous day they had strolled around the Ginza area. Today, their request was: "We would like to take our time looking at a Tokyo fish market." It was a tour under clear skies, with weather warm enough to feel quite hot. We met at Shijo-mae Station on the Yurikamome line. First we walked through the wholesale seafood building, then explored the intermediate wholesale seafood building. I explained "the history and scale of the Tsukiji market," "the scale of the market," and "what route seafood takes from here before it reaches households." There were questions such as "How is the tuna auction conducted?" and "How many tuna are put up for auction, and what are the prices?" In the intermediate wholesale market, the guests took photos here and there. We then headed to Tsukiji, which was as crowded as ever. I explained "the history of fish markets since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were also questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it really does seem like there are a lot of tourists." The guests said they wanted to try something to eat, and in the end they bought and sampled tuna sushi. Finally, we visited Namiyoke Shrine and Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple. There was a question about "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There was also a question about "why there are no trash bins on the streets." As they wished to buy a used luxury watch in Shinjuku, I took them to Shinjuku, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijomae~Toyosu190JPY
    Section 2TrainToyosu~Tsukishima180JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukishima~Tsukijishijo180JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji~Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)210JPY
    Total760JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & Naramachi Koshi-no-ie

    Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & Naramachi Koshi-no-ie

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:55 Meet at Hotel
    • 10:20 to 11:00 Kofukuji Temple
    • 11:00 to 11:30 Nara Park
    • 11:50 to 12:50 Todaiji Temple
    • 13:10 to 13:40 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 14:00 to 14:30 Naramachi Koshi-no-ie (Lattice House)
    • 16:50 Dismissal at JR Kyoto Station, shuttle bus stop for Hotel

    Can You Do a Private Nara Tour from Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They said they were comfortable with the weather in Japan, as where they live is very hot and humid. One of the guests had difficulty walking and found going up and down the temple stairs quite challenging. We had planned to climb up to Nigatsu-do Hall, but after watching how things were going, I recommended skipping it. On the train back toward Kyoto after the tour, that guest seemed truly exhausted, so I believe it was the right decision not to attempt the climb. A notable stop on the tour was Nigatsu-do Hall at Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Nigatsu-do is a National Treasure of Japan, known for its wooden terrace that offers sweeping views over Nara and the surrounding area. It is especially famous for the annual Omizutori festival held in early spring, during which large torches are lit and carried along the terrace. The hall is reached by a series of stone steps and stone-paved paths, which make it a memorable but somewhat demanding part of a visit to the Todai-ji temple grounds. Because of these stairs, it is worth considering each guest's walking ability when planning a visit.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Kintetsu Nara760JPY
    Section 2BusTodaiji Daibutsuden / Nara Kotsu~Kasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 3BusKasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu~Kencho Higashi / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nara~Kyoto760JPY
    Total2,020JPY

    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: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting place: The B Ginza
    • 10:40 Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:00 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive at Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:10 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    •   Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 17:00 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 17:15 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Tokyu Food Show
    • Break: Starbucks
    • 18:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 18:30 Arrive at Ginza Station
    • 18:30 Disband: Ginza Station

    What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Central Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They arrived at Haneda Airport on a connecting flight. This was an approximately ten-day holiday in Japan. Rather than heading to the Kansai area, they planned to focus only on sightseeing in and around Tokyo (Mount Fuji, Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura, and others). Today's request was: "We would like to see as many of Tokyo's main spots as possible." It was a tour under occasional light rain. First, we headed to Asakusa, starting in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-storied pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various other spots, and strolled slowly through the crowded Nakamise shopping street despite the rain. There were questions such as "What are Japan's major religions?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what religions do people believe in?" We moved on to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained about "the history of Japan 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 the stone walls were constructed." There were questions such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political power?" "Who is the next Emperor?" "Can a woman become Emperor?" and "Can't you see the Imperial Palace directly?" There was also a question: "How were the stones of the stone walls transported?" Next, we went to Shinjuku Gyoen. We moved slowly, taking photos along the way. I explained about "the origins and history of Shinjuku Gyoen," as well as "the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration." The comments were: "There is so much greenery, it feels wonderful." and "I would like to create a Japanese garden at home." Then, to Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" and "Why did Shinto arise in Japan?" We moved on to Shibuya. From in front of the Keio Line platform, we looked out over the Scramble Crossing, and then actually crossed it. We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. As the guests seemed tired, we rested at a coffee shop. There were comments and questions such as "The city is so clean, with no litter on the ground." "There are no trash cans around the city. Why is that?" and "The subway is complex but very well made." We saw them off at Ginza Station, ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3OtherOtemachi (Tokyo)~Shinjuku-gyoemmae210JPY
    Section 4OtherShinjuku-gyoemmae~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya~Ginza210JPY
    Total1,170JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Hilton Tokyo Odaiba (1 min from Yurikamome Daiba Station) meet-up
    • 1105 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 1155 Nezu Shrine
    • 1330 Asakusa Kaminarimon Nakamise Senso-ji Temple Asakusa Shrine
    • 1515 Shibuya Hachiko Statue Scramble Crossing
    • 1600 Shimbashi Drop-off by taxi and farewell

    # What's a Private Day Tour in Tokyo Like for a Cruise Passenger? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America. When I went to pick up the guest at the Hotel, they were running a little late. When we met and talked, I learned that they had arrived by cruise ship at Harumi that morning, and had walked over from there while strolling along the waterfront. The ship was scheduled to depart at 18:00 that evening, so they needed to return at least one hour before departure. First, the SUICA app was not working, so we tried for over 15 minutes, but it did not go well, so they purchased a PASMO card and we set off. So far they had traveled from Vancouver via Alaska, visiting Hakodate, Miyako, and Shizuoka. From tonight they would head to the Kansai area and leave the group in Osaka. After touring Osaka and Kyoto, they would return to Tokyo for one night before returning home. At Tsukiji, there was no particular tasting or shopping. At Nezu Shrine, a flea market was being held and it was quite crowded. Along the way, they enjoyed grilled dango at Akitaya. At Senso-ji Temple as well there was no particular shopping, and they were busy taking photos everywhere. Originally, we had planned to go on to Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho after this, but since they wanted to see a large intersection (Shibuya), the plan was changed. After that, I had intended to put them in a taxi in Ginza, but since it was a pedestrian paradise that day, we ended up parting at Shimbashi.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2Free PassShimbashi~Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji~Nezu0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu~Nishi-Nippori0JPY
    Section 5TrainNishi-Nippori~Ueno160JPY
    Section 6Free PassUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 7Free PassAsakusa~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 8Free PassShibuya~Shimbashi0JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    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.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.8:30 Hotel
    • 2.9:00-10:00 Skytree 3.1110-1120 Asakusa
    • 4.11:40-12:20 Lunch at Otemachi 5.12:20-13:30 Higashi Gyoen
    • 6.14:00-1510 Meiji Shrine
    • 7.15:40-16:50 Hamarikyu

    What's a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Skytree and the Imperial Palace East Gardens The guests were a group visiting from North America. Where they live is a base town, and people of many diverse backgrounds from across the region gather there. One of the guests enjoys Japanese culture and Japanese food, especially salmon rolls, and chose Japan for this graduation trip. This guest has decided to go on to study medicine and, when asked about the reason for wanting to become a doctor, answered simply, "Money." Another of the guests is good at math and would like to become an astronaut in the future. This guest never used the escalators and ran up the stairs the whole time. One of the guests asked me, "How many people visit Tokyo Skytree in a day?" and another asked, "How many steps are there on the emergency staircase?" When I checked with a staff member, I learned that at peak times more than ten thousand people visit, and the staircase has 2,523 steps. At the Imperial Palace East Gardens, one of the guests asked me about the population of Chiyoda Ward and the number of staff at the Imperial Household Agency. After looking into it, the answers were 70,000 and 1,000. A notable stop on the tour was the Imperial Palace East Gardens. The East Gardens are part of the inner palace area and are open to the public, featuring the remains of Edo Castle, including the massive stone foundations of the former castle keep. The gardens offer beautifully maintained lawns, seasonal flowers, and traditional Japanese landscaping in the heart of Tokyo, making them a peaceful spot that reflects centuries of Japanese history.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAkihabara~Oshiage340JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo Skytree~Asakusa160JPY
    Section 3TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4TrainTakebashi~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shiodome380JPY
    Total1,270JPY

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since 2024.
    I grew up in Osaka and studied in Kyoto,
    I have been working for the lvestock division of the national organization of agricultural cooperatives.
    Japan depends on imports for most of its livestock feed ingredients.
    I visited 10 countries on business and stayed in New Orleans working for a subsidiary company for 3 years.
    I visited 10 other countries with my wife for sightseeing.
    I also started writing Haiku, Japanese traditional poem, after retiring.
    One of my favorite is ” Bundled up, you are like a Matryoshka.”
    Looking forward to see you!

    Sep 24, 2026
    benoitlJ9021HN
    Perfect guide tour in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was very nice…

    Sep 19, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Great tour with Lance from Japan Guide Agency!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Lance our tour…

    Sep 10, 2026
    Silver_F
    amazing 8-hour walking tour with Lance!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was our…

    Jul 4, 2026
    317roxaneh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great time in Tokyo!
    We had a great day with Lance! He…

  • Tokyo in One Day: JR Shinjuku & entrance of Harajuku Takeshita

    Tokyo in One Day: JR Shinjuku & entrance of Harajuku Takeshita

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Guide arrives at hotel lobby
    • 10:00 Meet customers at hotel lobby
    • 10:05 Hotel, walk to JR Shinjuku Station
    • 10:20 Arrive at JR Shinjuku Station
    • 10:33 Depart Shinjuku Station, take JR Chuo Line Rapid via Kanda Station, then Ginza Subway Line to Asakusa Station
    • 10:45 Arrive at Asakusa Station, walk to Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 11:00〜11:15 Guide tour of Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center 8F observation deck
    • 11:15〜12:20 Guide tour of Sensoji Temple Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise Street
    • *Guide tour of Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Street, Hozomon Gate, Five-Story Pagoda, Giant Straw Sandals, Omikuji fortunes, incense burner, water purification pavilion, main hall, and Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:30〜13:10 Lunch in Asakusa (tempura, udon)
    • 13:17 Depart Asakusa Station, take Ginza Subway Line to Shibuya Station
    • 13:51 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • 13:51〜14:05 Guide tour of Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Hachiko
    • 14:07 Depart Shibuya Station, take JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station
    • 14:09 Arrive at Harajuku Station, walk to Meiji Shrine
    • 14:15〜15:15 Guide tour of Meiji Shrine
    • *Guide tour of the First Torii Gate, sake barrels, wine barrels, Second Torii Gate, waka poems, water purification pavilion, married couple trees, main hall, ema votive tablets, and Forest Terrace
    • 15:20 Depart Meiji Shrine, walk to Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:25 Arrive at the entrance of Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:25〜15:50 Guide tour of Harajuku Takeshita Street, walk to Omotesando
    • 15:50〜16:05 Guide tour of Omotesando, explain the route back to the hotel to customers at Omotesando and part ways. The customers plan to stay in Harajuku to explore and return to the hotel on their own

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Harajuku The guests, who arrived in Tokyo by cruise ship yesterday and were visiting Japan for the first time, thoroughly enjoyed today's tour. During the cruise the weather had reportedly been poor with a lot of rain, but today was clear and sunny, even hot during the daytime. At the Nakamise shopping street of Senso-ji Temple, they enjoyed shopping for souvenirs such as Japanese tapestries, towels, and keychains, and also enjoyed some sweets. They drew omikuji fortunes and were delighted that the group drew the best fortune. They also seemed to enjoy the tempura lunch very much. At Meiji Shrine, they came across two wedding ceremonies and took photos. They also learned about the differences between temples and shrines, the respective ways of praying, and how to pass through a torii gate. We crossed the Shibuya Scramble Crossing together, and they enjoyed taking photos at the Hachiko statue and at the scramble crossing. Harajuku's Takeshita Street was very crowded, as it was a sunny Saturday, but they enjoyed taking photos on both Takeshita Street and Omotesando.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Kanda (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayKanda (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Total810JPY

    Hello and how do you do?
    My name is Nobuo Kokure, and please call me Nobby for short, if you want.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born in Hayama, a beach resort area, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. And I’m now living in Saginuma, Kawasaki city.
    When I was a university student, I had the opportunities of doing a home stay with a family In U.S.A., Australia, and England, as a youth exchange student.
    After graduation from the university, I started working at American Life Insurance Company, Japan (Alico, Japan), which is a group member company of AIG, now MetLife Insurance Company. I could have a chance to visit the head office and the field offices of U.S.A., Wilmington in Delaware, New York, Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale in Florida, Los Angeles, while I was working for Alico, Japan (Now, MetLife Insurance company).
    I had been working for MetLife Insurance Company for about 38 years, in total.
    After retiring from the life insurance company, I started working as a tour guide, because I wanted to become a tour guide to introduce culture, history, and manners and customs of Japan in English. It’s so different between my previous job and the guide business, but I like guide business a lot.
    I can meet so many people from all over the world and the guide business has been thriving after the pandemic.
    I have implemented the tour over 240 times, introduced Japan to more than 4900 tourists from 54 countries.

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

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

    Best regards,

    Nobuo Kokure (Nobby)

    Sep 29, 2026
    jeffbM3390PI
    Nuobo was awesome as our Tokyo tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Jeff…

    Sep 25, 2026
    skipcooney
    Customized private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Nobby was very flexible…

    Sep 22, 2026
    duncans746
    Great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Nobuo was fantastic, very knowledgeable and shaped…

    Sep 13, 2026
    Culture25230012656
    Very knowledgeable
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    I enjoy every step of the tour.…

  • Tokyo: Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station & Shinagawa Station

    Tokyo: Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station & Shinagawa Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport
    • 9:10 Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station
    • (Keikyu Airport Line Express)
    • Shinagawa Station
    • 10:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:20 Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 13:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:40 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center-gai
    • 14:20 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:04 Shinagawa Station
    • (Keikyu Airport Line)
    • 15:00 Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station
    • 15:00 Dispersal: Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was about a twelve-day trip, and they had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima before arriving in Tokyo the previous day. Today, part of the group had a work-related meeting, so the tour with that person ended at 13:00, after which I guided the remaining guest. The request for the day was to see the main sights of Tokyo. It was a tour under occasional light rain. First, we went to Asakusa, starting in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained the history of Senso-ji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, what Buddhism is, and the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various spots. Despite the rain, we slowly strolled through the Nakamise shopping street, which was crowded with school excursion groups and others. A yukata was purchased as a souvenir. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" Next, 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 the Tsukiji Outer Market. There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It is crowded, but it seems there are many tourists." Wanting to try something, they ended up purchasing and tasting tuna sushi. At this point one person left the tour. We then went to Meiji Shrine. I explained Shinto, the torii gate, Emperor Meiji, why sake barrels are displayed, and why wine barrels are displayed. There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "How does Buddhism differ from Shinto?", and "Why did Shinto originate in Japan?" We took a break at the cafe terrace at Meiji Shrine. We moved to Shibuya. From in front of the Keio Line platform, we viewed the scramble crossing and then actually crossed it. We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. At the guest's request, we visited a secondhand shop, and after various considerations, a brand-name bag was purchased. There were comments and questions such as "The streets are clean and there is no litter," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why?", and "The subway is complex but very well made." I saw them off at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHaneda Airport Terminal 3 (Keikyu)~Asakusa610JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Shinagawa210JPY
    Section 6TrainShinagawa~Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (Keikyu)330JPY
    Total1,750JPY

    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
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    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
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    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
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    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

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