Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Start from Matsui Annex Hanakanzashi

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Start from Matsui Annex Hanakanzashi

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Start from Matsui Annex Hanakanzashi
    • 13:30-14:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:30-15:45 Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 15:30-16:30 Ninna-ji Temple
    • 17:30 End at Shijo Karasuma

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Ninna-ji The guests were a family visiting from Europe. They listened attentively to the explanations and were a very pleasant group to guide. We used taxis for most of the transportation, but at Ninna-ji we could not find a taxi, so we ended up taking a bus, which caused us to run about 30 minutes over. Since they had a dinner reservation at 6:00 pm near Kyoto Station, we got off at Shijo-Karasuma to catch a taxi, and the tour ended there. At Kinkaku-ji, the guests enjoyed taking photos, tossing coins for good luck, and eating ice cream. At Ryoan-ji, I explained the dry landscape garden and the tsukubai water basin, and we walked around the pond. We then took a taxi to Ninna-ji, where the Omuro cherry blossoms were not yet in bloom, but I introduced some traditional Japanese games. Overall, it was a very enjoyable day, and I believe the guests had a wonderful time exploring these temples of Kyoto.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusOmuro Ninnaji / Kyoto City Bus～Shijo Karasuma (Subway Shijo Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total230JPY

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

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    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nanzen-ji Temple and Okazaki & Gion

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nanzen-ji Temple and Okazaki & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at RAKURO Kyoto by The Share Hotels
    • 10:00～11:30　Stroll around Nanzen-ji Temple and Okazaki
    • 11:30～11:50　Heian Shrine
    • 12:10～12:40　Chion-in Temple
    • 13:00～13:20　Stroll around Gion
    • 13:20　End at Gion

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Kyoto's Quieter Temples? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour in Kyoto for guests visiting from Europe. In advance, an overseas agency had requested the major sightseeing spots, so I had initially proposed Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. However, when I shared the crowd conditions at both sites via a messaging app and mentioned that I could also suggest quieter locations, the guests requested a change to less crowded places, so I revised the itinerary to Nanzen-ji Temple and Heian Shrine. At Nanzen-ji Temple, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and with fewer visitors compared to late March, the guests enjoyed the beauty of the Japanese architecture and gardens amid the falling cherry blossoms. They took many photos and appeared deeply moved. A Buddhist memorial service happened to be taking place, which they watched with great interest. The cherry blossoms along the canal on the way from Nanzen-ji Temple to Heian Shrine, and the view of Higashiyama and the cherry blossoms from the bridge in front of the large torii gate, also left a strong impression on them. Since they did not tour the garden at Heian Shrine, we had extra time, so we added a visit to Chion-in Temple. At Chion-in, just as at Nanzen-ji, they marveled at the large main gate, and here too they watched a memorial service with interest, coming to appreciate the differences between the Buddhist sects. Afterward, we strolled around Tatsumi Bridge and Hanamikoji Street, and I guided them to the Gion Corner at Gion Kaikan and a nearby Japanese restaurant before ending the tour. Overall, it was a highly satisfying tour.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma Marutamachi (Marutamachi Subway Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Higashi-Tennocho／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusOkazaki Park Museum・Heian Shrine-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Chion-in-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total460JPY

    Tour Report by Umi

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

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    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji & Ginza

    Tokyo: Tsukiji & Ginza

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:15 Meet up @ Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Station
    • 09:40 Tsukiji (Fish Market, Outer Market)
    • 10:30 Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Nijubashi Bridge
    • 10:50 Tokyo Station (photo from the car window)
    • 10:20 National Stadium (photo from the car window)
    • 11:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:50 Omotesando Hills (get off and tour)
    • 14:10 Shibuya Scramble Crossing (pass through)
    • 14:40 Tokyo Tower (Shiba Park, right under the tower)
    • 15:05 Ginza (from the car window)
    • 15:20 Disband @ Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Station

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan the previous day and were set to begin a cruise the following day. The itinerary above was originally planned by a travel agency that did not fully grasp the scale of Tokyo, so I made adjustments to it. Since we were able to meet earlier than scheduled, I gave an overview of Japan before we set off. At Tsukiji, the guests were delighted by the special experience of visiting the fish market area. Parts of Shinjuku Gyoen were muddy and a little difficult to walk on, but many different varieties of cherry blossoms were in bloom, and the guests enjoyed it thoroughly. Along the way I learned that the guests had a strong interest in engineering and architecture, so we viewed Kengo Kuma's National Stadium from the car window and got out to visit Tadao Ando's Omotesando Hills. The guests took photos of buildings throughout the city. After Meiji Shrine, the rain stopped and the sun came out, so I took the guests to Shiba Park, where they were very pleased when I helped them take photos of the cherry blossoms with Tokyo Tower in the background.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hideki

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @ Doubletree by Hilton Kyoto
    • 9:00-10:10 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:30-11:40 @ Nijo Castle
    • 12:00-12:40 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 13:20-14:20 @ Sanjusangendo
    • 14:30 Dismissal @ Doubletree by Hilton Kyoto

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, and Arashiyama The guests were a group of two from North America. One member used a wheelchair. They had originally hoped to stroll along the Philosopher's Path, but since they had already visited it the previous day, we decided to skip it. Fushimi Inari Taisha was very crowded, and moving around by wheelchair took some time. Here they purchased three torii-shaped ema plaques. Nijo Castle was not very crowded, so we were able to explore fairly smoothly, and they were moved by the fusuma paintings and the grandeur of the buildings. At the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, some care was needed going up and down the slopes. Nagatsuji Street in Arashiyama was quite congested, and it took time to get out by private car. At Sanjusangendo, they were moved by the overwhelming array of Thousand-Armed Kannon statues, and they were also interested in the display of the bows and arrows used in the toshiya archery event. We saw the guests off in front of the Hotel, where we parted ways. The weather was fine, the conversation in the car was lively, and I believe it was a fulfilling tour.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

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    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet@Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 2. 09:00 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 09:25 Visit@Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 4. 10:30 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 10:55 Visit@Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 11:30 Travel∶Subway
    • 7. 11:55 Visit@Sensoji Temple
    • 8. 13:05 Disband@Asakusa Kaminarimon Street

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Koishikawa Korakuen, Nezu Shrine, and Asakusa Body: The guests were a group visiting Tokyo. There were moments when I found the accent of one of the guests a little difficult to follow, but we were able to communicate well through the other member of the group. Usually I plan a route that starts from a place far from the accommodation and works its way back, but this time I decided to make Asakusa our final stop, as it would be an easy place for the guests to have lunch after the tour ended. As with the previous day, it was a rainy day, but I believe the guests enjoyed the plants at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden and the historic buildings of Nezu Shrine. After showing them Senso-ji Temple, I took them to a tempura restaurant on Kaminarimon Street before we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Iidabashi220JPY
    Section 2SubwayKorakuen～Todaimae180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu～Yushima180JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno-hirokoji～Asakusa180JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & War Memorial Facility

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & War Memorial Facility

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 12:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 13:30 Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 15:00 War Memorial Facility
    • 16:00 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided guests visiting from North America. As it was their first trip to Japan, they had shared a photo of their Shinkansen ticket in advance, which allowed me to meet them smoothly on the platform. We broke the ice with conversation about local supermarkets and burger shops, and started the tour in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Since the guests wished to have lunch during the 4-hour tour, I took them to a well-known okonomiyaki restaurant where the food is prepared relatively quickly. At the Peace Memorial Park, the guests were deeply struck by the photo exhibits, so I explained things thoughtfully and in a quiet tone. Throughout the tour, everything proceeded in a calm atmosphere, and it was a fulfilling experience for all.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Section 2TrainAtomic Bomb Dome～Hiroshima240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet @Hotel 〈Shinjuku Gyoen-mae〉
    • 2. 09:00 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:40 Stay @Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 10:15 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 10:35 Stay @Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 6. 11:50 Travel: Train
    • 7. 12:20 Stay @Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 8. 13:10 Disband @Hamarikyu Gardens Otemon Gate

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Although they did not have a messaging app account, we were able to stay in touch easily through text messages sent from a mobile phone number. The private tour by a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide covered three locations in Tokyo: Nezu Shrine, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, and Hamarikyu Gardens. Although it rained heavily in the afternoon, we were able to get through most of the tour without using umbrellas. One of the guests loved plants and, at both the East Gardens and Hamarikyu, took keen interest not only in the cherry blossoms but also in the camellias, eagerly taking photographs. We spent a bit longer at the East Gardens, but since the guests were both strong walkers, we were able to visit all three locations comfortably within four hours. After strolling through Hamarikyu, I guided them to the restaurant floor of Caretta Shiodome across the way before we parted.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku Gyoen-mae～Nezu210JPY
    Section 2SubwayNezu～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Shimbashi160JPY
    Total550JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 8:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:00 Shibuya
    • 12:20 Lunch
    • 13: 10 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 14:00 End at Shinjuku Station East Exit

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. We met at the hotel as scheduled, and the tour proceeded without any issues, following the plan we had confirmed in advance. Although the weather was less than ideal in the morning with cold rain, we visited tranquil places such as Meiji Shrine and Nezu Shrine, so the rainy atmosphere was not unpleasant at all. In the afternoon the weather recovered, and the guests were surprised by the lively, bustling atmosphere of Shibuya, which was the complete opposite of the morning. By the time we reached Shinjuku Gyoen, the weather had improved, and I was able to have them fully enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Afterward, we walked together to Shinjuku Station, where the tour concluded.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nezu210JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya～Shinjuku-gyoemmae180JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Takeshi

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the main gate of Toyosu Market
    • 05:00-05:30 Advance explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through Tsukiji Inner Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    Title: What's a Private Tsukiji Tuna Auction and Sushi Tour Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Some of the guests were looking forward to the tuna auction, and they asked many questions right after we met. Because it was very early in the morning, some of the guests seemed sleepy at first and a little low on energy, but once the auction began, they leaned in and watched intently. When we left the auction area, they happily told me how interesting it had been. At the sushi restaurant after the auction, some of the guests enjoyed a tuna-focused meal while others had grilled eel over rice, and everyone seemed to enjoy it in their own way. Those who had the tuna enjoyed comparing the flavors of the different cuts, and they said that medium-fatty tuna (chutoro) was their favorite. At Tsukiji, I showed the group the wholesalers' shops, and I believe they came to understand how tuna is prepared and sold to restaurants and sushi shops. Since one of the guests enjoys cooking, I guided them to a specialty shop for Japanese kitchen knives. They picked up the knives to feel the difference in weight balance between Japanese and Western knives, as well as the difference in the grip, and in the end they happily purchased one Japanese knife for cutting meat. Finally, they enjoyed a strawberry daifuku. Since they planned to head to teamLab in Kamiyacho after this tour, I explained how to get from Tsukiji Station to Kamiyacho and ended the tour. At the end of the tour, the guests gave me a gift. It was completely unexpected, so I was truly moved. When I thought about how they had brought a tote bag and chocolate all the way from overseas, I felt that I had never received a greater thank-you. Since some of the guests are still young, they declined to have their photos published, so instead I am uploading a photo of the souvenir I received. After viewing it, please feel free to delete it as appropriate.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market／Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome／Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9：00 Hotel ー9:42 Miyanoura Port ー10:30 Chichu Art Museum ー13:30 Lee Ufan Museum ー14:30 Valley Gallery ー15:50 Benesse House Museum ー16:30 Outdoor Exhibition ー16：50 Hotel Park

    What's a Private Naoshima Art Island Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. The two younger members of the group were lively and got along wonderfully, which was a pleasure to see. It rained all day today, but the group did not mind and enjoyed the tour together. While younger travelers sometimes lose interest easily, these guests were different — they were very curious and listened attentively to the educational explanations shared among the group. What surprised me even more was one member's excellent sense of direction, so strong that I wondered if they had an internal compass. The one disappointing point was that the popular exhibit, the yellow "Pumpkin" by Yayoi Kusama, had been temporarily removed since the previous day. The reason was to protect it from the strong winds. Come to think of it, this pumpkin was destroyed by a typhoon more than seven years ago. What made me break out in a cold sweat was the realization that if these strong winds had occurred today, the ferry from Uno to Naoshima would surely have been suspended, even if only for a few hours. Thinking about it this way, I was truly relieved that we were able to carry out the tour safely.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherUno Port～Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)740JPY
    Total740JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

    Request Booking

    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…