Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Ginza

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up
    • 10:00 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 12:20 Chidorigafuchi
    • 13:40 Ginza (Lunch, Mitsukoshi Depachika)
    • 15:00 Disband @ Ginza

    What Can You See on a Private Cherry Blossom and Shibuya Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. On another tour they had already visited Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace, so this time they wished to see the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and enjoy cherry blossom viewing. The forecast had predicted rain, but we were able to visit Shinjuku Gyoen and Chidorigafuchi before it began to pour heavily. At Shinjuku Gyoen they saw many different varieties of cherry blossoms and were delighted. I had originally planned to visit Shinjuku Gyoen in the afternoon, but going first thing in the morning turned out to be the right choice. For lunch, I took the group to Tenichi at Mitsukoshi. Everyone finished their meals right down to dessert. Afterwards, perhaps feeling a little tired, they returned to their hotel by taxi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku West Exit～Shinjuku-gyoenmae180JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku～Shibuya200JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Kudanshita210JPY
    Section 4SubwayKudanshita～Ginza180JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Rumi

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0830 Hyatt Regency Tokyo (3 min from Metro Nishi-Shinjuku Station)
    • 0850 Visit Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Scramble Crossing (from the bus window)
    • 1025 Imperial Palace Outer Garden, temporary drop-off at Gyoko-dori Avenue, Tatsumi Yagura Watchtower, historical explanation and photo session with Tokyo Station in the background
    • 1110 Asakusa, drop-off in front of Kaminarimon Gate, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, exit via Nitenmon Gate
    • 1240 Ueno Park, drop-off in front of Keisei Ueno Station, Shogitai Monument, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Hall, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, board in front of the National Museum
    • 1415 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
    • 1430 Dismiss here

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived at Haneda the previous night and taken an arranged car, which took about four hours to reach Shinjuku, so they were a little tired. They were scheduled to board a cruise ship the following day, so a guide was arranged for today. They planned to return to Tokyo about ten days later to visit Hakone and Nikko. In our preliminary discussion, "cherry blossoms" had been the keyword, so they were delighted that we managed to catch the cherry blossoms at Ueno in time. The weeping cherry trees had already turned to green leaves, but the Somei-Yoshino cherries were in full bloom, with some trees already beginning to shed their petals. When I explained that Somei-Yoshino cherries stay in full bloom for less than a week, they were thrilled at how lucky they were. As the rain began to fall harder around Ueno Park, we hurried to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Unfortunately, the Skytree was no longer visible by then, but we were able to look down on places we had walked today, such as Meiji Shrine and Shibuya. Since they come from a place that is not a large city, they were amazed to see the entirety of Tokyo laid out before them. They wished to do some shopping at the observation deck, so we parted ways here. Their hotel was within view from the deck, so they returned on their own.

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

    Tour Report by Ted

    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.

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 11:00 Miyajima
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 16:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 18:00 Hiroshima Station – Dismissal

    What Is a Private Guided Tour in Japan Like During Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided guests visiting from Europe. Since the booking was made through a travel agency with which we had previously been in contact, the guests remembered us, and information sharing went smoothly. The weather was unstable that day, with light rain from the morning and cherry blossom petals scattering in the wind. As one of the guests enjoyed photography, I guided them with care so as not to interfere with their picture-taking. During the train ride, we talked about the charm of small towns in Europe, and it was an enjoyable and fulfilling trip from start to finish.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi～Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima～Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 4TrainGenbaku Dome-mae～Hiroshima240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 07:00 Tour starts from the cruise terminal
    • Travel by train to Arashiyama, then take a taxi to the bamboo grove upon arrival
    • AM 09:00 – 10:30 Visit the bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji Temple garden, and Kogen-ji sub-temple
    • Travel by train to Nijo Castle
    • AM 11:00- 11:45 Visit Nijo Castle
    • Travel by subway to Kyoto Station
    • PM 12:00-13:00 Lunch
    • Travel by train to Inari
    • PM 13:15-14:00 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • Travel by train to Osaka
    • PM 15:30 Tour ends at the Port of Osaka

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Although there had reportedly been an issue during a guide meeting on a previous tour, we made a fresh start, and despite the unfortunately rainy weather, they enjoyed a private day tour of Kyoto departing from Osaka. According to the original schedule, we planned to visit the monkey park on Iwatayama, so we headed to Arashiyama Station on the Hankyu line, but as the rain grew heavier we changed plans and decided to go to Nijo Castle instead. Since the guests wished to have eel for lunch, even though we were short on time, they were able to eat it at Kyoto Station. After a brief visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, we returned to Osaka. It was a short amount of time, but the guests were pleased to be able to buy souvenirs such as matcha and sake.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayPort of Osaka～Umeda (Subway)290JPY
    Section 2TrainOsaka Umeda (Hankyu Line)～Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)410JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae～Kyoto230JPY
    Section 6TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 7TrainInari～Bentencho960JPY
    Section 8SubwayBentencho～Port of Osaka240JPY
    Total2,700JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Anteroom Kyoto Meeting
    • 9:15 Yasaka Pagoda ~ Sannenzaka ~ Kiyomizu-dera
    • 9:35 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 10:35 Ninenzaka ~ Nene no Michi ~ Yasaka Shrine ~ Maruyama Park
    • 11:00 Gion Hanamikoji Street
    • 12:10 Nijo Castle
    • 13:30 Lunch at Ukiya Pontocho Main Store
    • 14:35 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 15:00 Dismissal at Fushimi Inari Taisha

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They were planning to travel around Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima, and other cities. Although the tour took place under light rain, perhaps because of that the sites were less crowded, which allowed us to enjoy everything at a relaxed pace. We were able to leisurely explore Sannenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera, which are usually very busy. The cherry blossoms at Maruyama Park were in full bloom and absolutely beautiful, and Gion's Hanamikoji was also uncrowded and easy to walk through. After that we visited Nijo Castle. Although a bit busier, it was still not too crowded, so we were able to enjoy it comfortably. The guests tried soba for the first time at a restaurant and were very satisfied. When our time was up at Fushimi Inari Taisha, I gave a general explanation and we parted ways. I believe they enjoyed the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo Keihan-mae / Kyoto City Bus～Nijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 3TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Total690JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka in 1 Day

    Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka in 1 Day

    Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 08:30 Start at hotel
    • Travel by train to Koyasan
    • AM 11:30 Arrive at Koyasan Ichinohashiguchi
    • AM 11:30 – PM 12:40 Tour of Okunoin from Ichinohashiguchi
    • Travel by bus to Kongobuji Temple
    • PM 12:50-13:50 Tour of Kongobuji Temple
    • PM 14:00-15:00 Tour of Danjo Garan and Kondo Hall
    • Travel by bus & train to Umeda
    • PM 18:00 Tour ends at Umeda Station on the Shin-Midosuji Line

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Koyasan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were making their first trip to Japan, visiting from Oceania. On a recent tour they had experienced a hotel mix-up that resulted in a guide no-show, which had left them disappointed, but they made a fresh start and enjoyed a tour of Koyasan. They had signed up because of a strong interest in Koyasan. Although the weather was unfortunately rainy, we walked along the path lined with gravestones leading to Okunoin while I provided explanations, and the guests enjoyed it. It was also nice to be able to have a relaxed conversation during the round-trip train ride to and from Koyasan.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda (subway)～Namba (subway)240JPY
    Section 2OtherNankai Namba～Koyasan3,540JPY
    Section 3SubwayNamba～Umeda (subway)240JPY
    Total4,020JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Tochigi in One Day: Kanmangafuchi Abyss & Tobu Nikko Station

    Tochigi in One Day: Kanmangafuchi Abyss & Tobu Nikko Station

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　　　　Meet the guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • 　　　　　　 Move to Nishi-Sando Entrance by bus
    • 10:30~10:50　Kanmangafuchi Abyss sightseeing
    • 　　　　　　 Move from Nishi-Sando Entrance to Shinkyo Bridge by bus
    • 11:15~11:30　Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing
    • 11:30~12:30　Lunch
    • 12:45~14:15　Toshogu Shrine sightseeing　
    • 14:15~14:35　Taiyuin sightseeing
    • 14:35~14:50 Futarasan Shrine sightseeing
    • 14:50~15:10　Rinnoji Temple Treasure Museum
    • 15:30　　　　Move to Tobu Nikko Station by bus
    • 16:00　　　　
    • Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toshogu and the Two Shrines and One Temple Today's guests were a group visiting from Europe. We first visited Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where they looked at the Jizo statues with great interest. Since Jizo statues are not found overseas, it seemed to be a very fresh and novel experience for them. Next, starting from the Shinkyo Bridge, I guided them to the Two Shrines and One Temple of Nikko. At the highlight, Toshogu Shrine, they were deeply moved by its beauty. The guests were very strong walkers, so we were also able to visit Taiyuin. Overall, we were able to complete the tour in a very relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. I am sure the guests were very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station～Nishi-Sando Entrance600JPY
    Section 2Free PassNishi-Sando Entrance～Shinkyo Bridge0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShinkyo Bridge～Tobu Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Taka

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing personal tour where you get to choose or have a…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Kyotofish boutique Takasegawa meet up
    • 9:00 Gojo dismissal

    Title: What Happens If Guests Expect a Car Tour but Book a Walking Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. We had not decided on specific places to visit in advance, planning to decide together after meeting. When we met and talked, it seemed they had expected a car tour. I explained that this was a walking tour and asked them to check their booking. They confirmed for themselves that the word "walking" was included and understood. They had been getting around on their own by train every day, and today they had hoped to be taken somewhere by car. Since they could go anywhere themselves by train, they requested to cancel. I explained that I was not sure whether the tour fee could be refunded, and they accepted the cancellation. It seemed they had left a mobile phone at the restaurant where they had breakfast, so just to be safe I accompanied them back to the restaurant before saying goodbye. I also called [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) to report the situation.

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

    Tour Report by Naoki

    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.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:15 Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple
    • 10:30 Purchase Welcome Suica at Ueno Station, Ueno Park, xiaolongbao and more at food stalls
    • 11:45 Tokyo Station ~ Wadakura Fountain Park ~ Imperial Palace Plaza ~ Nijubashi Bridge ~ Sakuradamon Gate
    • 13:00 Meiji Shrine ~ Yoyogi Park ~ Omotesando
    • 14:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 15:00 Disband at Shibuya Station

    What's a Private Cherry Blossom Walking Tour of Asakusa, Ueno, and Yoyogi Park Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, traveling around Japan for about two weeks. Some of the group spent the day separately visiting an anime museum, as they were very fond of anime and had chosen some of the trip's destinations themselves. Since the Hotel was located in the Higashi-Komagata area and Asakusa could easily be revisited later, I introduced only the key highlights there. As they had requested a simple street-food lunch, we ate xiaolongbao and other items from the food stalls around Ueno Park. They greatly enjoyed the nearly full-bloom cherry blossoms at Asakusa, Ueno, and Yoyogi Park, and were fascinated by the sight of many people spreading out sheets to have picnics under the trees. They live in a small inland town in North America and were amazed by the size of Tokyo and the number of people. Although they had only arrived in Japan the day before, they walked energetically despite the considerable distance, which was a relief to me.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno～Tokyo200JPY
    Section 3TrainKasumigaseki (Tokyo)～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya180JPY
    Total740JPY

    Tour Report by May

    Hello! I’m May.
    I was born and raised in Yokohama, and now I live in Tokyo.
    For more than 25 years, I have worked as a translator, turning English books into Japanese. The genres I’ve worked on range from mysteries and romances to nonfiction and more.
    Through my work as a translator, I’ve worked hard to bring foreign cultures closer to Japanese readers. Now, as a tour guide, I’m excited to help share Japanese culture with people from around the world. I believe being a tour guide is a truly meaningful job, serving as a bridge between Japan and the rest of the world.
    I take great pride in Japanese culture, food, and history—and it makes me happy to share them with others. At the same time, I’m also very interested in foreign cultures and histories. Through my work as a guide, I’m thrilled to meet people from different backgrounds and explore new perspectives together.
    Let’s enjoy this exciting journey of discovery together!

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  • Tokyo: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: the b ginza
    • 9:10 Depart Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:20 Arrive Kamiyacho Station
    • Kamiyacho Tokyo Tower
    • 10:30 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 10:45 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 12:00 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • Kabukicho
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 13:00 Depart Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Lunch: Eataly
    • 15:15 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 16:35 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive Ginza Station
    • 17:00 Disband: Ginza Station

    Can You Do a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They shared that they now enjoy traveling every year and are currently on a long journey through Japan, staying in Tokyo before continuing on to Hakone, Hida-Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Okinawa, then returning to Tokyo before heading home. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous morning, took a taxi to their accommodation, and then strolled around Ginza. They told me, "We've really been looking forward to seeing the cherry blossoms." Since one of the guests had some concern about their legs, we proceeded slowly. Although the sky was cloudy, we were not rained on, and the tour took place in surprisingly mild weather. First, we went to Tokyo Tower. I explained "the history of Edo and Tokyo" and "an overview of the city of Tokyo." Unfortunately, the clouds were thick, so we could not see far into the distance, and we were unable to see Mount Fuji. There were questions about "Azabudai Hills," such as "How tall is it?" and "What's inside?" The guests remarked, "We really understand now how vast and enormous a city Tokyo is." Next, we went to Shinjuku Gyoen. Although it was a Monday, it happened to be a special opening day. I explained "the history and current state of Shinjuku Gyoen" and "the history of Edo and Tokyo." The cherry blossoms were nearly in full bloom, and the guests eagerly took commemorative photos in front of various cherry trees. They said, "The pine trees are wonderful," and enthusiastically took pictures here and there. They also said, "The Japanese garden is superb. We have made a Japanese-style garden in our own yard and planted a cherry tree as well." We then moved to Shinjuku's Kabukicho. We visited the requested spots — "Omoide Yokocho," "the 3D cat billboard," and the "Godzilla Head" — and they took photos eagerly. I explained "the history of Shinjuku" and "the difference between the east and west exits." They commented, "Unlike other parts of the city, it's noisy and there's litter scattered on the streets, so it's not very clean," and asked, "We don't see many homeless people though?" We moved to Harajuku. Meiji Shrine was full of tourists. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" We encountered a wedding procession, which they photographed with great interest, and we also came across a family celebrating Shichi-Go-San, whom they photographed after obtaining permission. We took a break at "Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu." We also walked through the very crowded Takeshita Street. Afterward, we had a leisurely lunch. Both guests seemed a little tired. We moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble Crossing, and there were questions such as "How many people gather at the busiest times?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue and also walked through Shibuya Center Street. The guests made various comments and asked questions, such as: "Except for Shinjuku, the city is clean and there is no litter on the streets," "The public restrooms are clean and free, which we appreciate, but there are no hand dryers," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" and "Everyone is quiet on the trains." Finally, I saw them off at Ginza Station, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza～Kamiyacho180JPY
    Section 2TrainKamiyacho～Shinjuku-gyoemmae180JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku-gyoemmae～Shinjuku180JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku-sanchome～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Ginza210JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    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.

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    Jul 21, 2026
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