Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Yanaka Shopping Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Yanaka Shopping Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Meet at Hotel Nihonbashi Premier
    • 10:00-11:15　Travel by metro　Sightseeing at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:30-12:00　Travel by metro　Enjoy the Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine
    • 12:00-13:00　Stroll through Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 13:00-15:00　Travel by taxi　After sightseeing in Asakusa, have lunch at a ramen shop and finish

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nezu Shrine and Ramen Since it was the group's first trip to Japan, they enjoyed every place I took them to. Nezu Shrine was in the middle of its annual azalea festival, so the scenery was well worth seeing and they took many photos. Along the way, some signs of fatigue such as jet lag appeared, and since they had a fairly full schedule from after the tour into the evening, we decided to finish early at the guests' request. They enjoyed the ramen we had at the end, so I am glad we were able to wrap up in a relaxed mood.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMitsukoshimae～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Nezu180JPY
    Total360JPY

    Tour Report by Naho

    Hi, I’m Naho – your friendly, English-speaking guide in Japan!
    With over 10 years of experience as a licensed guide and more than 30 years living in the Tokyo area, I’m passionate about helping travelers of all ages enjoy Japan in a fun, meaningful, and stress-free way.

    Whether you’re into ancient temples, seasonal nature, local street food, or modern pop culture, I’ll design a private tour that matches your interests and travel style. I love sharing not just the famous sights, but also lesser-known hidden gems and local tips that make your trip truly special.

    Traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with kids? I’ll make sure everyone feels comfortable and included. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming experience and unforgettable memories for you in this amazing country.

    Let’s explore Japan together — I can’t wait to meet you!

    Request Booking

    May 27, 2026
    Chris T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo with Naho!
    We had a great time exploring the in…

    Apr 24, 2026
    Megaso1970
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    The tour was nicely planned and Naho is very nice and friendly.

    Apr 9, 2026
    B4204QCcarolc
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Once in a lifetime experience!
    I want to express are…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Dee R
    Great guided tour of notable Tokyo sites and experienced all modes of transportation with the great help of our guide…

  • Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meet at the hotel → Move by loop bus (Lake Line) → Matsue Castle (10:10-11:30) → Meal (soba restaurant, 11:50-12:40) → Samurai residence (12:40-13:10)
    • → Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum (13:10-13:40) → Move by taxi → Izumo Taisha Shrine (14:40-15:40) → Inasa Beach (15:50-16:00) → Mankusen Shrine (16:20-16:40)
    • → Move by taxi → Sunset spot Torupa (Matsue, 17:20-17:30) → Return to the hotel

    What Is a Private Tour of Matsue and Izumo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests searched for places worth visiting beyond the usual routes such as Tokyo and Kyoto during their trip to Japan, and the Matsue and Izumo area came up, so they chose it as a destination. The guests were from Oceania and were interested in Japan's long history, mentioning that their own country has only about 200 years of history. With this in mind, I guided them through the history from the Warring States period to the Edo period at Matsue Castle, and explained the mythology and ancient history of Japan at Izumo Taisha Shrine. I believe they were satisfied by experiencing Japan's long-nurtured history as well as the peaceful atmosphere and scenery of the countryside.

    Click here for more details: Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMatsue Station / Matsue Municipal Bus～National Treasure Matsue Castle Prefectural Office / Matsue Municipal Bus250JPY
    Total250JPY

    Tour Report by KATSUMI

    I started as a volunteer guide for foreign tourists at Matsue Castle in Shimane Prefecture when I was in my 40s, and after retiring at the age of 60, I became a certified interpreter guide and expanded the scope of my activities to include all of Shimane Prefecture, as well as Tottori and Hiroshima Prefectures.
    I was born and raised in Matsue City in western Japan. Matsue is a medium-sized city and the capital of Shimane Prefecture. It is a quiet town that retains the old atmosphere with Matsue Castle, which was built over 400 years ago, and is known for its culture of drinking matcha green tea frequently. I would like to share with you the charm of a regional city like Matsue. Near Matsue, there is a shrine called Izumo Grand Shrine, one of the largest, oldest and most venerated shrines in Japan. The origin of this shrine is written in the Japanese myths, and its precincts are very mysterious. Shimane Prefecture and the neighboring prefecture of Tottori were the setting of Japanese mythology and have well preserved Japan’s historical heritage and traditions. Shimane and Tottori prefectures are not on the so-called “golden route” frequented by foreign tourists, but I hope they will be included in your sightseeing route because they are full of Japan’s unique charm. From its beginnings to the present day, Japan has weaved a long history without being dominated by any other country or, conversely, without advocating hegemony over neighboring countries – although, unfortunately, it did invade Asian countries for a period of time in the 20th century. It is my great pleasure to introduce you to a part of Japan’s culture, which is diverse and peaceful. I am also a guide in Hiroshima Prefecture, the southern neighbor of Shimane Prefecture. I mainly guide visitors to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where I try to convey the tragic event of the atomic bombing based on the testimonies of those who suffered as much as possible. It is a place that you should definitely visit at least once.
    Furthermore, I hope to convey the Japanese way of thinking and lifestyle through various conversations during the guided tour. This is also one of my joys.
    I myself often travel, and I always make sure to have a guide with me. This is because the quality of the trip is greatly enhanced by the guide’s explanations. I also make an effort to make travelers feel that way. Enjoy your trip!

    Request Booking

    Apr 21, 2026
    Michelle W
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Matsue Private Tour
    Our guide was Katsumi and he…

    May 18, 2025
    F
    FarTooFrequentFlyer
    Bringing its samurai heritage to life!
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We lucked in…

    Oct 29, 2024
    Bern_Y
    Day Trip to Izumo Taisha and other Shrines
    Viator review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Tshiehnewton
    Excellent local guide for English speakers
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsumi Nagata was a…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1030 Meet at Hilton Tokyo (3 min from Metro Nishi-Shinjuku Station)
    • 1050 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 1145 Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabukiza Theatre, Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1305 Asakusa, Azuma Bridge, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Lunch at "Towada" on Kannon Street
    • 1525 Shibuya, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 1555 Harajuku, Overview explanation at the First Torii of Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street
    • 1630 Transfer to Nishi-Shinjuku Station and disband

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Before a Cruise Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, arriving in Japan yesterday morning for a cruise, their second time joining one. After arriving, they took a walk around the neighborhood, but due to jet lag they had fallen asleep at an unusual time, so when I arrived to pick them up and sent an email, there was no response. When I called their room, I learned they had fallen asleep, so we started 30 minutes late. When the itinerary was adjusted last year, we had noted that cherry blossoms might be visible at Shinjuku Gyoen. This year the mountain cherry trees were mostly turning to leaf, but we were just able to catch the last of the falling blossoms. In their place, the azaleas were at their peak. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, one of the guests does not eat raw fish, so they enjoyed melon and red-and-white strawberries instead. One of the guests had a back issue, so I made sure to use elevators and escalators as much as possible. The cruise route departs from Tokyo, then passes through the Tohoku and Hokkaido regions before continuing to Alaska and Seattle, and they remarked that it was fortunate the earthquake and tsunami had happened the day before. Tomorrow they will go to Hakone, and the day after they depart on their cruise, so I can only hope there are no aftershocks.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku～Shinjuku-gyoemmae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayKokuritsu-kyogijo～Tsukijishijo220JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku160JPY
    Section 7SubwayShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)～Nishi-Shinjuku180JPY
    Total1,370JPY

    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

    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 in One Day: Nakamise-dori

    Tokyo in One Day: Nakamise-dori

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyu
    • 8:40 Breakfast at various shops in Tsukiji Outer Market (medium fatty tuna sushi, plum rice ball, fried shrimp, grilled eel, sea urchin, etc.) and shopping (dried shredded squid, dried plums, dashi packs, etc.)
    • 10:00 After worshipping at Namiyoke Shrine, walk clockwise around the "Tenjo Ozishi (Giant Lion Head)" while making wishes.
    • 10:40 Assistance with purchasing a kitchen knife at "Sugimoto Hamono Honten". (Tokyo Wish List ①)
    • 11:30 "Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center Observation Terrace"
    • 11:50 Nakamise-dori
    • 12:40 "Asakusa Fudoson Nadebotoke" before Hozomon Gate
    • 12:50 Sensoji Temple, Asakusa West Approach
    • 13:20 Lunch at "Edo Niku Kappo Sasaya Asakusa" (Tokyo Wish List ②)
    • 14:40 Commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko Statue in Shibuya
    • 14:50 Dismissal at "Hotel Tokyu Lobby"

    Title: What's a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like When a Guide Takes Over Mid-Booking? A Licensed Guide's Report I received an email from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) explaining that, due to circumstances involving the previously assigned guide, there had been a guide change on this booking, and that the handover materials — including the attached itinerary and the details below — were being shared with me. Because this notification came after the assignment and after the first email had already been sent to the guests, I proceeded carefully. I reviewed the attached itinerary and the shared information together with the guests, asked about any new requests, and finalized the plan carefully. The original draft itinerary included the azalea festival at Nezu Shrine, but the guests were fully satisfied with Namiyoke Shrine in Tsukiji, and — in a case of literally preferring dumplings over flowers — we skipped Nezu Shrine and instead enjoyed shopping and dining in Asakusa. Although it had not been mentioned in our prior email exchanges, the guests showed me their "Tokyo wish list" on their smartphone screen (also noted in the day's tour route), which included "buying a Japanese kitchen knife" and "eating delicious sukiyaki." With both of these wishes fulfilled, the guests appeared very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Tsukiji Market290JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Kanda (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4TrainKanda (Tokyo)～Shibuya260JPY
    Total940JPY

    Tour Report by Bruce

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

    Request Booking

    Aug 25, 2026
    T8432CMjeffr
    6 hr Tokyo tour with Bruce
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The tour was…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Polly1818
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Bruce was the best !! 5⭐️
    Bruce was our…

    Aug 3, 2026
    AJEDav
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Bruce Sagano was terrific! He was very…

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

  • Tokyo: Skytree & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo: Skytree & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Narita Airport
    • 10:00 Skytree
    • 11:00 Asakusa & Sensoji Temple
    • 12:00 Imperial Palace & Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:30 Shibuya
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Shopping in Shibuya
    • 16:00 Tour ends in Shibuya

    What's a Private Tokyo Layover Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya This was a Tokyo tour that made use of a transit layover, arranged for the guests who were traveling from Asia to North America. The guests had requested to visit the major spots in central Tokyo, so the tour was planned accordingly. In Asakusa it was very crowded as it was a Sunday, but the guests were delighted to see such a distinctly Japanese scene. Along the way, the guests mentioned they would also like to visit the Imperial Palace, so this was added to the itinerary. Walking from Tokyo Station to Nijubashi Bridge, I explained the history from Edo Castle to the Imperial Palace as well as about the Imperial Family. The vast and majestic scenery seemed to be a surprise, and the guests were very impressed. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the differences between shrines and temples. The guests actually offered prayers as well, and appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere unique to a Shinto shrine. Finally, the guests enjoyed shopping in Shibuya, and I saw them off on the train to Narita Airport, bringing the tour to a close.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kiyosumi Garden & Gotokuji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Kiyosumi Garden & Gotokuji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 　　Travel on foot
    • 10:50-11:40 Stroll through Kiyosumi Garden
    • 　　　Travel by subway
    • 12:10-12:40 Stroll through Nezu Shrine
    • 12:40-13:30 Lunch break
    • 　　　Travel by subway
    • 14:00 Stroll through Takeshita Street
    • 　　Travel on foot
    • 14:20-15:30 Stroll through Meiji Shrine
    • 　　　Travel by train from Sangubashi
    • 16:20-16:50 Stroll through Gotokuji Temple
    • 　　　The guests said they wanted to go to Asakusa and Akihabara after the tour ended, so I helped them with directions.
    • 16:50 Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyosumi, Meiji Shrine, and Gotokuji The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They were all friends who live in the same town. One member of the group acted as the leader, with another helping to keep the group together. Everyone was energetic through Kiyosumi Garden, Nezu Shrine, and Meiji Shrine, but the travel time from Meiji Shrine to Gotokuji Temple was long, and toward the end I got the impression that some of the guests were a little tired. Even so, one of the guests had been really looking forward to the beckoning cats next to Gotokuji Temple, so I was glad to be able to guide them all the way to the end. The guests had decided to go to Asakusa after the tour, so once the tour ended I accompanied them to Yamashita on the Setagaya Line, showed them the route to take from there, and said goodbye. This time's challenge, as I also wrote in the reason for the time extension, was dietary restrictions. Before the tour and at the start of the tour, I confirmed whether there were any dietary restrictions, and after discussion we had even decided to have beef rice bowls for lunch. However, when lunchtime came, one of the guests requested not to eat meat or fish. I hurried to find an alternative, but during the azalea season the restaurants around Nezu were all full, so in the end we decided to go to a convenience store. This process took more time than expected. While the itinerary had planned not to spend much time on lunch, during the morning meeting the guests had mentioned wanting to experience Japanese food, so I suggested a beef rice bowl chain. In hindsight, I thought it would have been better to have gone with a convenience store from the start. In addition, half of the guests this time enjoyed smoking and tended to start smoking on the streets in residential areas, so I gently gave them a reminder. On the other hand, it took some effort to find smoking areas. Going forward, I will make sure to check smoking areas along the route in advance.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa～Nezu210JPY
    Section 2SubwayNezu～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainSangubashi～Gotokuji170JPY
    Section 4TrainYamashita (Tokyo)～Miyanosaka160JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hi everyone! I’m Atsushi.
    Born in the historic fishing port of Shiogama in Miyagi Prefecture and raised in Tokyo and Kanagawa, I’ve spent my life immersed in Japanese culture.
    During my six years in the countryside as a university student, I fell in love with hiking and visiting temples.
    After graduating with a master’s degree in agricultural science, I spent 40 years in R&D at a food manufacturing company before transitioning from part-time guiding to becoming a full-time professional tour guide at the end of 2025.
    My true passion lies in Japan’s rich culinary and sake traditions.
    I specialize in FIT tours around Tokyo and Hakone, and I even lead sumo culture tours!
    I’m dedicated to making your journey truly unforgettable, and I look forward to helping you get the absolute most out of your stay in Japan.
    I can’t wait to meet you!

    Request Booking

    Aug 28, 2026
    trentw546
    Fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Kappabashi Knife & Kitchen Town Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was fantastic I would definitely book again

    Aug 8, 2026
    49christopht
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Individual guided tour
    Atsushi was very responsive and thorough…

    Jul 27, 2026
    25stephn
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend this tour!
    Atsushi was an absolutely phenomenal…

    Jul 23, 2026
    melanierK3084ZH
    Tripadvisor review: Asakusa & Yanaka Local Street Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Senso-ji tour
    Atsushi was a wonderful guide! My…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Enter Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Enter Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:44 Meet at Kyoto Station platform
    • Subway to Kitaoji Station, bus to Kinkaku-ji
    • 10:45 Enter Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00 From the planned time, head to the Higashiyama area
    • 13:00 Go for lunch (Enjoyed yuba scooping)
    • 14:30 Stroll around Sannenzaka and Yasaka Pagoda for about an hour
    • 15:30 Bus to Kyoto
    • 16:00 Saw them off at the Kyoto Station ticket gate and said goodbye.

    What Is a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests on a day trip to Kyoto from Tokyo before they were to board a cruise traveling from Tokyo to Morioka, Aomori, Alaska, and Seattle. As they did not seem particularly interested in temples and shrines, when we arrived in front of Kinkaku-ji, the guests hesitated about whether to enter. Once I explained the admission fee, they quickly decided to go around, saying that a single coin was reasonable. After that, since they understood that strolling suited them well, we went up Kiyomizu-zaka and toured Sannen-zaka, Ninen-zaka, and the Yasaka Pagoda, and the guests were greatly impressed by the Yasaka Pagoda. In fact, I had been consulted beforehand about not being able to reserve an English-speaking rickshaw, so I arranged it on their behalf. However, as long-distance walking was not easy for them and they were tired from their long journey, I canceled it on the day with a sincere apology. It was a start where everything was unfamiliar since it was their first time, but when we parted at the ticket gate, the guests thanked me, saying they were satisfied and were truly grateful, which put me at ease. I was also able to recognize the challenges I still need to study, so I will continue to work toward becoming a guide with more depth, little by little. Thank you very much.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKyoto Station～Kitaoji Station1,100JPY
    Section 2Free PassKitaoji Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassKinkaku-ji-michi Bus～Nishinokyo-Enmachi0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNishinokyo-Enmachi Bus～Kiyomizu-michi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassKiyomizu-michi Bus～Kyoto Station0JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    I’m Yuki from Nagoya, a city located between Tokyo and Osaka. I have been working for a travel agency for over 25 years, so I can assist you in creating a personalized itinerary and help you make the most of your time. I will also do my best to handle unexpected situations and provide alternative plans as much as possible.
    Personally, I love visiting cultural sites such as shrines and temples. I hope your trip to Japan will be wonderful, and I would be happy to spend time with you as your guide ( in Nagoya, Inuyama, Takayama area, Kyoto, Nara, Kanazawa…to name a few. )

    Request Booking

    May 8, 2026
    barbara_L
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuki was very helpful and…
    Yuki was very helpful and knowledgeable. She…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace Nijubashi & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace Nijubashi & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up
    • 10:20-11:00 the Imperial Palace Nijubashi
    • 11:15-11:50 Omotesando & Takeshita Street
    • 11:50-12:50 Meiji Jingu
    • 13:00-13:30 Shibuya
    • 13:30-14:00 Lunch @ Shibuya

    Title: What Is a Family-Friendly Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America with a young child. They shared that they love Japanese anime, manga, and games. The child enjoyed walking on the lawn in front of the Imperial Palace, so the tour was paced to match the child's needs. Since the guests were very much looking forward to shopping, I took them around Harajuku to check out sneaker shops and vintage stores, and we agreed they would return for shopping after the tour. Takeshita Street and Shibuya were less crowded than usual, which made it easy to walk around even with a child. When I mentioned that it was quiet today, the guests were very surprised. They also loved the atmosphere of Meiji Shrine, and since shrines appear in anime, they listened to my guiding with great interest. They enjoyed the Shibuya crossing and their first bowl of ramen.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShintomicho (Tokyo)～Sakuradamon180JPY
    Section 2TrainNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Total550JPY

    Tour Report by Motoko

    Hi,
    Thank you for contacting the Japan Guide Association to request a licensed guide for your upcoming visit to Japan. My name is Motoko Tanaka. I’m so happy to be assigned to you.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born and raised in Tokyo, so it is nice to hear that you are excited about your visit to this wonderful city. There is much to be excited about here in Tokyo. I have really enjoyed guiding in Tokyo and the surrounding areas for more than 10 years.
    I live with my husband and a dog named Alice. She was a rescue dog and I adopted her about 4 years ago. Now she is a very precious family member. I have two daughters, the elder one has a child and the younger has a aroma shop in a town near Mr. Fuji. I sometimes visit there with Alice.
    I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to create a special day.
    Regards,
    Motoko

    Request Booking

    Sep 21, 2026
    Keith_S
    Wonderful Experience
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful guide, Motoko, who…

    Apr 25, 2026
    catvila
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Primeira vez em Tóquio
    A Motoko foi excelente para nos guiar pelos…

    Apr 22, 2026
    72breannaj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour highly recommend! And loved our guide
    We had an amazing…

    Apr 17, 2026
    denisemD3032GY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)
    Tokyo walking tour
    Our guide Motoko was so polite &…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Kyoto
    • 9:30~10:15 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:45~11:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 12:00~12:50 Nijo Castle
    • 13:10 Disband at Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sanjusangendo, Fushimi Inari, and Nijo Castle The guests were visitors from North America who arrived in Kyoto via Osaka the previous day. At Sanjusangendo, they were overwhelmed by the sense of presence of the roughly 800-year-old building and the National Treasures: the 1,001 statues of Kannon Bodhisattva and the 28 attendant deities. We discussed the social conditions of the time when the statues were made, as well as the concept of the Latter Days of the Dharma. In front of the principal image, they offered a coin and put their hands together in prayer. At Fushimi Inari, they also worshipped following the Shinto procedure. They were moved by the vermilion torii gates covering the entire Mount Inari and took many photographs. At Nijo Castle, they gazed intently at the Karamon Gate, the buildings of the Ninomaru Palace, the fusuma paintings, the transom carvings, and the depiction of the shogun meeting with the feudal lords at the return of political power to the Emperor. In the Ninomaru Garden, they marveled at what a wonderful garden it was, feeling an atmosphere of tranquility and peace. I saw them off at Nishiki Market, and the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo～Shichijo180JPY
    Section 2TrainShichijo～Fushimi Inari180JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Section 4SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total960JPY

    Tour Report by shige

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 8:30 From Peace Park Motoyasu Pier to Miyajima via the World Heritage Route
    • 9:15 Arrive at Miyajima
    • Itsukushima Shrine, historical buildings, Omotesando Shopping Street, etc.
    • 11:30-12:15 From Miyajima to Peace Park Motoyasu Pier via the World Heritage Route

    What's a Private Miyajima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. As they had some concerns about walking, I made sure to choose the flattest possible routes throughout the tour. Since one interest of the guests was making wooden furniture and various tools, we spent a lot of time appreciating Miyajima's traditional crafts and its various wooden rice scoops. With the cherry blossom season having ended and no large cruise ships in port, Miyajima was relatively quiet, and I believe the guests were able to slowly enjoy the pleasant, spring-like weather.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park Motoyasu Pier～Miyajima Port2,400JPY
    Total2,400JPY

    Tour Report by Hiroshi

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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