Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 10:10　Assistance with purchasing JR Central tickets (Nagoya-Matsumoto round trip) at Shinjuku Station
    • 10:30　Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00　Explore Ameyoko and lunch
    • 14:00　Explore Asakusa
    • 1530　Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 16:00　Disband in front of Shibuya Don Quijote

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Ameyoko, and Shibuya 1. The tour and the guests' reactions The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. Soon after we met, the conversation started with soccer, as one of the guests mentioned that a certain national team was set to face Japan in a World Cup opener, and named a few players considered top-class back home. The mood was great, and the tour got off to a lively start. One of the guests thoroughly enjoyed the quiet atmosphere of Meiji Shrine, expressing surprise and saying it was hard to believe such a peaceful place existed right in the heart of Tokyo. As it happened to be an auspicious Sunday, many wedding ceremonies were taking place, and we were able to see two bridal processions. Since each bride wore a different style of bridal costume, the guests were deeply moved. When I explained about ema (votive wooden plaques), some of the guests said they wanted to write their wishes on one, so I helped them pay the offering for the ema. They received two plaques, and while I thought two of the guests would each write one, they handed me one of the plaques and said, "You write on this one." As I was hesitating about what to wish for, they encouraged me to write "I will become the best interpreter guide in Japan," so, a little embarrassed, I did just that. The photo is a commemorative shot taken in front of our ema. At Ameyoko, I guided them to an izakaya that is highly rated on review sites. They tried oden, tsukune, an assorted sashimi platter, and grilled hokke, and were very satisfied. Some of the guests bought a goshuincho (stamp book) at Meiji Shrine and were delighted to receive goshuin stamps at both Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple. At the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the guests were excited, saying there was no crossing back home where so many people crossed at once, and they enjoyed walking across it twice. 2. Other impressions and notes It was the first time a guest had given me an ema, and since it was such a surprise, I was truly moved myself. I will aim to become "the best interpreter guide in Japan," though the road there seems quite long. (laughs) I highly recommend Meiji Shrine on an auspicious weekend. The sight of a bride in a white shiromuku costume proceeding behind a formally dressed Shinto priest is beautiful, and the joyful, celebratory atmosphere really enhances the tour.

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

    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

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
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    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
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    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Sendai Station 11:00
    • Sendai City Museum 11:30
    • Tenshudai (including lunch) 13:30
    • Osaki Hachiman Shrine 15:0
    • Stroll through the downtown arcade street 16:00
    • Sendai Station 17:00

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Sendai Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group who had relocated to Oceania. It was their first visit to Sendai. At the museum, part of the building was under renovation, so we could not see the entire collection. However, they showed strong interest in the section about Hasekura Tsunenaga's voyage to Europe, and they watched the video presentation when it was shown. At the castle tower base, they did not seem particularly interested. They did not buy any souvenirs. We had lunch at the cafeteria, and since one of the guests enjoyed sake, they had a beer. At Osaki Shrine, they were generally not interested in Shinto rituals. However, when I mentioned that there is an event called the Donto Festival, which is close to a semi-naked pilgrimage, they became interested. Finally, we walked along the arcade shopping street from the Fujisaki department store to Sendai Station. They were not very interested in shopping. However, they stopped at Mitakisan Nakayama Fudoson, which enshrines Sendai Shiro, and looked inside.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherSendai～Sendai Station (Loople bus)630JPY
    Total630JPY

    Tour Report by KOH

    Hello. My name is Kohmin Iwabuchi, but please call me KOH for short. I have been working as a tour guide for more than 10 years. So far, I have visited hundreds of scenic spots, but there is one place I will not go. Guess what is it? That’s the top of Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. I can climb the mountain, but it’s hard for me to guide people while climbing.

    I am interested in traditional sports in Japan, particularly sumo wrestling. Sumo is time honored sports. We can trace its origin back to some thousand years ago. First it was played as an entertainment in a Shinto shrine. The rule of sumo is simple. The match is played by two participants in a ring. If any parts of the body of one of the participants except the sole touches the ground or he was pushed out of the ring, he will be defeated.

    The appearance of sumo wrestlers is very traditional, because their samurai like hairstyle “chonmage” originates from feudal ages.

    Unlike boxing and wrestling, there are no weight restrictions or classes, meaning that your opponent can be many times your own size. As a result, weight gain is an essential part of sumo training. Personally my weight is about 200 pounds which enables me to be a sumo wrestler.

    Sumo wrestlers live in a sumo stable. It’s the place where they eat, drink, train and sleep together. In greater Tokyo area, there are about 40 sumo stables, many of which are located in Ryogoku area. A small number of stables welcome people to come and see the morning practice. I hope some day I can visit there with you.

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    Jul 18, 2024
    OnAir13534982348
    Tour curated to my family’s interests!
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    Koh contacted me ahead of…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kitano Ijinkan-gai & Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kitano Ijinkan-gai & Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe
    • 12:15 at Kitano Ijinkan-gai (Moegi House, Weathercock House, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan Store)
    • 13:30 at Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park
    • 14:15 at Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 16:00 Disband at Kobe Sannomiya, Mouria Steak Restaurant

    Title: What Is a Private Kobe Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kitano and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Body: The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Some of the guests found walking a little difficult, so we moved at a slow pace throughout the tour. In the Kitano foreign residences district, we visited the Moegi House, the Weathercock House, the neighboring Kitano Tenman Shrine, and a Starbucks located in a building registered as a Tangible Cultural Property, said to be the only one of its kind in Japan. The guests toured these places with great interest and listened attentively to my explanations. They also enjoyed a soft-serve ice cream from a nearby shop that had once been reported in the newspaper as the best in Japan, and seemed very satisfied. At the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the sky was unfortunately cloudy, but the guests explored with interest and were delighted by the spot where you can see the sea surface through the glass. I presented one of the guests with a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, which was warmly received. The guests had reserved in advance a restaurant serving authentic Kobe beef that I had recommended, and after I guided them to the location, we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)～Maiko320JPY
    Section 2TrainMaiko～Sannomiya320JPY
    Total640JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

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    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
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    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
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    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
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  • Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike

    Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike

    Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Met at Magome bus stop. The customer arrived by taxi from a hotel in Tsumago.
    • 12:30 With clear skies and good trail conditions, we walked smoothly and arrived at the restaurant Otokichi in Tsumago, but it was full with a one-hour wait, so we didn't go in.
    • After strolling around the town of Tsumago, I took them to another restaurant, but they said they weren't very hungry and would rather move on to the next inn early, so we went to Nagiso Station.
    • 13:24 Took the bus from Tsumago to Nagiso Station. Had a light meal at a cafe in front of Nagiso Station.
    • 14:25 Took the train from Nagiso to Nakatsugawa Station. Since the customer only had a small amount of cash, they couldn't buy a ticket to the next destination (Yoro via Ogaki) at the Nagiso Station window (which doesn't accept credit cards), so we went to Nakatsugawa Station. At the Nakatsugawa Station window, I guided them through the process of purchasing a ticket to Ogaki and a limited express ticket for the Chuo Line.
    • 15:09 Saw them off as they headed to Nagoya on the limited express "Shinano" from Nakatsugawa, ending the tour. They were delighted when I wrote down on paper how to get to Yoro (transfer times and methods).

    The guests walked slowly and took many photos. I followed their request to move on to the next accommodation earlier than planned. Since they were unsure about transferring at Nagoya Station and how to get from Ogaki Station to Yoro, I looked up the train times and wrote out the itinerary to Ogaki on paper, explaining both the option of taking a taxi from Ogaki and the option of taking the Yoro Railway to Yoro and calling the Hotel's pickup car. I also helped with purchasing tickets at the ticket window at Nakatsugawa Station, which the guests were very pleased about.

    Click here for more details: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTsumago / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture～Nagiso Station / Kita-Ena Transportation300JPY
    Section 2TrainNagiso Station / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture～Nakatsugawa330JPY
    Total630JPY

    Tour Report by TAKU

    Gifu Prefecture, where I was born and raised, is located in the heart of Japan. It is home to many mountains exceeding 3,000 meters, and the historic Nakasendo (Samurai Road) runs through this dramatic landscape. Once a vital artery for travelers during the Edo period, the route still preserves the traditional atmosphere of that era, with many historical houses standing much as they did centuries ago. Walking along this path allows you to experience Japan’s original rural landscape—a distinct and refreshing contrast to the bustling former capitals of Kyoto and Nara.

    I also spent many years working in Nagoya, so I can guide you through the city with confidence. Nagoya is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. Furthermore, the city is famous for “Nagoya-meshi,” a variety of delicious local specialties unique to the region.

    It is my great pleasure to introduce visitors to the depth of Japanese cuisine, history, and culture. Welcoming guests from all over the world is always a joy for me, and I truly look forward to guiding you and creating wonderful memories together.

    Request Booking

    Jul 14, 2026
    wandahB6389XA
    Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide
    The Nakasendo Trail: A beautiful blend of nature and culture.…

    May 26, 2026
    adamkO4340OC
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great trail with a fantastic guide
    Excellent experience with…

    May 18, 2026
    rubia_k
    Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nakasendo Trail
    Our guide Taku Hasegawa was so knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA
    • 10:10 Depart Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Komagome Station
    • Komagome Rikugien Garden
    • 11:30 Depart Komagome Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Mitsukoshimae Station
    • Nihonbashi Nihonbashi Shopping Street
    • Mitsukoshi Main Store
    • Ninben and others
    • 12:40 Depart Mitsukoshimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:45 Arrive Ginza Station
    • Ginza Ginza Mitsukoshi
    • Ginza Six and others
    • 14:00 Disband: Ginza Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Off-the-Beaten-Path Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and this was their first time in Japan. They had arrived at Haneda Airport early the previous morning and taken a taxi to their hotel. The day before, they strolled around the area near their hotel and enjoyed teppanyaki for dinner. On this trip, they would stay in Tokyo for only two days, after which they planned to travel by rental car through Nagano, Hida-Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki, and also visit Okinawa, finally returning home by air from Okinawa. Their wishes were to visit places not usually frequented by ordinary tourists and to see cherry blossoms. It was a sunny day after a long spell, almost hot, and the tour took place in this pleasant weather. First, we went to Rikugien Garden in Komagome. I explained the history and current state of Rikugien Garden. The weeping cherry tree had already completely turned to green leaves, but the azaleas were in full bloom. "The Japanese garden is wonderful. The view is superb," they said. We then moved to Nihonbashi. Looking at the "Kidai Shoran" scroll, I explained the history of Edo and Tokyo and the origins of Nihonbashi. Afterward, we visited Nihonbashi Kiya Honten, Ninben, and the Nihonbashi Toyama-kan, among others. "It was wonderful to see the old streetscape of Tokyo," they said. We moved on to Tsukiji, which was as crowded as ever. After a quick look around Tsukiji Uogashi, we took a leisurely stroll through the outer market. I explained the history of the fish market dating back to the Edo period, and the difference between the Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji outer market. They asked, "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and commented, "It is crowded, but it does seem there are many tourists." Wanting to try something, they sampled grilled Kobe beef skewers. From here, we headed to Ginza. From the 4-chome intersection, we strolled through Ginza Mitsukoshi, the Nissan Gallery, Ginza SIX, and other spots. "There are many stores originating from Europe," they noted. They also commented, "It is quiet inside the trains. No one is speaking loudly," "The streets are clean and there is no litter," and "It is surprising that public restrooms everywhere are clean and free." We parted ways at Ginza Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Ueno180JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno～Komagome200JPY
    Section 3TrainKomagome～Ueno200JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Mitsukoshimae180JPY
    Section 5TrainMitsukoshimae～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 6TrainTsukiji～Ginza180JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    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
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
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    Jun 2, 2026
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    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
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    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
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  • 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

    • 0930 Meet at Pullman Tokyo Tamachi (5 min from JR Tamachi Station)
    • 0950 Shibuya, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 1005 Harajuku, Takeshita Street, Meiji Shrine visit
    • 1210 Tokyo Station, Maru Building pine piles, Gyoko-dori Avenue, Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 1315 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 1420 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 1520 Akihabara
    • 1520 Overview explanation of Akihabara,
    • 1530 Disband at Chuo-dori Avenue

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Koishikawa Korakuen and Shinjuku Gyoen The guests were visiting from Europe. After arriving yesterday morning, they had already made their way to Azabudai Hills. They planned a free day tomorrow, followed by Nikko the day after, and then would travel via Hakone to Osaka and Kobe before heading home. For this booking, a travel agency was involved from the start as an intermediary, so all itinerary adjustments were handled through them. After I confirmed the phone number with the agency, they seem to have passed my guide information on to the guests, and I soon received a message via a messaging app. Since it was their first visit to Japan, they left everything up to me. However, because I had informed them about mobile SUICA in advance, they had already been using it since yesterday, so their free day looked like it would go smoothly. Today, I had thought about extending the tour to Asakusa if we had time, but the topic of cherry blossoms came up. When I mentioned that "there should be something blooming at Shinjuku Gyoen," they wanted to go there, so after visiting Koishikawa Korakuen we managed to make it to Shinjuku Gyoen as well. The double-flowered cherry blossoms and mountain cherries, which usually last until late April, had almost finished due to the warm temperatures of the past few days, but the guests were satisfied nonetheless. At Akihabara, they decided to explore and have a meal on their own, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTamachi (Tokyo)～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Iidabashi220JPY
    Section 5TrainSuidobashi～Sendagaya200JPY
    Section 6TrainSendagaya～Akihabara210JPY
    Total1,210JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Hiroshima: hypocenter & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima: hypocenter & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at Zanotto Hiroshima
    • 13:05 Move to the hypocenter
    • 13:15 Tour the hypocenter, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Peace Park
    • 14:00 Move to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 14:15 Disband at the museum

    What Is a Private Peace Memorial Walking Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Thank you very much for all your support today. Your sincere and thoughtful response was truly impressive, and I was moved by it. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude. As soon as they arrived, the guests briefly mentioned that they had been to Naoshima, but since they were about to check in, I did not ask for further details. They were wonderful guests, and although it was a shame that I could only accompany them for a short time, it was a joy to share a sense of hope for peace during our visit to the memorials. It was memorable when they said, "We'll come back again," as we parted. Thank you so much for your support!

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

    Tour Report by Emmy

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

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    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:50 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:20 Asakusa / Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:30 Shibuya
    • 14:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00 Tour ends at Shinjuku Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from Europe. They had already traveled through Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagano, and were now staying in Tokyo. Since this was their first day in Tokyo, I focused on visiting the main areas so they could get an overall sense of the city. We started at the Tsukiji Outer Market. The guests enjoy seafood and had been eating it frequently since arriving in Japan, and here too they were delighted to have sushi. In Asakusa, it happened to be a Sunday, so they were surprised by the large crowds, but they seemed to enjoy the unique atmosphere. At the Shibuya crossing they were equally amazed by the sheer number of people, though they said it was a place they had really wanted to visit. At our final stop, Meiji Shrine, we were fortunate to see two wedding processions, and the guests seemed captivated by the traditional attire and the atmosphere. We ended the tour at Shinjuku Station, near their hotel.

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

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Rooftop of Nara Prefectural Office

    Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Rooftop of Nara Prefectural Office

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Kyoto Station
    • 10:00 Kintetsu-Nara Station
    • taxi
    • 10:20-50 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 10:10-40 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance 700 yen
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 11:00-12:00 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • Lunch at Shiroganeya
    • former katana sword manufacturer's, craft shop etc.
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:20- Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • lunch at Emado-chaya?
    • 12:20-50 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:00-10 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 13:30-14:00 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall:
    • 　　　(walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:10-20 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate):
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:30-15:00 Yoshikien Garden
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 15:10-40 Rooftop of Nara Prefectural Office
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 16:00 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station
    • 17:00 Kyoto Station　(End of Tour)

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Park Tour with Young Children Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America and Asia, traveling together with a young child. Everyone in the group had a rather reserved and gentle manner. Lunch at a restaurant where we could always relax at a leisurely pace was perfect for a group traveling with a small child. During lunch, the group asked whether there was a convenience store nearby where they could buy milk for the child, but there were no such shops within the park. We managed to get by with udon. Toward the end of the tour, at the Nara Prefectural Office, I remembered there was a convenience store there, and we were finally able to buy milk. Since the child was old enough, regular milk was fine rather than infant formula. We said our goodbyes, telling them to come back again once the child was old enough to play with the deer.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Kintetsu-Nara760JPY
    Section 2TrainKintetsu-Nara～Kyoto760JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace Front Plaza & Suehirocho Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace Front Plaza & Suehirocho Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at hotel lobby
    • 10:15 Imperial Palace Front Plaza
    • 11:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Ueno Park
    • 13:40 Ueno Station
    • 14:40 Suehirocho Station

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? Nezu Shrine, Ueno, and Akihabara — A Licensed Guide's Report We met at the hotel lobby at the scheduled time. After discussing the day's itinerary, we walked past the plaza in front of the Imperial Palace and boarded the Chiyoda Line from Otemachi Station. At Nezu Shrine, the guests enjoyed the azalea festival, which was the main highlight of the day. We then walked past Shinobazu Pond to the peony garden. Some of the guests entered and took their time enjoying the peony garden, while the guide waited nearby with the rest of the group, taking in the surroundings of the garden. We walked through Ueno Park toward Ueno Station and had lunch at "Juraku" near the station. Finally, from Ueno Station we took the Ginza Line, got off at Suehirocho, and I took the guests to the Yodobashi Camera in front of Akihabara Station, where we parted ways at 15:30.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Nezu180JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total360JPY

    Tour Report by Maddie

    Hello!
    I’m Maddie, an English-speaking tour guide.
    As a guide, I have been attending bus tours, Tokyo walk-around tours, and also, sumo wrestling tournaments tours.
    I have lived in Tokyo for nearly 30 years and have enjoyed walking around this city, full of wonder, mixture of nature and artificial structures. I am happy to share my experience with you.
    My hobbies are reading books including Manga, watching films including Anime. I like to watch various sorts of sports. I like to visit museums. And I am a tea ceremony practitioner, so I am quite familiar with green tea (matcha) and Japanese sweets.
    I am looking forward to seeing you!

    Request Booking

    Jun 4, 2026
    vadk2026
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo2026
    We had an excellent 6-hour walking tour around Tokyo with Maddie.…

    May 30, 2026
    Heather_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfect intro to Japan!
    We had a 4 hour private tour on…

    May 29, 2026
    jasonbO4660LV
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Afternoon in west Tokyo
    Maddie was an excellent, knowledgeable guide who maintained…

    May 8, 2026
    sebastianzO2366GR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great
    We had a good time walking with Maddie through Tokio. She…