Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:55 Meet up @ Hotel Fino Tokyo Akihabara
    • 2. 12:00 Travel: Train
    • 3. 12:30 Stay @ Shinjuku Kabukicho, Omoide Yokocho
    • 4. 13:15 Travel: Train
    • 5. 13:25 Stay @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing, MAGNET by SHIBUYA109
    • 6. 14:20 Travel: Train
    • 7. 14:30 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 8. 15:25 Stay @ Takeshita Street
    • 9. 16:05 Disband @ Takeshita Street

    What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo's West Side (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku) Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group currently living in North America. They appeared to be staying at a private vacation rental, so we met in front of the hotel closest to that location. Since they planned to explore the eastern areas of Tokyo on their own, this time I guided them around the popular spots on the west side: Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Harajuku. We used the JR lines for all of our transportation. In Shibuya, they wanted to enjoy a view from an observation deck, so I took them to the rooftop of MAGNET by SHIBUYA109, which can be used without a reservation. Since we took a break with some drinks, our stay in Shibuya became rather long. Meiji Shrine was a spot I suggested myself, and it was reasonably well received by the group. Anticipating that they would want to do some shopping after the tour, I took them to Takeshita Street at the end, told them where the somewhat hard-to-find restrooms were located, and then we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOkachimachi~Shinjuku210JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku~Shibuya200JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Total570JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima via the World Heritage Route

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima via the World Heritage Route

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:30 To Miyajima via the World Heritage Route
    • 10:20 Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine
    • 11:40 Daisho-in Temple
    • 12:30 Omotesando
    • 13:10 To Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park via the World Heritage Route
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 14:50 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, including the hypocenter and the Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 16:00 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:00 Head to the hotel
    • 17:15 Drop off at the Starbucks near the hotel and disband

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visiting from Oceania joined the tour. The weather was very nice that day, and they had a pleasant and comfortable time. At each location, they listened attentively to the explanations and asked many questions. At Itsukushima Shrine there was a 30-minute line, so while I waited in the queue, the guests enjoyed sampling food along the main approach street, and we adapted flexibly to the situation. Since they wanted to try all the famous foods of Hiroshima, they enjoyed okonomiyaki, oysters, momiji manju, and lemon soda. They also shared some stories, and they smiled throughout the entire tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHiroshima Peace Memorial Park~Miyajima2,400JPY
    Total2,400JPY

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Hiroshima Prefecture with a passionate and knowledgeable guide!

    As a certified interpreter guide based in Hiroshima, I offer you an exclusive and personalized experience. From the poignant history of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to the serene beauty of Miyajima Island, I will share captivating stories and insights that bring these iconic sites to life.

    My fluency in both English and Japanese ensures a seamless and enriching experience, bridging the gap between languages and cultures. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, I tailor each tour to your interests and pace, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable adventure.

    Jun 22, 2026
    Rachel M
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Powerful day of one of the worst tragedies…

    Jun 5, 2026
    777mannyr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima private tour
    Lisa Y. Did an amazing job.…

    May 25, 2026
    maryroses96
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Bloomers in Hiroshima
    We had a fantastic day with…

    Apr 23, 2026
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Attentive And Tailored
    Lisa was such a gift to us.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shibuya Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza
    • 9:20 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street > Ura-Harajuku > Cat Street
    • 13:25 Shibuya Crossing
    • 13:45 Disband at Shibuya Sky entrance

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Sky The day before the tour, I received word that a Shibuya Sky reservation had been secured for the 14:00–14:20 slot, so I moved the start time earlier to 9:00. The guests had a Welcome Suica, which allowed the tour to proceed smoothly. It rained almost the entire day and was a little cold, so the sightseeing was quite brisk. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, five varieties of cherry blossoms were in bloom and the camellias were also at their best, and the guests enjoyed taking many photos. At Meiji Shrine, we caught a glimpse of a wedding ceremony taking place. On Takeshita Street, there were no purchases or stops at all, so we were ahead of schedule. On Cat Street, I guided them to places such as Candy Show Time. They took photos and videos at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and after showing them to Shibuya Sky, the tour came to an end. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza~Takebashi180JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Total390JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet 9:35 Fushimi Inari 11:00 Kinkaku-ji 12:20 Lunch (Sushi) 14:00 Nanzen-ji 15:30 Yasaka Pagoda・Ninenzaka・Ishibei-koji・Yasaka Shrine
    • 16:40 Tour End

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. On the day, one member of the group rested at the hotel due to feeling unwell, so the tour proceeded with the rest of the group. Their flight from Europe had been cancelled due to the attack on Iraq, and their trip was rescheduled from the 12th to the 20th. Everyone was friendly and approachable, which made it easy for me to strike up conversation as well. The weather was fine, and by the afternoon it felt slightly warm. As it was the first day of a three-day weekend, everywhere was very crowded, including with Japanese tourists. If I had not made a reservation at the lunch restaurant, I believe we would have had to wait about an hour. The bus heading toward the Higashiyama area skipped one of its stops (Gojozaka) due to the large number of tourists. There were also Japanese drivers touring by private car up the slope toward Yasaka Pagoda (with Shiga license plates), which caused quite a bit of confusion. They seemed unfamiliar with the roads. Private car sightseeing during this season should really be avoided. We used taxis from Kinkaku-ji to Nishioji-Oike and from Nanzen-ji to Higashiyama-Sanjo. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusOmiya Gojo / Kyoto City Bus~Kyoto Station / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Enmachi200JPY
    Section 4BusEnmachi~Kinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5OtherNishioji Oike~Keage260JPY
    Section 6BusHigashiyama Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30: To meet guests at Tobu Nikko station –> 10:00 to 11:30: To sightseeing Tamosawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park –> 11:45 to 12:50: To have lunch at Takumi-an –> 13:00 to 13:25: To sightseeing Kanmangafuchi Abyss –> 13:45 to 14:10: To walk by Taiyuin Mausoleum and to sightseeing Futarasan Shrine –> 14:15 to 15:55: To sightseeing Toshogu Shrine –> 16:00 to 16:05: To sigthseeing Shinkyo Bridge –> 16:10 to 16:40: To enjoy Japanese sweet (Dango and Matcha) –> 16:40: Tour ended and broke up

    What Is a Private Nikko Tour to Toshogu Shrine Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were very cheerful and had a strong interest in the shogun, so they seemed to thoroughly enjoy Toshogu Shrine. Prior to that, they also showed great interest at Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park, becoming fascinated by its history as a summer retreat used by Emperor Taisho and as a place where the imperial family lived. When I shared some simple anecdotes, the history of the buildings, and stories of difficult times in the past, they expressed their appreciation for this as well. Toshogu Shrine was very crowded, which caused a bit of stress, but when we finished touring Toshogu Shrine and they said, "This was the most impressive thing I have ever seen. Thank you for all your explanations," I was truly delighted. Because they had a genuine interest in the shogun and the Tokugawa shogunate family and had gathered a variety of information in advance, their questions were not superficial but precise, and many of them made me feel that they were truly interested. In that sense, the conversation never stopped, and I felt it was a tour where we could both enjoy stimulating exchanges. They were also able to collect many goshuin (shrine seals) and seemed to feel a real sense of accomplishment.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station~Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park~Tobu Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    I am more than happy to take you to attractive tourism resources scattered in Nikko. I will prepare for your trip enough to satisfy your requests and provide you with the memorable tour. When I was a company employee, I lived abroad for 5 years in Los Angeles, 11 and a half years in Washington D.C. and 2 and half years in Brussels. Despite 19 year long stay abroad, I remain charmed by Japanese things, such as culture, custom, spirit, martial art etc. I am glad if I can be of help you understand Japan as well as Nikko through my guide. I am interested in Japanese martial arts: I own the third grade in Japanese archery, known as Kyudo and I have passed a certification examination (1st grade) for Sumo wrestling conducted by the Japanese Sumo Promoting Association.

    May 22, 2026
    michaeliI2370UG
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko with Ichiro Amazing!
    Ichiro was an awesome tour guide and made…

    May 15, 2026
    Laurent S
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    excellent
    Ichi was very patient, indulgent, super nice, always had an…

    May 12, 2026
    H4725BUbarbarab
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ichi memorable tour
    Ichi made our trip to Nikko very memorable. He…

    Apr 5, 2026
    EmilioP6
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great day with Ichi
    Our day in Nikko with Ichi was…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 ベネッセハウス パーク ロビー【集合】
    • 「黄色いかぼちゃ」を見学
    • 10:02 ベネッセハウス パーク バス停
    • ベネッセハウス無料送迎バスにて
    • 10:09 地中美術館 バス停
    • 10:30~11:30 地中美術館
    • 11:40 地中美術館 バス停
    • ベネッセハウス無料送迎バスにて
    • 11:42 李禹煥美術館 バス停
    • 11:45~12:15 李禹煥美術館・ヴァレーギャラリー
    • 12:17 李禹煥美術館 バス停
    • ベネッセハウス無料送迎バスにて
    • 12:19 ベネッセハウス ミュージアム バス停
    • 12:20~14:20 ベネッセハウス ミュージアムおよび屋外アート作品(美術館カフェでの昼食を含む)
    • 14:29 ベネッセハウス ミュージアム バス停
    • ベネッセハウス無料送迎バスにて
    • 14:32 ベネッセハウス パーク バス停
    • 14:37 本村 バス停
    • 徒歩
    • 14:50~15:30 直島新美術館
    • 家プロジェクトの各所を外観から見学
    • 16:05 本村 バス停【解散】

    Title: What's a Private Art Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. They were staying during March and traveling a route that covered Tokyo, Yufuin, Naoshima, Kyoto, and back to Tokyo. Since one member of the group needed to avoid stairs, we skipped the Lee Ufan Museum and the Naoshima New Museum, and I guided the rest of the group there. The guests were consistently in good spirits throughout the tour. Everyone was very pleasant, and it was a joy to guide them. They appeared to thoroughly enjoy the art, nature, and architecture of Naoshima.

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Osaka in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Osaka in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Hotel Meet (@The park Hotel at Universal Studio Japan)
    • 7:00-8:00 Transfer (JR Yumesaki Line & Loop Line; Universal City → Osaka Station → Kyoto Station)
    • 8:00-8:45 Transfer (Subway; Kyoto → Nijo Castle)
    • 8:45-9:55 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 9:55-10:30 Transfer (City Bus; Nijojo-mae → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 10:30-11:20 Visit Kinkakuji Temple
    • 11:20-12:00 Quick Lunch (@McDonald's)
    • 12:00-12:35 Transfer (City Bus; Waratenjin-mae → Imadegawa)
    • 12:35-13:25 Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:25-14:00 Transfer (Subway; Imadegawa → Kyoto Station)
    • 14:00-14:40 Transfer (JR; Kyoto → Osaka)
    • 14:40-15:00 Transfer (JR; Osaka → Nishikujo → Universal City)
    • 15:00 Tour End  Said goodbye to the guests at Universal City Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of visitors from North America. This was a Kyoto tour that started with an early 7:00 a.m. pickup at a hotel in Osaka. One of the guests had visited Japan and Kyoto several times before and had even studied The Tale of Genji, so they were quite well versed in Japanese culture. At this guest's request, this time I took the group to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, places they had not yet been able to visit. The weather was perfect for sightseeing. However, I felt very sorry that during the bus rides (Nijo Castle to Kinkaku-ji, and Waratenjin to Imadegawa/Kyoto Imperial Palace) the buses were extremely crowded, which made getting on and off quite difficult for them. (Fortunately, they were able to sit down partway through the rides, which was a relief.) It was an 8-hour tour, but since the transfer between the hotel and Kyoto took about an hour each way, the actual Kyoto sightseeing menu covered around 6 hours. All of the guests said that Kinkaku-ji left the strongest impression on them.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUniversal City~Kyoto840JPY
    Section 2SubwayKyoto~Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 3BusNijojo-mae~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusWaratenjin-mae / Kyoto City Bus~Imadegawa230JPY
    Section 5SubwayImadegawa~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 6TrainKyoto~Universal City840JPY
    Total2,630JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Koishikawa Korakuen Garden

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Koishikawa Korakuen Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up with guests at the hotel
    • 09:30 Stroll around Asakusa
    • 10:45 Stroll around Ueno Park
    • 11:30 Stroll around Ameyoko
    • 12:00 Lunch at a robatayaki restaurant in Ameyoko
    • 14:00 Stroll around Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 15:00 Disband at Iidabashi Station

    Can You See Cherry Blossoms on a Private Tokyo Walking Tour in Early April? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. The tour and the guests' reactions The guests were visiting Japan from North America. Their native language was Spanish, but they spoke very fluent English, which made for lively and easy conversation. They were looking forward to seeing cherry blossoms, and since they were returning to Tokyo in early April, I chose Sensoji Temple, Ueno Park, and Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, where the currently blooming weeping cherry trees could be seen, so they could enjoy the early-blooming weeping cherry blossoms. For lunch, I recommended a popular robatayaki spot in Ameyoko, where they enjoyed classic izakaya dishes such as primitive-style grilled salmon, toro-taku, oden, and edamame. It was their first time trying oden, and they were impressed by the richness of the broth and the daikon that had soaked up all that flavor. One of the guests had shochu made from sweet potato mixed with soda, and the other had chilled junmai sake, and they seemed very satisfied. 2. Other impressions, notes, and requests It was a cold, rainy day, so it was a bit challenging for outdoor walking. They had brought raincoats, so there was no problem with walking, but they were a little surprised by the temperature gap compared to the spring-like days. Although it is spring on the calendar, there are still cold days, so going forward I will continue to pay attention to the weather on the day and consider tour routes that are not too demanding.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyobashi (Tokyo)~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Suidobashi200JPY
    Total590JPY

    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!

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.8:00 Meet up @Hotel Okura Kyoto
    • 2. 8:45 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3.10:35@Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 4.12:20@Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 5.13:15 Lunch @"Menmenkaku" in front of Kinkakuji-michi bus stop
    • 6.14:00 Dismiss @Kinkakuji-michi bus stop

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion Body: The guests were a group visiting from North America. In our correspondence beforehand, the itinerary had also included Gion and Nishiki Market, but in our email exchanges I had only told them that I would do my best to accommodate their wishes as much as possible. When we met today, I showed them a map and explained the options, and they narrowed down their top priorities to three places. Although I guided them to Kiyomizu-dera, they were satisfied simply after purchasing tickets without going in to view the temple. At Kinkaku-ji, they did go in and viewed the temple. After finishing at Kinkaku-ji, they appeared quite tired and asked, "Is there a ramen shop nearby?" so I took them to "Menmenkaku" at the Kinkakuji-michi bus stop. They ordered ramen themselves and enjoyed it. Finally, they wished to go to Gion, so I directed them to take bus number 12, which goes to Gion without any transfers. After they boarded, I saw them off and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 4BusTofukuji~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama-Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayHigashiyama (Kyoto)~Nishioji-Oike / Kyoto City Bus260JPY
    Section 7BusNishioji-Oike / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,510JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nishiki Market & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Nishiki Market & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market
    • 13:45 Takashimaya
    • 14:40 Fushimi Inari
    • 16:30 Disband at Hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour from a Cruise Stop? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America as part of a cruise that departed from Oceania, stopped in several countries across Asia, and made Japan its final port of call. As soon as we met, we had a lively conversation about current events and about the cherry blossoms along a river back in their home region. From our talk it turned out that they had spent half a day in Kyoto the previous year, and that some of the destinations planned for this visit were places they had already seen. They also mentioned wanting to shop at the Nintendo store, so I quickly adjusted the itinerary accordingly. Wherever we went, however, there were huge crowds, and as this was near the end of a long journey, the guests appeared tired. I had planned to visit Nanzen-ji Temple near the hotel, but as the guests preferred to rest at the hotel, I saw them back to the hotel and said goodbye there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKeage~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)260JPY
    Section 2TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari~Sanjo (Kyoto)240JPY
    Section 4SubwaySanjo (Kyoto)~Keage220JPY
    Total960JPY

    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.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…