Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu Temple & Gekkeikan Sake Brewery

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu Temple & Gekkeikan Sake Brewery

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:30 Kiyomizu Temple
    • 10:30 Kodaiji temple
    • 11:30 Lunch at Ishi soba noodle with tempura
    • 13:00 Fushimi Inari shrine
    • 14:20 Chokenji Temple
    • 14:30 Gekkeikan Sake Brewery
    • we finished this tour at Gekkeikan

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and I believe they enjoyed the tour very much. They seemed to like the tempura soba we had for lunch. This time, I needed to bring them to the Gekkeikan sake facility by 3:00, so I kept an eye on the time as we went around, but the guests walked well and we were able to proceed more smoothly than expected. Thanks to the clear weather, the cherry blossoms were blooming here and there, a little at a time. It seemed that in about another week it would be peak season. As one might expect, they looked delighted whenever they spotted a dog or cat.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Chushojima240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Mimmy

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Request Booking

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08：55　Meet ＠ Hotel Tokyo Otemachi
    • 09：30　Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko Statue
    • 10：00　Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11：20　Imperial Palace
    • 12：00　Tsukiji Market
    • 12：30　Lunch ＠ Sushisei Shinkan
    • 13：50　Sensoji Temple
    • 15：00　Dismissal ＠ Hotel Tokyo Otemachi

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, and Senso-ji The guests were a group from North America visiting Japan for the second time. The booking information listed a larger number of participants, but due to circumstances the group ended up being smaller than originally planned. Before arriving in Tokyo, they had already visited Seoul, and they planned to return home the next day without visiting Kyoto or other cities. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they were delighted to see early-blooming cherry blossoms. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Tsukiji Market, they enjoyed a sushi lunch. At Senso-ji, they listened with interest to explanations about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as the Kaminarimon gate. I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied. Since this tour included a vehicle, there were no guide transportation expenses to be reimbursed.

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

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Request Booking

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:55 Meet @ Strings InterContinental
    • 8:30 Tsukiji (Outer Market ~ Hongan-ji Temple)
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:15 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 12:45 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Scramble Square Building
    • 14:00 Dismiss @ Strings InterContinental

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They had arrived in Japan on a cruise ship that traveled from Singapore through various destinations, the same ship carrying guests I had guided a few days earlier. By the previous day they had already visited Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and the Fuji-Hakone area. Today, unfortunately, we had cold rain that alternated between heavy downpours and light drizzle, so the tour was conducted while keeping an eye on the rain radar. We used a combination of taxi and train for transportation. At Tsukiji I explained its relationship with the Toyosu Market, and at the temple I explained Buddhism and its sects. At Meiji Shrine we took photos by the camphor trees and sheltered from the rain beneath them while I explained aspects of Japanese national character. Even in the rain, the weeping cherry blossoms and other flowers at the garden were beautiful and were much appreciated (photo). In Shibuya, we crossed the scramble intersection back and forth in the rain and looked down on it from the 12th floor of a building overlooking the crossing, with the impression that it looked like Piccadilly Circus. It was enjoyable because ironic humor comes across well, and it made for a pleasant tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Shinagawa210JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hyogo in One Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Hyogo in One Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet in front of the "BE KOBE" monument
    • 09:45 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 11:30 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 12:45 @ Kitano Ijinkan-gai (foreign residences district, exterior only)
    • 13:30 @ Nankinmachi Chinatown
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ Nankinmachi Chinatown

    What Is a Private Kobe Cruise-Port Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Due to a misunderstanding during our pre-tour communication, there were requests such as wanting to see Himeji Castle, Nijo Castle, and a geisha district, which caused some confusion, but everything was clarified by the day before the tour. The meeting point was at the "BE KOBE" monument at Kobe Port, as the guests requested, and everything proceeded smoothly afterward. The view of the Kobe cityscape from the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the observation deck of Nunobiki Herb Garden was somewhat cloudy (possibly smog?) today and not entirely satisfying, but the guests seemed pleased. One of the guests appeared to enjoy photography and was busily taking photos. They were very satisfied after enjoying a soft-serve ice cream in the Kitano Ijinkan district, which had once been rated No. 1 nationwide in a past newspaper article. I also guided them to a Starbucks located near the Kitano Ijinkan district, and when I explained that this shop uses a building registered as the only "Registered Tangible Cultural Property" of its kind in Japan, the guests showed great interest. When I guided them to the final spot, the Nankinmachi Chinatown, they mentioned they wanted to have a meal before returning early to their cruise ship, so we parted with about one hour to spare. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were delighted to receive. Special note) The advance booking confirmation listed the meeting point as "Kobe Port Terminal," and I had confirmed this with the guests accordingly, but the day before, the guests contacted me to say it was not "Kobe Port Terminal" but the "Naka-Pier Cruise Terminal." According to online information from the local authorities, the guests were correct. A similar situation occurred with another assignment this week, where the guide mistakenly went to "Kobe Port Terminal." (Fortunately, they were able to meet at the correct meeting point, the "Naka-Pier Terminal," and no problem arose.) In fact, Kobe has two piers where large overseas cruise ships can dock: the "Kobe Port Terminal" and this time's "Naka-Pier Cruise Terminal." Reportedly, large ships can only dock at the "Kobe Port Terminal." It is somewhat questionable whether the travel agency is aware of these circumstances. As a guide, however, I intend to make it a firm practice going forward to confirm with the authorities if the cruise ship name is known in advance. (It also appears that, on rare occasions, the docking location may change at the last minute.)

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)～Maiko320JPY
    Section 2TrainMaiko～Sannomiya320JPY
    Section 3SubwaySannomiya～Shin-Kobe210JPY
    Total850JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & EDION Arena Osaka

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & EDION Arena Osaka

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @citadines Namba Osaka
    • 10:25-11:30@ Osaka Castle
    • 11:55-12:30@Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:00-13:40@Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 14:10-14:15 EDION Arena Osaka
    • 14:15 Disband＠EDION Arena Osaka

    What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kuromon Market, Osaka Castle, and Sumiyoshi Taisha The guests were visitors from Europe. As the booking was made through a travel agency and their contact details were unavailable beforehand, we discussed and decided the itinerary on the day of the tour. This was the final destination of a long trip through Asia and Japan, and although some travel fatigue was noticeable, they thoroughly enjoyed visiting major highlights such as Kuromon Market, Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, and Sumiyoshi Taisha. Although we had to give up on watching a grand sumo tournament because the tickets were sold out, they were delighted when I guided them around the venue just to take in the atmosphere. One of the guests apparently makes a book of their travel records each time to share with acquaintances, so it seems they will become a wonderful advertiser spreading the appeal of Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNipponbashi (Osaka)～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji Station Front～Sumiyoshi Toriimae240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total860JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel Meet
    • 09:00 Miyajima
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 16:00 Dismissal in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome

    Title: What's a Private Miyajima Tour from Hiroshima Like on a Busy Holiday? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests visiting from North America. Since they were from North America, I started the conversation with the topic of Geronimo, but the guests did not seem very familiar with it. Partly due to the influence of the spring equinox holiday, the train from Hiroshima was extremely crowded, and the restaurants in the town of Miyajima as well as inside the port facilities on the mainland side were also very busy. Fortunately, we were able to enter a ramen restaurant right away, but it was a day that made me strongly feel the need to prepare multiple lunch options in advance, especially with the busy season ahead.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of the Atomic Bomb Dome～Nishi-Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Hiroshima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 4BusNishi-Hiroshima～In front of the Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Fukushima in One Day: Ukedo Elementary School

    Fukushima in One Day: Ukedo Elementary School

    Fukushima Hope Tour in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet at Iwaki Station
    • 10:20-40 Guide while getting off at several places such as the Futaba Station shopping district
    • 10:45-11:50 Visit the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
    • 12:00-12:40 Visit Ukedo Elementary School
    • 13:00-13:30 Pass by the fishing port and Odaka Mountain to Michi-no-Eki Namie. Tour and lunch.
    • 14:00-16:10 Participate in the interim storage facility tour course at the Interim Storage Information Center.
    • 17:20 Assist with ticket gates at Iwaki Station and finish.

    Title: What Is a Private Tour to Fukushima Daiichi and the Interim Storage Facility Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests' primary goal was to see the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, so I recommended and reserved a tour of the interim storage facility. At the memorial museum, the guests watched a video showing the state of the nuclear plant during the decommissioning work. At the former Ukedo Elementary School, the guests remarked that the children from that time must be adults now, so I explained that some of them have since taken up jobs related to reconstruction. At the interim storage facility, one can learn not only about decontamination waste but also about the tsunami damage. The guests viewed everything with great interest. Thanks to the fine weather, they were also able to see the power plant, which was their main goal, very clearly, and they were delighted. They were quite impressed by the experimental facility for reusing decontaminated soil. In order to make time for this tour route, there was not much time for lunch or shopping, but the return trip went unexpectedly smoothly, and we made it in time for an express train one departure earlier than planned. As for the driver, not to mention the excellent hospitality, the driving skills were outstanding.

    Click here for more details: Fukushima Hope Tour in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yoko

    Hello, I am Yoko Nemo, happy to be your guide. Fukushima/Tohoku area is full of beautiful nature and traditional culture. There are many unknown charms. Get away from the crowded tourist areas to enjoy the relaxing local atmosphere!
    I also can take you to the coastal area of Fukushima. There are several memorial museums related to the Great East Japan Earthquake and nuclear power plant accident. You will see how people are working hard for the revitalization of the area.
    I love traveling both inside and outside of Japan. So I also look forward to hearing about your hometown. Thank you!

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    May 19, 2026
    Jessica_H
    Viator review: Aizu 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A calm & educational day
    We had a very pleasant time touring…

    Mar 23, 2026
    Steven_M
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Incredible experience with a great team. I could not…

    Sep 3, 2024
    Ricarda_S
    Great half day tour!
    Viator review: Ouchijuku 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This tour was amazing thanks to Yoko!!…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Koraku-en Garden & Gotoku-ji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Koraku-en Garden & Gotoku-ji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Vessel Inn Ueno Iriya Ekimae
    • 9:05 Koraku-en Garden
    • 10:30 Nezu Shrine
    • 11:35 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 12:40 Lunch @ Inataya Palace Building Store
    • 13:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 15:45 Gotoku-ji Temple
    • 15:55 Disband at Gotoku-ji

    What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report There were occasional passing showers, but otherwise the tour proceeded without any problems. The guests had a Welcome Suica card, which allowed the tour to go smoothly. At Korakuen, the guests photographed the cherry blossoms and plum blossoms. At Nezu Shrine, they also took pictures of the surrounding wooden houses. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, they enthusiastically photographed various varieties of cherry blossoms and the long-finned nishikigoi carp. The soba and rice bowl dishes for lunch were also well received. At Meiji Shrine, a wedding procession could be seen, and the guests eagerly photographed it. We went from Shibuya to Gotokuji, but since the sale of the beckoning cat figurines had ended at 3:00 p.m., they were unable to make the purchase they had hoped for. The tour ended at Gotokuji. I regret that I had not known that the sales would end at 3:00 (I had thought it was 16:30).

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassIriya～Akihabara700JPY
    Section 2TrainAkihabara～Suidobashi160JPY
    Section 3Free PassKorakuen～Todaimae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu～Takebashi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassOtemachi～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya～Miyanosaka340JPY
    Total1,360JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    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.

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    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…

  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Kamakura Station & Hase Station

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Kamakura Station & Hase Station

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting place: Kamakura Station
    • 11:10 Depart Kamakura Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 10:20 Arrive Hase Station
    • Hase Kotoku-in Temple / Great Buddha of Kamakura
    • (Walk)
    • Hasedera Temple
    • 11:20 Depart Hase Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 11:30 Arrive Kamakura Station
    • Depart Kamakura Station
    • (Walk)
    • Kamakura Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • Komachi Street
    • Break: Cafe
    • 13:50 Arrive Kamakura Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Kamakura Station

    What Is a Private Kamakura Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They were staying at a hotel in Shinjuku, Tokyo, during a two-week trip to Japan. They had arrived at Narita Airport a few days earlier and taken the Narita Express to Shinjuku. By today, they had visited Tsukiji, Ginza, Shibuya, and other areas in Tokyo, and the previous day they had enjoyed a day trip to Mount Fuji. From tomorrow, they planned to travel to Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and other destinations, before returning home from Kansai International Airport. They commented, "Tokyo was crowded everywhere and it was tiring. In that respect, Kamakura felt quiet, and we thought we could relax here." Although the sky was cloudy, the weather was pleasant and almost warm, making for a comfortable tour. First, we took the Enoden line from Kamakura Station to Hase. Both the Enoden train and the approach were extremely crowded with tourists. Along the way, I explained about "the history of Kamakura," "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the feudal system," "the Meiji Restoration," and other topics. I also explained "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What other religions do people follow?" We went inside the Great Buddha, and they said, "Now I understand well how the Great Buddha was made." They also asked, "Since we are going to Nara, we would like to see the Great Buddha there too. Which one is bigger? And which one was made first?" Both of the guests enjoy collecting "goshuin" (temple and shrine stamps) as a hobby, so they requested stamps at every place we visited. We moved on to Hasedera, where they said, "The garden within the temple grounds is wonderful." Returning to Kamakura Station, we walked along the approach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. I explained again about "Shinto" and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," as well as the "worship methods" for each. We took photos in front of the sake barrels. We strolled slowly through the crowded streets. We also worshipped at the Inari Shrine within the grounds. Afterward, we walked through the very crowded Komachi Street back to Kamakura Station. They commented, "We felt that Japan is very safe," "There is no litter on the streets," "We don't see any homeless people," and "Everyone is polite." We parted ways in front of Kamakura Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKamakura～Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 2TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)～Kamakura200JPY
    Total400JPY

    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…

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    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

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    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

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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

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2. 9:40　@ Zojoji Temple
    • 3. 10:15　@ Tokyo Tower (including the Main Deck observatory)
    • 4. 11:00　@ Azabudai Hills
    • 5. 11:30　@ Tsukiji Market
    • 6. 12:00　Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushizanmai
    • 7. 12:40　@ Ginza (Kabukiza, Kyukyodo, WAKO, Kimuraya, Itoya)
    • 8. 13:10　@ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 9. 13:50　@ Tokyo Station (station square, Marunouchi-style station building)
    • 10. 14:20　@ Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 11. 15:00　@ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 12. 15:30　Disband @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They carried themselves with wonderful posture, walked briskly, and had a curious and humorous spirit, giving a very youthful impression. After Tokyo, they planned to visit Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone, and Kanazawa. At Zojoji Temple, the weeping cherry blossoms had begun to bloom, and the guests were delighted by their beauty and took many photos. Next was Tokyo Tower. Although one of the guests was not particularly fond of heights, they wished to go up to the observation deck. Unfortunately, Mount Fuji was not visible, but they were satisfied looking out toward the Odaiba area and Zojoji Temple, which they had just visited. After that, before taking the Hibiya Line subway from Kamiyacho, I introduced them to Azabudai Hills. They seemed interested in teamLab and the restaurants there, and they took home a facility map for a future return visit. For lunch, the guests had been looking forward to eating sushi so much that they described Tsukiji Market as an absolute must-visit. I guided them to a sushi restaurant, where in the end they had a modest amount, enjoying three kinds of thin-rolled sushi (negitoro, salmon, and tuna). They found it very delicious. After the meal, one of the guests wanted ice cream, so at a popular ice cream shop on the corner where we began walking toward Ginza, one tried matcha soft serve and the other tried tiramisu soft serve. Of course, they loved them. At Meiji Shrine, they were able to see a group photo being taken of both families attending a wedding ceremony, and one of the guests was thrilled. The final stop, Shibuya, was not originally part of the planned itinerary, but the guests were so keen on sightseeing that, rather than ending the tour by returning to their hotel, they wished to continue exploring. I guided them to the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where we parted ways. At that point, since they said they do not usually walk very much and were curious about how far they had walked on today's tour, I told them that my pedometer showed about 22,000 steps, and they were very surprised.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa～Hamamatsucho200JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station～Oedo Line Tsukiji Market Station1,100JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station～Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Tokyo Station～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Total1,460JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
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    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
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    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
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    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…