Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hyatt Regency Tokyo & PM | Sensouji temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Hyatt Regency Tokyo & PM | Sensouji temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 AM – Departure from Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 10:45 AM – 11:35 AM | Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 11:35 AM – 12:05 PM | Takeshita street
    • Walk to Harajuku’s lively Takeshita Street
    • 12:05 PM – 12:55 PM | Lunch Break
    • 12:55 PM – 1:35 PM |
    • Visit the world-famous Shibuya Crossing and see the Hachiko Statue
    • 1:35 PM – 2:15 PM | Travel to Asakusa
    • 2:15 PM – 3:40 PM | Sensouji temple
    • 3:40 PM – 4:30PM | Tour Ends at the hotel

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America visiting Japan for the first time. When I offered suggestions on where to go, they ultimately left the choice to me, so considering the rainy weather I presented an itinerary that was easy to walk. It was only lightly raining when we left the Hotel, so we proceeded as planned. On Takeshita Street the guests enjoyed themselves. When we arrived in Shibuya it was raining heavily, so we went inside a building and I showed them a manga store. At Senso-ji Temple, the guests listened attentively to my historical explanations, which motivated me to put extra effort into guiding. I saw them back to the Hotel. They were truly delighted.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTochomae~Yoyogi180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Tochomae280JPY
    Total880JPY

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…

  • Kochi: Kochi Castle Museum of History & Shinko

    Kochi: Kochi Castle Museum of History & Shinko

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Depart from Shinko
    • 10:00 Harimaya Bridge, Sunday Market, Hirome Market (preview)
    • 11:00 Kochi Castle Museum of History
    • 11:30 Kochi Castle
    • 12:30 Hirome Market (lunch)
    • 13:20 Travel
    • 13:40 Makino Botanical Garden
    • 14:40 Chikurin-ji Temple
    • 15:20 Travel
    • 15:30 Arrive at Shinko

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kochi Like from the Port? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather forecast had predicted clouds, but instead it was a day of heavy rain. We departed from the new port, took commemorative photos at Harimaya Bridge, and then enjoyed local specialties such as sweet potato tempura and grilled shishito peppers on skewers at the Sunday market. The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and most of them followed a plant-based diet and did not want to spend much time on lunch. So that they could decide for themselves whether to sit down and eat or just have some snacks, I scouted Hirome Market in advance and found an Indian curry shop, and we decided to return there after visiting Kochi Castle. Because the rain was so heavy, we spent about 30 minutes at a history museum, which had not been part of the plan, before heading up to the castle. Luckily, the doors of the castle keep, which had been closed until just before, were now open. After finishing lunch, we also visited the Makino Botanical Garden and Chikurin-ji Temple, and returned to the port at just the right time. Aside from the rain, it turned out to be a satisfying experience for the guests. The hire taxi company often has older drivers, but this time we had a younger driver, which was reassuring. The mountain roads to the Makino Botanical Garden and Chikurin-ji Temple have no guardrails, so there are times when I feel a little concerned when the driver is elderly.

    Hi! I’m Kay.
    It’s my pleasure to be your guide.
    I was born and raised in Kochi city, and I worked for Kochi City Hall for nearly 30 years, so I think I know a lot about Kochi.

    Firstly, I can guide you to the Kochi castle. Most castles you can find in Japan have been rebuilt after fires, wars, or natural disasters. However, Kochi Castle is one of the very few castles that still have the whole structure of its original tower and the mail palace from the Edo period (1603–1868). This makes it especially valuable for understanding Japan’s history and traditional architecture. You’ll like it!

    Other major tourist sites are adventurous Ryugado limestone cave, Makino botanical garden, Chikurinji temple with historical stonesteps, Zenjibuji temple with the spectacular panoramic view, paper-making activity, Oboke gorge, Nakatsu gorge, Niyodo river with a historical bridge and so on.
    If you like sake, you can visit sake brewery, and if you are interested in walking local streets, you can stroll my neighborhood.

    Kochi is a small city, but it’s very popular among tourists for its beautiful nature and good food. I took my kids to rivers and mountains when they were little. If you are interested in those places, please ask me. And I know many good restaurants, too.
    I’m looking forward to enjoying them together with you!

    Jul 7, 2026
    A_J
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent tour with Kay
    Had an amazing time with our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    romankU9693SM
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our trip to Kochi
    Kay was a wonderful guide, very…

    May 28, 2026
    nancykotr
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Kay was a wonderful…
    Kay was a wonderful guide. We…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Jörg R
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Ein toller Ausflug in Kochi
    Pünktliche Abholung, kurze Transferzeiten…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:15 Meet up @Premium Apart MONday Ginza EAST
    • 2. 10:20 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 11:00 Stay @Ueno Park
    • 4. 12:20 Travel: Train
    • 5. 12:30 Lunch @Veg Herb Saga
    • 6. 13:20 Travel: Train
    • 7. 13:30 Stay @Akihabara
    • 8. 14:40 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 15:20 Stay @Meiji Shrine
    • 10. 16:05 Travel: Train
    • 11. 16:15 Stay @Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 12. 16:35 Dismiss @Tokyo Metro Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Family-Friendly Vegan-Focused Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ueno, Akihabara, and Shibuya The guests were visiting from Asia. Before the tour, they purchased a PASMO card at the station nearest to their Hotel, and at a JR station counter we separately purchased one Welcome Suica card for a child in the group. The guests followed a vegan diet. I had planned to have lunch in Ueno, but the Japanese restaurant I usually use did not offer many options, so I took them to a curry restaurant in Okachimachi. I felt slightly hesitant about suggesting South Indian cuisine, but this restaurant serves dishes that are entirely plant-based except for yogurt, so it is a place I can recommend with confidence in cases like this. In Akihabara, more time was spent purchasing daily necessities at a discount store than on anime goods. After showing them the scramble crossing in Shibuya, I explained how to return to the station by subway, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHatchobori (Tokyo)~Ueno180JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno~Okachimachi160JPY
    Section 3TrainOkachimachi~Akihabara160JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae Station / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo210JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total870JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet at Imperial Palace Kikyomon Gate
    • 12:10 Shibuya
    • 12:30 Lunch @Parco Jikaseimen Sho, but had to wait quite a while.
    • 13:40 Shopping on the 6th and 5th floors of Parco
    • 14:55 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:25 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 17:50 Disband at Higashi-nihombashi Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine Not a single drop of rain fell, making it a perfect day for guiding. Some of the guests moved at a slower pace, so we took our time getting around. I met the guests, who had just finished a tour of the Imperial Palace, at the Kikyo-mon Gate to begin. Since they did not have a Suica or similar card, I had them purchase a Tokyo Metro 24-hour pass, and we headed to Shibuya. We passed through the Scramble Crossing and made our way to a ramen restaurant they had requested, but it was quite crowded and there was a considerable wait. The ramen itself was well received. After they did some shopping at the Pokémon Center on the 6th floor of Parco (which was very crowded) and at Sylvanian Families on the 5th floor, we visited Meiji Shrine and Shinjuku Gyoen. The tour ended as I saw off the guests, who were heading to a hotel in Narita. I received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijubashimae~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-sanchome180JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku-gyoenmae~Higashi-nihombashi290JPY
    Total860JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Itinerary
    • * 10:30 AM – Met the guests at ANA InterContinental Tokyo.
    • * Walked to Tameike-sanno Station and traveled by subway to Asakusa.
    • * 11:00 AM – Visited the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center Observation Deck.
    • * 11:30 AM – Guided the guests through Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.
    • * 12:10 PM – Lunch at the eat-in area of the delicatessen section inside Asakusa Ekimise.
    • * 1:00 PM – Visited Tokyo Station and the Marunouchi area.
    • * Visited the Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge.
    • * 2:10 PM – Visited Meiji Jingu Shrine.
    • * 2:50 PM – Free time on Takeshita Street.
    • * 4:15 PM – Arrived at Tokyo Tower, where the tour concluded.

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Tokyo Tower The weather was cloudy on the day, with the humid, muggy feel typical of the rainy season, but there were no major weather disruptions during the tour, so we were able to proceed through the itinerary as planned. After departing from the Hotel, we headed to Asakusa and toured Senso-ji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street. For lunch, we used the eat-in corner at the prepared-food section inside Asakusa Station. Afterward, we moved to Tokyo Station and viewed the Marunouchi area and the Nijubashi Bridge of the Imperial Palace. Next, we headed from Hibiya Station to Meiji Shrine, and after paying our respects, we strolled along Takeshita Street. The guests enjoyed crepes and stopped by a dog cafe, taking in the atmosphere that is unique to Harajuku. Finally, I guided the group to Tokyo Tower and saw off the guests who were joining the Top Deck Tour at the entrance, bringing the tour to a successful close. The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of them had visited Japan once before about 25 years earlier, while the rest were making their first trip to Japan. When I asked about their wishes in advance, they said they wanted to visit the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, and Takeshita Street, so I incorporated all of their desired sightseeing spots into the itinerary and guided a route that ended at Tokyo Tower. Everything proceeded smoothly throughout, and the guests appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed sightseeing in Tokyo. This was my first guiding assignment at the start of July. It was not yet as hot as midsummer, but the humidity was high, and there were moments when it felt hot while walking. As the full heat of summer approaches, I felt that I would like to pay even more attention than before to the timing of hydration and breaks, keeping the guests' physical well-being in mind as I conduct tours going forward.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-sanno~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Kanda (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainKanda (Tokyo)~Tokyo160JPY
    Section 4SubwayHibiya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Yoyogi160JPY
    Section 6SubwayYoyogi~Akabanebashi220JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Hello, my name is Takeshi. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter with over 35 years of professional experience in Japan. Through my long career, I have developed a deep understanding of modern Japan, including its business culture, social customs, and everyday life. Originally from Kobe, I have lived in more than 20 places across Japan and the United States, which has given me a broad and flexible perspective on regional cultures and lifestyles. I am also deeply interested in historical Japan, especially Japanese religion and Buddhism, and I enjoy sharing cultural background in an easy-to-understand way. I am looking forward to meeting you and exploring Japan together.

    Jul 23, 2026
    L9490ARrachelf
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A tour guide that goes above and beyond!
    Takeshi…

    Jul 21, 2026
    luisvF2957OY
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best experience ever
    Really good guide. Awesome time.

    Jul 18, 2026
    tlT4839UI
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Solo Layover Tour
    I had a 12-hour layover in…

    Jun 13, 2026
    V2750KJjonasb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Takeshi san picked us up on the Hotel and we…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Iwatayama Monkey & Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple visit

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Iwatayama Monkey & Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple visit

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Hotel Meet (@Prince Kyoto Takaragaike)
    • 7:30-8:30 Travel (taxi; Hotel → Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Entrance)
    • 8:30-9:30 Arashiyama stroll (Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Kameyama Park, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 9:30-10:40 Iwatayama Monkey Park
    • 10:40-11:00 Travel (taxi: Arashiyama → Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple)
    • 11:00-11:30 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple visit
    • 11:30 Tour ends. After the tour, we accompanied them to a restaurant in Shijo and said goodbye there.

    What's a Private Kyoto Tour to Arashiyama, the Monkey Park, and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was everyone's first time in Kyoto. I took them to Arashiyama (the bamboo grove), the Monkey Park, and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. Since the group traveled together, we used taxis for all transportation. Until we reached Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, it did not rain and the temperature stayed comfortable, making for a pleasant tour. It began to rain partway through our visit to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. Today's tour was arranged so that everyone in the group could enjoy it, and the visit to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji was included at the request of one of the guests. At the Monkey Park, the group especially seemed to enjoy the children's play area near the summit.

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:30 Meet at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
    • ② 09:35 Itinerary explanation & about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 09:55 Departure
    • ④ 10:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • ⑤ 11:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • ⑥ 12:40 Lunch in the Kawaramachi Rokkaku area
    • ⑦ 13:30 Nijo Castle
    • ⑧ 14:45 Sanjusangendo
    • ⑨ 16:00 Disband in the Shijo Kawaramachi area

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, coming from North America. Their trip included Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto, followed by some time in Osaka and Nara, then island cycling in the Seto Inland Sea before returning to Tokyo and heading home. Both of them listened carefully to my explanations and asked questions from time to time. Like most visitors, they were interested in the history of the shrines and temples we visited and in Japanese history in general, so today I guided them to places such as Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace according to their wishes. While chatting during the tour, I learned that today, July 4th, is a national holiday in North America, when families across the region enjoy barbecues, parades, and various local celebrations, spending relaxed time together. I listened while thinking that in Japan we don't celebrate our national foundation day in quite the same way. About 100 years after that independence day, during Japan's Meiji Restoration, the 15th shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu returned political power to the emperor and the Boshin War began; around the same time in North America there was a civil war, and the old order of an earlier era was gone with the wind. Both were times of great transformation. We spent the day together sharing stories like these. In the taxi heading to Sanjusangendo, I asked the driver for a piece of trivia. The principal image of Sanjusangendo, the Thousand-Armed Kannon, was created about 800 years ago by Tankei. When you view the face from the right side it looks a little stern, and from the opposite side it looks slightly smiling. So how does it look from directly in front? It is said to reflect the heart of the person looking at it. I found this fascinating and shared the story with the guests right away, and it was enjoyable to stand before the statue at Sanjusangendo, looking at its face and discussing what we each saw. After we parted, the guests were going to join a food tour at Nishiki Market. I would be happy if I was able to contribute even a little to their wonderful trip.

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Travel to Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Travel to Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:58 Travel to Miyajima
    • 12:05 Sightseeing in Miyajima
    • 14:20 Travel to Hiroshima
    • 15:05 Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:45 Travel to Hondori and shopping
    • 18:15 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 18:30 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    What's a Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and they visited Hiroshima and Miyajima at the end of a two-week trip in Japan. The overseas trip planning was handled within the group. Having heard from family members who visited Japan this spring that the Miyajima World Heritage Sea Route was wonderful, and also wishing to spend as much time as possible in Hiroshima, the guests decided at the last minute to change their return route to the ferry. I was deeply moved to hear that members of the group who had never had the experience of peace education before read all of the explanations inside the Peace Memorial Museum. I was truly grateful for the encounter with such a warm and lovely group. Thank you very much!

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved FeeMiyajima Port~Motoyasubashi Pier1,200JPY
    Section 3TrainKamiyacho-nishi~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total1,860JPY

    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!!

    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: 1 THE IMPERIAL PALACE & see off at Harajuku

    Tokyo in One Day: 1 THE IMPERIAL PALACE & see off at Harajuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 meet at Air bnb in Hikifune
    • 11:00 1 THE IMPERIAL PALACE
    • 12:45 2 TSUKIJI Outer Market
    • 14:30 3 MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 15:30 see off at Harajuku

    Title: What Is a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. I met them at their accommodation, a seven-minute walk from Keisei Hikifune. The evening before, I received a request to push the departure back by one hour. Even with the adjusted pickup time of 10:00, the start was delayed, and we set off at 10:20. One member of the group had difficulty walking steadily and progressing on foot. Because of the attention this required, the itinerary did not proceed as planned. In addition, a disagreement arose within the group at Sakuradamon, which interrupted our progress. Although one of the guests announced that the tour would be ended, we barely managed to move on to Tsukiji. As the itinerary fell behind schedule, the guests decided to arrange their own ride-share from Meiji Shrine to return on their own.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeisei Hikifune~Otemachi (Tokyo)360JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakuradamon~Shintomicho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total540JPY

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spear time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

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    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

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    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet guests at the hotel
    • 09:40 Tsukiji Hongwanji, outer market
    • 11:20 Kiyosumi Garden, lunch
    • 12:40 Sumida River Terrace from Kuramae Umaya Bridge
    • 13:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, main hall
    • 14:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Tour ends at Harajuku Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Kiyosumi Garden, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and still seemed to be experiencing jet lag, but they walked actively throughout the tour. At Tsukiji, they showed interest in the interior of Honganji Temple, and at the outer market they enjoyed the variety of shops and the unique atmosphere. At Kiyosumi Garden, they were impressed by the beautifully maintained and tranquil Japanese garden. In particular, while walking across the stepping stones over the pond, they encountered carp and turtles and took many photos, thoroughly enjoying the stroll. After lunch, we took the subway to Kuramae and walked along the promenade beside the Sumida River toward Asakusa. After getting an overview at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, they enjoyed selecting souvenirs while walking from Kaminarimon through Nakamise. After visiting the main hall, we took the subway to Meiji Shrine. As we walked from the torii gate along the approach, they were moved by the sacred, deep forest. Adding explanations at various points along the way, we proceeded to the main shrine, and after the visit the tour concluded at Harajuku Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayEbisu~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Market~Kiyosumi-Shirakawa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayKiyosumi-Shirakawa~Kuramae180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-Jingumae260JPY
    Total870JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Jul 8, 2026
    Maria H
    Tokyo an amazing city
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    First time in this…

    Jul 4, 2026
    davidsM6670MT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent professional and attentive Tokyo Tour
    Shigeru was extremely professional, knowledgeable and…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Q3961PBsaraf
    History, Culture and Local Insight
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    We had a wonderful half-day tour of…

    Jun 7, 2026
    abhinavg948
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is an outstanding guide for an outstanding Tokyo tour
    Shigeru is…