Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (Ryokan Sanga）
    • 9:00-9:40 Travel (Keihan Train; Keihan Sanjo → Kiyomizu-Gojo)
    • 9:40-11:00 Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:00-12:00 Travel (Keihan Train; Kiyomizu-Gojo → Keihan Sanjo, Subway; Sanjo Keihan → Imadegawa)
    • 12:00-12:50 Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 12:50-13:15 Travel (Taxi; Kyoto Imperial Palace → Restaurant CoCo Kana／near Kinkaku-ji Temple)
    • 13:15-14:05 Lunch (CoCo Kana)
    • 14:15-15:05 Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:05-15:35 Travel (City Bus: Kinkaku-ji-michi → Nijo-jo-mae)
    • 15:40-17:00 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 17:00 Tour ends.　　We said goodbye to the guests at Nijo-jo-mae.

    Title: What's an 8-Hour Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The tour was originally scheduled for 6 hours, but the guests extended it by 2 hours, and I took them to four locations including lunch: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Nijo Castle. As the walking pace was somewhat slow, we were running about 20 minutes behind schedule after visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, but by switching to a taxi for the trip from the Imperial Palace to the restaurant, we were able to stay on schedule afterward. The weather was a little unsettled, with light rain at times and a noticeable drop in temperature at Nijo Castle. Over the 8-hour tour, the guests walked about 25,000 steps, so I imagine they were quite tired. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Nijo Castle were all quite crowded as the sightseeing season was approaching, but the guests said that Kinkaku-ji Temple left the strongest impression on them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto)～Kiyomizu-Gojo180JPY
    Section 2TrainKiyomizu-Gojo～Sanjo (Kyoto)180JPY
    Section 3SubwaySanjo (Kyoto)～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Nijo-jo-mae230JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    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 !

    Request Booking

    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 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. 10:30 Meet at Shangri-La Tokyo
    • 2. 11:10 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 3. 12:40 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 4. 14:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 5. 15:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 6. 16:40 Disband at Shangri-La Tokyo

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji and Classic Sights The guests were visitors from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. Since they did not have any particular place they especially wanted to visit, I proposed a classic route plus either Hamarikyu Gardens or the Tsukiji Outer Market, and following their preference, I took them to the Tsukiji Outer Market. They seemed to enjoy eating and shopping, and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves at Tsukiji. They also seemed fond of photography and took many photos at each location. Although it was a bit cloudy that day, it was not too cold, and I believe they were able to fully enjoy the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNihonbashi (Tokyo)～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Nihonbashi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total980JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet　9:20 Fushimi Inari　11:15 Kinkaku-ji　12:15 Lunch (Sushi)　13:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove　13:50 Okochi Sanso Villa　14:30 Tour End

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like on a Changeable-Weather Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. The forecast had called for cloudy skies, and I, like the guests, expected that it would not rain. However, the wind was strong and the weather kept changing. By the time we left Fushimi Inari, a light rain had begun to fall. At Kinkaku-ji, we caught a few glimpses of sunshine. After lunch, we headed to Arashiyama. Following the Bamboo Grove, since we had some time, we visited Okochi Sanso Villa. It started to rain again there, and the guests said they wanted to return to the hotel. However, once we reached the exit of the Bamboo Grove, the weather recovered again, and the guests said they wanted to rest a little in Arashiyama before heading back, so they wished to end the tour there. It seemed they wanted to eat some mochi at a shop. It was a tour thoroughly swayed by the weather. Still, I was a little pleased when the guests mentioned along the way that although it was their first walking tour, they found it enjoyable. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Enmachi200JPY
    Section 3BusEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusWaratenjin-mae / Kyoto City Bus～Enmachi230JPY
    Section 5TrainEnmachi～Saga-Arashiyama180JPY
    Total990JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Shukkeien Garden

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Shukkeien Garden

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel meet
    • 09:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 11:00. Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 12:00 Shukkeien Garden
    • 13:00 Hiroshima Station, disband

    Title: What's a Half-Day Private Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests, visiting from North America, on a half-day (4-hour) private tour of Hiroshima City. They were very calm and lovely, and the tour proceeded in a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout. When one of the guests remarked that my English was "unique," I shared that I had learned English 40 years ago while washing dishes and attending an adult school in Little Tokyo in North America, and that many of my classmates were from North America, giving my English a slight Spanish accent. This immediately broke the ice, the conversation became lively, and it made for a great start. At the Peace Memorial Park and the museum, the guests appeared quite moved and troubled by the weight of the exhibits, so I adjusted the schedule and took them to Shukkeien Garden, where they could ease their feelings while enjoying the quiet garden scenery. I feel they were able to spend a fulfilling time in a calm atmosphere throughout.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima～Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total240JPY

    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…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Odawara Station & Gora Station

    Kanagawa in One Day: Odawara Station & Gora Station

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:55 Meeting place: Odawara Station
    • 11:07 Depart Odawara Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • Gora Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Cable Car)
    • Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 12:00 Arrive Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Observation Deck
    • Owakudani Black Egg Hall
    • 12:30 Depart Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • Togendai Station
    • 12:45 Depart Togendai Port
    • (Hakone Sightseeing Cruise)
    • 13:25 Arrive Motohakone Port
    • Hakone Motomachi Hakone Shrine
    • 14:30 Depart Motohakone Port bus stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • Arrive Kowakidani Station bus stop
    • Kowakidani Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 14:30 Arrive Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • Hakone Open-Air Museum Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 16:47 Depart Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 17:00 Arrive Gora Station
    • 17:00 Dismissal: Gora Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Odawara to Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. The main purpose of this trip was to take part in the Tokyo Marathon, which they had applied for over several years before finally being selected. The marathon was completed successfully on March 1. They arrived on a direct flight in late February, and after the marathon they spent a couple of days sightseeing around Tokyo. Today, they traveled from Tokyo to Hakone. They planned to stay one night in Hakone, then continue to Kyoto the next day, spend two days in Kyoto and Osaka, and return home from Kansai Airport. The tour took place under clear skies in slightly chilly weather. At the guests' request, the meeting point was changed from their accommodation, the Hotel, to Odawara Station. First, from Odawara Station, we took the Hakone Tozan Railway, cable car, and ropeway in succession to reach Owakudani. From inside the ropeway, we were able to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji through a break in the clouds. I explained the formation of Hakone and the overview and history of Owakudani. The guests asked questions such as "When were the volcanoes of Hakone formed?" "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it ever erupted?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano?" They bought and tasted the "black eggs," remarking that "the smell of sulfur is intense." We then continued by ropeway to Togendai. After a short wait, we boarded the "pirate ship." The interior was almost fully packed with overseas tourists. Questions included "How deep is Lake Ashi? What is the water temperature?" "Can you swim in it?" and "Can you fish there?" We disembarked at Motohakone Port and walked to Hakone Shrine. I explained the history of Hakone Shrine. They skipped the main hall visit and instead purchased a charm, and we took commemorative photos from the side of the torii gate on the lake. In front of the torii, they asked, "Why are so many people lined up to take photos here?" Returning to Motohakone Port, we took the Hakone Tozan Bus and railway to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. I explained the origins of the "Open-Air Museum." We made a quick round of the grounds and bought postcards at the shop. After this, at the guests' request to check in to the Hotel early, we headed to Gora Station. I arranged by phone for the Hotel's pickup car to come to Gora Station. They commented, "Everywhere in Japan, the towns are so clean," "Everyone is so polite," and "Getting away from the crowds of Tokyo, I was able to relax for the first time in a while." We parted ways in front of Gora Station.

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

    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.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 08:00 Tour start
    • Travel by train to Sagano Arashiyama
    • AM 08:40-AM 10:20 Bamboo grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Tenryu-ji Temple garden
    • Travel by train & bus to Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • AM 11:00-PM 12:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple tour
    • Travel by bus & train to Fushimi Inari
    • PM 12:40-13:40 Fushimi Inari tour
    • Travel by train to Gion PM 14:10 Tour ends at Gion

    Title: What Is a Private Family Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Kyoto from North America. Some members of the group spoke Spanish, and at times other members interpreted for one another, which made communication smooth throughout the day. The group loved taking photos, and we took a great many family photos at every stop, which they were very happy with. During the tour, the group enjoyed light snacks from convenience stores and street stalls along the way. The tour finally ended in Gion, where I concluded by recommending a place for lunch and suggesting some good spots for shopping.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNijojo-mae～Nijo220JPY
    Section 2TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 7TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 8TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total1,780JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at the hotel, departure　➡　By Keihan train, Fushimi Inari (8:30~9:30)　➡　By Keihan train, Kawazu cherry blossoms along the Yodo River waterway (10:10-10:40)　➡　By Keihan & JR train, Arashiyama　➡　Lunch at Arashiyama shopping street (11:40~12:20)　➡　On foot, Tenryu-ji Garden —> Bamboo Grove –> Kameyama Park –> Togetsukyo Bridge (12:20~13:30)　➡　By Randen & Hankyu train, arrive at Shijo Street, explain the surroundings and then disband (14:10)

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. It rained in Tokyo, but they were pleased that the weather turned fine in Kyoto. We decided to go see the cherry blossoms, so we headed to a canal along the Yodo River where early-blooming cherry blossoms (Kawazu-zakura) can be seen. The guests were delighted by the scenery of cherry blossoms in full bloom stretching along the river, and one of them enjoyed capturing it on video. Since the guests said they both enjoyed walking, at Fushimi Inari Taisha we climbed up to the Yotsutsuji area, and in the bamboo grove we enjoyed strolling from Kameyama Park to the Togetsukyo Bridge. For lunch, they had soba noodles with shrimp tempura and a rice bowl. The broth was not as dark as in Tokyo but was almost clear and light, so when I talked about the difference in flavor between the Kanto and Kansai regions, they showed great interest.

    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～Yodo320JPY
    Section 3TrainYodo～Tofukuji320JPY
    Section 4TrainTofukuji～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 5TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Shijo-Omiya250JPY
    Section 6TrainOmiya (Kyoto)～Kyoto-Kawaramachi170JPY
    Total1,540JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • 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

    • 0830 Meet at B Ginza (5 min from Metro Shimbashi Station). Explain the Edo period topography at the Shibaguchi Gomon ruins, and explain the changes of Ginza in the Meiji era in front of Hakuhinkan
    • 0900 Shibuya, Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue
    • 0930 Harajuku, visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street
    • 1145 Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Tatsumi Yagura, Gyoko-dori Avenue, Tokyo Station, explain the transition from Edo to Meiji
    • 1235 Ameyoko, view the large Kanzakura cherry blossoms below the Saigo Takamori statue in Ueno Park
    • 1310 Asakusa, lunch at Fuji Soba, Azuma Bridge, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1440 Tour ends at Niten-mon Gate
    • Since it overlaps with my own way home, I will guide you to the Yurikamome boarding area at Shimbashi Station.

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. The booking had listed six people, but when I met them in the hotel lobby on the day, there were four, and I learned that some of the party had decided not to join the trip. They had arrived the previous night. One of the guests had visited Japan before during the 2019 Rugby World Cup but only remembered things related to rugby, while the others were visiting Japan for the first time. They would spend three days in Tokyo and then travel on to Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Himeji, Hiroshima, Osaka, Koyasan, and Kyoto. Today they had a reservation for teamLab Planets at 16:00, and we managed our movements well to make it in time. Had it not been for that reservation, they seemed to have wanted to ride a rickshaw in Asakusa and do more shopping. From tomorrow onward they would be traveling without a guide, so they would explore on their own. Since they seemed interested in places such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (which were closed today), Shibuya Sky, and Tsukiji Market, I gave them a Tokyo Travel Guide, explained the main sightseeing spots, and went over the subway and JR route maps. Because of time constraints, we had lunch at a Fuji Soba restaurant, which they were very happy with.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShimbashi～Shibuya700JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo～Okachimachi150JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6Free PassAsakusa～Shimbashi0JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:20 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:30 Imperial Palace & Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Shibuya
    • 15:30 Tour ends at Shinjuku

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had arrived the night before and planned to stay in Tokyo before continuing to Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hokkaido to enjoy skiing. I first focused on showing them the main areas of the city so they could learn how to use the subway and get a general sense of the geography. They had researched a great deal about Japan in advance, and at Tsukiji Market they showed great interest in uniquely Japanese foods, and since they had wanted to try a candied apple, they tried one right away. We then walked to Namiyoke Shrine outside the market and Higashi Honganji, where I explained the differences between shrines and temples, the differences in worship etiquette, and the influence each has had on Japanese culture, which they said they understood very well and appreciated greatly. At Tokyo Station I supported them with depositing their Shinkansen tickets, at the Imperial Palace I spoke about the Japanese imperial family and its history, and at Meiji Shrine I again explained Shinto and shrines. They seemed very impressed and purchased many amulets. After experiencing the Shibuya crossing, which they had wished to visit, they enjoyed shopping at Tokyu Hands. Finally, I took them to Shinjuku Golden Gai, where they were delighted to see the 3D cat advertisement and the Godzilla head.

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

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Tokyo: Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo: Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10：00　Meet up @ Hotel Otemachi
    • 10：25　Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 11：00　Fukagawa Fudodo Temple
    • 11：50　Kiyosumi Garden
    • 13：00　Tsukiji Market
    • 13：40　Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushisei
    • 15：00　Sensoji Temple
    • 16：00　Disband @ Asakusa

    What Does a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tomioka Hachimangu, Asakusa, and Tsukiji The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Nikko, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. At Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, they listened with great interest to the explanation about the differences between shrines and temples, and showed interest in the bronze statue of Ino Tadataka, the large portable shrine, and the sumo yokozuna monument. At Fukagawa Fudoson, they were very interested in the goma fire ritual. At Kiyosumi Garden, they appeared deeply impressed by the beautiful Japanese garden. At Tsukiji Market, they enjoyed a sushi lunch. At Sensoji Temple, they listened with interest to the explanation about the Kaminarimon Gate and purchased a goshuin stamp. After strolling a bit more around Asakusa, the guests said they could return to their hotel on their own, so we parted ways in Asakusa. Since I accommodated the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Monzen-Nakacho180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMonzen-Nakacho～Kiyosumi-Shirakawa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayKiyosumi-Shirakawa～Tsukiji Market220JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Total790JPY

    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…