Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:20 Hotel pickup
    • 8:30 World Heritage Route departure from Peace Park
    • 9:15 Arrive at Miyajima
    • Itsukushima Shrine, cherry blossom viewing spots, Omotesando shopping street
    • 12:20 World Heritage Route departure from Miyajima
    • 13:05 Arrive at Peace Park
    • 13:15 Lunch
    • 14:15 Tour of various monuments at Peace Memorial Park
    • 15:20 Tour of Peace Memorial Museum
    • 16:30 Disband in front of the Peace Memorial Park Museum

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were a group visiting from Europe. In the morning I guided them around Miyajima, and in the afternoon we visited the Peace Memorial Park. On Miyajima it happened to be a day when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and since the guests wanted to see Itsukushima Shrine and enjoy the cherry blossoms, I allocated our time to focus on those. In the afternoon at the Peace Memorial Park, one of the guests had an interest in political science, and we had wide-ranging conversations, including questions about Japan's postwar political system, as well as the political challenges Europe has faced since the war and the history of the region.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryPeace Park Motoyasu Pier~Miyajima Port2,500JPY
    Total2,500JPY

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

    Sep 25, 2026
    philiprA2432ZA
    Hiroshima & Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Hiroshi picked us up…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Sygeplejersken78
    The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Pioneer19650761736
    You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had the most amazing…

    Sep 11, 2026
    stephanie782022
    Fantastic tour experience
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi,…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①9:00 Meet at the hotel, travel to Tokyo Station via the Marunouchi subway line.
    • ②9:50〜11:30 Marunouchi〜Stroll through the Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • ③11:30〜12:10 Travel by subway from Takebashi Station to Asakusa Station
    • ④12:10〜13:00 Sensoji Temple
    • ⑤13:00〜13:30 Lunch at Kamukura Ramen, then dismiss

    What Is a Half-Day Private Tokyo Tour of the Imperial Palace and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report A group visiting Japan from North America took a private half-day tour, exploring the Imperial Palace and Asakusa on foot and by subway as they had requested in advance. Because the day was a rainy weekday, there were relatively few tourists compared with the recent weekend, and the group was very pleased to be able to stroll leisurely through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. In Asakusa, since the guests were fond of ramen, I took them to Kamukura Ramen, which was very well received for its generous vegetables and delicious taste, and they thoroughly enjoyed the half-day tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Tokyo210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakebashi~Asakusa290JPY
    Total500JPY

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:30 Started 30 minutes late, met at the hotel lobby and after discussing the schedule, headed to Tameike-Sanno Station
    • 15:15 Arrived at Meiji-Jingumae Station via Omotesando, after visiting the shrine headed to Harajuku Station
    • 16:20 Arrived at Shibuya Station. After visiting the Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue, headed to Ginza Line Shibuya Station
    • 17:40 Arrived at Asakusa Station. After stopping by a shoe store near the station, disbanded at 18:15 upon request

    What Is a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Asakusa After finishing a morning sumo stable visit, the guests were delayed in returning to the hotel due to road congestion, so the tour began about 30 minutes later than originally scheduled. As it was raining today, I explained to the guests that the itinerary would be adjusted flexibly depending on the weather conditions, and after receiving their agreement, we headed to the first stop, Meiji Shrine. We took the subway from Tameike-Sanno Station via Omotesando to Meiji-Jingumae Station, and then visited Meiji Shrine. During the visit, I provided explanations about Emperor Meiji, Shinto, and shrines. Afterward, since the guests had little interest in Takeshita Street, I confirmed their wishes and we skipped the visit. We then took the JR line to Shibuya and viewed the Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue. The guests showed strong interest and were particularly moved by Hachiko's loyalty. Next, we traveled the entire Ginza subway line to Asakusa. Along the way, one of the guests' shoes had become wet from the rain, so there was a request to stop by a shoe store. I searched for shops near Asakusa Station while on the subway, and we stopped by so a pair of shoes could be purchased. After that, as a result of the guests contacting an acquaintance, it became necessary to reach a ticket office in Marunouchi by 19:00 that day, so they suddenly needed to travel by taxi. For this reason, although we were still partway through the itinerary, the guests expressed their wish to cancel the remaining guiding, and we parted ways in front of Asakusa Station. Although today's tour was limited to two locations, the guests showed strong interest at each place we visited, and even though the time was shortened, overall they appeared to have been satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno~Meiji-Jingumae Station/Shibuya Ward, Tokyo180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Total600JPY

    Self-Background

    During my university years, I lived in a dormitory for four years and had the opportunity to live with many international students.
    Of course, we spoke English.
    After graduating from university, I started working as an English teacher at a junior high school.
    I was able to have a fun teaching life while interacting with many students. During that time, I continued to study English on my own and obtained the pre-1st grade English proficiency test.
    After that, I worked for the Board of Education as a supervisor in charge of English education, and then managed a school as a vice principal, and later principal.
    After retiring from teaching, I took the TOEIC (L&R) and achieved my highest score of 945.
    I also obtained a license as a national guide-interpreter, and began working as a guide for overseas visitors in English.
    Currently, I guide tourists to several places around the country.
    Many customers have told me that I am a good guide, saying that my guidance is easy to understand and that I have a lot of knowledge about sightseeing spots and history.
    Furthermore, I will continue to improve my skills and make efforts to give you a better experience in Japan, so please come and enjoy your trip in Japan with me.

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Shiba Park

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Shiba Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet up @ Prince Park Tower
    • 14:30 Imperial Palace Outer Gardens, Nijubashi Bridge
    • 15:30 Lunch @ Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 16:00 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 17:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Scramble Square 12th Floor
    • 17:50 Meguro Station
    • 18:15 Shiba Park
    • 18:30 Dismissal @ Prince Park Tower

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe. Their main purpose in coming to Japan was to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and they were scheduled to board a cruise stopping at both cities in the coming days. At the Imperial Palace, in the rain, I explained the history from Edo Castle to the Imperial Palace, as well as the radio broadcast announcing the end of the war. At Meiji Shrine, since the guests had not eaten anything since arriving at Narita, I quickly had them try ramen at the Forest Terrace at Meiji Shrine before we visited the shrine. We took photos at the Meoto Kusu (the married couple camphor trees) and they made a vow of everlasting togetherness. At Shibuya, they were very satisfied to be able to view the scramble crossing from the 12th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square. We had planned to view the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River, but gave up at Meguro Station and instead enjoyed cherry blossom viewing at Shiba Park next to the hotel. Since the guests planned to visit Asakusa and the Skytree on their own the next day, I explained how to get there, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiba Park~Hibiya180JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Meguro200JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeguro~Shiba Park220JPY
    Total970JPY

    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, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, 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

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00  Meet up Hilton Tokyo
    • 2. 10:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 3. 12:35 Asakusa (incl: Senso-ji Temple)
    • 4. 14:00 Disband@Asakusa

    Title: What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Asakusa We met at the Hotel in Shinjuku slightly before the scheduled meeting time. We walked to Tochomae Station and took the subway, transferring toward Otemachi. To my surprise, the guests had not planned this trip specifically for the cherry blossoms; they had simply chosen this timing during a short spring break, and only learned through our prior communication that it would coincide with cherry blossom season. They mentioned that the evening before this tour, they had walked around the area near the Hotel (Shinjuku Central Park) and were surprised to see so many people gathered for parties. On the way to Otemachi, I explained the places we passed through from the train and at the transfer stations. At the East Gardens, they nodded along to the history and took many photos of the cherry blossoms. Some souvenirs were purchased at the Honmaru rest house. Partway through, it started not only to be windy but also to rain, which made for a rather challenging tour. After that, in Asakusa, we first enjoyed the view from Azumabashi Bridge of the cherry blossoms and the Skytree (half hidden by clouds) and the Asahi Beer headquarters building, and the guests were both surprised and amused that the building is shaped like a "beer mug." Afterward, I explained Nakamise Street, the main hall of Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and so on, and the guests happily took photos incorporating the cherry blossoms in full bloom found here and there. Since it was not only rainy but also very windy, the guests eventually gave up on their umbrellas and used their jacket hoods to shield themselves from the rain. After we parted ways in Asakusa, they said they would walk around Asakusa a little more before heading back to the Hotel. I handed them a sheet explaining how to take the subway back to the Hotel, and we parted. Despite the wind and rain, they seemed satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Otemachi (Tokyo)320JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa290JPY
    Total610JPY

    Hello, I’m Masaaki Kurata. I have been conducting walking tours in Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka and the East Garden of Imperial Palace since I joined an English guide volunteer club in 2016. I worked for 2 U.S. based companies in Tokyo for 41 years and retired in 2023. I developed good communication skills with people from other countries in my long career in those 2 companies. I was born in the suburb of Tokyo and I’m familiar with Tokyo pretty much. Since I retired and do not work for a company any longer, I can be flexible in making itineraries. I really want to make tourists happy by making fun and interesting communication.

    Jun 5, 2026
    Flyer544764
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Extraordinary submersion into Japanese history and culture~
    What an extraordinary 6 hr…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Eric_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mac was a very good tour…
    Mac was a very good tour…

    Apr 23, 2026
    O4598GUpatriciat
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional Private Guide – Discovering the Hidden Side of Tokyo
    We had…

    Apr 2, 2026
    V742WEsusans
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommended tour
    Excellent friendly guidance from Mac. He greeted us at…

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 2. 09:50 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 3. 12:00 Lunch @ Sakabayashi (Kobe Shushinkan)
    • 4. 13:00 @ Kobe Shushinkan
    • 5. 14:00 @ Nankinmachi
    • 6. 14:20 Break @ Hafenburg (Kobe Harborland)
    • 7. 15:30 Dismissal @ Kobe Port Terminal

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kobe Like from the Cruise Port? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were first-time visitors to Japan from North America. We met at the Kobe Port Terminal, then visited the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, Kobe Shushinkan, Nankinmachi (Chinatown), and Kobe Harborland, before returning to the Port Terminal to finish the tour. The weather forecast called for rain, but we managed to avoid it at the Herb Gardens. The guests used an electric wheelchair to move along the slopes, and it made getting around very easy. At the Kobe Shushinkan lunch, the guests did not finish all the food but had refills of sake. They also enjoyed beer at Kobe Harborland. The weather was not great, but the guests enjoyed the tour very much.

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Ryoanji

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Ryoanji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet (@Kyoto Station /Starbacks)
    • 10:00-10:30 Travel (Subway; Kyoto Station → Nijo Castle)
    • 10:30-11:50 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 11:50-12:20 Travel (City Bus; Nijojo-mae → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 12:20-13:10 Visit Kinkakuji
    • 13:20-14:10 Lunch (CoCo Hanana /near Kinkakuji)
    • 14:10-14:25 Travel (City Bus; Waratenjin-mae → Ryoanji-mae)
    • 14:25-15:20 Visit Ryoanji
    • 15:20-15:55 Travel (City Bus; Ryoanji-mae → Keihan Shijo-mae)
    • 15:55-16:00 Travel (Walk; Keihan Shijo-mae → Gion/Hanamikoji)
    • 16:00 Accompanied to Gion and the tour ended.  Said goodbye to the guests at Gion.

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour from Kyoto Station Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were an older group visiting from North America. They arrived from the Osaka Port as cruise passengers, and we met at Kyoto Station. The meeting was originally scheduled for 11:00, but since they had already arrived at Kyoto Station more than an hour early, we quickly moved the tour up by one hour and started at 10:00. It was their first time in Japan. We visited Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji, and at the end of the tour I took them to Gion before concluding. At Kinkaku-ji in particular we were caught in a heavy downpour, and although we had umbrellas, everyone ended up soaked. Some of the guests liked Ryoan-ji the most and were also impressed by the historical significance of Nijo Castle. Others felt that, despite the heavy rain, the garden at Kinkaku-ji was wonderful.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusWaratenjin-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Ryoanji-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusRyoanji-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Shijo Keihan-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total920JPY

    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 !

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Tokyo Japanese Gardens Private Tour

    Tokyo Japanese Gardens Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel (9:00)→Shinjuku Gyoen (9:21~10:21)→Rikugien Garden (10:44-11:20)→Kyu-Furukawa Gardens (11:35~12:20)→Asakusa Lunch (12:50~13:50)→Asakusa Sightseeing, Shopping (13:50~14:50)→Hotel (15:30)

    Title: What's a Private Cherry Blossom Garden Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour had originally been booked for the group, but one of the guests was not feeling well and could not attend, and it seems that the guest present covered the payment. Rain had been forecast, but luckily there was almost no rain at Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien, and the Former Furukawa Gardens, so we were able to enjoy the cherry blossoms and the gardens without any trouble. However, after having a sukiyaki rice bowl lunch at Asakusa Imahan, the rain began to fall heavily, and it was no longer possible to stroll around at a leisurely pace. Even so, the guest did some souvenir shopping. This time as well, I was asked to accompany the guest all the way back to the hotel, so it became quite late.

    Hello,Mr.A,
    Thank you for choosing our tour. I would like you to enjoy your tour as much as possible.
    If you have any ideas to see or to eat in your mind, please tell me.
    If not, I will suggest traditional Japanese culture like Meiji-shrine, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa and beautiful traditional Japanese gardens like Rikugien and Hakone. If you want to try to eat typical Japanese food, I will introduce the Japanese restaurants. I woulld like to make an itinerary, including your request.
    Please enjoy Japanese traditional and leading-edge culture or beautiful nature
    I’m looking forward to seeing you.
    Best regards, Yoriko Ishibashi

    Apr 5, 2026
    887maisyw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Good overview of Tokyo gardens
    Great experience. On our first…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Karen_P
    Viator review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Gardens are everywhere in Tokyo.
    You will see a variety…

    Mar 28, 2025
    AColoradian
    Great Day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We are all active so we chose the…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu & East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu & East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet the guests at the hotel
    • 10:20 Hamarikyu
    • 11:30 Caretta Shiodome (SKY VIEW Observation Deck)
    • 12:10 Shin-Marunouchi Building
    • 12:40 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 14:00 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hamarikyu Gardens and the Imperial Palace in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. In front of the Otemon Gate of Hamarikyu Gardens, I explained Japanese history, the shogunate, and the changes the garden has undergone over time before we entered. The rapeseed flowers were in full bloom, and the guests were delighted, eagerly taking photos with the high-rise buildings in the background. After I explained the tidal pond and the former duck hunting grounds within the garden, they enjoyed viewing the cherry blossoms. We then went up to the observation deck of the nearby Caretta Shiodome to take in a panoramic view of the surrounding scenery. We traveled by train to Tokyo Station, and after having a meal at the Shin-Marunouchi Building, the guests took in the full view of the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station. At the Imperial Palace East Gardens, the rain grew heavier, so I guided them through the key highlights, and after viewing the Japanese garden at the end, we concluded the tour at the exit. It was a tour that was difficult to walk through in the rain.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi~Tokyo160JPY
    Total160JPY

    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.

    Sep 29, 2026
    532yeldarbs
    Insights to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We were fortunate to have had…

    Sep 28, 2026
    G3219WFjoshp
    A great day with Shigeru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is a fantastic…

    Sep 28, 2026
    E8957WUnathanb
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shingeru was great and very…

    Sep 23, 2026
    scottmR2068WG
    Tokyo walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent time being…

  • Tokyo: ASAKUSA & Shinjuku Kabukicho

    Tokyo: ASAKUSA & Shinjuku Kabukicho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 meet at Hotel Ginza
    • 9:00 1 ASAKUSA
    • 10:15 2 THE IMPERIAL PALACE
    • 11:15 3 TSUKIJI Outer Market / lunch
    • 13:00 4 SHINJUKU GYOEN NATIONAL GARDEN
    • 14:15 5 Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • 16:20 See off at the Shinjuku Station

    What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Some of the guests were very interested in Japanese culture and history, and questions came one after another. Around the time we entered the Imperial Palace, it began to rain, and the wind and rain gradually grew stronger. Since the guests only had small umbrellas, they got wet, so after taking a break we cancelled the Shibuya portion of the itinerary and they returned to their accommodation from Shinjuku. At Shinjuku Station on the Marunouchi Line, I guided them to the subway heading toward Ginza where their accommodation was located, and then took my leave.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassGinza~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa~Tsukiji – Imperial Palace – Shinjuku Gyoenmae – Shinjuku0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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 spare 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.

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