Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Harajuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Harajuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:10 Harajuku
    • 13:00 Tour ends at Harajuku

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like on the Final Day of a Japan Trip? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Since arriving in Japan in January, they had traveled through Osaka, Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Nagano, and this was their final stay in Tokyo. The day before, they had visited Shibuya Sky and the famous crossing, so today we started at the Tsukiji Outer Market. The whole group enjoyed seafood, but as it was right after breakfast, they said they would like to come back another time. At Namiyoke Shrine in the outer market area, as a way of wrapping up their trip in Japan, I explained the differences between temples and shrines and their influence on Japanese culture, and they said it helped them understand the background well. We then continued to the Imperial Palace, where I explained Japan's modern history. They were amazed that such a vast open space exists in the very center of Tokyo. Finally, we headed to Harajuku for some window shopping along Harajuku Street. Since they had a reservation at a capybara cafe from 1:00, we ended the tour there.

    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.

    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…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①9:00 Meet at the hotel, travel by taxi
    • ②9:30〜10:00 Take the Hakone Cable Car from Gora to Sounzan, view the outer rim mountains from the observation deck
    • ③10:00〜10:30 Travel from Sounzan to Owakudani by substitute bus (ropeway out of service)
    • ④10:30〜11:15 Stroll around Owakudani
    • ⑤11:15〜11:30 Take the ropeway from Owakudani to Togendai. Take a break at a cafe
    • ⑥12:00〜12:40 Lake Ashi cruise
    • ⑦12:40〜13:40 Lunch at Moto-Hakone
    • ⑧13:40〜14:25 Travel to Hakone-Yumoto Station by bus
    • ⑨14:40 Shopping at a souvenir shop in Hakone-Yumoto, disband

    What's a Private Hakone Day Tour with the Free Pass Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Oceania. They had traveled into Hakone from central Tokyo the previous day, and today we used the Hakone Free Pass to tour the Golden Route starting from Gora Station. We had originally planned to visit Hakone Shrine at Moto-Hakone, but since some of the guests were tired from walking, we skipped it and moved to Hakone-Yumoto Station a little earlier than planned. From Hakone-Yumoto Station, the guests planned to take the mountain railway on their own to return to Gora Station and their hotel, so I guided them to the platform and we parted ways at a souvenir shop. We were blessed with fine weather and had a beautiful clear view of Mount Fuji, and the guests appeared to enjoy themselves greatly throughout the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassGora~Hakone-Yumoto6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:00 Miyajima
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:00 Hiroshima Station, dismissal

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Family Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a private family tour for a group visiting from Oceania. Based on their family name, I sensed they might have European roots, and when I gently brought it up, we had a lively conversation about the film "The Godfather," which allowed us to start the tour in a warm and friendly atmosphere. We touched briefly on their background during the conversation. After visiting Daisho-in Temple, the group gradually opened up, and we exchanged conversation on current topics, including the recent restrictions on social media viewing for younger people in Oceania. At the Peace Memorial Park, the group was strongly moved by the exhibits, which were even more harrowing than they had imagined, and they appeared deeply reflective.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima~Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 4TrainGenbaku Dome-mae~Hiroshima240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 2. 11:00 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3. 13:00 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 4. 13:40 Lunch Umaimon Azuma
    • 5. 15:00 Disband Shinjuku Station

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America, coming to Japan for the first time. The guest mentioned that a family member had lived in Kobe in the 1950s, and visiting Kobe was one of the main purposes of this trip to Japan. Since the guest wished to visit two or three main spots, I had planned to show them Hamarikyu Gardens, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine, but as time ran short, Meiji Shrine was skipped at the guest's request. For lunch, the guest requested Japanese food other than noodle dishes, so I took them to a restaurant with a wide selection of options, which they enjoyed very much. The weather was also fine, and I believe the guest was very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku West Exit~Shiodome220JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)260JPY
    Total700JPY

    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

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at the Airbnb in Nakai, immediately asked about the washing machine, then asked about the 48-hour subway pass, spending time
    • 9:45 Ochiai Station. Takes time to purchase the 72-hour pass
    • 10:40 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 12:20 Akihabara
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Aburidori Baridori Akihabara
    • 14:05 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:10 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:30 Disband at Takeshita Street

    Title: What Is a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Akihabara, and Takeshita Street The weather was fine and everyone walked at a good pace, so the tour progressed smoothly. Shortly after meeting, the guests requested help purchasing a 48-hour subway pass. I tried to assist, but I could not easily reach the intended webpage, so we purchased it at the station instead. It was a large group, but everything went well and the tour proceeded without any trouble. In Asakusa, the guests took many photos and enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. In Akihabara, various requests came up, but since I had decided in advance that this area would only be a pass-through with brief explanations, we proceeded without any issues. I had planned to guide them through Takeshita Street and then on to Shibuya, but at their request the tour ended at Takeshita Street. I received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOchiai~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShin-Ochanomizu~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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

    • 1. 08:50 Meet up @ Hotel Ginza Premier
    • 2. 09:00 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:25 Visit @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 10:25 Travel: Train
    • 5. 10:35 Visit @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 10:55. Travel: Subway
    • 7. 11:20 Visit @ Imperial Palace (exterior), Marunouchi
    • 8. 12:10 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 12:40 Visit @ Tsukiji Outer Market, Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushiko Main Store
    • 10. 13:55 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 14:20 Visit @ Nezu Shrine
    • 12. 15:00 Disband @ Tokyo Metro Nezu Station

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The number of participants for this tour changed from an initial single guest to a group of guests. Since the group did not exceed the standard size, I handled it as a usual tour. The guests were part of a group I understood had met at a conference in Tsukuba City a few days earlier, and since all but one of them already had Suica cards, guiding them around on public transport was relatively easy. In the morning, I took the group to popular spots on the western side of central Tokyo. As the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were closed that day, I focused my explanations on the outer views and the Marunouchi area. Although one of the guests had initially hoped for vegetables at lunch, it turned out that everyone in the group enjoyed sushi, so we took a lunch break at a sushi restaurant in Tsukiji. I had planned to take the group to Yanaka in the afternoon if time allowed, but as we spent a longer time in Tsukiji and it was exactly 3:00 p.m. after guiding them around Nezu Shrine, I explained how to make their way back toward Tokyo Station and we parted ways there. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTokyo~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji~Nezu180JPY
    Total900JPY

    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…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel. First, head to Hakone Shrine. 10:15 Pirate Ship from Moto-Hakone. 10:40 Togendai. Light meal at a cafe, then take the ropeway to Owakudani. From Owakudani, take the ropeway substitute bus to Sounzan. 12:32 Cable car from Sounzan. From Gora, take the 12:52 mountain train. 13:00 Enter the Hakone Open-Air Museum. After strolling through the museum, including a light meal at the cafe inside, 14:31 bus (after transferring at Kowakien) 15:00 arrive at Moto-Hakone. Disband. (After free time, the customers will have dinner nearby and return to the hotel next door: we introduced Hakone Terrace nearby for dinner)

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Hakone on the final stop of their trip in Japan before returning to North America the next day. On the day of the tour, I received word that it was a birthday for one of the group, so I quickly made a celebration board and took a photo for them against the magnificent backdrop of Mount Fuji. At Hakone Shrine, we reviewed the proper way to worship and reconfirmed the differences between shrines and temples. At Owakudani, they enjoyed the stunning natural beauty, views of Mount Fuji, and the famous black eggs. Due to maintenance work, the section between Owakudani and Sounzan was served by a substitute bus, but this too was part of the fun. At the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the harmony between nature and art was wonderful, and they also experienced the foot bath, which I believe made for a lovely memory. They were a close and friendly group.

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Harukas Garden

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Harukas Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka
    • 9:30-10:30 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 11:00-11:50 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:10-12:15 Harukas Garden
    • 12-30-13:10@ Dotonbori, National Bunraku Theatre
    • 13:15 Disband @ Kuromon Market

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Although this was a booking arranged through a travel agency that could not be reached, I conducted an interview on the day and we toured Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, Dotonbori, and the National Bunraku Theatre. Osaka was the final stop of their stay in Japan, and since the guests expressed an interest in Japanese culture, the timing worked out well: at Osaka Castle they enjoyed a traditional monkey performance, and at the Bunraku Theatre they experienced a special New Year event, including hands-on puppet manipulation. Together with the bustling Dotonbori, they were able to enjoy the lively New Year atmosphere of Osaka. After the tour, I guided them to Kuromon Market near the Bunraku Theatre, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda (Subway)~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji~Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Total670JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Station & Nijubashimae Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Station & Nijubashimae Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 9:10 Depart Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 10:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 12:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Skytree Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive Tokyo Skytree Station
    • Tokyo Skytree
    • 13:15 Depart Tokyo Skytree Station
    • (Tokyo Skytree Line)
    • Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:45 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 15:00 Arrive Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Skytree, and the Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. It was the first visit to Japan for all of them. This trip to Japan was part of a cruise circling the country. The ship had entered port the previous day. On the previous afternoon, they had reportedly gone by taxi to Harajuku and Shinjuku. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) had originally arranged for a party of several people, but on this day some of them were unable to join due to feeling unwell, so the tour proceeded with the remaining guests. The cruise ship was scheduled to call afterward at Shimizu Port, Kobe Port, Okinawa, and other locations. They mentioned that they were planning shore excursions at each of these destinations. For this day, they mainly wished to visit spots on the eastern side of Tokyo. It was a pleasant tour under clear skies and comfortable weather. First, we went to Tsukiji. After strolling through the Tsukiji Uogashi, we took our time exploring the outer market area. I explained "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were also questions and comments such as "Can we see the tuna auction?", "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?", and "It's crowded, but it really seems like there are a lot of tourists." They bought "tuna sushi" and sampled it while standing. They also purchased "roasted soybeans" as a souvenir. We moved on to Asakusa. Although not as busy as during the New Year season, the temple grounds were crowded with worshippers and tourists. There was a long line to pray at the main hall. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and of Edo becoming Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at the Kaminarimon Gate, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various other spots. We took our time strolling along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are Japan's main religions?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what religions do people believe in?" From Asakusa Station we went to Tokyo Skytree (which the guests had reserved in advance). I waited at the elevator exit. They said, "Unfortunately we couldn't see Mount Fuji," but also, "It was great to see the overall view of Tokyo." I explained "the size and area of Tokyo," "the population of Tokyo and of Japan," and "the challenges Tokyo currently faces." They said, "We really understood what a vast city Tokyo is." From here we moved on to the Imperial Palace, going to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. One of the guests waited at the rest area near the entrance. First, we went to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained topics such as "having seen 'The Last Samurai,' the history of Japan from Edo to Meiji," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history of the imperial family," "World War II and the air raids on Tokyo," and "how the stone walls were built." There were questions and comments such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?", "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?", "Who is the next Emperor?", "Can a woman become Emperor?", and "How many members are there in the imperial family in total?" There were also comments and questions such as "The city is so clean, there's no litter on the ground," "I was surprised how clean the public restrooms are," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?", and "The subway is complicated and hard to use until you get used to it." I saw them off at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Skytree~Asakusa160JPY
    Section 6TrainAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 7TrainNijubashimae~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 8TrainShimbashi~Tokyo International Cruise Terminal330JPY
    Total1,730JPY

    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.

    Jul 21, 2026
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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Hilton Tokyo
    • 2. 10:30 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 3. 12:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch at Yamashita Honki Udon
    • 5. 13:20 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 6. 15:00 Akihabara
    • 7. 15:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 8. 16:10 Dismissal at Asakusa Station

    What Is a Private First-Day Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, and it was their first time in Japan, with their main goal being to ski in Hokkaido. I guided them according to the requests received in advance, and we were able to complete the itinerary almost exactly as planned. The weather was also favorable, and I believe they thoroughly enjoyed their first day in Japan. For lunch, they seemed torn between ramen and udon, but in the end they decided on udon. They were a very close and cheerful group who smiled throughout the day, and it was a pleasure for me to guide them while enjoying it myself.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Akihabara330JPY
    Section 5SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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

    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
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    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
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    Diane D
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    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
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    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…