Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet up @ Hilton Tokyo
    • 2. 10:30 @ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 3. 11:30 @ Tokyo Station (Station Square, Station Building)
    • 4. 11:50 @ Nihonbashi (Takashimaya Underground Food Court)
    • 5. 12:20 @ Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park, Azumabashi Bridge)
    • 6. 13:30 @ Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 7. 14:40 Disband @ Marunouchi Line "Kokkai-gijidomae" Station Platform

    Can You Do a Private 4-Hour Tokyo Tour Covering the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Yanaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the second time from Oceania. Having come for skiing last year and enjoyed it, they returned again for skiing this year, but this time they planned to do some Tokyo sightseeing—something they had not been able to do last year—before heading to the Sahoro ski resort in Hokkaido, after which they intended to fly to Osaka and spend one day sightseeing in Kyoto before returning home. At the first stop on this tour, the Imperial Palace, everyone listened attentively to explanations about Japanese history. With some sunshine and not too cold, it was a walk blessed with wonderful weather. The guests also took many photographs. On the way from the Imperial Palace to Asakusa, we passed through Tokyo Station and walked to Nihonbashi, and before boarding the subway I guided them for about ten minutes through the basement food hall of the Nihonbashi Takashimaya department store. Some of the guests were especially excited and said they would definitely love to come back there, so I let them know that Shinjuku, which is close to the Hotel, also has Takashimaya and Isetan where they could enjoy similar department store basement food halls. They seemed to have a strong interest in food. Due to the schedule of the 4-hour tour, we could not sit down for a leisurely lunch, but in Asakusa they tried hot takoyaki from a stall near the main hall, then moved on to try soy-sauce senbei rice crackers at a traditional cracker shop near Nippori Station, and in Yanaka Ginza they enjoyed grilled squid, skewered grilled oysters with sauce, and a tsukudani of small sardines and walnuts. Originally they had planned to visit Meiji Shrine on their own from Sendagi Station via the Chiyoda Line, but since they changed their plan to return to the Hotel after the tour, I guided them as far as the transfer to the Marunouchi Line and then said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Nishi-Shinjuku Station~Yurakucho Line Sakuradamon Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihonbashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Kanda Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainKanda (Tokyo)~Nippori170JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station~Kokkai-gijidomae Station0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

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

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

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

  • Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita

    Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:00 Meet at Narita Airport Terminal 2
    • 2. 09:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 3. 10:40 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4. 12:00 Lunch at Ippudo Harajuku Takeshita Street Branch
    • 5. 12:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 13:20 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 7. 14:15 Dismissal at Keisei Ueno Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo During a Layover? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest stopped over in Japan during a transit on the way back to North America, and wished to visit the main sights partly as a scouting trip for a future visit with family planned around next spring. Because time was limited, we skipped the Imperial Palace, but otherwise I was able to guide the guest according to their wishes. At Tsukiji, the guest enjoyed a variety of street food, including yakitori, sashimi, fried shrimp, grilled squid, raw oysters, and Omi beef. For lunch, the guest had wanted Afuri ramen, but since it was lunchtime and the wait looked likely to be long, I took the guest to Ippudo instead, which they were very happy with. The guest commented that it had been a very useful experience in preparation for their next visit to Japan. This private one-day tour of Tokyo was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is a winner of the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1JGA Pre-Approved FeeAirport Terminal 2 Building (Railway)~Keisei Ueno2,580JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Higashi-ginza220JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya~Ueno210JPY
    Total3,580JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30  Hotel meeting point
    • 10:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:15 Nishiki Market
    • 13:30 Arashiyama
    • 14:30 Dismissal
    • 14:30
    • 15:30

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like from Nishiki Market to Arashiyama? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests, who were visiting from Oceania. For one of the guests it was their third time in Japan, while for another it was their first visit. After arriving in Tokyo, they sightseeing in Hiroshima and arrived in Kyoto on the morning of the tour day. We began the tour after they checked in at their hotel. At Nishiki Market, one of the guests took photos with great interest of the seafood and various foods lined up at the storefronts. We took the Hankyu train from Nishiki Market to Arashiyama, and the guests admired the color of the seats and the beautiful interior. They were curious that several railway companies operate in Kyoto, and since we had used JR to Fushimi Inari and Keihan to Nishiki Market, they asked about the differences between them. One of the guests worked as a schoolteacher, and upon seeing private high school students in uniform on the train, they asked why they were attending school on a Saturday and about Japan's school uniform culture. The guests had requested in advance that they wanted to finish at Arashiyama and ride a rickshaw after the tour, so upon arriving at Arashiyama Station, I showed them the rickshaw stand and the Kimono Forest before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Section 3TrainKarasuma~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Total630JPY

    I am Yoshi, a Nara Local Government Licensed Guide Interpreter and also, a National Government Licensed Interepreter.
    Let’s go out! The Kansai region was the center of Japan for a long time. It was from the 4th century to 19th century. Thus the Kansai region is rich in scenic and historic interest. Why don’t we see, feel, and find so many attractions in Nara Kyoto and Osaka. I was born and raised in Nara. Also I have been to Osaka and Kyoto for working, shopping and dining. I can show you not only major tourist spots but also shops and delicious food that only locals know. I am looking forward to sharing wonderful moments with you!

    May 29, 2025
    Dana_K
    Get ready to climb and explore
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    There is a lot of climbing…

    Aug 16, 2024
    Dylan_N
    Yoshi was a great tour guide
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 9, 2024
    Tour39164063770
    Tolle Stadtführung mit erfahrenem Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Auf unserem Trip durch Japan hatten wir…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50 Meet up @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 09:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 10:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:40 Imperial Palace
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Aoyuzu Tora (Marunouchi Building)
    • 14:00 Senso-ji Temple
    • 15:40 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 17:05 Dismissal @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal

    What Does a Private Tokyo Cruise Day Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who came to Japan by cruise for the first time. The group was originally planned to be a certain number, but one member did not participate due to feeling unwell, so the group size changed on the day. The ship was originally scheduled to arrive at Yokohama Port, but the arrival was suddenly changed to Tokyo International Cruise Terminal. After Japan, they planned to continue to other destinations in Asia. At Meiji Shrine, the guests seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Sensoji Temple, they were interested in explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as Kaminarimon Gate. At Hamarikyu Gardens, the guests seemed impressed by the beautiful Japanese garden. I responded according to the guests' wishes, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo~Ueno170JPY
    Section 6SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 7SubwayAsakusa~Shimbashi210JPY
    Section 8TrainShiodome~Tokyo International Cruise Terminal330JPY
    Total1,760JPY

    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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: on the Access Express & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo: on the Access Express & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Narita Airport T1
    • 8:39 Depart on the Access Express
    • 9:45 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 11:35 Meiji Shrine, however due to lack of time only an explanation and photos in front of the torii gate
    • 11:55 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 12:10 Lunch @ Matsue
    • 13:15 Disband at Shibuya Station, see off on the Narita Express

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour from Narita Airport Like? A Licensed Guide's Report At Narita Airport, the guests were not at the designated meeting spot, so it took some time to meet, and we started about 10 minutes late. In Asakusa, after taking photos with the Skytree, the guests enjoyed walking along Nakamise, though they did not do any shopping. We spent quite a lot of time walking through the Sensoji temple grounds. At Meiji Shrine, we ran short on time, so we only had an explanation and photos in front of the torii gate. From the Shibuya Crossing, I guided the guests to the sushi restaurant they had reserved for lunch. It was well received, though the sushi did not seem to suit the younger members of the group. I guided the group to the boarding gate for their reserved airport express train, confirmed their boarding, and the tour ended. I received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3TrainNarita Airport (Railway)~Asakusa1,380JPY
    Total1,790JPY

    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 in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:00 Takeshita Street
    • 13:00 Shibuya
    • 13:20 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had already visited Osaka and Kyoto, and had enjoyed a week of skiing in Hokkaido. As their final destination, they were staying several nights in Tokyo. To help them get a general sense of Tokyo, I first explained how to use the subway and trains as well as the local geography, and we headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine, and Higashi Honganji Temple. At Tsukiji, they were amazed by the overwhelming energy of the market, and they thoroughly enjoyed a variety of seafood in different spots, which delighted them greatly. They said they would like to visit again during their stay. At the nearby Namiyoke Shrine and Higashi Honganji Temple, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism while looking at the actual sites, and they were especially interested in Shinto. Next, at the Imperial Palace, I explained its history, its connection to the Emperor, and modern Japanese history, and they were very surprised to learn that Japan's modernization began only about 150 years ago. On Takeshita Street, they were fascinated by the distinctive Harajuku culture, a unique culture they said they could not see back home, and they mentioned wanting to return to an animal cafe. Finally, I took them to the Shibuya crossing, which brought one surprise after another and left them very satisfied. Since they wanted to continue enjoying Shibuya, I explained the way back and ended the tour.

    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…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the main gate of Toyosu Market
    • 05:00-05:30 In advance, we will explain related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of primary and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll around Tsukiji Inner Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What's a Private Tsukiji Fish Market and Sushi Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who joined a private tour focused on Tokyo's fish market. A fishing enthusiast, the guest planned to enjoy sightseeing in Japan before continuing to another destination for several days of fishing. With a deep love of fish, the guest was very interested in Japanese fish markets and joined the tour with great enthusiasm. Since the guest was fond of fishing, I explained longline fishing methods, the on-board bleeding and preservation techniques for tuna, and other details before the tuna auction began. In particular, when I explained that if the longlines are reeled in too quickly the tuna thrash about and their body temperature rises, degrading the quality of the meat, so the fishermen deliberately spend about ten hours reeling them in, the guest said, "Wow, it makes sense!! Incredible," and was moved by the delicate way Japanese fishermen handle their fish. Watching a single tuna auctioned off in about five seconds and then promptly loaded onto a turret truck, the guest was also amazed by the systematic nature of the Japanese auction. After observing the auction, the guest enjoyed a sushi breakfast at a restaurant within the market. Since the request was to try sushi toppings not seen in North America, I asked the head chef to recommend some, and he prepared ark shell and cod milt. Both offered a texture and flavor new to the guest, who seemed greatly satisfied. Golden eye snapper, which is not eaten as sushi in North America, was also very well received. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, the guest enjoyed strolling among the intermediate wholesalers. Smiling as they looked at all the fresh fish on display, the guest said, "This kind of market atmosphere is wonderful," and thoroughly enjoyed it. Since the guest also cooks and was interested in Japanese knives, I guided them to my recommended knife shop. After careful consideration while listening to the shop staff's explanations, the guest purchased a kiritsuke knife, which can handle a wide range of ingredients such as sashimi and vegetables and can serve the roles of both a yanagiba and an usuba knife. The attached photos show a beaming smile in front of the knife shop after the purchase, and a delighted smile after being thoroughly satisfied with the sushi. Because the guest repeatedly exclaimed "Oishii" to the head chef of the sushi restaurant, the chef happily cooperated in taking a photo with a smile. The guest was also moved by the deliciousness of the dashi sampled at a dried goods shop, purchased dashi packs, and said, "I'm looking forward to making dashi back home." The guest also compared fresh oysters from Iwate and Akkeshi, enjoying the different flavors of each.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market/Toei Bus~Tsukiji 6-chome/Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Uno Port – 9:40 Benesse House Museum – 11:00 Chichu Art Museum – 12:20 Lee Ufan Museum – 12:50 Valley Gallery 13:40 Art House Project – 16:35 Miyanoura Port – 16:55 Uno Port

    Title: What Is a Private Art Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were the group from North America. Although I had expected a Western background from the family name, they were of Asian heritage and had lived in North America for several generations. They were intelligent and warm, and truly a wonderful group to guide. One of the guests worked in the city, and this was described as a final trip together during a period of studies. The meeting point was initially set at a hotel, but through our correspondence beforehand we found that Uno Port would be more convenient. Their actual accommodation was a comfortable one in Uno. After arriving at Miyanoura Port on Naoshima, we walked and viewed two art installations at the port, then took the local town bus toward Benesse House Museum. We carefully explored the art works there, then took the Benesse shuttle bus to the Chichu Art Museum. After spending plenty of time viewing the works, we walked to the Lee Ufan Museum and the Valley Gallery. The path leading from the museum to the beach, along with the art works, seemed to leave a particularly strong impression. We then walked to Tsutsujiso, and while waiting for the bus, we viewed the famous Yellow Pumpkin and other works. After that we headed to Honmura, where the Art House Projects are located, hoping to have lunch, but many places were closed. As we were at a loss, a local resident kindly went out of their way to guide us to a lovely restaurant. This person's warm gesture was truly heartwarming. The prices were reasonable, and although the restaurant had only been open for about seven months, we enjoyed a wonderful French meal there. In fact, I had walked past this restaurant many times on previous tours but had carelessly overlooked it. Afterward, we visited the Art House Project called Minamidera, which we had reserved, though guides are not permitted inside, so I waited outside. We then purchased the combined ticket for the five well-regarded Art House Projects and were able to see all of them. On this day, the outside temperature was around 7 degrees and cold, with occasional bursts of hail, but this actually added a certain charm and atmosphere to the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryUno Port~Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)300JPY
    Section 2FerryMiyanoura Port (Naoshima)~Uno Port300JPY
    Section 3BusMiyanoura Port (Naoshima)~Tsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 4OtherTsutsujiso~Nokyomae100JPY
    Section 5OtherNokyomae~Miyanoura Port100JPY
    Total900JPY

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:00-13:00 Miyajima
    • 14:00-14:40 Shukkeien Garden
    • 15:00-16:30 Peace Memorial Park (Dome, Museum, etc.)
    • 17:00 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What's a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. On the day of the tour, the weather was fine and the wind was calm, making it a perfect day for sightseeing. In the morning, the tide was high, so both the Great Torii Gate and Itsukushima Shrine appeared to float on the sea, and the guests seemed to truly enjoy the scenery. After having lunch on Miyajima, in the afternoon I took them to Shukkeien Garden and the Peace Memorial Park. Throughout the tour, questions kept coming, and especially at the Peace Memorial Park, I received many questions about the tragedy of the atomic bomb and the reconstruction of Hiroshima. Overall, I feel I was able to provide guiding that satisfied the guests, but there were some points where I could not give fully sufficient answers, so I would like to continue to develop my skills.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Section 3BusShukkeien-mae~Kamiyacho / JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. After completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima—and have now lived here for over 42 years. I earned a Ph.D. through a national university’s professional program while working at Mazda Motor Corporation. Five years before retiring from the company, I was seconded to Hiroshima University, a national university, where I served as a specially appointed professor. In addition to my domestic career, I spent a total of about five and a half years living and working abroad. These international experiences have given me valuable cross-cultural understanding and the ability to connect comfortably with guests from around the world. Currently, as a Hiroshima Prefectural Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, I introduce visitors not only to famous attractions such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, but also to the local lifestyle, culture, and culinary delights, tailored to your interests. I hope to provide each guest with a memorable experience that stays in your heart.
    I look forward to meeting you here in Hiroshima!

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

    Jun 25, 2026
    52leannei
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing day trip and tour to Hiroshima
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    Our guide was amazing. He…
    Our guide was amazing. He…

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    Hiroshima Tour with a Great Guide
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  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Memorial Hall

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Memorial Hall

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10;00 Hiroshima Station Meet
    • 11:00. Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 12:00 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 13:00 Memorial Hall
    • 14:00 Disband in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the group visiting from Oceania. As they had a strong interest in the atomic bomb, I planned an itinerary centered on the Peace Memorial Park. On the day, I met the guests at the Hiroshima Station platform and explained the itinerary. However, due to a forecast of heavy snow, the bullet train departure time was changed from around 8:00 p.m. to around 3:00 p.m., so we reorganized the schedule. At the museum, one of the guests spent a long time in the first exhibition room and, upon leaving, appeared deeply moved and shed tears. At that moment, I felt it was more important to remain quietly present rather than to say anything.

    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…