Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Mimaru Tokyo Shinjuku West
    • 10:10 Hotel
    • (Walk)
    • Shinjuku Station Station Travel Concierge
    • 10:20 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:45 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Kamiyacho Station
    • Kamiyacho Tokyo Tower
    • 12:45 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 13:45 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shinjuku
    • 14:00 Disband: Shinjuku Station

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tokyo Tower, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. It was their first visit to Japan. They arrived at Narita Airport last night and traveled to Shinjuku by taxi shuttle bus. The main purpose of this trip to Japan was a ski trip in Hakuba. They planned to stay in Japan for two weeks, with only today in Tokyo. From tomorrow morning they would head to Hakuba, and after returning to Tokyo they planned to fly home immediately. They were also planning to watch a "Sumo Show" this evening. It was a chilly day with clear skies but a cold wind blowing throughout the tour. First, we walked from the hotel to Shinjuku Station. They asked for help with "obtaining train tickets to Hakuba" and "purchasing a Welcome Suica Card." We then moved to Asakusa. Although not as crowded as during the New Year period, the temple grounds were busy with worshippers and tourists. There was a long line to pray at the main hall. I explained "the history of Sensoji Temple and of Edo into Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various other spots. We strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" From here we moved to Tokyo Tower. There were fewer tourists here, so we were able to look around at a relaxed pace. We went up to the main deck and strolled around slowly. I explained the main buildings and spots in each direction. Unfortunately, we were not able to see Mount Fuji. I explained "the size and area of Tokyo," "the population of Tokyo and Japan," and "the issues Tokyo faces today." They said, "We now understand that Tokyo is truly a vast city." From here we moved to Shibuya. The crowd at the Scramble Crossing was not particularly large either. We actually crossed the Scramble Square. There were questions such as "How many people gather here at the busiest times?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. We then strolled slowly along Shibuya Center Street as well. There were comments and questions such as "The streets are clean and there is no litter. So clean.", "I was surprised at how clean the public restrooms are.", and "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" I saw them off at Shinjuku Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Kamiyacho210JPY
    Section 3TrainKamiyacho~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)180JPY
    Total830JPY

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:45 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 15:50 Move to Hotel
    • 16:05 Move to Peace Memorial Museum 
    • 16:20 Visit Peace Memorial Museum, Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Hondori
    • 19:00 Disband at Hondori

    Title: What's a Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America, traveling through Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Naoshima, and Hiroshima, and continuing to another destination before returning home. A few days earlier, they had changed the meeting time from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. On the day of the tour, after departing Naoshima, it turned out that they needed to take a ferry one departure earlier than the one suggested by ChatGPT and the Hotel in order to make it by 3:00 p.m. This was an unexpected complication, and it reminded me that information from ChatGPT needs to be double-checked. I was impressed that the guests apologized and got in touch with me as soon as they realized the issue. From there, I scrambled to make the tour time as long as possible, and in the end we changed the meeting point to Hiroshima Station on short notice. Ultimately the guests were very pleased, which was a great relief.

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @Mimaru Tokyo Station East
    • 2. 9:20 @Nihonbashi
    • 3. 9:40 @Tokyo Station (Yaesu Exit, JR Central Shinkansen ticket office, GRANSTA Yaekita, Marunouchi side station building, station plaza)
    • 4. 10:00 @Imperial Palace (Imperial Palace Plaza, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 5. 11:15 @Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 12:00 @Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 7. 12:50 Lunch @Sansada (Asakusa)
    • 8. 13:30 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park, Azumabashi Bridge)
    • 9. 14:50 @Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 10. 15:15 Dismiss @Age.3 front (Harajuku)

    Can You Do a 3-Day Private Tokyo Tour Before Traveling to Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. They had arrived at Narita the day before the tour and planned to sightsee in Tokyo before moving on to Kanazawa, and finally to enjoy skiing in Iida, Nagano. Coming from the Southern Hemisphere, where it is currently summer, and having just arrived from a region where temperatures do not drop much even in winter, they found the chilly weather in Tokyo very cold. The itinerary was based mainly on the guests' own wishes, and they mentioned that they would like to visit Takeshita Street at the end if time allowed. Starting from their accommodation near Tokyo Station, we walked past Nihonbashi Takashimaya and the Maruzen bookstore, viewing them from outside, and headed to the Yaesu exit of Tokyo Station. They asked about the Shinkansen tickets they had reserved online, so I checked the ticket type at the JR Central counter. Since it was a paper ticket type that required pickup, we completed the ticketing process, and I also purchased three Suica cards at the Marunouchi-side ticket machines. Because one of the guests showed a strong interest in food, I introduced a few recommended dining spots along the Yaeki restaurant street on the way. After that, we walked from Tokyo Station along Gyoko-dori to the Imperial Palace. One of the guests was interested in Japanese gardens, but since we had to skip entering the East Gardens due to time, I recommended it as a destination for another day and explained it using the information board. At Nezu Shrine, they experienced worship in the Shinto style, and they enjoyed taking many photos of the vermilion senbon torii gates. In the Yanaka shopping street, some of the guests bought souvenirs such as cat-shaped chopstick rests. In the Nakamise shopping street as well, one of the guests bought a strap with a small charm attached, seeming to prefer small and cute items. In the Yanaka shopping street, at an old-fashioned senbei cracker shop, they ate one soy-sauce-flavored and one sugar-coated soy-sauce cracker while walking, but since I had explained that the tempura in Asakusa is delicious, they held off from eating too much and looked forward to lunch. Soon after arriving in Asakusa, they had tempura soba at Sandaya and warmed up. They seemed satisfied. In observing the streets of Tokyo, one of the guests noted that there were few dogs seen in the city, no trash cans, that the city was clean and tidy, that there were few overweight people, and that no one was smoking while walking. After lunch, we strolled through Sensoji, where one of the guests tried a strawberry skewer candy in the Nakamise shopping street. Only one of the guests tried an omikuji fortune and drew a "good luck" result. At the water purification fountain, only one of the guests, because it was cold, touched the water to purify themselves. On the Ginza Line heading from Asakusa to Harajuku (Meiji-jingumae), everyone was able to sit for about 25 minutes, and being tired, they dozed off and relaxed. We walked along the very crowded Takeshita Street, and they reacted to the real rainbow-colored cotton candy and the piglets seen through the glass of a piglet café. During our conversation before reaching Takeshita Street, one of the guests expressed a wish to visit a place called "Age.3." As a guide, it was a shop I had never heard of, and I had been pronouncing it "Age Three," but when I researched the details after the tour, I found it is pronounced "Agesan," a name that plays on the idea of deep-fried ("age") sandwiches. Checking on Google Maps, I found it was located quite close to Takeshita Street, so I guided them there and said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station~Nezu Station900JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori~Kanda (Tokyo)170JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Kanda Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Asakusa Station~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae 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 Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 08:30 Hotel start
    • Transfer by private car to the front of Sakuradamon Gate at the Imperial Palace
    • AM 09:00-10:00 Stroll from the front of Sakuradamon Gate at the Imperial Palace, through the Imperial Palace Outer Garden to Marunouchi at Tokyo Station
    • Transfer by private car to Meiji Shrine
    • AM 10:30-PM 12:30 After visiting Meiji Shrine, stroll along Takeshita Street (light lunch)
    • Transfer by private car to Odaiba Observation Deck
    • PM 13:15-13:30 Photo shoot from Odaiba Observation Deck
    • Transfer by private car to Hamarikyu Gardens
    • PM 13:45-14:25 Tour of Hamarikyu Gardens
    • Transfer by private car to Tsukiji Market
    • PM 14:30 Tour ends at Tsukiji Market

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. The lead guest had lived in Japan until an earlier stage of life and originally came from Tokyo, and joined the tour after meeting up in Tokyo with a friend's family who were visiting Japan for the first time. Since the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were closed for the day, we strolled through the Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace toward Marunouchi and Tokyo Station, and then visited Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. Because some of the guests wanted to go to a capybara café or go shopping, we decided on a time to regroup and let each family spend time as they wished. With the cooperation of the driver, we then enjoyed a sweeping view of Tokyo from Odaiba before heading to Hamarikyu Gardens. Although the tour was originally scheduled to end at the hotel, at the guests' request it concluded at the Tsukiji Market instead, so I was glad we were able to see as much of Hamarikyu Gardens as possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meet at Izumo Taisha Shrine front torii gate (9:00) → Guide through Izumo Taisha Shrine (9:00-10:10) → Travel by Ichibata Electric Railway → Guide through Matsue Vogel Park (11:10-12:00) → Travel by taxi → Lunch (near Matsue Castle. 12:30-13:10) → Guide through Matsue Castle (13:10-14:30) → Eat soba at a soba restaurant (14:40-15:00) → Travel by taxi → Guide through Yuushien Garden (15:30-16:30) → Travel by taxi → See off at Matsue Station (17:00). After that, the guest takes the JR to Yasugi Station, and from there travels by an already-arranged taxi to Sagi-no-yu-so.

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Izumo and Matsue Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had visited Japan several times before but were exploring the countryside for the first time, and they had a strong desire to experience local culture. In that respect, it was good to be able to guide them to distinctive attractions such as Izumo Taisha Shrine, Matsue Vogel Park, and Matsue Castle, and it was also nice to use a local mode of transportation, the Ichibata Electric Railway. According to prior email correspondence, lunch was planned to be soba noodles, but on the day itself the guests requested Shimane wagyu beef, so we enjoyed sukiyaki. Since they also wanted to try soba, we went to a soba restaurant after touring Matsue Castle. As a result, we were unable to visit the samurai residence we had originally planned to see.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIzumo Taisha-mae~Matsue Vogel Park770JPY
    Total770JPY

    I started as a volunteer guide for foreign tourists at Matsue Castle in Shimane Prefecture when I was in my 40s, and after retiring at the age of 60, I became a certified interpreter guide and expanded the scope of my activities to include all of Shimane Prefecture, as well as Tottori and Hiroshima Prefectures.
    I was born and raised in Matsue City in western Japan. Matsue is a medium-sized city and the capital of Shimane Prefecture. It is a quiet town that retains the old atmosphere with Matsue Castle, which was built over 400 years ago, and is known for its culture of drinking matcha green tea frequently. I would like to share with you the charm of a regional city like Matsue. Near Matsue, there is a shrine called Izumo Grand Shrine, one of the largest, oldest and most venerated shrines in Japan. The origin of this shrine is written in the Japanese myths, and its precincts are very mysterious. Shimane Prefecture and the neighboring prefecture of Tottori were the setting of Japanese mythology and have well preserved Japan’s historical heritage and traditions. Shimane and Tottori prefectures are not on the so-called “golden route” frequented by foreign tourists, but I hope they will be included in your sightseeing route because they are full of Japan’s unique charm. From its beginnings to the present day, Japan has weaved a long history without being dominated by any other country or, conversely, without advocating hegemony over neighboring countries – although, unfortunately, it did invade Asian countries for a period of time in the 20th century. It is my great pleasure to introduce you to a part of Japan’s culture, which is diverse and peaceful. I am also a guide in Hiroshima Prefecture, the southern neighbor of Shimane Prefecture. I mainly guide visitors to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where I try to convey the tragic event of the atomic bombing based on the testimonies of those who suffered as much as possible. It is a place that you should definitely visit at least once.
    Furthermore, I hope to convey the Japanese way of thinking and lifestyle through various conversations during the guided tour. This is also one of my joys.
    I myself often travel, and I always make sure to have a guide with me. This is because the quality of the trip is greatly enhanced by the guide’s explanations. I also make an effort to make travelers feel that way. Enjoy your trip!

    Apr 21, 2026
    Michelle W
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Matsue Private Tour
    Our guide was Katsumi and he…

    May 18, 2025
    F
    FarTooFrequentFlyer
    Bringing its samurai heritage to life!
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We lucked in…

    Oct 29, 2024
    Bern_Y
    Day Trip to Izumo Taisha and other Shrines
    Viator review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Tshiehnewton
    Excellent local guide for English speakers
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsumi Nagata was a…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkakuji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@OMO5 Kyoto Gion by Hoshino Trsort)
    • 9:00-9:50 Travel (Keihan Train; Gion-Shijo → Keihan-Sanjo, Subway; Sanjo-Keihan → Nijojo-mae)
    • 9:50-11:20 Nijo Castle Visit
    • 11:30-11:50 Travel (City Bus: Nijojo-mae → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 12:00-12:50 Kinkakuji Temple Visit
    • 12:50-13:00 Travel (On foot; Kinkakuji → Restaurant/CoCo Hanana)
    • 13:00 Tour End We parted with the guests in front of the restaurant.

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour of Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of eight visiting from Oceania. It was everyone's first time in Kyoto. I took them to Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji, and then to a restaurant near Kinkaku-ji, where the tour concluded. Originally, after visiting Kinkaku-ji, the guests had hoped to walk the Philosopher's Path, and I had planned to take them to its entrance to end the tour there. However, we were running behind schedule, and the guests requested a recommendation for a restaurant, so I took them to one near Kinkaku-ji that could accommodate their dining needs. Arriving at the restaurant coincided perfectly with the scheduled end time of the tour. Everyone seemed to really enjoy Kinkaku-ji and took many photos. There were few other visitors, so I believe they were able to take plenty of pictures.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo~Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)180JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3BusNijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total630JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus

    Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:42 Miyanoura Port (Naoshima) [Meet]
    • 09:45 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 09:51 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • 10:00~11:25 House Art Project
    • 11:31 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 11:39 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • 11:45 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 11:52 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 12:00~13:35 Chichu Art Museum (including lunch at the café in the museum)
    • on foot
    • 13:50~14:25 Lee Ufan Museum and Valley Gallery
    • on foot
    • 14:35~15:45 Benesse House Museum and Outdoor Art Works (including “Yellow Pumpkin”)
    • on foot
    • 15:50 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 16:03 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • Outdoor Art Works (including “Red Pumpkin”)
    • 16:20[Say goodbye]

    What Is a Private Day Trip to Naoshima Island Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a solo traveler visiting Japan from North America. We met at Miyanoura Port on Naoshima Island, after the guest traveled on a day trip from Hiroshima by connecting the Shinkansen (Hiroshima to Okayama), a taxi (JR Okayama Station to the Uno ferry terminal), and a ferry (Uno Port to Naoshima). The connections were made just in time along the way, so it was fortunate that we were able to meet as scheduled. On this trip, the guest arrived in Japan in January and planned to travel from Osaka to Hiroshima (visiting sites such as the Peace Memorial Museum), then Naoshima, back to Hiroshima (including Miyajima), Kyoto, and Tokyo, before returning home in January. The guest came to Naoshima out of a love for contemporary art and Tadao Ando, and mentioned that the family had also visited Naoshima four years earlier. The guest was currently a graduate student pursuing a master's degree at university. On the way back to Hiroshima, I advised that taking the JR line between Uno and Okayama would be convenient and economical, and I later heard that the guest did just that. The guest was very energetic and cheerful, and it was a fun day of guiding.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNaoshima Port/Naoshima Town, Kagawa~Nokyomae/Naoshima Town, Kagawa100JPY
    Section 2BusNokyomae/Naoshima Town, Kagawa~Tsutsujiso/Naoshima Town, Kagawa100JPY
    Section 3BusTsutsujiso/Naoshima Town, Kagawa~Naoshima Port/Naoshima Town, Kagawa100JPY
    Total300JPY

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Motohakone Port & Hakone Checkpoint

    Kanagawa in One Day: Motohakone Port & Hakone Checkpoint

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Gora Kadan
    • 11:28 Board the cable car and ropeway
    • 12:00 Owakudani sightseeing, black eggs
    • 12:40 Board the ropeway
    • 12:40 Arrive at Togendai, stroll around Lake Ashi
    • 13:20 Board the pirate ship
    • 14:00 Arrive at Motohakone Port
    • 14:00-14:45 Lunch at Ashinoko Chaya
    • 15:00-15:30 Hakone Shrine
    • 15:30-16:00 Stroll along the old highway cedar avenue
    • 16:00-16:15 Hakone Checkpoint
    • 16:35 Board the bus
    • 17:00 Arrive at Kowakudani Station, call the inn while waiting for the bus to request the shuttle car
    • 17:00 The Gora Kadan shuttle car arrives and we disband

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like in Early January? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. They were interested in Japanese culture and history and asked many questions, which made for a lively conversation. Hakone just after the New Year holidays was not crowded, and public transportation arrived on time with no waiting, so we were able to tour the Golden Route smoothly. Mount Fuji occasionally revealed its beautiful form, which the guests were delighted to see. One disappointment was that the Peace Torii Gate at Hakone Shrine was closed. It was closed from the end of the year until February 9 in order to avoid congestion. The guests this time had no particular preferences, so they did not mind, but since some tourists come to Hakone specifically to take photos here, I wished this information had been shared more widely.

    Transportation cost per person

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

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Choanji Temple

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Choanji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 09:05 Hakone Shrine
    • 10:15 Pirate ship from Motohakone Port to Togendai
    • 11:00 Hakone Ropeway from Togendai to Owakudani
    • 11:40 Ropeway from Owakudani to Sounzan
    • 12:28 Hakone Cable Car from Sounzan to Gora
    • 12:50 Lunch at Gora
    • 13:30 Bus from Gora to Sengoku
    • 13:50 Choanji Temple
    • 14:20 Bus from Sengoku to Motohakone Port
    • 15:00 Disband in front of the hotel

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hakone Shrine, the Ropeway, and Owakudani The guests were a group visiting from North America. In the morning it was cloudy and Mount Fuji was not visible, but Mount Fuji became visible from the pirate ship along the way. They mentioned this was their second visit to Japan. I took great care, for example when walking along the roads with the lively members of the group. At Hakone Shrine, they purchased zodiac charms and ema votive tablets, wrote their wishes on the ema, and hung them up. On the pirate ship, they enjoyed the scenery from the upper deck. Mount Fuji was also visible from the Hakone Ropeway. At Owakudani, they purchased the famous black eggs. We then traveled to Gora and had lunch at Ninja Cafe Fuma. We took a bus to Sengoku and visited Choanji Temple. There were almost no other visitors and it was quiet, so they leisurely viewed the Five Hundred Rakan statues and other sights, which was very well received. Before the tour, they had requested ① Hakone Shrine, ② the Hakone Ropeway, ③ Owakudani, and ④ Choanji Temple, and we were able to visit all of them at a relaxed pace, which seemed to leave them very satisfied. Also, I had informed them in advance about the Hakone Free Pass, which they purchased, and this covered the entire itinerary. (Regarding my transportation costs, if tickets for the entire route had been purchased individually the total would have been 6,060 yen, so I would like to settle this with the Hakone Free Pass.)

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMotohakone Port~Togendai6,000JPY
    Section 2Free PassTogendai~Owakudani0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOwakudani~Sounzan0JPY
    Section 4Free PassSounzan~Gora0JPY
    Section 5Free PassGora~Sengoku0JPY
    Section 6Free PassSengoku~In front of the hotel0JPY
    Section 7Free PassIn front of the hotel~Motohakone Port0JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    English / Guide in English and German / Guiding areas are in Tokyo, Yokohama and my home town Okayama. (Since I’m based in Tokyo, I might not be able to guide in Okayama, depending on the timing.) My profile in German follows!
    First of all, thank you very much for your taking time to have a look at my profile. My name is Naoki Shimono. Naoki would be fine. I’m a certified tour guide in English and German. After long years of work at Japanese electronics manufacturer, always in charge of international marketing, I’m focusing on tour guide and interpreter. As of now, I did tour guide more than 50 times in English and more than 50 times in German. Not only in Tokyo but also other cities, such as Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hakodate, Niigata, Shimizu, Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Naha etc. It is always a big pleasure for me to show around Japan to guests from abroad. I’m looking forward to seeing you in Japan!

    Deutsch / Reiseleiter auf Deutsch und Englisch / In Tokio und Yokohama sowie in meiner Heimatstadt Okayama. (Da ich in Tokio ansässig bin, kann ich je nach Zeitpunkt möglicherweise nicht in Okayama als Reiseleiter tätig sein.)
    Zunächst einmal vielen Dank, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, mein Profil anzusehen. Mein Name ist Naoki Shimono. Naoki wäre schön. Ich bin zertifizierter Reiseleiter in Englisch und Deutsch. Nach langjähriger Tätigkeit bei einem japanischen Elektronikhersteller, wo ich stets für das internationale Marketing verantwortlich war, konzentriere ich mich nun auf die Reiseleitung und Dolmetschertätigkeit. Bisher habe ich über 50 Mal auf Englisch und über 50 Mal auf Deutsch als Reiseleiter gearbeitet. Nicht nur in Tokio, sondern auch in anderen Städten wie Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hakodate, Niigata, Shimizu, Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Naha usw. Es ist mir immer eine große Freude, Gästen aus dem Ausland Japan zu zeigen. Ich freue mich darauf, Sie in Japan zu sehen!

    Oct 16, 2025
    Songqi_L
    Highly recommend!
    Viator review: Okayama Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Naoki san is a great guide. He’s very friendly, adaptive,…

    Oct 11, 2025
    Gizelle K
    Wonderful Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    A very organise tour, from the prompt pick up…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:50 Hotel
    • 08:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 09:15 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 10:20 Imperial Palace
    • 11:10 Lunch @ Tori Soba Zagin KITTE Marunouchi Store
    • 12:20 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:05 Dismissal @ Pokemon Center (Nihonbashi Takashimaya East Building)

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Asakusa The guests were a group from Oceania visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to go skiing in Hokkaido. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. They also purchased omamori charms and ema plaques as souvenirs. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they appeared impressed by the beautiful Japanese garden. 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 Senso-ji Temple, they were interested to hear explanations about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as the Kaminarimon Gate. Since the guests had a reservation at the Pokemon Cafe after the tour, we parted ways at the Pokemon Center in the Takashimaya East Building. I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

    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
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    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

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

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
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    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…