Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 08:30 Meet at HOTEL THE CELESTINE KYOTO GION
    • ② 08:35 Itinerary confirmation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 09:00 Departure
    • ④ 09:25 Daitoku-ji Temple・Daisen-in
    • ⑤ 10:30 Daitoku-ji Temple・Hoshun-in (bonsai)
    • ⑥ 11:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑦ 12:00 Lunch
    • ⑧ 13:20 Arashiyama・Viewing Senko-ji Temple from Kameyama Park (at the guest's strong request)
    • ⑨ 13:40 Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • ⑩ 14:30 Return to Gion and shopping at Ichizawa Hanpu
    • ⑪ 14:45 Disband in front of Yasaka Shrine

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Daitoku-ji and Arashiyama The guests were visitors from North America. All of them asked many enthusiastic questions, and one of them in particular kept asking "Why?", which made the tour truly rewarding as a guide. Their questions gave me endless opportunities to expand on each topic. At Daisen-in, which has a Special Place of Scenic Beauty dry landscape garden and deep ties to the tea master Rikyu, we enjoyed matcha inside the temple while talking at length. It is truly an ideal place to discuss the concept of wabi-sabi. Although it was not originally planned, we also stopped by Hoshun-in, a sub-temple where you can see many bonsai trees ranging from 100 to 800 years old. All of these are located within the ancient Daitoku-ji temple complex. Despite being a treasure trove of history, Daitoku-ji does not usually receive many inbound visitors, and today it was especially quiet, so I believe the guests were able to fully enjoy its serene atmosphere. At one guest's request, we had gyoza for lunch, a favorite. On the way to Arashiyama, one of the guests showed me a photo of Arashiyama Daihikaku Senko-ji temple and expressed a wish to go to the exact spot where the photo had been taken and capture the same view. Since it appeared to have been taken from near the top of the Okochi-Sanso Garden, we went to the mountaintop observation deck at Kameyama Park, where nearly the same scenery can be seen. I believe we were able to take an almost identical photo without any admission fee. As time was running short, we quickly went through the bamboo grove and the Tenryu-ji Garden and returned to Gion. Since one of the guests had bought so many souvenirs that they needed a bag, we stopped by the famous Ichizawa Shinzaburo Hanpu in Gion and quickly purchased a lovely tote bag. After the shopping was finished, we parted ways. They then headed to Sanjusangen-do, and later I received a message via a messaging app saying that Sanjusangen-do had been wonderful. Tomorrow they are going to Nara. Today, I was able to complete the tour smoothly thanks to the hired car driver, who kindly offered advice throughout the tour. Thank you very much for all the support.

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:40 Meet at Haneda Airport Terminal 3
    • 9:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Inataya Palace Building Branch
    • 14:25 Dismiss at Haneda Airport Terminal 3

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour to Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fair, and the tour proceeded smoothly overall. We met at Haneda Airport, but I was delayed due to a train delay, and since the guests were not at the meeting point, it took some time to meet up. At Meiji Shrine, we talked about topics such as religion and the Meiji Restoration, and since the guests were very knowledgeable, our conversation was endless. As I had arranged for the guests to meet an old friend of theirs in Japan for a meal in the basement of the Palace Building, the guided portion at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace became quite busy. After the guests enjoyed a pleasant chat with their old friend for a while, I saw them off to Haneda Airport, confirmed the collection of their luggage, and concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHaneda Airport Terminal 3 (Keikyu)~Harajuku540JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (Keikyu)550JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:00 World Heritage Sea Route, Peace Park to Miyajima
    • 11:45 Arrive at Miyajima
    • Lunch, Itsukushima Shrine, historic buildings, Omotesando Shopping Street
    • 15:00 Setouchi Sea Line Miyajima to Ujina Port
    • 15:22 Ujina Port
    • Taxi to Peace Memorial Park
    • 16:00-17:30 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:30-18:30 Various monuments in Peace Memorial Park
    • Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had come to Japan only recently and had first visited Hiroshima. Since they had not yet visited shrines and temples in places such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara, the basic explanations about Shinto and Buddhism at Miyajima seemed fresh to them, and they listened very attentively and asked many questions. At the Peace Memorial Park, having long been involved professionally in education, they spent a great deal of time reflecting on information related to the harm suffered by children.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park~Miyajima Port1,200JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima Port~Ujina Port1,150JPY
    Total2,350JPY

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

    Jul 31, 2026
    Helene R
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Experienced guide Hiroshi
    Hiroshi was a great experienced…

    Jul 26, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Miyajima Half-Day customized tour with licensed local guide (Hiroshi)
    We went…

    Jul 17, 2026
    oswaldom406
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour, Fantastic guide!
    We had an absolutely wonderful…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Jennifer L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Perfect day in Miyajima and Hiroshima
    Hiroshi is…

  • Osaka in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari

    Osaka in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meetup
    • 10:25 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 11:35 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:45 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:50 Gion
    • 15:55 Fushimi Inari
    • 16:59! Head to Osaka on the Special Rapid Service
    • 17:55 Drop off at the hotel and end the tour

    What Is an 8-Hour Private Kyoto Tour from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from Oceania. As it turned out, covering five locations within Kyoto City in the 8 hours starting from Osaka was not feasible time-wise. I should have explained this thoroughly in advance and narrowed it down to four locations so that we could finish within the 8 hours. As a result, the tour ran nearly an hour over. Usually the guests will ask something like, "The time has passed already, is that okay?" but this time the guests did not seem to mind at all. Throughout the tour, however, everyone listened well to my explanations and walked willingly despite the heat. The younger members of the group also responded well, so from a guide's perspective they were easy guests to work with. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba (Subway)~Umeda (Subway)240JPY
    Section 2TrainOsaka~Saga-Arashiyama960JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Emmachi180JPY
    Section 4BusEmmachi~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusWaratenjin-mae / Kyoto City Bus~Karasuma Marutamachi (Subway Marutamachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6OtherImadegawa~Higashiyama260JPY
    Section 7BusGion / Kyoto City Bus~Tofukuji / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 8TrainTofukuji~Inari150JPY
    Section 9TrainInari~Osaka840JPY
    Section 10SubwayUmeda (Subway)~Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Total3,560JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:15 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by bus to Toji Temple
    • AM 09:50- 11:00 Toji Temple tour
    • Travel by subway to Nijo Castle
    • AM 11:40-PM 13:15 Nijo Castle tour, tour ends

    What's a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The evening before, there was a request to change the meeting time in order to adjust for breakfast, so the tour was set to start at 9:15 AM. However, there was some trouble as one of the guests could not find their IC transit card, so we departed from the hotel at 9:30 AM. After visiting Toji Temple, since the Kintetsu train had derailed at Kyoto Station that morning, we walked to Kyoto Station. Along the way, I was also able to explain the Otabisho of Fushimi Inari, which was a nice bonus. After that, we moved on to Nijo Castle, where we visited the Ninomaru Palace and its gardens, and then finished the tour after the guests fed the carp at the moat in front of the main keep. This concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusOmiya (Kyoto Prefecture)~In front of Toji East Gate / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2SubwayKyoto~In front of Nijo Castle230JPY
    Total460JPY

    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。

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Port 9:00 – Shimizu Station – Fujinomiya Station – Mount Fuji World Heritage Center 11:30 – Fujinomiya Hongu Sengen Shrine – Souvenir Shop – Fujinomiya Station – Shimizu Station – Port 15:00

    What Is a Private Day Tour from Shimizu Port to Fujinomiya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests from North America at the port and we headed to the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre in Fujinomiya. We enjoyed talking about how the water in the centre's reflecting pool is snowmelt from Mount Fuji, serving as a natural air conditioner for the building while reflecting the designed replica of Mount Fuji itself like a mirror. When I mentioned the reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial in North America as another example of a building reflected in water, the guests smiled. We carefully explored the touch panels and the theatre inside the centre, and also stopped by the gift shop. We then walked to Sengen Shrine, where the guests listened attentively to stories about yabusame (horseback archery), the hoko-tate-ishi stones, Wakutama Pond, and the Kanda River. We enjoyed Fujinomiya yakisoba at a shop before returning to Shimizu. The conversation was enjoyable throughout the journey, so we arrived back at the port in no time and said our goodbyes with warm smiles.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShimizu~Fujinomiya1,350JPY
    Section 2TrainFujinomiya~Shimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)590JPY
    Total1,940JPY

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nanzen-ji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nanzen-ji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30  Meet at hotel
    • 10:10 Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 11:40 Nijo Castle (Ninomaru Palace)
    • 13:10 Nishiki Market
    • 13:30 Shinkyogoku Street (Tour ends)

    What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nanzen-ji, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market I guided the group visiting from Oceania. It was a hot and humid day following the passing of a typhoon, but the guests found it comfortable, as they are used to very high humidity where they live. Since they left the choice of destinations to me, I selected places that were relatively less crowded, flat, and easy to walk: Nanzen-ji, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market. At Nanzen-ji, the group was delighted by the beautiful green maple leaves throughout the temple grounds. At Nijo Castle, they enjoyed the lavish interior decorations and the beautiful garden. At Nishiki Market, they purchased a hair ornament and honey, and finally I introduced several shops and restaurants along Shinkyogoku Street where ramen bowls could be purchased, ending the tour. The guests were in very good spirits throughout, and they mentioned they planned to continue exploring central Kyoto after the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Sanjo/Kyoto City Bus~Nanzenji Eikando-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeage~Nijojomae260JPY
    Section 3BusHorikawa Oike/Kyoto City Bus~Shijo Takakura/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total720JPY

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens & Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:40 East Gardens
    • 12:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Jangara Ramen
    • 13:50 Takeshita Street
    • 14:50 Asakusa (Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 16:00 Disband @ Ginza

    What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the East Gardens, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America. They requested to visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Asakusa. The weather held without rain, and at the East Gardens they were delighted to find that a few irises were still in bloom. Since sushi was planned for dinner, the guests wanted ramen for lunch, so I took them to a ramen shop in Harajuku. They finished every bit, saying the soup was delicious. On Takeshita Street, some of the guests enjoyed capsule toy machines and shopping. After walking through Nakamise and Senso-ji Temple, we parted ways in Ginza.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKamiyacho~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Ginza210JPY
    Total860JPY

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Meet at the ticket gate of Yurikamome Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • 1010 Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, Marunouchi Building Matsugui, Gyoko-dori Avenue, Tatsumi Yagura
    • 1135 Harajuku, Meiji Shrine visit, Takeshita Street
    • 1315 Shibuya, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 1330 Guide to Tokyu Plaza and disband

    # What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Cruise-Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Today was the final day of their cruise. The cruise had started in Tokyo, then continued to Osaka, Nagasaki, and Busan, after which the planned stop in Kagoshima was changed to Fukuoka due to the effects of a typhoon. After passing through Kochi, they arrived back in Tokyo this morning. They could stay on the ship tonight. Some of the guests would head home tomorrow, while the others planned to stay at a hotel in Nihonbashi and return home three days later. Those I was able to confirm were visiting Japan for the first time. On the first day of the cruise in Tokyo, they had visited Ueno and Skytree, so today I arranged an itinerary covering Marunouchi and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, along with Harajuku and Shibuya. Some of the guests were interested in anime-related things, but not everyone, so I introduced Tokyo Character Street at Tokyo Station. At first there had been some hesitation about Meiji Shrine, but since I had explained the story of the Meiji Restoration at the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, and after they entered and paid their respects, they were moved by the richness of the forest. Takeshita Street did not draw much of a reaction. They intended to have a meal in Shibuya, but since their individual preferences did not come together, I took them to Tokyu Plaza, explained that they could choose from many restaurants, and we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shimbashi390JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Tokyo160JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total920JPY

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hyatt Regency & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Hyatt Regency & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hyatt Regency
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Outer Market, Uogashi, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 11:30 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Janbara
    • 13:40 Kagurazaka
    • 14:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:10 Disband @ Harajuku Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tsukiji, Kagurazaka, and Meiji Shrine Food Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. As foodies, they enjoyed eel, yakitori, and tuna at Tsukiji. When I took them to Namiyoke Shrine, they said they wanted to collect goshuin, so they bought a goshuin book, and afterward they also received goshuin at Zenkokuji Temple and Meiji Shrine. For lunch, I asked what they preferred and we went to a ramen restaurant, which they really liked. In Kagurazaka, we took photos in its charming atmospheric alleys. They said the forest at Meiji Shrine at the end was especially memorable. Some of the guests had an interest in education, and some were studying Japanese, so we talked about related topics. With the high temperature and humidity, they seemed a bit worn out toward the end, but the tour concluded with words of gratitude.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Tsukijishijo280JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ushigome-Kagurazaka290JPY
    Section 4TrainIidabashi~Harajuku210JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…