Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Toyosu Market & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Toyosu Market & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 6:15 @ Toyosu Market
    • 7:00 @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 9:00 @ Asakusa
    • 10:00 Disband @ Shiodome Station

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour of Toyosu, Tsukiji, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America on a private tour of the Toyosu and Tsukiji fish markets and Sensoji Temple. Toyosu Market was originally not part of the itinerary, but since we were able to meet 10 minutes before the scheduled time and there was a taxi in front of the Hotel, I suggested a brief visit to see the tuna auction, which they were very happy about. At Toyosu Market, they were able to see the auction of an enormous frozen tuna in the final stage of the bidding. After that, they sampled tuna at the Tsukiji Outer Market, and in Asakusa they bought souvenirs along Nakamise Street. After the tour, they wanted to visit Hamarikyu Gardens on their own, so I accompanied them to Shiodome Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2OtherAsakusa~Shiodome220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Hi friends, I’m Seky, a tour guide in Tokyo, but I cover all over Japan, namely from Hokkaido to Kyushu. I have lived overseas for more than 15 years in total, such as US, UK, Singapore and others, and enjoyed local culture there. Back in Japan, I wish I could help travelers to Japan enjoy Japanese culture, and this is why I became a tour guide.
    In Tokyo, my favorite places are Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and if you are interested in fish market, I’d love to take you to the world largest Tuna auction and/or if you are sports lovers, I’ll go to ball games (baseball) too.

    May 8, 2025
    J
    jeanne_c
    Sell was very…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sell was very knowledgeable and willing to talk…

    Mar 2, 2025
    Joe_F
    Excellent Custom Tokyo Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour, customized to my interests, Edo period…

    Mar 1, 2025
    R2911ISjoef
    Excellent Custom Tours, Great Guides, Reasonable Prices.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a friendly…

    Oct 27, 2024
    Jennifer_G
    Great day touring Tokyo !
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

  • Tokyo: Hokokuji Temple & Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

    Tokyo: Hokokuji Temple & Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Prince Sakura Tower
    • 10:15 Hokokuji Temple
    • 11:15 Kotokuin Great Buddha
    • 11:45 Hasedera Temple
    • 12:45 Dankazura, Wakamiya Oji
    • 13:315 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 14:00 Lunch @ Tsuruhachi (soba restaurant)
    • 16:20 Disband @ Prince Sakura Tower

    Title: What's a Private Kamakura Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. This was their second trip to Japan; on the previous visit they had toured Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, so this time they traveled through Tokyo, Nikko, Takayama, Shirakawa-go / Gokayama, Kanazawa, and Fukui, returning to Tokyo the day before today's Kamakura tour. Since they had already joined four tours with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) and gathered information about Japan from other guides, today I focused my commentary on the history of the Kamakura period, particularly Kamakura Buddhism. They had visited Eiheiji on their own but did not seem to have heard any explanation there, so I also touched on the Soto Zen school. As they had visited Todaiji during their previous trip, I explained the Great Buddha of Kamakura in comparison with the Great Buddha of Nara. At Dankazura I explained the use of perspective, and we walked along Wakamiya-oji up to the shrine. Because I was serving as the final guide in a series of [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tours, there was no need to explain the general overview of Japan, which made things easier for me. Instead, I spoke about the politics, economy, history, and culture of Japan and the world, as well as the national character that underlies them and its strengths and weaknesses.

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko Station & Tamozawa Imperial Villa

    Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko Station & Tamozawa Imperial Villa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40- Tobu Nikko Station
    • 10:00- World Heritage Loop Bus
    • 10:10- Nishi-sando Entrance
    • 10:30- Futarasan Shrine
    • 11:05- Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:30- Lunch @ Daikobo
    • 13:40- Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo
    • 15:00- Tamozawa Imperial Villa
    • 15:50- Dismissal at Tobu Nikko Station

    What's a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. There had been little communication beforehand, and the day got off to an eventful start when we boarded the train only to find that the reservation was for the next day. After arriving, we first helped arrange the return tickets before beginning the tour. As they had skipped breakfast, we bought some coffee, and after an overview of Nikko, we proceeded along a route from Futarasan Shrine to Toshogu Shrine. When one of the guests began to feel unwell from hunger partway through, we moved lunch earlier to accommodate them, and since a reservation had already been made, we were shown to a nice table, which the guests greatly appreciated.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station~Nishi-sando Entrance600JPY
    Total600JPY

    Hello! I’m Yoko.
    I live in Tochigi Prefecture about 40 years and currently based in Utsunomiya, city near Nikko.
    I’m a mother of two kids, and a beagle dog.
    Also I’ve lived in Tennessee for 3 years until 2020.
    I was always happy whenever introducing Japanese culture to local people while living in US.
    Now I’m so excited to introduce you various attractions here in Japan.
    I love traveling, nature, food, Kimono, tea ceremony, manga etc.
    I’m looking forward to showing my guests beautiful places and interesting things related to my neighbor area.
    Let’s explore and have fun with me!

    May 26, 2026
    Samuel_G
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Informative, fun and well organized
    We had the best day with our…

    May 17, 2026
    E1320OQrobertg
    A fabulous day in Nikko!
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day with Yoko as our guide.…

    Mar 9, 2026
    claudiomC4921YK
    The bed guide for a really amazing place
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoko was an amazing…

    Dec 21, 2025
    Earhart_Adventures
    Insight in to Japanese feudal culture
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Full Day trip from Tokyo- our…

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

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

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Mercure Tokyo Haneda Airport
    • 10:00 Asakusa
    • 11:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 12:40 Harajuku Lunch after passing the torii gate of Meiji Shrine Gonpachi
    • 13:00 End at Gonpachi

    What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. This was a tour right after their arrival in Japan, and they had a tight schedule: staying one night at a hotel near Haneda Airport, then spending a few days in Kyoto before returning home. Since they were planning to come back to Japan again after the New Year for a two-week trip, their wish this time was to see the must-see spots in Tokyo and get used to how to use public transportation. I had planned to guide them to the main hall of Meiji Shrine, but since one of the guests was hungry and requested lunch, we visited the torii gate of Meiji Shrine and then I took them to Gonpachi. They were very satisfied, saying it was wonderful to be able to see almost three spots that represent Tokyo, and the guests were also very pleased that the lunch was delicious.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtorii~Shinagawa230JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinagawa~Asakusa390JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)290JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-michi

    Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-michi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet at Hotel Kyoto
    • 09:00 to 09:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:30 to 11:15 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:50 to 12:00 Kiyomizu-michi
    • 12:00 Disband at Sannenzaka

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests today were a group visiting from North America. When a group has several members, it can be difficult to reach a consensus. Each person had different preferences regarding where to go, what to eat, and what to buy, which made it challenging to align everyone's wishes throughout the tour. Since today's tour was four hours long and would end at noon, I asked the group to first visit the planned spots together, and to enjoy their own individual interests after the tour ended. With that arrangement, the tour was completed successfully. Afterward, the group planned to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Sanjo/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayKitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 5TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 6BusTofukuji/Kyoto City Bus~Gojozaka/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori area

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori area

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Shin-Osaka Station
    • 12:25 Osaka Castle
    • 14:00 Kuromon Market
    • 14:45 Dotonbori area
    • 15:30 Disband at Nippombashi Subway Station

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Kuromon Market Body: I welcomed a group visiting from Oceania. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private walking tour of Osaka. The group departed Tokyo in the morning, and we met at Shin-Osaka Station. The weather was pleasant and warm, making it a perfect day for a walking tour. During the tour, one of the guests was moving around with a small wheeled suitcase. Just to be safe, I suggested using a coin locker, but they said it would be fine since the case could be carried up the stairs when needed, so we proceeded with the itinerary as planned. At Osaka Castle, since the keep is set up as a museum, the group chose not to go inside and instead strolled through the surrounding park. The area around Dotonbori was also relatively calm, and I was glad that moving with the suitcase did not cause any inconvenience to other pedestrians or to the flow of the tour. Within the group, there was particular interest in Japanese history, and since one guest already knew about Toyotomi Hideyoshi at Osaka Castle, I focused my explanations in the park on Hideyoshi. At Kuromon Market, partly because I mentioned it was one of my favorites, the group tried grilled eel skewers. In Dotonbori, one guest wanted to try a taiyaki filled with chocolate custard, so I guided them to it. The group did not stop for a full meal or shopping along the way, and since they wished to head to their hotel early, the tour ended a little ahead of schedule.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Nippombashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Total430JPY

    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…

  • Hokkaido in Half a Day: Odori Park & Sapporo Beer Museum

    Hokkaido in Half a Day: Odori Park & Sapporo Beer Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:55 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:00 Odori Park
    • 10:25 Former Hokkaido Government Office
    • 12:00 Sapporo Clock Tower c
    • 12:35 Nijo Market (includes lunch)
    • 13:50 Sapporo Beer Museum
    • 14:15 Tour ends @ Sapporo Beer Museum

    Title: What Is a Winter Private Tour of Sapporo, Hokkaido Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Compared to the previous day, the temperature had risen quite a bit, so the snow had begun to melt. However, patches of icy road surface remained everywhere, which likely made walking difficult. Even so, the guests visiting from Asia embraced the winter in Hokkaido, deliberately walking on the snow and enjoying themselves. Changing the original plan slightly, we decided to have lunch at Nijo Market. Since it was quite crowded with tourists, it took a little time to get a seat, but the guests thoroughly enjoyed the local specialty seafood rice bowls (kaisendon). Finally, we traveled by taxi to the Sapporo Beer Museum, and after finishing the museum tour, we decided to end the tour there. As the scheduled tour time had passed and the guests said they could manage on their own from that point, I left the rest of the day to them.

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

    Sep 2, 2025
    roxannerW1499FK
    Great experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful city tour with Tom in…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 花奈良町 (ツアー開始)
    • (徒歩10分)
    • 9:20-10:00 奈良公園で鹿と遊ぶ (ユネスコ世界遺産)
    • (徒歩10分)
    • 10:20-50 春日大社 (ユネスコ世界遺産)
    • (徒歩10分)
    • 11:00-30 若草山のふもと:
    • 元刀剣製造所など
    • (徒歩10分)
    • 11:40- 東大寺 (ユネスコ世界遺産)
    • 11:40-12:10 東大寺二月堂
    • 絵馬堂茶屋で昼食
    • (徒歩5分)
    • 12:20-30 東大寺の鐘楼 (徒歩10分)
    • 12:40-13:10 東大寺大仏殿
    •    (徒歩5分)
    • 13:20-30 東大寺南大門
    •    (徒歩5分)
    • 13:40-14:00 吉城園
    • (徒歩5分
    • 14:10-20 興福寺
    • (徒歩10分)
    • 14:40- 奈良町
    •    (徒歩5分)
    • 15:00 (ツアー終了) 花奈良町に戻る

    What Is a Private Nara Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report It was known in advance that some of the guests had a mild dietary sensitivity. Since the degree of the sensitivity was not entirely clear, I prepared three options: (1) persimmon-leaf sushi (with some concern because the vinegar was not pure rice vinegar); (2) at a teahouse, a rice bowl dish (with some concern because soy sauce was used) or tea-rice porridge (fully suitable); and (3) sweet rice cakes from a teahouse near Nigatsudo (fully suitable). The guests chose the rice bowl dish, and it turned out to be fine. The guests had traveled a route of Nakasendo, then Koyasan, then Nara, and were quite tired, so their responses were subdued and I took extra care. In Naramachi, at a sword shop, we encountered the crew of a television program, but as the interview and filming had just finished, we missed the chance to appear on the show. What a shame!

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30    Meet at Hotel M's Plus Shijo Omiya
    • 08:45 to 09:45   Nijo Castle
    • 10:20 to 12:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:30 to 12:20 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 12:50 to 13:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:15 to 14:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 14:30 Disband at Kiyomizu-dera

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Guests come from many different countries, so the climate in Japan differs from that of their home region. It was summer in their home region, so Japan's winter may have felt cold to them. The tour was originally planned for a larger group, but one member was not feeling well, so the tour proceeded with the remaining guests. At the guests' request to visit as many spots as possible, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) planned a private Kyoto walking tour intended to conclude at Kiyomizu-dera Temple. However, we ran out of time partway through Kiyomizu-dera, and that became our parting point.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo Horikawa/Kyoto City Bus~Nijojo-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Karasuma Imadegawa (Imadegawa Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayImadegawa~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 5TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 6TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 7BusTofukuji/Kyoto City Bus~Gojozaka/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,480JPY

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at the hotel, Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center 8th floor observation terrace
    • 12:30 Tsukiji, tour the outer market, lunch at Sushi Cho
    • 14:00 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Disband at Shibuya Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like on the First Day in Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan. They arrived at Haneda on a direct flight at 5:00 a.m. and said they had slept on the plane, so sightseeing would be no problem. Since they expressed an interest in history and culture, I guided them on foot to Asakusa while showing them the Kappabashi Kitchenware Street. From the observation terrace on the 8th floor of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, we looked out over the town while I gave an overview of Japanese history. Since they would also be staying in Tokyo the following day and were lodging in Asakusa, I suggested visiting Nakamise the next day, and they agreed. At Tsukiji, we explored the outer market and they enjoyed some strawberry daifuku. For lunch, I told them there are places locals go to as well, and since they wished to avoid the bustle of the outer market, we ate at Sushi Cho. They ordered a nigiri set and commented that it was "very delicious." In particular, everyone praised the minced tuna gunkan-maki. For the move to Meiji Jingu, we used the Hibiya Line, and since they seemed a little tired, I arranged things so they could sit for as long as possible. (Since they were able to get seats, I changed the transfer point to Ebisu instead of the planned Hibiya.) Meiji Jingu was very well received, and one of the guests collects goshuin, so I helped with purchasing a goshuin book. Everyone looked at the goshuin designs and said they were "very nice." After that, they wanted to return to the hotel, so I guided them to use the Ginza Line from Shibuya. I explained that since Shibuya is the starting station, they could be sure to get seats, and that it was about a 30-minute ride with no transfers to Tawaramachi, the station nearest the hotel. The weather was good and the climate warm, and I believe they enjoyed their first day tour in Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Ebisu210JPY
    Section 3TrainEbisu~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total720JPY

    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…