Category: Uncategorized

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

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Sanjusangendo & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Hotel Meet (@Righa Royal Kyoto)
    • 12:00-12:30 Travel (City Bus; Kyoto Station → Sanjusangendo-mae)
    • 12:30-13:30 Sanjusangendo Visit
    • 13:40-14:30 Chishaku-in Visit
    • 14:30-15:00 Travel (Keihan Train; Keihan Shichijo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 15:00-16:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Visit
    • 16:00 Tour End  We escorted them to JR Inari Station and said goodbye there

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Kyoto for the first time from North America. On this short 4-hour private tour, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided them to Sanjusangendo, Chishakuin Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. The weather was perfect for sightseeing, and cherry blossoms were beginning to bloom in several places. One of the guests was overwhelmed by the 1,001 statues of Kannon at Sanjusangendo. Another guest liked Fushimi Inari Shrine the most, saying that although it was crowded, the overall atmosphere of the shrine was the most appealing. After the tour, I accompanied the guests to JR Inari Station, explained the way back, and said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto~Museum Sanjusangendo-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainKeihan Shichijo / Queen Line~Fushimi Inari180JPY
    Total410JPY

    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 !

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa & ANA InterContinental

    Tokyo: Asakusa & ANA InterContinental

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15 Meet @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 9:50 Asakusa (Nakamise, Sensoji Temple)
    • 11:15 Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Tokyo Dome (from the vehicle)
    • 12:30 Meiji Shrine, National Stadium (from the vehicle)
    • 13:15 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Omotesando (from the vehicle)
    • 13:45 ANA InterContinental
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ ANA InterContinental Lounge

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for Guests with Limited Walking? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. As their walking distance needed to be kept short, we shortened the walking at every destination and proceeded with the tour taking frequent rests. In the crowded Asakusa area, part of the group rested while I guided others buying souvenirs along Nakamise. At Sensoji Temple we used the elevator. At the Imperial Palace we viewed only the Nijubashi Bridge (photo). Since today was an auspicious day on the Japanese calendar, we watched two wedding ceremonies at Meiji Shrine. We took a photo at a landmark tree on the shrine grounds to commemorate the occasion. We viewed Tokyo Dome and the National Stadium from the car window. After arriving at the hotel, I advised them on how to spend their remaining time in Tokyo, and the tour ended. Along the way, we had a lively conversation about American football, MLB, and the Olympics.

    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, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, 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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Akihabara Taito Station & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Akihabara Taito Station & Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Ginza Premier
    • 9:30 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Senso-ji Temple, etc.
    • 10:40 Akihabara Taito Station
    • 11:30 Lunch @ Darumanome
    • 12:10 Manseibashi Match Ecute 2013 Platform
    • 13:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:40 Takeshita Street
    • 14:20 Shibuya Crossing, Center Street, PARCO Nintendo Store
    • 15:10 Dismissal @ Shibuya Scramble Square

    What Does a Private Tokyo Day Tour Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Akihabara, Harajuku, and Shibuya I guided a relaxed group visiting from Europe. They had arrived the previous day and were a little tired, so I checked in with them along the way, but they were fine and we completed the entire planned itinerary. Everywhere was extremely crowded, and Takeshita Street in particular was at a dangerous level of congestion. On Nakamise Street they bought ningyo-yaki, and at Senso-ji Temple they received a good-luck charm and drew an omikuji fortune. Since one of the guests was hesitant about the omikuji, I recommended the one at Meiji Shrine instead, which they enjoyed. As the group liked computer games, they played the crane games and a guitar arcade game in Akihabara. For lunch they chose ramen and happily enjoyed tonkotsu ramen. We stopped by the 2013 Platform at Manseibashi, where they could see the trains running up close and I introduced old photos of the former station; one of the guests turned out to be somewhat fond of trains, so it was perfect timing. In Shibuya, I took them to the Nintendo shop.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShin-Ochanomizu~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total760JPY

    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!!

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

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

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

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet up at the hotel
    • 09:00 Stroll along the cherry blossom avenue from the Sakashita Gate to the Inui Gate of the Imperial Palace
    • 09:45 Stroll through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:00 Watch the goma fire prayer ritual at Fukagawa Fudo-do
    • 11:30 Tempura lunch at Monzen-nakacho
    • 12:30 See you off at Tochomae Station near the hotel and disband

    Title: Can You See Cherry Blossoms Inside Tokyo's Imperial Palace? A Licensed Guide's Spring Tour Report 1. The tour and the guests' reactions Starting the previous day, March, the annual cherry blossom walk-through along the Imperial Palace's sakura avenue in Tokyo had opened, so on the evening before I informed the guests about this and asked them to bring identification. Since the Imperial Household Agency had only announced the walk-through schedule two days prior, on the morning of the tour there were still not many people, and overseas visitors did not yet seem to have received the information, so aside from us only a few groups were waiting in line. The guests were delighted with this situation, saying it felt like a very special tour offer. There are about ten varieties of cherry trees along the Imperial Palace's sakura avenue, and early-blooming weeping cherries and others were about 80 percent in bloom and looking beautiful, so the guests were pleased, saying, "We thought the cherry blossoms weren't out yet, but it's wonderful that there are so many different kinds." At Fukagawa Fudodo, they attended a goma fire ritual, and were deeply moved by the resonating sound of the taiko drums and the flames of the goma fire, saying, "We never imagined it would be this powerful." After the visit, they enjoyed a tempura set meal at "Tenya" in Monzen-Nakacho. One of the guests loves tempura, and there was also a request to try the kind of ordinary meal that Japanese people usually eat, so I introduced "Tenya," a place I have relied on since my student days. They were surprised not only by the taste but also by how reasonable the price was, and were very pleased. 2. Other impressions, notes Being able to learn about the walk-through by chance and offer the guests such a special opportunity was truly a joy for me as a guide. It was also my first time entering the Imperial Palace grounds, and I was very excited. I told the guests, "I usually only see the Sakashita Gate and Inui Gate from the outside, so being able to see the inside is quite moving," and the three of us took a photo with the back of the Inui Gate in the background (see attached photo).

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNishi-Shinjuku~Tokyo210JPY
    Section 2TrainTakebashi~Monzen-nakacho180JPY
    Section 3TrainMonzen-nakacho~Tochomae280JPY
    Total670JPY

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

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

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet up@Dormy inn PREMIUM Shibuya-jingumae
    • 2. 9:50 @Takeshita Street
    • 3. 10:10 @Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 11:10 @Zojoji Temple
    • 5. 11:40 @Tokyo Tower
    • 6. 12:00 @Azabudai Hills
    • 7. 12:30 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 8. 13:30 Lunch@Hageten (Tokyo Station GRANSTA Yaesu North)
    • 9. 14:45 @Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 10. 16:00 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 11. 18:00 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing,
    • 12. 18:15 Disband@In front of Pepper Parlor

    Title: What Is an 8-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe visiting Japan for the first time. A shared interest in anime seemed to be the driving force behind this trip to Japan. They arrived in Osaka and, with one of the group who had experience driving on the left-hand side of the road in Europe serving as the driver, traveled by rental car through Osaka, Kyoto, Hakone, and other areas before reaching Tokyo. I had been concerned about jet lag, but it had already worn off, and everyone walked energetically from start to finish through the full 8 hours. Only one member of the group did not speak English. Within the group they spoke French, and since this was an English tour, one of the guests interpreted between English and French. Our first destination, Meiji Shrine, was accessible on foot from their accommodation, and we arrived via Meiji-dori and Takeshita Street. After paying our respects, they were able to press a stamp (not a goshuin) into a notebook they had brought. When they first asked where the stamp was, I assumed they meant a goshuin, but I learned for the first time as a guide that there is a separate stamp apart from the goshuin. When we approached the area behind the benches to watch a group photo being taken of relatives at a wedding that happened to be taking place, the stamp station came into view. One of the guests was greatly surprised to find a wine barrel from France displayed in front of the sake barrels at Meiji Shrine, and took a commemorative photo. Remarkably, it turned out that the family home is located in the Burgundy region and produces wine as a winery. All of the guests were extremely keen on sightseeing and had no issues with stamina, so before visiting the Imperial Palace I added Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower to the itinerary. They were delighted by sights such as the Jizo statues wearing red caps and bibs, and the combined scenery of the Zojoji Temple main hall and Tokyo Tower. We were blessed with good weather, and when we visited the Imperial Palace, they strolled very pleasantly while admiring the pine-lined path. I introduced the Inui-dori passage, which had just opened for the season that day, as we headed toward Tokyo Station. I also suggested the option of a sushi lunch at Tsukiji, but they preferred to look at various choices and decide at Tokyo Station, so I guided them to Gransta Yaesu North. From the various options, they chose tempura and entered a tempura restaurant at Tokyo Station. They swapped out the conger eel, which one guest disliked, for another fish, and additionally ordered spring wild vegetable tempura (fukinoto, taranome, and others). Everyone, including the rice, cleaned their plates and were very satisfied. Everyone used chopsticks skillfully. In Asakusa, they purchased souvenirs such as Japanese-designed teacups and Kutani-ware plates. They had already made purchases at the Meiji Shrine souvenir shop, but since I had introduced Nakamise Street as the oldest shopping street in Japan, they said they wanted to buy souvenirs there, remarking, "I bought it at the oldest shopping street in Japan." Shibuya was right near their hotel, and they had apparently strolled there on their own right after arriving in Japan, but they asked me to show them the robot restaurant, so I guided them to Pepper Parlor at FUKURAS before we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHarajuku~Hamamatsucho260JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station~Kasumigaseki Station1,100JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station~Ginza Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Shibuya Station0JPY
    Total1,360JPY

    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!

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    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…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Meet
    • 10:00 Miyajima
    • 11:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:00 Daishoin Temple
    • 13:00 Miyajima Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Half-Day Private Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Oceania on a half-day private tour of Miyajima. The tour was conducted in the morning, and although rain was forecast for the afternoon, we were blessed with good weather and enjoyed comfortable sightseeing throughout. Along the way, I asked a question about the name of Uluru, which helped ease the tension and created a warm, relaxed atmosphere. As the guests were fond of animals, they had a wonderful time interacting with the deer of Miyajima. The four hours passed by in the blink of an eye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Total420JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Monkey Park

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Monkey Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Meet
    • 9:25 Fushimi Inari
    • 11:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:50 Lunch (Sushi)
    • 13:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 14:00 Monkey Park
    • 15:15 Depart Arashiyama
    • 16:10 Drop off at Kyoto Station and end tour

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Group Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. It was the middle of a three-day holiday weekend, so all of the sites we visited were crowded, and there was even heavier traffic than usual, which meant travel took longer. Because of this, I gave the sightseeing explanations inside the bus and we walked as much as possible once on site. The driver was extremely cooperative, which was a great help. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji. Unfortunately, it was so crowded that we were unable to take a group photo.

    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.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet up at the hotel
    • 13:50 Stroll around Asakusa
    • 15:00 Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple
    • 16:00 Stroll from Tokyo Station Marunouchi to the Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge
    • 17:00 Disband at Sakuradamon Station

    What Are Two 4-Hour Private Walking Tours of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. Tour Highlights and Guest Reactions At the guests' request, I was assigned to lead two 4-hour tours, one on Saturday and one on Sunday, so I arranged the first day mainly around the eastern side of Tokyo and the second day mainly around the western side of Tokyo. The guests were a group residing in the Middle East, and we had an enjoyable conversation about the cultural differences between North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Japan. One of the guests was pleased to find that concepts such as the "a-un" breathing and the goma fire ritual shared a common idea with their own background, and noted that there were points in common with Japanese Buddhism. Another of the guests was a quiet person who did not change expression much during the tour, so I was a little worried they were not enjoying themselves, but I was reassured when told, "This person is always like this, but they are having a good time." Since their flight had been changed due to the effects of conflict in the Middle East, they seemed a little tired, so on the first day I did not try to fit in too much and let them enjoy sightseeing in Tokyo at a relaxed pace. 2. Other Impressions, Notes, and Requests I heard that flight cancellations have become quite frequent in the Middle East, and the guests were also forced to change both their outbound and return flights. If the situation in the Middle East continues, it seems likely that connecting flights on major carriers will continue to be affected, and I am concerned that sudden tour cancellations may become more common in the future.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNishi-Shinjuku~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Monzen-Nakacho210JPY
    Section 3TrainMonzen-Nakacho~Tokyo180JPY
    Total650JPY

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

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

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Lake Chuzenji & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tochigi in One Day: Lake Chuzenji & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at The Ritz-Carlton Nikko
    • 10:10 Lake Chuzenji
    • 10:20 Kegon Falls
    • 11:30 Break @ Nishisando Chaya
    • 11:55 Toshogu Shrine
    • 13:00 Rinnoji Temple
    • 13:35 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 14:00 Disband in front of Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was good and the tour proceeded smoothly. The guests mentioned feeling cold as early as when we were taking photos at Lake Chuzenji, and they bought neck warmers and hats at the shop by Kegon Falls. It was a pity that the main flow of water at Kegon Falls was low. After a break, we visited Toshogu Shrine, but the guests did not seem very interested and kept moving ahead, asking where we would go next, so we went around quite quickly. They took plenty of photos and enjoyed doing so. They also took many photos at the exterior of Rinnoji Temple and at Shinkyo Bridge, and had a good time. In front of Tobu Nikko Station, the guests said they were going to a convenience store next, so with their agreement we ended the tour there. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusChuzenji Onsen/Tobu Bus~Nishisando Entrance/Tobu Bus1,150JPY
    Section 2BusShinkyo/Tobu Bus~Tobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Total1,370JPY

    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…

  • Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo by Car

    Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:20 Meet 8:30 Hotel by car 10:30 Kawaguchiko Oishi Park 11:30 Fujiyoshida Aiya Lunch 12:40 Mt. Fuji 4th Station 13:50 Fuji Sengen Shrine
    • 14:30 Depart shrine 16:55 Return to hotel Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Mount Fuji Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very bright and friendly group. From start to finish, the car was filled with laughter throughout the day. A magnificent view of Mount Fuji stayed with us all day long, and the guests were extremely satisfied. Although we could only go up to the fourth station of Mount Fuji, the guests were able to touch snow that they cannot experience on the flatlands of their home region, and they even tried a playful snowball fight. At lunchtime, I explained kanji characters, which sparked a great deal of interest. Because I was explaining so loudly, the staff of the restaurant asked me to keep it down a little. At a shrine, I gave a basic introduction to Shinto and Buddhism.

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
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    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

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

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