Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Monday Apart Premium Akihabara & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Monday Apart Premium Akihabara & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Monday Apart Premium Akihabara
    • 9:10 Zojoji Temple
    • 10:00 Tokyo Tower (Main Deck and photo spot from the underground parking lot)
    • 11:20 Bakery in front of Ebisu Station
    • 11:40 Shinjuku (Omoide Yokocho, 3D cat, Godzilla)
    • 12:30 Takeshita Street
    • 13:00 Lunch: Mos Burger
    • 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:20 Shibuya (Shibuya Crossing, Mark City 2nd floor)
    • 14:40 Disband in front of Hachiko

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Zojoji, Tokyo Tower, Harajuku and Meiji Shrine Body: The guests were a family visiting from Oceania. Some of the guests were wearing sandals despite the rain, and I wondered whether their socks would get wet. At lunch, they mentioned that their luggage had been lost, and one of the guests spent much of the time exchanging messages with the airline (all the way from lunch to Meiji Shrine while walking). I had assumed a direct flight would be safe, but they had come via Beijing on an airline I learned about for the first time. Since they were moving on to Lake Kawaguchi and then to Kyoto, they were unsure where to have the suitcase delivered even if it were found. In our prior communication, the only requests were "we want to visit Tokyo Tower and Shibuya Crossing," so I suggested we explore the western side of the city, and the flow became Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower first, followed by Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya. They liked Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower so much that it took more time than expected. Because it was Sunday morning and a Buddhist sermon was being held, we could not enter or take photos inside the main hall, but we walked around it and enjoyed the area from the large ossuary at the back to the Jizo statues. At Tokyo Tower, the rain meant we could not climb the stairs, but we enjoyed the view from the main deck. When I explained that people were lining up for the popular photo spot in the underground parking area, some of the guests wanted to go, so we waited about 15 minutes to take a photo of Tokyo Tower framed by the stairs. Takeshita Street, which I had expected to be quieter because of the rain, was as crowded as ever, so weekends may be best avoided. Everywhere was crowded at lunchtime, and I apologized for keeping the guests waiting, but we were able to get into a MOS Burger without lining up and had our meal. At Meiji Shrine it happened to be 2 o'clock, so they watched the Shinto ritual drumming with great interest for a long time. I was surprised, and somewhat humbled, that "Seven-Eleven" was not understood at one point. Despite the worry over the lost luggage, everyone thoroughly enjoyed sightseeing in Tokyo without letting it show.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayIwamotocho~Shibakoen220JPY
    Section 2SubwayKamiyacho~Ebisu180JPY
    Section 3TrainEbisu~Shinjuku200JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total920JPY

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet @ Hotel Kaminarimon by HULIC (2-16-11 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Hotel)
    • 2) 10:05 Asakusa <Senso-ji Temple・Nakamise Shopping Street>
    • 3) 11:30 Higashi-Gyoen (East Gardens) <Hirakawamon Gate→Ninomaru Garden→Otemon Gate>
    • 4) 12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 5) 13:20 Shibuya <Crossing>
    • 6) 14:00 Dismiss @ Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA 2F Store (5-1-21 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 6QFRONT 2F)

    Title: What Is a Private Rainy-Day Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private Tokyo walking tour for a group visiting from North America. Before the tour, the guests indicated that every part of the proposed itinerary was fine except for Tsukiji, so I sent back a revised plan accordingly. Late the night before, a message arrived from an overseas travel agency asking whether the tour would go ahead as scheduled despite an approaching typhoon. Because the weather forecast showed a typhoon without a violent-wind zone, I had immediately replied that the tour could proceed as planned. At the meeting point on the day, we confirmed this again and started the tour. The guests had already downloaded the PASMO/SUICA app in advance. Some of the guests had spent very little time sightseeing in Tokyo during a past stay in Japan, so we followed the planned itinerary of Senso-ji Temple, the Japanese garden at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and the Shibuya crossing. On the trains between destinations, I shared recommendations for restaurants within Tokyo's 23 wards via a messaging app. I also heard interesting stories connected to the guests' university background, and recommended sightseeing spots in Okayama, such as Kurashiki, as well as the Takehara district in the outskirts of Hiroshima. Although there was intermittent rain due to the approaching typhoon, we were able to visit all of the planned destinations, and we parted ways with smiles at a spot overlooking the Shibuya scramble crossing.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Takebashi290JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total660JPY

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 2. 08:05 To Tsukiji Market via the Toei Oedo Line
    • 3. 08:30-09:10 At Tsukiji Market
    • 4. 09:10-09:30 At Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 5. 09:40 Photo shoot in front of the Kabukiza Theatre
    • 6. 10:05-11:15 At Asakusa (Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Rokku)
    • 7. 11:20 To Meiji-jingumae via Omotesando on the Ginza Line
    • 8. 11:55 Lunch at Kyushu Jangara Ramen
    • 9. 12:30-12:50 At Takeshita Street
    • 10. 13:00-13:45 At Meiji Shrine
    • 11. 13:45 To Shinjuku via the Yamanote Line
    • 12. 14:00 Disband at Hyatt Regency Tokyo

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were extremely sensible and warm-hearted people. Since we had decided the itinerary in advance through email exchanges, the tour proceeded smoothly on the day. The guests were very interested in Japanese history and culture. For lunch, I guided them to a Nagahama ramen restaurant in Harajuku, and they were delighted, saying it was delicious. As the guests were on a special trip, I gave them Edo Kiriko sake cups shaped like Mount Fuji, which they were very pleased to receive. Overall, I believe the guests were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2SubwayHigashi-ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku160JPY
    Total920JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

    Jul 11, 2026
    912courtneyp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great family guide
    May was a great tour guide.…

    Jun 27, 2026
    LPMarchica
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 Recommend
    We had an incredible time exploring Tokyo with our guide,…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Alisha_W
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    May was an enthusiastic…
    May was an enthusiastic and well informed guide.…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Meet at Hotel Kyobashi (2 min from Metro Kyobashi Station). Explain the history of Ginza Street. Also explain the relationship between Edo Castle and the Imperial Palace
    • 0955 Harajuku. Visit Meiji Shrine. Takeshita Street
    • 1135 Shibuya. Hachiko Statue. Scramble Crossing
    • 1225 Asakusa. Azuma Bridge. Kaminarimon. Nakamise. Senso-ji Temple. Asakusa Shrine
    • 1340 Escort to Kyobashi Station and disband

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like During Typhoon Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of them had been to Japan before for work but had never done sightseeing here, while the others were visiting Japan for the first time. They had toured the Kansai region first and arrived in Tokyo two days earlier. The previous day, at the request of one of the guests, they purchased figures in Akihabara and also visited Character Street at Tokyo Station. This morning, Typhoon No. 8 was approaching the Kanto region and the weather was very rough, and Typhoon No. 7 was expected to approach tonight, so we were able to do our sightseeing right in the window between the two storms. They even mentioned having experienced an earthquake the previous night, and rather than being alarmed, they seemed to find it all quite entertaining. They will depart to return home tomorrow morning. As it was the final day of their trip, there was no particular interest in shopping. Because of the unfortunate weather, the upper observation areas of Shibuya Sky and the views from Tokyo Skytree were almost entirely obscured. Even so, although we had been worried about the bad weather caused by the typhoon, it stayed at only a light rain, and we were able to finish safely. Taking the typhoon into account, we decided not to have a meal in Asakusa and to return to the Hotel instead.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyobashi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Kyobashi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total840JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by rail to Fushimi Inari
    • AM 09:30-10:30 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • Travel by rail and bus to Yasaka Pagoda
    • AM 11:00- PM 12:00 From Yasaka Pagoda to Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, then to Yasaka Shrine
    • PM 12:00-12:30 Visit Yasaka Shrine; tour ends at the guest-designated Maruyama Archery Range

    What Is a Private Family-Style Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America on a family trip. Because a hands-on kyudo (Japanese archery) program had been arranged near Yasaka Shrine for the end of the tour, I guided them along the pre-set course as instructed by the travel agency. Although it slightly overlapped with a matcha experience they had done a few days earlier, I believe they still enjoyed it. One of the guests was collecting 5-yen and 50-yen coins, saying they wanted to make a necklace out of them, so we had them exchanged at a convenience store along the way and at the kyudo venue.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShichijo~Fushimi Inari180JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total560JPY

    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。

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:20 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Asakusa・Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:10 Shibuya
    • 15:40 Tour ends at Shibuya

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They did not eat meat or fish, but since they were interested in Japanese culture, we first headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market. They were surprised to find a scene completely different from the refined image of Japan they had originally held, but they were amazed by the deliciousness of the fruit and wanted to buy several varieties to savor slowly. One of the guests seemed to have studied Japanese culture well, knowing about Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, and actively asked questions about their connections and history. They also spoke about their strong interest in Kyoto, which they would visit afterward. At Meiji Shrine, the guests seemed to discover many similarities between Shinto and their own traditions, and expressed great admiration. Finally, I took them to the Pokémon Center in Shibuya, and the tour concluded there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Kanda (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4TrainKanda (Tokyo)~Yoyogi210JPY
    Total960JPY

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meet at Mimaru Tokyo Shinjuku West
    • 2. 8:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 9:45 Tsukiji
    • 4. 10:45 Nezu Shrine
    • 5. 11:15 Yanaka
    • 6. 12:15 Lunch (Ra-men Hayashida Asakusa Branch)
    • 7. 12:45 Asakusa
    • 8. 14:00 Disband at Sensoji Temple grounds

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, Yanaka, and Asakusa The guests were a group of four visiting from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to visit Hakone and Kyoto in addition to Tokyo during a roughly one-week stay in Japan. It was everyone's first visit to Japan. The tour covered Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, Nezu Shrine, Yanaka, and Asakusa. At the start of the tour, there was a problem when the Suica app installed on one of the guests' smartphones would not respond at the ticket gate. The reason was unclear, but I had them use a Suica card they had brought with them, and we began the tour. The spare Suica card I had brought just in case turned out to be useful. Since we visited traditional sites, I was a little concerned that some of the guests might get bored, but everyone listened attentively to my explanations and enjoyed themselves. Because we had sushi at Tsukiji, we had ramen in Asakusa for lunch. The guests said both were delicious. At the end, I explained how to get back to the hotel from the grounds of Senso-ji Temple, and the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji~Nezu180JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori~Asakusa340JPY
    Total890JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Mitsukoshimae Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Mitsukoshimae Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meeting place: Monday Apart Premium NIHONBASHI
    • 13:10 Depart Mitsukoshimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 14:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 14:20 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:10 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:45 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 16:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive Mitsukoshimae Station
    • 17:00 Dismissal: Mitsukoshimae Station

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. One of them had visited Japan more than 20 years ago, while the rest were visiting for the first time. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening by air and traveled into the city on the Narita Express. This time they were on a 14-day trip to Japan. After spending four days in Tokyo, they planned to visit Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then return to Tokyo before heading home. For today, their request was: "We want to visit the main spots in Tokyo to get used to Japan, and we would like to get accustomed to riding the trains and subways." The previous evening, they had strolled around the area near their hotel and bought dinner at a convenience store. They said, "The Seven-Eleven in Japan, unlike back home, has a wide variety of food, and it was extremely delicious." They mentioned, "Tomorrow we plan to go to teamLab Planets, and the day after to the Ghibli Museum." It was a cloudy day, and the tour was occasionally interrupted by rain. First, we went to Asakusa. We started in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various other spots. We slowly strolled along the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What is the main religion in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" We moved to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained about "Japanese history from Edo to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history of the Imperial family," "World War II and the Tokyo air raids," and "how stone walls are built." There were questions and comments such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?", "Who will be the next Emperor?", and "Can a woman become Emperor?" There was also a question: "How were the stones for the stone walls transported?" We moved on to Harajuku, to Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?", and "Are there Shinto shrines overseas as well?" We also strolled along Takeshita Street. They said, "We'd like to try going to an animal cafe tomorrow." There were comments and questions such as "The city is clean and there's no litter on the ground," and "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" I saw them off at Ueno Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMitsukoshimae~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4OtherMeiji-jingumae~Mitsukoshimae210JPY
    Total780JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
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    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

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    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

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    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

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  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Station & 13]30 Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Station & 13]30 Kokoen Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:33 Arrive at Himeji Station
    • 11:00-12:40 Himeji Castle
    • 12:50-13]30 Kokoen Garden
    • 13:55 Himeji Station, buy lunch
    • 14:15 End at the Shinkansen platform

    What's a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After the assignment was confirmed, we stayed in close contact and the tour proceeded smoothly and on schedule, just as requested. Due to the timing of the bullet train reservations, it was a fast-paced tour, but since the entire group was in good walking form, we took almost no breaks and had no issues. The heavy rain of the previous day had cleared into a cloudy sky, but the guests seemed very satisfied. The group was fascinated by the samurai theme. At Koko-en Garden, they were drawn to the colorful koi and peered into the ponds of each garden section. Everyone was also captivated by the seasonal flowers blooming here and there and by the beautiful moss glistening after the rain.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHimeji Station~Himeji Station300JPY
    Total300JPY

    Hello. I am Nishimoto Mutsuko. Please call me Nishi. I am a woman in my 50s. I was born in Himeji and live in Himeji now. I will help you enjoy your visit of Japan: sightseeing, Japanese history, culture, food and shopping. In Himeji we have a world- famous Himeji Castle. You will surely be mesmerized to see such a big wooden structure building with strategies of attack and defense. There are also a nice garden near the castle, a sake brewery and an old famous temple in the mountain. I can customize a tour as much as possible to meet your reqursts. I have guided as a national licenced guide since 2019.
    I can speak Spanish in conversational level.
    I look forward to seeing you!
    Thank you.

    Apr 14, 2025
    Emily_P
    Great morning activity,…
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great morning activity, Nishi was a wonderful guide! Perfect…

    Oct 6, 2024
    mackenzies830
    Thank you for an enjoyable experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nishi is awesome and we enjoyed…

    Sep 23, 2024
    Ambassador814802
    Niemals ohne Nishi
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toller Guide: kompetent, freundlich und außerordentlich hilfreich
    Sehr beeindruckende…

    Sep 14, 2024
    Edlen S
    Best of Himeji
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had an awesome and fun experience with Nishi.…

  • Hokkaido in Half a Day: Shiroi Koibito Park & Sapporo Outer Market

    Hokkaido in Half a Day: Shiroi Koibito Park & Sapporo Outer Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:15 Hotel JAL City Sapporo Nakajima Park
    • 09:30-10:00 Odori Park & TV Tower Observation Deck
    • 1000-10:20 Hokkaido Shrine
    • 10:50-11:00 Shiroi Koibito Park
    • 12:20-14:40 Sapporo Outer Market
    • 14:00 Disband at Odori

    What's a Full-Day Private Sapporo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine all day, and the group enjoyed strolling through Odori Park while admiring the beautiful flowers. They went up to the TV Tower observation deck and enjoyed the panoramic view of Sapporo while listening to my explanations. At Hokkaido Shrine, despite being in the heart of a major city like Sapporo, the guests felt their hearts soothed by the vast, sacred, and tranquil space, and were very satisfied. They were also convinced and pleased by my explanations about Shinto and shrines, as well as the proper way to worship and the accompanying etiquette. At the Shiroi Koibito Park, the group was delighted, and everyone happily took photos together. At the outer market, the guests took great interest in the seafood characteristic of Hokkaido (Atka mackerel, hairy crab, Akkeshi oysters, and king crab), asking many questions and expressing amazement. In particular, some of the guests were eager to try Japanese crab (Hokkaido's specialty hairy crab) for the first time, so the group had a seafood lunch at a seafood restaurant inside the market and were very satisfied. Finally, since the guests wished to shop at the Mitsukoshi department store on Odori, I escorted them there and we parted ways. The group thoroughly enjoyed a rich variety of sightseeing, including Sapporo's nature-filled scenery, the Shiroi Koibito Park (theme park), and Hokkaido seafood cuisine, and they were very satisfied with and grateful for my guidance, explanations, and arrangements.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKotoni (Sapporo Municipal)~Nakajima Park250JPY
    Section 2SubwayNakajima Park~Odori210JPY
    Section 3SubwayOdori~Maruyama Park210JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijuyonken~Odori250JPY
    Section 5SubwayOdori~Kotoni (Sapporo Municipal)250JPY
    Total1,170JPY

    I have qualifications such as National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(EN00044)/The EIKEN Test in Practical English Proficiency (Grade 1)/The United Nations Associations Test of English (Super A).
    I have tour guide experiences more than 100 times for such as free individual travelers, shore excursion(travelers of cruise ship),VIP and convention travelers.
    As I was born and brought up in Hokkaido, I am familiar with everything of Hokkaido, such as hot spring (onsen)/ skiing, snowboarding, marathon/ ocean fishing/ sea food/ Japanese food cooking/ driving/ medicine & dentistry (I’m a retired orthodontist)