Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Sanjusangen-do

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Sanjusangen-do

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Hotel Meet (@Hyatt Regency Kyoto)
    • 7:00-7:40 Travel (City Bus; Higashiyama-Shichijo → Gojo-zaka)
    • 7:40-9:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple visit (including Sannen-zaka, Ninen-zaka, Yasaka Pagoda, Koshin-do)
    • 9:00-9:30 Yasaka Shrine visit
    • 9:30-10:10 Gion stroll (Hanamikoji, Gion Shirakawa)
    • 10:10-10:40 Travel (Keihan Train; Gion-Shijo → Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 10:40-11:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha visit
    • 11:30-12:00 Travel (Keihan Train; Fushimi Inari Taisha → Keihan Shichijo)
    • 12:00-13:00 Sanjusangen-do visit
    • 13:00 Tour ends.  We said goodbye in front of the hotel

    Title: What's an Early-Morning Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari, and Sanjusangendo The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan. The tour company had arranged an English-speaking guide, but since the guests mentioned they would have preferred a Spanish-speaking guide if possible, I conducted the tour incorporating some Spanish as well. This was an early-morning tour starting at 7:00, and I guided them in the following order: Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Shrine, Gion, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Sanjusangendo. Because we visited Kiyomizu-dera early in the morning, there were relatively few crowds and we were able to view it comfortably, which may be why the guests said Kiyomizu-dera was their favorite. On the other hand, Fushimi Inari was very crowded, so they may not have enjoyed it as much. One of the guests also mentioned that the most impactful site was Sanjusangendo, saying they were overwhelmed by the 1,001 Buddhist statues. Finally, I said goodbye while wishing the guests a happy future together.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHigashiyama-Shichijo/Kyoto City Bus~Gojo-zaka/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari~Keihan Shichijo/Princess Line180JPY
    Total650JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Tuna auction viewing at Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo: Tuna auction viewing at Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 5:30 Tuna auction viewing at Toyosu Market
    • 6:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 7:10 Stroll through Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 8:00 Disband at the Outer Market

    Title: What's a Private Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Outer Market Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They stayed at a hotel about a 10-minute taxi ride from Toyosu Market, so we were able to arrive relatively early and secure a spot with a good view of the auction. The guests watched the tuna auction with great interest and said they enjoyed it very much. They were delighted to eat sushi at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market, smiling with every piece they ate, and the guide was able to share in their happiness. One of the guests especially liked the dashimaki tamago (rolled omelet). At the Tsukiji Outer Market, they observed the wholesale shops of the fish market, and there was a shop displaying fresh tuna out front, allowing them to see a 200 kg-class fresh tuna up close. They were also able to watch live fish being brought in, and I believe they got a real sense of fresh seafood trading. They took an interest in dashi as well, and after a tasting at a specialty dashi shop, they bought a set to make their own dashi soy sauce. Since they wanted to take their time choosing kitchen knives after the tour, I introduced a few knife shops, briefly explained the characteristics of Japanese knives, and ended the tour. Regarding one point to note: the guests had just arrived in Japan the previous evening and had not prepared any cash, so the guide covered the bus fare, and they withdrew cash at an ATM in Tsukiji to reimburse me. Not only for the bus, but many shops in Tsukiji still accept cash only, so I reflected that I should have told them in advance to prepare cash. From next time, I will be sure to tell guests in the pre-tour email to prepare cash.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market/Toei Bus~Tsukiji 6-chome/Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    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!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet @Hotel
    • 5:15 @Toyosu Market (Tuna Auction)
    • 6:15 @Toyosu Intermediate Wholesale Market
    • 7:15 @Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 8:00 Disband @Tsukiji Outer Market

    Title: What's a Private Toyosu and Tsukiji Fish Market Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had the pleasure of guiding the guests, who had arrived in Japan from North America the previous evening, around Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. One of the guests enjoys fishing as a hobby and was quite knowledgeable about seafood and angling, so they found the tuna auction and the intermediate wholesale market at the fish market especially fascinating. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, a huge bluefin tuna was just being cut up at a seafood shop, and when I recommended a freshly prepared nakaochi (tuna along the bone) rice bowl, the guests were absolutely delighted. Since their hotel is in Toyosu, they planned to continue exploring the fish market on their own after this tour.

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel-8:50 Fukagawa Fudoudou-10:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace-11:50 Lunch-12:40 Meiji Shrine-13:20 Harajuku Takeshita Street-14:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing dismissal

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fukagawa Fudo, the East Gardens, and Ramen [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour of Tokyo for guests visiting Japan. The guests had traveled to Japan to extend a trip, and this was a repeat visit for them. Since we had an early morning start, I suggested attending the goma fire ritual at Fukagawa Fudo Hall, which they immediately agreed to. They were amazed by the powerful sound of the drums and conch shells, and thoroughly enjoyed the rare experience of witnessing the goma fire ritual. Next, at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, they seemed deeply impressed by the contrast between the remains of Edo Castle surrounded by greenery and the modern buildings of Otemachi and Marunouchi. For lunch they requested ramen, and they were able to enjoy delicious ramen in the Suidobashi area.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKuramae~Monzen-Nakacho180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMonzen-Nakacho~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Suidobashi180JPY
    Section 4TrainSuidobashi~Yoyogi180JPY
    Section 5BusJingumae 1-chome / Toei Bus~Shibuya Station West Exit / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total930JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:15 Meet at Motoyasu Bridge
    • 8:30-9:15 Travel to Miyajima via World Route
    • 9:20-12:10 Miyajima (Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple, Momijidani Park, etc.)
    • 12:20-13:05 Travel to Peace Park via World Route
    • 13:15 Disband at a nearby restaurant

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They shared that they had gone sightseeing in Hiroshima City and had watched sumo in Fukuoka on separate days. They also mentioned that during one week they would go to Tokyo to cheer on the child of a friend, who was competing in swimming at an event being held in Tokyo. The guests were both active and enjoyed walking, and were very sure-footed. In Miyajima, as the maple leaves had begun to change color, we also strolled through Momijidani Park. The weather was fine that day, and it felt as though the guests thoroughly enjoyed the tour in Miyajima.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Memorial Park~Miyajima2,400JPY
    Total2,400JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. After completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima—and have now lived here for over 42 years. I earned a Ph.D. through a national university’s professional program while working at Mazda Motor Corporation. Five years before retiring from the company, I was seconded to Hiroshima University, a national university, where I served as a specially appointed professor. In addition to my domestic career, I spent a total of about five and a half years living and working abroad. These international experiences have given me valuable cross-cultural understanding and the ability to connect comfortably with guests from around the world. Currently, as a Hiroshima Prefectural Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, I introduce visitors not only to famous attractions such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, but also to the local lifestyle, culture, and culinary delights, tailored to your interests. I hope to provide each guest with a memorable experience that stays in your heart.
    I look forward to meeting you here in Hiroshima!

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

    Jun 25, 2026
    52leannei
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing day trip and tour to Hiroshima
    My family…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Shannon_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide was amazing. He…
    Our guide was amazing. He…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Thomas L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with a Great Guide
    Our guide Kazuhisa…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Shijo Nishinotoin & Higashiyama Yasui

    Kyoto in One Day: Shijo Nishinotoin & Higashiyama Yasui

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @THE GENERAL KYOTO Bukkoji Shinmachi
    • 9:13-9:29 Shijo Nishinotoin→Kiyomizu-michi Bus 230 yen
    • 9:45-11:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple sightseeing
    • 11:40-12:30 Yasaka Pagoda, Sannei-zaka, Yasaka Shrine sightseeing
    • 12:40-13:40 Ramen Kyo
    • 14:00- 14:40 Kodai-ji Temple sightseeing
    • 15:00-Higashiyama Yasui→Kyoto Station Bus 230 yen
    • 15:30 Disband @Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) arranged this private one-day tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama area. After meeting at the hotel at 9:00, we took a bus to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. At Sannenzaka, while confirming the venue for a tea ceremony planned for the following day, we noticed that the reservation date had mistakenly been set for today, so the guests had it changed to the next day. We had lunch at a ramen restaurant in Gion, and although the original plan was to visit Ginkaku-ji Temple afterward, the guests were a little tired, so we visited the nearby Kodai-ji Temple instead. After that, we went to Kyoto Station, where I assisted with purchasing Shinkansen tickets at the ticket office, and the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo Nishinotoin/Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusHigashiyama Yasui/Kyoto City Bus~Kyoto Station-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total460JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Karasuma Oike & Karasuma Imadegawa

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Karasuma Oike & Karasuma Imadegawa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Kyoto
    • 10:20-10:26 Karasuma Oike → Marutamachi 220 yen Subway
    • 9:40-10:45 Kyoto Imperial Palace sightseeing
    • 10:55-11:10 Karasuma Imadegawa → Ginkakuji-michi 230 yen Bus
    • 11:20-12:30 Ginkakuji sightseeing・Philosopher's Path walk
    • 13:00〜13:40 Lunch @ Gontaro Okazaki branch
    • 13:50 Dismissal @ Gontaro Okazaki branch (after the meal, put the guests in a taxi)

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Imperial Palace and Philosopher's Path? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests, a group from North America, took part in the tour, with one additional person joining spontaneously. At the Kyoto Imperial Palace, after I explained about Japan's imperial system, one of the guests asked a wide range of questions about Japanese politics, Japan–US relations, how Japanese people view Americans, and the new prime minister, and I answered while noting that these were my personal opinions. Afterward, we took a bus to Ginkaku-ji, then walked down the Philosopher's Path and had lunch at Gontaro in Okazaki. After the meal, in a relaxed atmosphere, we parted ways on site.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike~Marutamachi (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2BusKarasuma Imadegawa (Subway Imadegawa Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Ginkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total450JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at HOTEL THE CELESTINE GINZA
    • 2. 9:10 At Ginza Main Street (from 8-chome to 1-chome, including the Ginza 4-chome intersection)
    • 3. 9:45 At Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 4. 11:00 At Takeshita Street
    • 5. 11:30 Light meal break at Harakado
    • 6. 12:45 At Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, West Approach, Okuyama Omairimachi, Hoppy Street, Azumabashi Bridge, etc.)
    • 7. 14:45 At the Ginza Mitsukoshi Basement Food Hall
    • 8. 15:00 Disband at the Ginza 4-chome Intersection Pedestrian Paradise

    Title: What Is a Private Tour of Tokyo Like from Ginza to Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan, with members arriving separately from different places. Some had visited Japan before, while others were coming for the first time, all from North America. They planned to spend several days in Tokyo and Kyoto before continuing on to another destination in Asia. They had high expectations for food, so the tour focused mainly on culinary experiences. Since their accommodation was a hotel in Ginza near Shinbashi, we walked along Ginza Chuo-dori Street from the 8-chome side and I introduced the main shops. Although they had not yet opened, the guests showed interest in places such as LION, Kyukyodo, and KOMEHYO. At Meiji Shrine, we came across a wedding procession, and the guests took many photos. They were also delighted to see children dressed in formal kimono visiting for their Shichi-Go-San celebration. On Takeshita Street, one of the guests was very interested in a piglet cafe, but since there was no reservation, they gave up on that idea and instead bought strawberry and muscat candy skewers and enjoyed taking photos. As they had not eaten breakfast, they wished to try ramen, which we made happen at a cafe in Harakado. The three of them tried three flavors—soy sauce, salt, and tantanmen—exchanging bowls with one another. They seemed very satisfied. Next, in Asakusa, they purchased items along Nakamise-dori Street, such as birthday hand cream and chopsticks with a name-engraving service. They enjoyed mitarashi dango, a cheese dog found at a stall on the temple grounds, and even a melon-pan ice cream found on the west approach. I guided them to Hoppy Street upon request, but contrary to their expectations, it gave more of a drinking-district impression, so they did not go into any establishments. Finally, we returned to Ginza, and when I guided them through the underground food floor of Ginza Mitsukoshi as one of the department store food halls that had come up in conversation, they were greatly excited. Afterward, we parted near the 4-chome intersection of Ginza-dori, which had become a pedestrian zone.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Ginza Station~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Ginza Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Ginza Station0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Miyagi in One Day: Matsushima Sightseeing Boat

    Miyagi in One Day: Matsushima Sightseeing Boat

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet up @Sendai Station
    • 8:56~9:37 Train from Sendai Station to Matsushimakaigan
    • 10:00~10:50 @Matsushima Sightseeing Boat
    • 10:50~11:05 Entsuin Temple front approach
    • 11:11~11:27 Train from Matsushimakaigan Station to Tagajo Station
    • 11:45~12:40 Lunch @Japanese cuisine Kojima
    • 12:40~13:00 Stroll around Tagajo Station
    • 13:05~13:20 Shuttle bus
    • 13:30~14:50 @Kirin Beer Sendai Factory
    • 15:15~15:30 Shuttle bus
    • 15:40 Disband @Tagajo Station

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Matsushima Bay and a Beer Factory in Tohoku? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were visitors from North America, who chose this tour during their trip. When I asked why they came to Tohoku for their first visit to Japan, they explained that they wanted somewhere with cool temperatures, and that they had researched Tohoku as being at its peak for autumn foliage at this time of year. The guests' requests were a Matsushima Bay cruise and a visit to a beer factory. Balancing these with the viewing times made the itinerary difficult to plan, but I presented three options, and since it worked out to have lunch at Tagajo Station where the shuttle bus departs and arrives, and this pushed back the ending time, we decided to finish at Tagajo Station. As they were looking forward to the autumn leaves, on the way to Matsushimakaigan Station we walked toward the station while viewing the foliage between Entsuin Temple and Tenrin-in Temple. Regarding the meal, since one of the guests was noted as gluten-free, based on my past experience I asked in advance by email how far the restriction could be accommodated (as they said they liked Japanese food). It turned out that soy sauce was fine. I had previously heard from a soy sauce maker that gluten breaks down during the fermentation stage, but that they do not force it on those who are mentally concerned, so I think it is best to ask in detail when there are dietary restrictions. The Japanese restaurant Kojima is well known locally for its catering and its simplified kaiseki lunches. Just to be safe, I asked whether the tempura batter could be changed to something other than wheat flour, but they said this could not be accommodated. When I asked the guests, they liked the atmosphere of the restaurant and said they would order something else such as an eel rice bowl or sushi. The restaurant was crowded, but the guests watched with interest as a group at the next table with a baby was performing an Okuizome (first-meal ceremony), so I explained Japanese family customs. One of the guests admired it, saying, "We should have a custom like this in my country too." The uploaded image was taken by that group at the next table. When I mentioned the guests were also on a special trip, the group at the next table congratulated them warmly, and the guests looked delighted. When I asked how the food was, they were pleased and said, "It's very delicious," finishing their first-ever chawanmushi and steamed persimmon yokan. After the meal, we took a leisurely walk along the banks of the Sunaoshi River in front of Tagajo Station while waiting for the shuttle bus. They chose the beer factory tour because they were interested from their experience working at a craft beer company. One of the guests and I had the non-alcoholic option, while the other had a regular beer. Due to the timing of the return shuttle bus we ran slightly over time, but the guests both enjoyed themselves very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMatsushimakaigan~Matsushimakaigan420JPY
    Section 2TrainMatsushimakaigan~Tagajo240JPY
    Total660JPY

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    May 10, 2026
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    Fun Day in the bay!
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    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

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    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

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    This was a great tour with Riko
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  • Osaka in Half a Day: Kuromon Market & Umeda Sky Building Lower Plaza

    Osaka in Half a Day: Kuromon Market & Umeda Sky Building Lower Plaza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel (changed on the day)
    • 13:20 Kuromon Market
    • 13:50 Shinsekai
    • 16:00 Umeda Sky Building Lower Plaza
    • 18:30 Takashimaya, Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kuromon, Shinsekai, and Osaka Castle The guests were visitors from Europe. They were a lovely group, and some of them mentioned they had visited Tokyo before. On the day of the tour, the guests contacted me to say they were already in Dotonbori and wished to meet somewhere nearby. They had also arranged a private hired car themselves. We met at a hotel and started the tour. The guests were feeling the fatigue of travel and said from the outset that they wanted to sightsee in a relaxed mode today. First, at Kuromon Market, they purchased a five-piece set of chopsticks. They watched with great interest as takoyaki was being cooked. Seeing the strawberries, which looked so beautiful, they even asked whether they were real. After that, since Shinsekai was nearby, I took them there, and they expressed a wish to try pachinko, so I guided them to a parlor. Everyone enjoyed it very much, and some of them hit the jackpot, recovering roughly what they had spent, which was wonderful. Afterward, at Osaka Castle, we walked toward the main keep while admiring the ginkgo trees and autumn leaves. It was a weekend and very crowded, so they skipped the main keep and we took commemorative photos in the Japanese garden. I took them to a spot with a great view. They were delighted, saying how beautiful it was. After that, while explaining the scenery visible from the car window, we headed toward the Sky Building. A Christmas event was being held in the plaza, and they enjoyed the atmosphere. They were impressed by the large tree and took several photos. Since there were far too many people lined up at the Sky Building, they gave up on it and headed to the restaurant early. The Mexican restaurant they wanted could not be booked, so I reserved my recommended Indian restaurant and guided them nearby. They told me they had a wonderful time.

    Hello. My name is Momoyo Kanagawa. I’ve been a certified interpreter guide for 7 years. I have experience guiding not only in the Kansai
    area such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, but also in the Tokyo area. I have a passion for sharing the rich history and culture of Japan.
    Japan is a beautiful country with diverse culture and nature. If you come to Japan, you might be able to experience things like:
    Sight: You can see the scenery of cherry blossom petals dancing in the wind, or the majestic figure of Mt. Fuji.
    Hearing: You can hear the sound of traditional instruments such as Japanese drums and shakuhachi, or the lively atmosphere of festivals and fireworks.
    Touch: You can relax in a hot spring, or try on Japanese costumes such as kimono and yukata.
    Taste: You can taste famous Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, ramen, or Japanese drinks such as matcha and sake.
    Smell: You can smell the fragrance of incense and flowers, or feel the unique air of temples and shrines.
    These are just some of the charms of Japan. There are still many things to discover in Japan. Please use your five senses and feel the wonder of Japan.
    I’m excited to be able to explore Japan together with you and make your visit memorable! I will escort you with the best hospitality.

    안녕하세요. 간사이에서 가이드를 하고 있는 카나가와 모모요라고 합니다.
    오사카·교토·나라·고베를 중심으로 역사와 문화, 미의식, 그리고 일본인의 정신성까지를 차분하고 깊이 있게 전하며 오래 기억에 남는 간사이 여행을 안내합니다.

    단순한 명소 방문이 아닌, 봄의 벚꽃, 여름의 신록, 가을의 단풍, 겨울의 고요함 등 일본 사계절 자연의 아름다움을 온전히 느낄 수 있는 여행을 중요하게 생각합니다.
    또한 일식을 비롯한 일본의 식문화와 지역의 제철 식재료, 신뢰할 수 있는 고급 레스토랑과 명점 소개를 통해 미각으로도 일본을 깊이 경험하는 시간을 제안합니다.

    커플 여행부터 가족 여행까지, 어르신부터 어린이까지 다양한 연령대와 상황에 맞춘 무리 없는 일정 구성이 가능합니다. 한일 양국의 문화적 공통점과 차이를 세심하게 고려하여, 편안하고 신뢰할 수 있는 가이딩을 제공하고자 합니다.

    최고의 호스피탈리티로 고객님의 여행 추억 속에 오래 남을 소중한 한 페이지를 장식하는 동반자가 되겠습니다.

    Sep 13, 2025
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    Really smooth experience. Our…

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    Best tour guide in Osaka
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    Momo is the best. She is…