Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Nijubashi Bridge & Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo: Nijubashi Bridge & Senso-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel
    • 9:30 Nijubashi Bridge
    • 10:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 11:00 Ameyoko, Statue of Saigo Takamori, Grave of the Shogitai, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:20 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 12:40 Lunch @ Chikuan
    • 13:30 Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:30 Disband at hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Car Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Ueno, and Ameyoko The guests were from North America. They had arrived by cruise ship and planned to fly to another city in North America, where some of their family lives, after one day in Tokyo. When I met them in the morning, it turned out that, even though they had booked the tour themselves, they had not realized it was a tour with a car, and there was some confusion at first. Once they understood that it did not mean they would be driving, we set off without any problems. Since one of the guests moved at a slower pace, having a car was a great advantage. As the guests had a background in the construction field, they showed great interest in the buildings we passed along the way. They also enjoyed history, so they listened with interest to stories about Edo Castle and Ueno. At Ameyoko, we stopped at a discount store, where they bought several souvenirs, including anime playing cards. For lunch, since fish was not an option and chicken, rice, and noodles were preferred, I took them to an udon restaurant, where they very much enjoyed a chicken tempura rice bowl and beef udon. After Senso-ji Temple, there was still some time, so I suggested other places such as Akihabara, but as jet lag was beginning to set in, they chose to return to the hotel, and we finished a little early. A notable stop on the tour was Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in the 7th century, and is one of the city's most visited landmarks. Visitors approach the temple through the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and walk along Nakamise, a lively shopping street lined with stalls selling traditional snacks and souvenirs.

    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 One Day: Sakuradamon & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo in One Day: Sakuradamon & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at hotel
    • 8:30 Sakuradamon
    • 9:10 Marunouchi
    • 10:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:50 Tokyo Midtown Hibiya
    • 12:20 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 14:00 Disband at TeamLab Borderless

    What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of friends visiting from North America. It was their fourth day in Tokyo, and since they had already been getting around using mobile Suica, the start was smooth. As it was a Monday, we went from Sakuradamon to Nijubashi. Perhaps because of the rain or the early hour, the outer garden of the Imperial Palace was almost deserted, and we leisurely admired the black pines and stone walls before strolling through Marunouchi. We saw the logs at the Marunouchi Building and the dome of Tokyo Station, and at the request of some of the guests we suddenly had to look for a smoking area. From then on, we needed to search for smoking areas everywhere we went, and a sense of running over time began to set in overall. After a leisurely walk through Meiji Shrine in the light rain, we looked out at the distant view of the Imperial Palace from Midtown Hibiya. Glancing at the deserted 6th-floor benches in the rain, we enjoyed the greenery below for a while. At the food court in Tsukiji, everyone finished their curry completely. After resting at a smoking area, we headed to Kamiyacho. They had a reservation for TeamLab Borderless at two o'clock, and we arrived right on time. With a close-knit group who have been friends for more than ten years, we finished a fulfilling day in the light rain without even opening our umbrellas. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine. Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, set within a vast forested area in the heart of Tokyo. The forest surrounding the shrine was created from around 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, forming a tranquil green oasis amid the bustling city. Visitors often enjoy walking along its gravel paths, passing beneath the large wooden torii gates that mark the entrance to the sacred grounds.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassIidabashi~Sakuradamon700JPY
    Section 2Free PassNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Hibiya0JPY
    Section 4Free PassHibiya~Tsukiji0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTsukiji~Kamiyacho0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Hello everyone, and welcome to Japan!
    I obtained a national tour guide license back in 2001, while I have been busy teaching English full time for many years. Since 2018 I have enjoyed guiding guests from all over the world.

    I live in a western suburb of Tokyo, so I can guide you around the wider Tama area as well as central Tokyo. I love introducing visitors to both the famous highlights and the hidden gems where you can take wonderful photos and experience authentic Japanese culture. Along the way, I enjoy sharing stories about Japanese history, traditions, and daily life.

    I once worked in Australia as a teacher of Japanese language, which gave me many opportunities to communicate with people from different cultures.
    I also enjoy golf — I even traveled alone to the UK for a golf tour.

    I look forward to guiding you and helping your time in Japan both enjoyable and memorable.

    Apr 27, 2026
    Matthew_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend!
    This was the first thing we did in Japan, it…

    Apr 13, 2026
    Beverly_S
    Viator review: Tokyo Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Amazing walking tour. The guide customizes…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Claudia M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Grosartige Tour mit tollem Guide Masa
    Wir haben diese Tour als…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Chidorigafuchi & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Chidorigafuchi & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel
    • 9:00 Chidorigafuchi
    • 9:20 Tayasumon Gate, Budokan
    • 9:40 Kitanomaru Park, view the whole area from the opposite side of Chidorigafuchi
    • 10:00 Inuimon Gate
    • 10:10 View the castle keep ruins from the footbridge
    • 10:40 From Hirakawamon Gate to the Earthquake Ginkgo
    • 11:00 Otemon Gate, Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 11:10 JR Tokyo Station Building
    • 11:40 Asakusa (no need for lunch, make do with ningyo-yaki and melon bread)
    • 14:00 Disband at Shibuya

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of the Edo Castle Grounds and Imperial Palace Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. They had requested to walk from the Budokan, through Kitanomaru Park, and along the outer perimeter of Edo Castle to the Otemon Gate. After leaving Kudanshita Station, the view of Ushigafuchi moat covered in lotus flowers at the start drew high praise. While taking in the scenery, we spent quite some time talking about the Edo shogunate and Edo Castle. Since the guests were fans of the Beatles, they had especially wanted to visit the Budokan, where the Beatles performed in 1966 (they had hoped to go inside and tried to apply for concert tickets, but these were sold out). This may have been the first time I guided someone with such strong interest in Edo Castle rather than the Imperial Palace itself. The question "Did Japan become better after the Meiji Restoration?" was fascinating, and I answered that, thanks to the many policies of the Edo shogunate, Japan is what it is today, so I felt the governance of the Edo shogunate was better. There were also many questions about the stone walls, walls, moats, and gates, as well as bronze statues and stone lanterns. The highlight of the day was the view of the deep moat and high stone walls between Kitahanebashimon Gate and Hirakawamon Gate. It is a place with nothing much in particular, but it may evoke an atmosphere reminiscent of the old days. I was able to answer "Where did the stones for the walls come from?" but when asked "How many stones are there?", I thought about it and replied "Maybe a million," though that was a difficult one. Overall, they showed relatively little interest in newer structures, including the JR Tokyo Station building. It was a tour different from the usual, and I thought this was a rather worthwhile route, while enjoying the many wide-ranging questions and conversation as I guided. A notable stop on the tour was Edo Castle, the grounds of which now form the Tokyo Imperial Palace. Built in the 15th century and later greatly expanded by the Tokugawa shogunate, it was once one of the largest castle complexes in the world, and today visitors can still admire its impressive stone walls, moats, and historic gates that recall the era of the samurai.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya~Kudanshita210JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo~Kanda (Tokyo)160JPY
    Section 3SubwayKanda (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Total810JPY

    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 Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 8:50 Meet up @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal (2-8 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 9:20 Currency exchange @ ATM near JR Shimbashi Station
    • 3) 9:40 Hamarikyu
    • 4) 10:50 Kappabashi Kitchen Town → Asakusa <Sensoji Temple Main Hall / Asakusa Shrine>
    • 5) 11:50 Tea ceremony experience @ Flower vases & tea utensils, Kakinuma (3-21-9 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 12:50 Lunch @ Asakusa Sanshokudo (2-5-9 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 7) 13:30 East Gardens
    • 8) 14:20 Tokyo Souvenir Hall Yamato (B1 of Takeshita Street; no website, address unknown)
    • 9) 14:40 Harajuku Takeshita Street / Omotesando
    • 10)15:40 Disband @ Yurikamome Line Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station ticket gate

    Title: What's a Private Cruise-Port Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report A private guide from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) led the group, who were visiting from North America. Before the tour, the guests had requested a meeting and drop-off at the cruise port, a tea ceremony experience, and four sightseeing locations, so a draft itinerary was sent in reply. The guide also informed them in advance to arrive at the terminal ten minutes before the meeting time and shared easy-to-recognize identifying features, along with an email containing the guide's photo, which allowed the group to meet about ten minutes earlier than scheduled. After reconfirming the itinerary, the tour began on time, with the guests using contactless credit card payment for public transportation. Since currency exchange was not available on the ship, we first headed to Shimbashi so they could withdraw Japanese yen from an ATM for necessary expenses. From there, we walked to Hamarikyu Gardens, moving at a good pace while taking photos at the main spots. On the way through Kappabashi, the guests purchased a keychain shaped like a food sample. We also visited the main sights of Asakusa, and in the relaxed atmosphere behind Asakusa, the guests enjoyed a tea ceremony experience lasting about one hour. For lunch, I guided them to a ramen shop familiar to me. On Sunday the owner was running the shop alone, creating a tense and busy atmosphere, but the guests embraced this as part of the travel experience and finished their ramen. At the East Gardens, despite the short stay, there was a lively exchange of questions and answers about the shogun and the imperial system, as the guests had studied a great deal about Japan beforehand. On the way to Harajuku, I informed the guests that we were likely to run past the scheduled tour end time, and they agreed to continue. Finally in Harajuku, I guided them first to a souvenir shop they had in mind, where they finished their shopping, before heading into the bustle of Takeshita Street. The energetic way the guests enjoyed their trip left a strong impression. We parted at the station ticket gate nearest the terminal with smiles and a hug. A notable stop on the tour was Hamarikyu Gardens. Hamarikyu Gardens is a traditional Japanese landscape garden located near Tokyo Bay, originally developed as a feudal lord's residence and later used as a strolling garden for the Tokugawa shogun family. The garden is famous for its seawater pond, whose level changes with the tides, as well as its tea house on an island reached by crossing a wooden bridge. Surrounded by modern skyscrapers, it offers a striking contrast between historic scenery and the contemporary cityscape.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shimbashi390JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Tawaramachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Takebashi290JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 6TrainShimbashi~Tokyo International Cruise Terminal390JPY
    Total1,670JPY

    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!

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    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…

  • Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji

    Tour Itinerary

    • Temple
    • 14:30 Kinkaku-ji
    • 15:10 Disband at the Kinkaku-ji taxi stand

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Daitoku-ji Today's guests were a group visiting from North America, who were traveling around Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka. The previous day they had visited Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Nijo Castle, and it became clear that they did not particularly want to focus on the Arashiyama and Sagano area. I therefore adjusted the itinerary on the spot and proposed the garden of Tenryu-ji, the bamboo grove, Kinkaku-ji, and Daisen-in at Daitoku-ji, and the tour went ahead. It was a day of intermittent light rain, but thanks to the rain the green of the bamboo grove was beautiful, which they enjoyed very much. They were also delighted by the view of the Togetsukyo Bridge. After that, they viewed the Zen garden of Daisen-in at Daitoku-ji, and finally we visited Kinkaku-ji. Today Kinkaku-ji was especially beautiful, with its reflection on the pond, and they were deeply moved. I believe they enjoyed the day very much. A notable stop on the tour was Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, and it is one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for a shogun, it was later converted into a temple. The pavilion sits beside a large reflecting pond, and on calm days its mirrored image on the water is considered one of the most memorable sights in Kyoto.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Total490JPY

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
    • 9:10 Daiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:50 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:20 Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 13:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:40 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 14:20 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:45 Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 15:30 Daiba Station
    • 15:30 Disband: Daiba Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. It was their first visit to Japan. The purpose of their trip to Japan this time was a cruise voyage around Japan departing from Tokyo. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous night and traveled to their accommodation by limousine taxi. The night before, they had bought sandwiches at a nearby convenience store for their meal. Today, they requested, "We would like to see the main spots in Tokyo." It was a tour in light rain. First, following their wishes, we went to Asakusa. We started in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Senso-ji 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. Despite the rain, we slowly strolled along the Nakamise shopping street, which was crowded with school excursion students and others. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" After this, also following their wishes, we went to Tsukiji. As always, it was extremely crowded. I explained about "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were questions and comments such as "Do all the people in Tokyo come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it does seem like there are a lot of tourists." They said, "We'd like to try something," and in the end they bought and sampled tuna sushi and matcha soft serve. We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "the torii gate," "Emperor Meiji," "why the sake barrels are displayed," and "why the wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?", and "Why did Shinto arise in Japan?" We took a break at the Cafe Terrace at Meiji Shrine. We moved to Shibuya. From in front of the Keio Line platform, we looked out over the scramble crossing, and then actually crossed it. We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There was a question: "Why are so many people crossing here?" There were comments and questions such as "The town is clean and there is no litter on the ground," "There are no trash cans around the town. Why is that?", "The subway is complicated, but very well made," and "I don't see any homeless people." We saw them off at Daiba Station and parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 7TrainShimbashi~Daiba330JPY
    Total1,650JPY

    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
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Station & Ginza shopping and

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Station & Ginza shopping and

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel
    • 09:20 Around the hotel area
    • 10:00 Around Shinjuku Station
    • 11:45 Imperial Palace
    • 12:30 Asakusa
    • 13:20 Lunch
    • 14:15 Ginza shopping and strolling
    • 15:10 End

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Kabukicho, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory 1 I have app. "Go" is more popular. "Please wait at the designated area". 2 We go to Europe next year. 3 It's a law to wear a helmet in the state of California. 4 I want to buy Swatch not Seiko. 5 How many people live in Tokyo? 6 Streets are so clean. What's this area called? (in Kabukicho) 7 Our cruise ship doesn't wait for us at Osaka. Our whole itinerary is changed due to typhoon. 8 Where does emperor live? 9 Observatory deck is free? (at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building) The guests enjoy traveling abroad every year. We took the subway to the Imperial Palace, and after that they preferred to travel by taxi, as their legs were tired and there were not many elevators available. Due to the effects of a typhoon, the cruise plan changed and we ended up traveling to Osaka by bullet train. They asked many questions throughout the tour. A notable stop on the tour was the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Located in Shinjuku, this striking skyscraper features free observation decks on its 45th floor, offering panoramic views of the city and, on clear days, Mount Fuji in the distance. It is a popular spot for visitors because, unlike many observation decks in Tokyo, admission is completely free. The building itself, designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange, is an iconic part of Tokyo's skyline and serves as the seat of the metropolitan government.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Sep 27, 2026
    Jan_v
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  • Tokyo: Harajuku & Boarding begins

    Tokyo: Harajuku & Boarding begins

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Welcome at the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku lobby, tour begins
    • 08:22 Depart Shinjuku (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 08:26 Arrive Harajuku
    • 08:30 Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 09:40 End
    • 09:46 Depart Meiji Jingu (Harajuku Station) bus stop (Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Hachiko Bus ※Jingu-no-Mori Route)
    • 09:58 Arrive Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit bus stop
    • 10:00 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA 2F)
    • 10:45 End
    • 10:58 Depart Shibuya (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive Tawaramachi
    • 11:50 Lunch (@Hokkaido Ramen Himuro Asakusa)
    • 12:30 End
    • 12:45 Visit Sensoji Temple
    • 13:20 End
    • 13:35 Arrive at Water Bus Asakusa Pier
    • 14:00 Boarding begins
    • 14:10 Depart Water Bus Asakusa
    • 15:05 Arrive at Odaiba Seaside Park Pier, disembark
    • 15:15 View the Statue of Liberty
    • 15:25 End
    • 15:30 Board a taxi in front of Aqua City Odaiba, tour ends

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for Senior Travelers? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, and a Sumida River Cruise The guests were a group visiting from North America. As I had heard beforehand in my correspondence with one of the guests, the tour was conducted at a very slow walking pace, with rest breaks taken as needed to accommodate the condition of one member of the group. At Meiji Shrine, everyone carefully observed and imitated the etiquette of bowing when passing through the torii gate and purifying their hands at the water pavilion. By chance, the visit coincided with a ceremony for the memorial of dolls, and the guests were able to catch a glimpse of it, as well as a purification ritual for worshippers from other regions. They were delighted and eagerly took photos with their phones. At the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the guests listened intently to the story of Hachiko and actually crossed on foot twice. At the request of one of the guests who likes Starbucks, and also as a rest for the group, we went into a Starbucks overlooking the Scramble Crossing. We were fortunate to secure a window seat, which pleased everyone greatly, and they took many commemorative photos. For lunch, at a Hokkaido ramen restaurant in Asakusa, each of the guests ordered their own choice of ramen, gyoza, and other dishes, and they all enjoyed them, exclaiming how delicious they were. At Senso-ji Temple, the guests looked at the various shops along Nakamise Street, bathed themselves in the smoke from the incense burner, and at the main hall they mingled with other worshippers and prayed with solemn expressions. We arrived early at the water bus boarding point, and since one of the guests had reserved a compartment seat in advance, we were able to board with priority. This reduced the physical strain for the group, and they were pleased. On the Sumida River cruise to Odaiba Seaside Park, the guests admired the various bridges of different shapes and origins as well as the high-rise apartment buildings along the riverbank, and asked many questions. On the rooftop deck, they enjoyed the pleasant breeze and seemed to truly savor the cruise. By the time we reached Odaiba, the group had already walked over 10,000 steps, more than double the usual average, and with jet lag they appeared tired. Based on the judgment of one of the guests, it was decided that after viewing only the Statue of Liberty, they would head directly to the Hotel by taxi. I hailed a passing taxi and saw them off. At that time, I received a warm smiling hug from one of the guests. The others each offered kind words, saying "It was a wonderful day. Thank you." It was a tour that gave me a strong sense that the guests were satisfied with the experience overall.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2BusMeiji Jingu (Harajuku Station)/Shibuya Ward, Tokyo~Shibuya Station Hachiko Exit/Shibuya Ward, Tokyo100JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Tawaramachi (Tokyo)260JPY
    Total520JPY

    Hi everyone!

    I am Tatsu Nakayama, Japan Licensed Guide (2009-), Certified Travel Supervisor (2025-) and Domestic Itinerary Manager (2024-).

    I am originally from Kannami Town of Shizuoka Prefecture, which is located just south of Hakone.

    My guiding areas cover all over Japan, but I mainly guide in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Enoshima, Yokohama, Nikko, Mt. Fuji, Izu and Chiba.

    I am ready to help my guests have wonderful experiences and unforgettable memories in Japan.
    I always make sure everyone is happy and joyful while your needs are fully met with my big smiles and warmest hospitality. Lots of fun and new discoveries are an essential part of my tours.

    Here is my guide history:

    (In 2025)
    – DEC 31: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a group from USA & El Salvador (10 PAX) – Tokyo Character Street, Ginza, Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo, Asakusa
    – DEC 30: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a group from USA & El Salvador (10 PAX) – Tsukiji Outer Market, teamLab Planets
    – DEC 29: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a family from USA & El Salvador (5 PAX) – Shibuya, Omote Sando/Takeshita Street
    – DEC 28: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (* Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – NOV 15: Kamakura & Enoshima private walking tour for a group from Ghana (9 PAX) – Enoshima Shrine, Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden, Kotoku-in Temple (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    – NOV 14: Nikko private walking tour for a group from USA (3 PAX) – Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi Abyss, Kirifuri Falls (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – NOV 1: Nikko private walking tour for a family from Mexico (4 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple Shoyoen Garden, Shinkyo Bridge (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – OCT 27: Tokyo private car tour and airport transfer for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Hotel, Tokyo Sumo Show, Meguro, Haneda Airport
    – OCT 16: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from UK & Norway (4 PAX) – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tsukiji Outer Garden, Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Tokyo Tower
    – OCT 12: Tokyo private car tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Asakusa (Kimono & tea ceremony experience), Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza
    – OCT 11: Hakone private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone, Hakone Open Air Museum
    – OCT 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA (4 PAX) – Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – SEP 28: Fuji Hakone private car tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Oshino Hakkai, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
    – SEP 27: Tokyo private car tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Asakusa (Kimono & tea ceremony experience), Kappabashi Street, Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya)
    – AUG 7: Hakone private walking tour for a family from USA (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Open Air Museum (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – JUL 24: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Canada (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUL 22: Hakone private walking tour for a family from Austria (3 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone, Hakone Gora Park (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – JUL 9: Hakone private walking tour for a family from Canada (3 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 15: Hakone private walking tour for a couple from New Zealand (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone
    – MAY 3: Hakone private walking tour for a couple from Spain & Mexico (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Open Air Museum (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 30: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Scotland (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Kabuki-za Tower, Ginza (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 18: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (2 PAX) – Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, Akihabara Electric Town, Ginza, Kabuki-za Tower, Shibuya
    – APR 13: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Shinjuku (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – APR 12: Hakone private car tour for a VIP couple from Canada (2 PAX): Onshi Hakone Park, Hakone Shrine, Hotel de Yama, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Owakudani Valley
    – APR 7: Tokyo private car tour for a VIP family from USA (3 PAX) – Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Skytree, teamLab Borderless, Shibuya
    – APR 6: Airport transfer for a VIP family from USA (3 PAX) – Narita Airport to Tokyo
    – APR 5: Nikko private car tour for a couple from USA & Colombia (2 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    – MAR 31: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers (Yokohama DEP.) from USA (22 PAX) – Tokyo Tower, Meiji Jingu Shrine & Asakusa
    – MAR 30: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from USA, UK, Canada, Mexico & the Philippines (40 PAX) – Asakusa & Ginza
    – MAR 29: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Asakusa, Kappabashi Kitchenware Street, Ameyoko Shopping Street
    – MAR 22: Hakone private walking tour (Tokyo DEP.) for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, Hotel de Yama, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Owakudani Valley, Choanji Temple (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – MAR 20: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from Australia (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Skytree
    – MAR 17: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA (3 PAX) – Hamarikyu Gardens, Shibuya, Daiba, Ginza
    – MAR 16: Tokyo private tour with a vehicle for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Imperial Palace, Nezu Shrine, Asakusa
    – MAR 2: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2024)
    – DEC 30: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (4 PAX) – Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Viator)
    – DEC 29: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (5 PAX) – Ueno, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Shinjuku, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street
    – DEC 19: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – DEC 3: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace Inui Street
    – NOV 16: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from Mexico (4 PAX) – Shibuya, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Asakusa, Tokyo Tower (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – NOV 13: Nikko private walking tour for a family from Colombia (3 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Shinkyo Bridge, Rinnoji Temple, Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    – OCT 27: Airport transfer for a couple from Mexico (2 PAX) as Spanish-speaking assistant guide – Tokyo to Narita Airport
    – OCT 22: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from India (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – OCT 14: Hakone private walking tour a guest from Austria (1 PAX) – Hakone Open Air Museum, Choanji Temple, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
    – OCT 13: Hotel transfer for a couple from Mexico (2 PAX) as Spanish-speaking assistant guide – Narita Airport to Tokyo
    – OCT 9: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – AUG 10: Tokyo private walking tour for a VIP family from Brazil (3 PAX) – teamLab Borderless, Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa, Nishiazabu, Omote Sando, Shibuya
    – JUL 20: Tokyo private car tour for a VIP family from USA (8 PAX) – teamLab Borderless, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUL 19: Airport transfer and Tokyo private tour for a VIP family from USA (8 PAX) – Tokyo Haneda Airport Private Jet Terminal to Tokyo, Kamiyacho, Akihabara
    – JUL 15: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Scotland (2 PAX) – Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUN 23: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (5 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUN 1: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA & Albania (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – MAY 15: Tokyo bus tour for VIP participants of “SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 – City Leaders Program (Hosted by Tokyo Metropolitan Government),” representing 41 world cities (some 120 PAX) as one of guide team members – teamLab Borderless, Happoen, Toyosu Fish Market & Senkyaku Banrai, Tokyo Big Sight
    – APR 13: Tokyo bus tour & Narita Airport transfer for a group of cruise passengers from USA (30 PAX) – Tokyo Tower
    – APR 12: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from UK & USA (14 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa
    – APR 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Ireland & USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 6: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from the Netherlands (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 4: Tokyo private car tour for a group from India (10 PAX) – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Shibuya, Rainbow Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and Decks Beach Tokyo Odaiba, Ginza Six
    – MAR 31: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from New Zealand & USA (25 PAX) – Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Tower
    – MAR 30, 2024: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from USA & Australia (28 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Asakusa

    (In 2023)
    – JUL 8: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from India & USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa
    – JUN 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from Ireland (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Garden, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 18: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Germany (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 14: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa
    – MAY 5: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from France, Sweden, UK, USA, etc. (16 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Hamarikyu Gardens, Yokohama Hammer Head
    – APR 23: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from the USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2019)
    – SEP 21: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Marunouchi, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2014)
    – APR 6: Tokyo bus tour & airport transfer for top executives from a German company (10 PAX) – Odaiba, Narita Airport
    – APR 5: Hakone bus tour for top executives from a German company (10 PAX) – Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani, Lake Ashi, Sengokuhara

    Apart from my experience as a professional guide, I traveled to, worked, studied, volunteered in approx. 50 countries and regions of the world. It includes 1-year travel in North America and Europe, 4-year work experience in Viet Nam and 1-year study in Spain.

    I have worked for a non-profit organization for 25+ years, working extensively with foreign ambassadors and diplomats from over 100 countries.

    From my rich experience of communication with people from all over the world, I look forward to serving you for your unforgettable memories in Japan.

    I am highly skilled in photo-shooting. So, you can return home with some great photos!

    I hope to see you all soon !

    May 10, 2025
    P8195NRcaroliner
    A Truly Special Day in Japan – Unforgettable Experience!
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  • Hyogo in One Day: Nunobiki Herb Garden & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Hyogo in One Day: Nunobiki Herb Garden & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:45 Meet @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:15 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 12:00 @ Kitano Ijinkan-gai (exterior only)
    • 13:00 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 14:45 @ Nankinmachi Chinatown
    • 16:00 Dismissal @ Motomachi Shopping Street entrance

    Title: What's a Private Kobe Day Tour Like from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were travelers from North America, and the tour was conducted at a relaxed pace to accommodate their needs. The guests were traveling by cruise ship, and due to an approaching typhoon, their scheduled dates and ports of call had been changed several times, but we were able to meet successfully at the final confirmed time. Communication with the guests had not been smooth beforehand, and the messaging app only became usable on the day itself. The itinerary could not be confirmed in advance either, but it was left entirely to the guide, and we started the tour. The weather was unfortunately poor, but as a result there were fewer crowds at each spot, allowing for a smooth visit. From the summit of Nunobiki Herb Garden, the first spot, and from inside the ropeway, the guests were delighted to be able to see the very cruise ship they were traveling on. The Kitano Ijinkan (foreign residences) could only be viewed from the outside, but the guests were also interested in a nearby Starbucks housed in a renovated Important Cultural Property building, said to be one of only three such locations in Japan. At the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the poor weather meant that Awaji Island on the opposite shore was barely visible, but in a sense the bridge shrouded in mist was impressive in its own way. At the cafe on the bridge's observation deck, the guests enjoyed "551 pork buns," said to be one of the top souvenirs in the Kansai region, which we had purchased along the way, and seemed very satisfied. Afterwards, I introduced a local bakery near the nearest station, where they purchased many kinds of sweet breads. At the final spot, Nankinmachi (Chinatown), the guests enjoyed authentic "Kobe beef" rather than Chinese food. After that, I guided them through the local shopping street and explained the location of the shuttle bus stop to the cruise ship terminal, which departs from near Chinatown, and we parted ways there. The guests mentioned they would stroll around the nearby shopping streets a little more. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were very pleased to receive. A notable stop on the tour was the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, connecting the city of Kobe with Awaji Island across the Akashi Strait. The bridge is an engineering marvel and offers striking views from its observation deck, making it a memorable highlight of any visit to the region.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal~Sannomiya (Kobe New Transit)210JPY
    Section 2SubwaySannomiya~Shin-Kobe210JPY
    Section 3TrainSannomiya~Maiko320JPY
    Section 4TrainMaiko~Motomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)320JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Sep 27, 2026
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  • Tochigi in One Day: Rinnoji Temple & station-front street

    Tochigi in One Day: Rinnoji Temple & station-front street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00    Meet guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • Travel to Shinkyo by bus
    • 11:15~11:40 Rinnoji Temple sightseeing
    • 11:45~12:45 Lunch
    • 12:50~14:50 Toshogu Shrine sightseeing
    • Walk to Nikko Botanical Garden
    • 15:10~16:00 Nikko Botanical Garden sightseeing 
    • Travel to Hachiishimachi by bus
    • 16:25~17:00 Stroll along the station-front street 
    • 17:00    Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Thank you very much for assigning me to this tour. Please allow me to share a brief report on today's tour. Today, I was able to visit nearly all of the sightseeing spots the guests had requested, almost exactly as planned. The guests seemed very satisfied with today's tour. There were no particular issues with the guests, and the tour concluded smoothly. I was delighted to spend the day together and to guide the guests around Nikko. Thank you once again for your continued support. I look forward to the opportunity to work together again in the future. A notable stop on the tour was Nikko. Nikko is a mountain town in Tochigi Prefecture famous for Toshogu Shrine, a lavishly decorated UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The area is also known for its natural beauty, including Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and the scenic Irohazaka winding road. Nikko's shrines and temples feature intricate wood carvings, such as the famous "three wise monkeys" and the sleeping cat, drawing visitors from around the world throughout the seasons. Sincerely, National Guide-Interpreter

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus~Shinkyo/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusNikko Botanical Garden/Tobu Bus~Hachiishimachi/Tobu Bus330JPY
    Total550JPY

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Sep 5, 2026
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    Wonderful day in Nikko
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    This tour was a truly…

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    A perfect day in Nikko with Taka
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    Taka crafted…

    Jul 27, 2026
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    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

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    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…