Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Hikarie Basement Food Shops

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Hikarie Basement Food Shops

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Tokyo > East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 10:50 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 12:25 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:05 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 13:30 Shibuya Hikarie Basement Food Shops > Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 14:30 Disband at Hotel Tokyo

    The weather was fine, and the tour proceeded smoothly. During the initial itinerary briefing, the guest requested that we could finish early if we managed to cover all the planned locations. The guest walked quickly and did not take many photos, so the itinerary progressed smoothly. At Asakusa, the omikuji fortune came out as bad luck, which left the guest a little disheartened. At Meiji Shrine, the guest seemed moved by the deep forest and the serene atmosphere. On Takeshita Street, the guest showed interest in capsule toys and animal cafes. I also guided the guest to places not originally planned, such as the department store food floor in Shibuya, and then saw the guest off at the Hotel to conclude the tour. A tip was received.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTakebashi～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya～Otemachi0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 09:20 to 10:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:10 to 10:20 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 11:00 to 11:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:10 to 12:30 Sagano Bamboo Forest
    • 12:40 to 13:10 Lunch near JR Saga-Arashiyama (ramen)
    • 13:50 to 14:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 Dismiss at Keihan Electric Railway Shichijo Station

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in Winter? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visitors from North America. They mentioned that where they come from it does not snow very heavily, but that January temperatures range from about -10°C to -15°C. Today's temperature in Kyoto was around 5°C, and they said it felt like April weather and was very comfortable. They said that all of the spots we visited were free of crowds, allowing them to enjoy a wonderful Kyoto tour. They plan to go skiing in Niseko, Hokkaido the day after next, and were looking forward to Hokkaido's powder snow.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHigashiyama-Shichijo / Kyoto City Bus～Gojozaka / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Higashiyama-Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayHigashiyama (Kyoto)～Nishioji-Oike260JPY
    Section 4BusNishioji-Oike / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Inari240JPY
    Section 6TrainFushimi-Inari～Shichijo180JPY
    Total1,370JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

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

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

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09：50　Meet up ＠Hotel Tokyo Ginza
    • 10：25　Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 11：15　Imperial Palace
    • 12：00　Lunch ＠Hakata Menbo Akanoren Marunouchi Branch
    • 13：10　Sensoji Temple
    • 14：20　Dismissal ＠Hotel Tokyo Ginza

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, the Imperial Palace, and Senso-ji The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had visited another destination in Asia before coming to Japan, and planned to return home after sightseeing in Tokyo. In Shibuya, they showed great interest in the lively atmosphere of the Scramble Crossing. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Senso-ji, they were fascinated by explanations about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as the Kaminarimon Gate. I accommodated the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2SubwayShibuya～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Ginza210JPY
    Total980JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kyoto: Hilton Kyoto & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Hilton Kyoto & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hilton Kyoto
    • 10:00 Stroll from Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • 11:15 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
    • 12:15 Gontaro Kinkaku-ji Branch
    • 14:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:30 Hilton Kyoto

    What Does a Private Kyoto Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Look Like? A Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. I was worried because I could not reach them at all beforehand, but shortly after 9:00 on the day of the tour, they contacted me to say they were ready to depart. Since the reservation was scheduled to begin at 10:00, I was quite surprised, but I had already been heading to the Hotel early, and the driver was also in a location where they could arrive quickly, so I was truly glad we were able to start at 9:30. The guests said they wanted to visit Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Taisha, which I had proposed in advance, so we were able to tour exactly as they wished. Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji were relatively uncrowded, which was nice, but Fushimi Inari Taisha was surprisingly crowded because the Hatsuuma Taisai festival was being held that day. The driver noticed early that the parking lot had become unavailable, so we avoided getting caught in traffic and were able to proceed smoothly. In contrast to the bitter cold up until the previous day, the weather was comparatively warm and perfect for touring, which was truly fortunate. I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    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.

    Request Booking

    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: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the Toyosu Market main gate
    • 05:00-05:30 Explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers in advance
    • 05:30-06:00 Observe the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll around the Tsukiji inner market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    Title: What's a Private Toyosu Fish Market and Tsukiji Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest visited Japan from North America and, before joining others for skiing in Hokkaido, came to Tokyo alone to enjoy three days of sightseeing. The guest had once worked on a fishing boat harvesting salmon and black cod, and is now retired and enjoys fishing privately. Because of this, the guest had a strong interest in fish and observed the unique auctions and other trading at Toyosu Market with great fascination. The auction in particular is a business custom found only in Japan, and the guest was amazed at how different it was from seafood trading in North America. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, I spent most of the time guiding around the intermediary wholesaler shops, helping the guest understand how sushi chefs source their ingredients for the day. The guest was especially moved by how beautiful the cross-section of large blocks of fresh tuna looked. At a shop dealing in dried goods for making dashi, I had the guest taste three kinds of dashi, and the guest purchased a standard dashi pack, excited about making dashi at the hotel to warm up after skiing in Hokkaido. Since the guest had once harvested black cod, I guided the guest to a restaurant known for delicious saikyo-marinated black cod, where the guest enjoyed a freshly grilled fillet of black cod with dry sake. After the auction, the guest enjoyed a sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu. The guest was very satisfied with all the sushi and finished with two extra pieces (sea urchin and eel). During the auction viewing, the guest hit it off with some other visitors from North America and Oceania, inviting them by saying, "Toru is going to take me to a delicious sushi place now — come along!" In the end, a group of five enjoyed sushi together in a lively atmosphere, which delighted the guest. The guest was very friendly, and I was able to guide with a smile throughout. It was a windy day, so I thought walking outside might be a little tough, but the guest joined the tour cheerfully. Since I had shared the expected temperature and wind chill the day before, the guest came dressed warmly enough. The number of tuna today was the smallest I had ever seen, and the auction finished in half the usual time. There was especially little fresh tuna, and when I asked a sushi chef, he said a major wholesaler had mentioned that "fresh tuna catches were poor." It seemed the reduced supply was not simply because it was a weekend, but likely because a cold wave had made the Sea of Japan side rough and prevented boats from going out. Understanding this kind of weather information in advance was a good lesson, as it helps guests understand the realities of coastal tuna fishing in Japan.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijomae Station / Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    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!

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Prince Park Tower Tokyo
    • 10:20 Hamarikyu
    • 12:00 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 13:00 Ueno Station, ticket exchange and Welcome Suica purchase
    • 13:10 Ueno Park, Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 13:50 Snack @ Ueno Park
    • 14:35 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:20 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 16:10 Disband at Prince Park Tower Tokyo

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine, and the tour proceeded smoothly. At Hamarikyu Gardens, the plum blossoms were not quite at their peak, but the guests took many photos and enjoyed themselves. In Asakusa, they browsed various shops and drew omikuji fortunes. After exchanging tickets and taking care of other arrangements at Ueno Station, I introduced Toshogu Shrine and the five-story pagoda, and the guests were surprised that such old buildings still remain. We bought some snacks at a convenience store and ate them in Ueno Park, then visited Meiji Shrine, where I gave an explanation of Shinto. Since we had a little time to spare, we walked through Takeshita Street before I saw the guests off at their Hotel, ending the tour. The guests appeared very satisfied with the tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkabanebashi～Shiodome900JPY
    Section 2Free PassShiodome～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 4Free PassYushima～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Akabanebashi0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kappabashi

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kappabashi

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:20 Head to the front of the Imperial Palace via Tokyo Station
    • 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:20 Shibuya
    • 14:00 Asakusa / Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:50 Kappabashi
    • 15:30 Tour ends at Kappabashi

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America. They mentioned that the day before they had visited the Tsukiji Outer Market, Harajuku, and Shinjuku on their own, so today we chose other locations. Since they would be heading to Kyoto in two days and were worried about the transfer at Tokyo Station, I explained how to use the Shinkansen and introduced ekiben (station bento boxes) at Tokyo Station before heading to the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge. Along the way, I introduced Japan's modern history and its relationship with the Imperial Family, as well as the background of how the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the difference between shrines and temples and the background of Shinto, and the guests seemed to appreciate learning about uniquely Japanese customs for the first time. They mentioned that back home they often ate "Ichiran instant noodles" from the supermarket, so I took them to the actual Ichiran shop in Shibuya, which delighted them greatly. Finally, we headed to Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple, and I also took them to Kappabashi, which they had requested in advance, before ending the tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

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

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

    Request Booking

    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

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

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

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet at Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome
    • 5:30 Toyosu Market
    • 7:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 8:00 Dismissal

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The hotel changed at the last minute, which caused a bit of a scramble, but the staff quickly shared the updated information, which was a great help. They were truly wonderful people, and our conversations were very lively. They had covered most Japanese foods during their trip, and it seemed they had also shopped so much that their newly purchased suitcase could barely hold everything. They were amazed and called it crazy that a tuna had been auctioned off for 500 million yen at the New Year's first auction. They were very satisfied, gave me a generous token of thanks, and we said goodbye with everyone offering hugs.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Station/Toei Bus～Tsukiji/Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Tokyo
    • 10:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:45 Asakusa (Skytree photos) > Buy snacks and eat while moving
    • 13:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:55 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory
    • 15:30 Disband at Hotel Tokyo

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was very nice with little wind, so the tour proceeded smoothly. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the garden areas were not crowded, but the honmaru area where the cherry blossoms were in bloom was quite busy. It was a shame we could not see the long-finned nishikigoi carp up close. Asakusa was very crowded. Since no time had been set aside for lunch, the guests bought snacks, sandwiches, and coffee at a convenience store and ate in the car. After visiting Meiji Shrine, we had some time left, so we went to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. This is where the taxi portion ended. Although Mount Fuji was not visible, the guests enjoyed the view, and we saw them off at their hotel to conclude the tour. A tip was received.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus & Benesse House Museum Bus

    Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus & Benesse House Museum Bus

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:42 Miyanoura Port [Meet]
    • 09:50 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • by town bus (special delivery bus)
    • 09:55 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • 10:00~11:25 House Art Project (Ishibashi, Haisha, Gokaisho, Kadoya)
    • 11:31 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 11:39 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • 11:50~12:45 lunch at Naoshima-Shokudo
    • 13:00 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 13:07 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 13:15~14:00 Chichu Art Museum
    • 14:10 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 14:12 Lee Ufan Museum Bus Stop
    • 14:15~14:35 Lee Ufan Museum
    • 14:42 Lee Ufan Museum Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 14:44 Benesse House Museum Bus Stop
    • 14:50~15:15 Benesse House Museum (including coffee break)
    • 15:29 Benesse House Museum Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 15:32 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • 15:45 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by town bus (special delivery bus)
    • 15:55 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • 15:56 Miyanoura Port [Say goodbye]

    What Is a Private Naoshima Art and Architecture Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of the guests had first come to Japan in 1969, making this their second visit, while it was the first time in Japan for the other. Their stay in Japan was planned from January 15 to January 30. Their itinerary included six days in Tokyo, four days in Kyoto, four days in Kurashiki and Naoshima, and one final day in Tokyo. They chose to visit Naoshima out of an interest in art and architecture, as well as recommendations from friends. The guests had previously worked in education and were both cheerful and gentle, which made them easy to guide. Naoshima is currently in its winter low season and would normally not be crowded, but even at this time of year there were many visitors from Asia. To reach the Chichu Art Museum, we had planned to take the Benesse shuttle bus departing from Tsutsujiso at 11:45 with a six-minute transfer window, but a tour group of more than ten visitors was already waiting at the bus stop, and we ended up being left behind right at our turn. This bus has a rule that all passengers must be seated, and standing is not permitted. The next bus to the Chichu Art Museum was an hour later, which would not make it in time for our reservation. I thought we had a problem, but when I called the Chichu Art Museum, I was relieved to hear that we could change our reservation to one hour later than originally scheduled. Furthermore, we were able to have lunch at Naoshima Shokudo, located right nearby at Tsutsujiso, so no time was wasted. The guests enjoyed their lunch as well. Naoshima is a small island, but one must be careful about being left behind when buses reach capacity. I was reminded once again how important it is to always have various pieces of information on hand. The guests mentioned they had a special occasion the following day. It was a busy tour, but they seemed very satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyanoura Port / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Nokyomae / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 2BusNokyomae / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Tsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 3BusTsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Miyanoura Port / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Total300JPY

    Tour Report by Kaji

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

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    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…