Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 11:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by foot via Oyama Shrine to Kanazawa Castle Park
    • AM11:30-PM12:30 Kanazawa Castle Park, visit Gyokusen-in, Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, and Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • PM 12:30-13:15 Visit Kenrokuen Garden
    • Travel by bus to Korinbo
    • PM 13:45-15:30 Nagamachi Samurai District area, coffee break, visit Takada Residence and Ashigaru Museum
    • Travel by bus to Hashiba-cho
    • PM 16:00-16:50 Guide through Higashi Chaya District and Kazuemachi Chaya District
    • Travel by foot, guide to the reserved restaurant, PM17:00 tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Kanazawa Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Their preferred destinations had not been decided until the day before, but the local travel agency contacted us and we were able to confirm them. Since they felt they had already seen enough shrines and temples, we proceeded with a standard course including Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden. During our meeting, the guests asked me to recommend a place for dinner. Although reservations were only available between 17:00 and 19:00, and since they had an early-morning tour to Shirakawa-go the next day, I guided them to the Higashi Chaya District and then escorted them to the restaurant before ending the tour. I believe the guests enjoyed the tour itself as well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa Castle / Hokuriku Railway Bus~Korinbo / Hokuriku Railway Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusKorinbo / Hokuriku Railway Bus~Hashiba-cho / Hokuriku Railway Bus210JPY
    Total420JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @Hyatt Centric
    • 9:15 Tsukiji
    • 11:00 Asakusa
    • 13:15 Lunch @Fukuras Soba Restaurant
    • 13:45 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 14:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:10 Disband @Takeshita Street

    What Can You See on a Private Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine Day Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. At the guests' request, I guided them to Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine. In our prior communication, the guests had downloaded the mobile Suica app, but they ran into trouble being unable to withdraw cash. Since international transactions had not been activated, cash could not be withdrawn, so I explained this and the guests contacted their card company, but they remained without cash during the tour. At Tsukiji, it is difficult to enjoy the street food without cash, so I suggested we just look around today and that they return on another day on their own. During the tour, I helped the guests pick up their JR Pass and the shinkansen tickets they had reserved. Since they wanted something light for lunch, we went to a soba restaurant. In Shibuya, they experienced the scramble crossing, and I introduced a few shops so they could go shopping on their own later. Since shops get crowded on weekends, I recommended they do their shopping on a weekday. Although there was the trouble of not being able to withdraw cash, the guests were pleasant and I believe they enjoyed themselves. They mentioned they would likely be able to withdraw cash by asking their family, which was a relief. I felt that it is still quite difficult to get by in Japan without cash.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Total880JPY

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Shin-Osaka Station ~ 14:40 Osaka Castle Park ~ 16:00 Dotonbori ~ 17:00 Umeda Sky Building ~ 18:00 Osaka Station

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was very cheerful and enjoyed conversation. After meeting at Shin-Osaka Station, we took the subway to Osaka Castle Park, where we did not go up to the castle tower but viewed it from outside, took photos, and strolled through the Japanese garden. We then moved by taxi to Dotonbori, where we saw the Glico sign and walked along the main street. After that, we took the subway to Umeda and walked to the Umeda Sky Building. The guest seemed to really enjoy the beautiful evening scenery. I had originally planned to see them off at Shin-Osaka Station, but since they wanted to have dinner in Dotonbori after all, we ended the tour at Osaka Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Osaka~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba (Subway)~Umeda (Subway)240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Hello. It is very nice to meet you. My name is Etsuko Nakaba. I am based in the Kansai Area, which includes popular sightseeing spots
    such as the old capital Kyoto with many old temples, Nara, which is well known for vowing deer, and Osaka-the city of gourmet, entertainment and commerce.

    The Kansai area was the center of Japanese culture, as this is the place where the capital of Japan was located in the olden times.
    I was born and raised in a historical city Kobe, which is also in the Kansai area. The city is famous for its port and old residences
    of merchants from Europe and Asia, as it opened its port for forreign trade about 150 years ago.
    It is also well known for the premium quality beef-Kobe Beef.
    The melting in the mouth texture is what every tourist would like to try. It is also one of the best 3 Japanese sake producing spots.
    Sake’s refined taste goes with not only Japanese traditional quisine, but also various dishes from around the worldaround.
    I am certain of its good match with Kobe beef. Some sake breweries show traditional sake making process, which are intriguing.
    It is also renowned for being home to one of the 3 oldest hot springs in Japan, Arima.The color of the water is gold,
    as it contains a lot of iron. It was frequented by a famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi 500 years ago.

    I love my hometown Kobe; however, I also lived in Tokyo for 20 years. So, l know the allure
    of the representative two cities o feastern and western Japan, Tokyo and Osaka.
    As a matter of course, there are many hidden gems in each area, in the northern, middle, or southern Japan.
    For example, Himeji City, which is to the west of Kobe city is renowned for its 400 year old castle. which is a world cultural heritage site.
    It was built by a shogun, the leader of samaurai- feudal warriors and the de facto leader of the nation.
    The original structure of the castle transfers us back to the olden times governed by samurai.
    Though some people believe that they still exist, the class was abolished aobut 150 years ago due to the drastic political reform called “Meiji Restoration”.
    If you would like to, I could take you to the fascilities where you can see authentic samurai’s armor and swords.
    Ninja or secret agents, who served feudal lords, do not exist any more either. A ninja museum in Shiga prefecture was a residence of ninja before.
    It is not rennovated for the service, so you can enjoy the complicated interior with some contraptions to defeat the intruders.

    Japan has distinct four seasons, which makes this country more attractive. Each season has its own attractions.
    Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, as the climate is mild and you can enjoy beautiful scenery such as cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.
    Between summer and autumn, there is the rainy season which lasts for about a month. This season feartures hydrangeas.
    A historical city Kamakura, where the first samurai government started, is embraced by a serene atomosphere in June, as the combination of the
    old temples and the delicate beauty of hydrangeas in the overcast or rainy weather is the essence of Japanese beauty.

    The southern island Kyushu was also a gate for overseas trade. Okinawa also has its own unique and rich culture, as it was not a part of Japan in the past.
    It was an independent country called ” Ryukyu Kingdom.”in the past.
    The beauty of the ocean and the unique culture and food have been captivating the hearts of the people all over the world.

    Like these, Japan is filled with historical and natural beauty.Furthermore, traditional Japanese quisene is an intangible world cultural heritage.
    It would be an honor if I could introduce you even one of them.
    I am thrilled to meet you and iintroduce the beauty of Japan to you.

    Jun 17, 2026
    Jason_W
    Viator review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely amazing tour and guide
    This was the perfect Kyoto tour for…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Malcolm_S
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Custom Private Tour of Kyoto
    Our tour guide,…

    May 29, 2026
    Andrew_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Etsuko was an exceptional…
    Etsuko was an exceptional tour guide. She catered…

    May 21, 2026
    Claire_G
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day Trip to Kyoto
    We could not have got around Kyoto in…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel TOKYO by HULIC
    • 10:10 Depart Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:45 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:50 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 13:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:20 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 13:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Ginza Station
    • 14:00 Dismissal: Ginza Station

    # What's a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. This was an 18-day trip to Japan. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening and taken a taxi to their hotel, then strolled around the neighborhood at night. They would stay in Tokyo for only two days. After that, they planned to enjoy Mount Fuji, Hida-Takayama, Kyoto, Osaka, Naoshima, and cycling along the Shimanami Kaido, before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. English was not their strongest language, so communication required some effort. The tour took place under clear skies and warm weather. Their request was to "visit the major spots in Tokyo." First, we headed to Asakusa. We started from the front of the Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "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 the Kaminarimon, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various spots. We took our time strolling along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the major religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" and "Do people go to pray every week?" Next, we went to Tsukiji. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." As always, it was very crowded. There were questions and comments such as "Can we see tuna?" "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it seems like there are a lot of tourists after all." There was also a question: "Why do they sell not only fish but also beef and other things?" Here and there, they bought and sampled items such as beans, peanuts, tuna sashimi, and tamagoyaki (rolled omelette). From here, we moved on to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble Crossing. There were questions such as "Why do so many people gather here?" and "Why did it become famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments such as "The city is so clean, with no litter on the ground," "I was surprised at how clean the public toilets are," "No one is making noise on the trains," "Are there no pickpockets or robberies?" "You don't see many people walking dogs around town," and "Few people are riding bicycles." There was also a question: "Last night, when we ordered a meal at the hotel restaurant (soup, fish, meat, salad, and so on), all the dishes came out at once. We wanted to enjoy each dish one at a time, with some time in between — why did that happen?" There was also a question: "Tomorrow we plan to sightsee around Tokyo on our own, so where should we go?" I saw them off at Ginza Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Ginza210JPY
    Total840JPY

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 YOTEL Tokyo Ginza (3 min from JR Shimbashi Station) meeting. Explained the history of Ginza's development along Ginza Street. Could not set up the SUICA app, so we ended up purchasing one.
    • 1030 Tokyo Station, Marunouchi Building pine piles, Gyoko-dori Avenue, Tatsumi Yagura Turret (Explained that the East Gardens are closed on Fridays. We had not planned to enter anyway.)
    • 1140 Nezu Shrine. Experienced kusa-mochi and imo-yokan at "Akitaya" near Nezu Station
    • 1305 Ueno Park, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, statue of Saigo Takamori
    • 1345 Asakusa, Azumabashi Bridge, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple
    • 1630 As they wished to shop at Nakamise, we parted ways

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, who had arrived in Japan two days earlier. The day before, they had visited Mount Fuji, but it seems they were unable to see the mountain itself. They had only today left in Japan, as they would depart early the next morning on a flight to Hong Kong, and then return home via Singapore — quite a busy itinerary. One of the guests was very keen on taking photographs, but we kept on schedule and completed today's itinerary smoothly without any delays. Since the guests were interested in food, I suggested that for fine dining they could head from the Hotel toward the Ginza area, and for something more casual they could go in the opposite direction from Shimbashi Station toward the SL Square area. When I explained about a restaurant called "Kisoji" that we passed along the way, they said they would like to go there for dinner. Since today was the only day they could buy Japanese souvenirs, I introduced them to the main spots along Nakamise. After we parted ways, they planned to take time for shopping.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi~Tokyo150JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae~Nezu180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu~Nishi-Nippori180JPY
    Section 4TrainNishi-Nippori~Ueno150JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Total840JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 10:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:10 Ginza (Asahi Inari Shrine, Ginza Kimuraya)
    • 12:50 Tokyo Station Japan Rail Cafe
    • 13:50 Asakusa Lunch Kaminarimon Maruka
    • 14:20 Senso-ji Temple
    • 15:30 Akihabara (at home cafe, Bic Camera)
    • 16:50 Disband at Hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were friends visiting from Europe who had planned this trip together. Since one of the guests was not very comfortable with English, communication was a little challenging, but with smiles and simple words we managed to understand each other well. At Meiji Shrine, the guests were deeply impressed that such a large metropolis as Tokyo could still have so much greenery, and they were delighted to happen upon a procession of Shinto priests and a display of chrysanthemum bonsai along the way. After praying at the main hall, one of the guests shed tears, and I sensed it may have brought back personal memories, though I did not mention anything about it. For the JR Pass exchange, we stopped by the usual cafe, and after waiting a few minutes we completed the procedures and reservations. To be honest, I think it would be cheaper and more convenient to simply buy regular Shinkansen tickets, and I do not fully understand why people choose the Pass (though of course I cannot say this to the guests). The guests had originally intended to travel to Hakone by Shinkansen, but since the accommodation was in Shinjuku, I explained that the Odakyu Romancecar would be the fastest and easiest option. After confirming this with the JR staff, they were convinced and decided to go via Odakyu (I finished explaining the Hakone Free Pass on the return train). They were grateful once the round-trip reservation to Kyoto was completed. For lunch in Asakusa, they chose to sit on the tatami room and enjoy soba, saying it was a special opportunity. They had a bit of difficulty sitting down, but they made the effort, feeling that such chances do not come along very often. In Akihabara, they were fascinated by the landscape full of advertisements, and were very curious about the maids, frequently asking "What is that?" and "Why?" They also enjoyed pretending to photograph something else while taking pictures of the maids on the street. However, at one maid cafe they tried to go inside to look around, so I politely told them it was best to refrain, and we came back. Along the way, they brought up many topics such as World War II and electric vehicles, and I answered various questions. In our earlier email exchanges, there had been a request to see the love hotel district in Maruyama-cho, Shibuya, so I had actually been looking forward to it, but unfortunately we spent so much time on the JR Pass exchange that we were unable to go, which was a bit of a regret. By the end everyone looked a little tired, but above all it was wonderful that the guests enjoyed the whole day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station/Shibuya-ku, Tokyo~Ginza180JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 5TrainUeno~Akihabara150JPY
    Section 6TrainAkihabara~Shinjuku180JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto: Chion-in Sanmon Gate Special & Westin Miyako Kyoto

    Kyoto: Chion-in Sanmon Gate Special & Westin Miyako Kyoto

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 The Westin Miyako Kyoto Meet-up
    • 9:15 Chion-in Sanmon Gate Special Viewing
    • 9:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:30 Nijo Castle
    • 12:35 Lunch at Ukiya in Hotel Okura Kyoto
    • 13:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 17:00 The Westin Miyako Kyoto

    What's a Private 8-Hour Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from North America who wanted to explore Kyoto in depth. Because they wished to see the city thoroughly, we had extended the tour by two hours in advance and conducted an 8-hour private tour of Kyoto. Just after leaving the hotel, we happened to pass in front of the Sanmon Gate of Chion-in Temple and learned that a special viewing was being held; at the guests' request we went inside and had a valuable experience. We then visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which was not very crowded, so it was nice to be able to take our time. The guests were also very pleased with Yukiya, the restaurant where we had lunch. After that we went to Kinkaku-ji Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, where they were delighted to take many photos. I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    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…

  • Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:42 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:55-11:15 Walk to Shukkeien Garden
    • 11:15-11:55 Shukkeien Garden
    • 12:15-14:40 Peace Memorial Park (A-dome, museum and others, light lunch)
    • 14:35-14:50 Take a taxi to Hiroshima Station
    • 15:00 Disband

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The lead guest had become friends in Japan with the others, and this time they visited Hiroshima together. Throughout the tour, the atmosphere was cheerful, as if they had been longtime friends. The guests were also very energetic, walking on foot all the way from Hiroshima Station to Shukkeien Garden, and the tour was very lively throughout. I got caught up in the excitement myself. Although I had received their permission at the start of the tour to take photos of the group, I completely forgot about it, and just before we parted ways one of the guests asked if I did not need to take a photo. So I was finally able to take a picture at the Shinkansen platform at the end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of Shukkeien Garden~In front of the Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total240JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel→09:30 Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge→10:50 Asakusa→12:50 Local ramen shop (Asakusa)

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour was initially proposed to include Meiji Shrine and Asakusa, but at the guests' request Meiji Shrine was changed to the Imperial Palace. The guests already had a good amount of knowledge about Japan and asked many insightful questions. Since they requested ramen for lunch, I guided them to a restaurant in Asakusa famous for its ramen and gyoza, and we had lunch together after the tour. It is a very popular restaurant that always has a line and has been featured on television, and it was my first time visiting as well. I found the food reasonably good but not necessarily worth waiting in line for. The guests kindly said it was tasty, though I quietly wondered whether they truly felt that way. The photo shows the Sakuradamon Gate of the Imperial Palace.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Ochanomizu180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShin-Ochanomizu~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 3SubwaySakuradamon~Ichigaya180JPY
    Section 4TrainIchigaya~Ueno170JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Total890JPY

    Hello ! My name is Kazuo Inoue, please call me ,”kazu”.
    I started guide business in 2016, 8 years ago . So I have a lot of experience as a guide .
    Also I have joined Tokyo city guide club ,specialising in Asakusa, Meiji shrine,Imperial Palace.
    I have much of knowledge of Tokyo , especially history. I am a specialist of Tokyo.
    I can guide not only main sightseeing spots , but also Tokyo off the beaten path ,
    like Nezu Yanaka, Shibamata , the surbuarb of Tokyo.
    ( the photo is the ring of the Sumo-stadium in Ryogoku ,Tokyo)

    I am looking forward to seeing you. kazu

    May 26, 2026
    jilliand744
    Tokyo sightseeing
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a good experience with our guide Kazu. He…

    May 7, 2026
    artsZ6836LO
    Kazu in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was very flexible and knowledgeable

    Made good suggestions…

    Apr 20, 2026
    Fran_R
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    A glance of Tokyo
    A good overview of…

    Apr 7, 2026
    Passenger03573064762
    From ancient traditions to rapid trains
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an ambitious set of…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:55 Meet @ Prince Park Tower
    • 10:15 Imperial Palace: Outer Garden, Nijubashi Bridge, GHQ Site
    • 11:15 Asakusa: Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Okuyama, Hoppy Street, Denboin Street
    • 12:45 Tsukiji: Kabuki, Fish Market, Outer Market
    • 13:15 Lunch @ Sushisei
    • 14:15 Disband @ Prince Park Tower

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, on their first trip to Japan, staying in Tokyo the night before a cruise departing the next day. Guiding centered on the interests of the guests throughout the day. Since walking was somewhat difficult, we used taxis in combination with other transport for getting around. Perhaps because they came from a more rural area, they found everything they saw at the Imperial Palace and Asakusa beautiful and delightful. The Tsukiji fish market was less lively in the afternoon, but it still felt novel to them and they enjoyed it. At the sushi meal, they particularly liked the medium fatty tuna (chu-toro), and although they hesitated about the sea eel (anago), once they tried it they seemed to find it delicious. When the guests asked where they could buy wine near the Hotel, I accompanied them back to the Hotel by taxi and introduced them to a delicatessen shop, bringing the tour to a close.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiba Park~Hibiya180JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Higashi-Ginza220JPY
    Total400JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…