Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji inner market

    Tokyo: Tsukiji inner market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet at the Toyosu Market main gate
    • 05:00-05:30 Beforehand, explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how auctions are conducted, collection methods, and the roles of primary wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 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 Travel to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through the Tsukiji inner market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Tokyo Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Private Morning Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. They had toured Kyoto before coming to Tokyo, and during their stay in Tokyo they found a tuna auction tour and joined it the day before returning home. The guests were both very friendly, and we were able to enjoy pleasant conversation together. They were amazed to see so many frozen tuna lined up at the tuna auction site, and when I explained that "even so, today's volume is about 60% compared to peak days such as year-end," they were even more astonished, saying they couldn't imagine how much tuna is consumed in Japan. At Tsukiji, we were able to watch a wholesaler cutting fresh tuna into large blocks, and the guests came to understand how the fresh tuna won at that day's auction is sold. At a specialty shop for dried ingredients used for dashi, they tasted two kinds of the shop's recommended dashi packs, and they happily purchased the premium dashi pack. At a seafood store that shucks and serves fresh raw oysters, I asked the shopkeeper to select good oysters for them to enjoy. They were surprised by oysters larger than the palm of a hand and delighted, saying, "You can't eat it in one bite! Not just the taste, but the size is Amazing!!" Finally, I accompanied them to a café once frequented by John Lennon and helped them order coffee before we parted ways. It was a very cold morning as a cold wave arrived from the continent. I had told them in advance to dress warmly, but the morning in Toyosu with its sea breeze seemed to be even colder than they had imagined. In the future, I will make sure to advise guests about wind protection in advance as well. If the attached photos are uploaded to the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) website, please let me know, as the guests seem to be looking forward to it.

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet up @ Hotel & Spa Ueno Station Front
    • 2.10:20 @ Asakusa
    • 3.11:40 @ Akihabara
    • 4.12:40 @ Tsukiji Outer Market, Lunch
    • 5.14:30 @ Shibuya Crossing
    • 6.15:20 Disband @ Parco

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour Like Visiting Asakusa, Akihabara, Tsukiji, and Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, all coming to Japan for the first time. In Asakusa, they bought ningyo-yaki, purchased matcha as a gift, and bought paper fans at the Nakamise shopping street. Everyone enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. After that, in Akihabara, they purchased figures, and we visited Yodobashi Camera to see home appliances and the Nintendo corner. At Tsukiji, unusually there was no line at Kitsuneya, so they had gyudon. They also had tuna at Kurogin, which they found very delicious. We then headed to Shibuya, where they took photos with the Hachiko statue and experienced the Crossing. After that, I guided them to Nintendo Tokyo in Parco, and since they wished to enjoy Shibuya on their own from there, we ended the tour a little early in Shibuya. After spending two days in Tokyo, they plan to enjoy skiing for the following days in Hokkaido.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa (TX)~Akihabara210JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji~Shibuya210JPY
    Total780JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Courtyard Marriott Tokyo Ginza & Nezu Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Courtyard Marriott Tokyo Ginza & Nezu Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Courtyard Marriott Tokyo Ginza
    • 9:15 Tsukiji Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 10:50 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Chikuan
    • 13:10 Yanaka Cemetery, Tsuiji-bei Wall, Yanaka Ginza
    • 14:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Higashi-Ginza Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Local Food I guided a group visiting from North America. Since their hotel was in the Ginza area, we walked to Tsukiji, where they enjoyed delicious fatty tuna (otoro). They bought coffee at a local coffee shop. In Asakusa we took a break with strawberry daifuku and strawberry sorbet. For lunch we went to an udon restaurant, where they had tempura udon, kitsune udon, meat udon, and an assorted tempura platter, and were very pleased. They mentioned that they were not particularly interested in souvenirs. They asked about various Japanese expressions, and I taught them a few. They were cheerful and pleasant, and we chatted about many things along the way. After the tour, the group had initially planned to go to Shinjuku, but perhaps because they had walked so much, they decided to return to their hotel, so I accompanied them to the nearest station, and the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 2BusTobu Asakusa Station (west side) / Toei Bus~Nippori Station / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu~Higashi-Ginza180JPY
    Total680JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Dusit Thani Kyoto
    • 10:00 to 10:45 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:00 to 11:30 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 11:45 to 12:00 Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 12:15 to 12:40 Tenryu-ji Temple (garden only)
    • 12:50 to 13:15 Lunch (around JR Sagano Station, soba)
    • 14:00 to 14:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 Dismiss at JR Kyoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests was not feeling well, and I was touched to see how kindly they were being cared for within the group. During the visit, I learned that they preferred not to enter the inner areas of a temple, as those spaces were considered sacred to them. This was something I learned for the first time today. Although one of the guests was under the weather, thanks to the attentive care within the group, we were able to complete the tour without any trouble, which I was very glad about.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShichijo Horikawa/Kyoto City Bus~Shijo Omiya/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainShijo Omiya~Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Inari240JPY
    Section 4TrainInari~Kyoto150JPY
    Total870JPY

    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 !!

    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: Tsukiji & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo: Tsukiji & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Mimaru Asakusa Suites
    • 8:45 Tsukiji
    • 10:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:20 Lunch @ Tamago Kitchen Harajuku Omu
    • 11:55 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 12:15 Shopping at Kiddy Land
    • 13:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 14:15 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:40 Disband at Nihombashi Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The weather was excellent and the guests had a Suica card, so the tour proceeded smoothly. At Tsukiji, I guided the group through the market, where they enjoyed sushi and strawberries on a rooftop. From Meiji Shrine onward, the guests wanted some snacks, which made things a little challenging. They purchased a good-luck charm. After lunch in Harajuku, the guests wanted to visit an animal cafe and shop along Takeshita Street, but this was gently held back, and they did a fair amount of shopping at Kiddy Land. The plan had been to finish at Shibuya Parco, but the guests felt they had enough toys and wished to visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, so I guided them there and the tour ended partway along the return route. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAsakusa~Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya~Otemachi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTakebashi~Nihombashi0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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.

    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: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Hotel Nishishinjuku
    • 12:40 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 14:10 Lunch @Harajuku Torimachi
    • 16:00 In front of the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (past entry time, introduction only in front of the entrance)
    • 16:35 Yasukuni Shrine, introduction to Yushukan Museum
    • 17:25 Kanda Myojin Shrine
    • 17:45 Akihabara
    • 17:55 Games at Akihabara Super Potato
    • 18:20 Break @Karaoke Pasela Honey Toast Cafe
    • 20:00 Dismiss at Tokyo Sumo Festival

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was good, and the tour proceeded smoothly. We started by purchasing a 24-hour subway pass in Nishi-Shinjuku. The guest loved Japan and was very knowledgeable about its history and culture, so I received many questions at each location. Meiji Shrine was quite crowded, so we were unable to worship at the main hall. The guest purchased an omamori charm. Because lunch took some time, I was unable to guide them through the Imperial Palace East Gardens. We visited Yasukuni Shrine and Kanda Myojin Shrine, and when I guided them around Akihabara, the guest said they wanted to visit Super Potato, so I took them there. After they mentioned feeling tired, we rested in Akihabara, and then I guided them to the entrance of a sumo show to conclude the tour. I received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNishishinjuku~Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi~Kudanshita0JPY
    Section 4Free PassKudanshita~Ochanomizu0JPY
    Section 5Free PassKanda~Ginza0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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.

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 08:30 Gather at Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • ② 08:35 Explanation of today's itinerary and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 09:00 Sanjusangendo
    • ④ 10:30 Hokanji Five-Storied Pagoda and Sannei-zaka
    • ⑤ 11:00 Kiyomizu-dera
    • ⑥ 11:45 Ninen-zaka ~ Ishibei-koji
    • ⑦ 12:00 Yasaka Shrine ~ Gion・Shirakawa
    • ⑧ 12:30 Disband at Sanjo Keihan Station

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Gion, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of them had visited Kyoto about ten years earlier, while it was the first visit for the other, so at their request we spent the day walking relatively slowly through the Gion, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu areas. We started right next to the Hotel at Sanjusangen-do. They were amazed at the sight of more than a thousand Kannon statues and exclaimed in wonder. This temple has a wonderful atmosphere, and it is full of fascinating topics for a guide to draw guests into the story — the cloistered rule of 800 years ago, the battles between the Genji and Heike before the rise of the shoguns, Buddhism, zazen meditation, the thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva, the difference between Nyorai and Bosatsu, the tale of the 1,002nd Kannon statue, the wind and thunder gods, stories about earthquakes and Buddhist statues, and even the archery ceremony that had just taken place the day before. It was ideal for pulling the guests into that world. From there we walked through the heart of Kyoto, Higashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion, and both listened intently and attentively to everything I shared. There was a heartwarming moment when I was leading the way and turned around, and they hurriedly let go of the hands they had been holding. On Ninenzaka there is a Studio Ghibli shop, and the attached photo was taken there; one of the guests in particular was delighted. They said they love Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away, and were impressed to hear that Studio Ghibli films are always broadcast in Japan at the end of the year. After the tour, they planned to have yudofu (tofu hot pot) around Nanzen-ji, so I gave them information about Nanzen-ji and its sub-temples, and since they also wanted to buy shoes at Onitsuka Tiger, I passed along that information as well before we parted ways.

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Arrived at Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Arrived at Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:45 AM: Standby at the reception on the 3rd floor of Hotel
    • 09:00 AM: Met with the two of them. Reconfirmed the day's itinerary. At the same time, I was asked for advice about tourist spots in the Tokyo area for tomorrow and the day after, so I gave some advice/suggestions.
    • 09:10 AM: Departed the hotel. Started moving on foot.
    •       Explained/introduced while walking through Shinjuku Station West Exit → Omoide Yokocho → Kabukicho → Golden Gai → Shinjuku Sanchome.
    • 10:25 AM: Arrived at Shinjuku Gyoen. Toured the Japanese garden, rose garden, greenhouse, and the former imperial rest house, enjoying the quiet garden.
    •       Since they hadn't eaten breakfast and wanted a light meal, the two of them ordered temari sushi at Rakuutei.
    •       It was more filling than expected, so we decided to keep the lunch planned near Harajuku very light (preferably a cafe/matcha + something small).
    • 12:10 PM: Departed Gyoen. Took the subway to Meiji-jingumae. Visited Meiji Shrine.
    • 01:10 PM: Headed from Takeshita Street to explore the Ura-Hara area.
    • Took a break at a matcha cafe.
    • 01:40 PM: From Togo Shrine to Ura-Hara, then passed through Cat Street heading to Shibuya.
    • 02:30 PM: Arrived at Shibuya Scramble Crossing.
    •       They wanted to take photos from atop MAGNET, but it is currently under renovation and we couldn't go. Instead, I guided them to the connecting passage between the Inokashira Line and JR.
    • 03:00 PM: Dismissed. End of guide.

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private walking tour of Tokyo for the guests, who were visiting Japan from Oceania and had arrived the previous night. The guests enjoyed traveling but were visiting Japan for the first time. They had gathered a great deal of information about Japan in advance from friends and acquaintances, and were happily overwhelmed with adjusting their itinerary. Both of the guests enjoyed taking photographs, and one of them took many photos enthusiastically with a single-lens reflex camera throughout the tour. The guests were strong walkers. Apart from a café break, we were on our feet almost the entire time, but this was no problem at all. Their plan was to spend the first two days in Tokyo (and Kamakura), then head to Hakuba for skiing, after which they would view Mount Fuji before returning to Tokyo.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku Sanchome~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Total180JPY

    Discover the Heart of Japan: A Journey Through Culture, History, and Flavor.

    Hello, I am Taichi, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
    Having explored the depth and diversity of Japan’s culture, history, and cuisine-particularly in the vibrant regions of Tokyo and Kansai-I’m excited to share my experiences with you.

    With its dynamic seasonal changes and centuries-old traditions, with its ever-changing seasons and profound history, Japan invites you to create moments that stir your imagination and awaken a deeper connection to its beauty.

    And Japan is more than just a destination-its travel experience engages your all five senses.
    From breathtaking landscapes to tantalizing culinary, every corner holds something to delight and inspire.

    Let’s embark journey of discovery, where you’ll sharpen your sense, create unforgettable memory, and embrace the true essence of Japan.
    I look forward to helping your wonderful trip.

    Apr 7, 2026
    Karistan_S
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Taichi was wonderful. He…
    Taichi was wonderful. He…

    May 15, 2025
    TJP1967
    Perfect Guide…..Taichi-sun
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hello. Taichi-sun was absolutely amazing. There was nothing he wouldn’t…

    Apr 14, 2025
    rgp728
    Wonderful Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We used Japan Guide Agency for a private…

    Apr 8, 2025
    Sherif_A
    Taichi-san is an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was our 1 day trip to…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:30 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Move on foot to Higashi Chaya District
    • AM 09:15-11:15 From Kazuemachi Chaya District to Higashi Chaya District (Shima visit, Utasu Shrine, Gold Leaf Sakuda)
    • Move by bus to Kenrokuen
    • AM 11:45-PM12:30 Kenrokuen visit
    • PM 12:30-13:15 Kanazawa Castle Park
    • Move on foot to Nagamachi Samurai District via Gyokusen-in and Oyama Shrine ( PM13:15-14:00)
    • PM 14:00- 15:10 Nagamachi Samurai District, visit to Nomura Family and Takada Family
    • Move by bus to Omicho Market, Tour ends PM 15:30

    Title: What's a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest visited Kanazawa from Oceania, joining the tour on their own while other members of the group were sightseeing in Tokyo. The guest had wanted very much to visit Kanazawa. Although lunch had been planned during the tour, the weather was fine and there were many questions, so time ran short and the guest instead enjoyed a meal at Omicho Market after the tour ended. After the tour, I recommended places for dinner and suggested spots that would be good to visit the following day, and then the tour concluded. Even joining on their own, the guest thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHashiba-cho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusKorinbo/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Musashigatsuji・Omicho Market/Hokuriku Railroad 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!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Tambaguchi & Shijo

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Tambaguchi & Shijo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:45 Meet up @Cooking Sun Kyoto
    • 13:01-13:13 Tambaguchi → Saga-Arashiyama JR 200 yen
    • 13:20-14:30 Sightseeing in Arashiyama area (Bamboo Grove Path, Kimono Forest, Tenryuji Temple, etc.)
    • 14:50-16:00 Sightseeing at Iwatayama Monkey Park
    • 16:14-16:36 Arashiyama → Karasuma Hankyu 240 yen
    • 16:46-16:49 Shijo → Kyoto Subway 220 yen
    • 16:55 Disband @Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Afternoon Tour of Arashiyama in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had traveled from Osaka to Kyoto, and in the morning they had taken part in a bento-making experience at a cooking studio, so the tour began after that finished. They had hoped to see Arashiyama and Nijo Castle, or possibly the Railway Museum, but due to time constraints we visited only Arashiyama. We walked through the Bamboo Grove, visited Tenryu-ji Temple, and went to Iwatayama Monkey Park. There had been some concern that the temples might feel boring for younger members of the group, but they actually listened with interest to a variety of stories. The Monkey Park also seemed to be very enjoyable for everyone.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTambaguchi~Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Hankyu Line)~Karasuma240JPY
    Section 3SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Total660JPY

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

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

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

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Sep 20, 2026
    Bobby_B
    A great Kyoto guide.
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Andy was very nice and…

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

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

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