Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at the Airbnb in Nakai, immediately asked about the washing machine, then asked about the 48-hour subway pass, spending time
    • 9:45 Ochiai Station. Takes time to purchase the 72-hour pass
    • 10:40 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 12:20 Akihabara
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Aburidori Baridori Akihabara
    • 14:05 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:10 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:30 Disband at Takeshita Street

    Title: What Is a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Akihabara, and Takeshita Street The weather was fine and everyone walked at a good pace, so the tour progressed smoothly. Shortly after meeting, the guests requested help purchasing a 48-hour subway pass. I tried to assist, but I could not easily reach the intended webpage, so we purchased it at the station instead. It was a large group, but everything went well and the tour proceeded without any trouble. In Asakusa, the guests took many photos and enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. In Akihabara, various requests came up, but since I had decided in advance that this area would only be a pass-through with brief explanations, we proceeded without any issues. I had planned to guide them through Takeshita Street and then on to Shibuya, but at their request the tour ended at Takeshita Street. I received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOchiai~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShin-Ochanomizu~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet up @ Hotel Ginza Premier
    • 2. 09:00 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:25 Visit @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 10:25 Travel: Train
    • 5. 10:35 Visit @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 10:55. Travel: Subway
    • 7. 11:20 Visit @ Imperial Palace (exterior), Marunouchi
    • 8. 12:10 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 12:40 Visit @ Tsukiji Outer Market, Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushiko Main Store
    • 10. 13:55 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 14:20 Visit @ Nezu Shrine
    • 12. 15:00 Disband @ Tokyo Metro Nezu Station

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The number of participants for this tour changed from an initial single guest to a group of guests. Since the group did not exceed the standard size, I handled it as a usual tour. The guests were part of a group I understood had met at a conference in Tsukuba City a few days earlier, and since all but one of them already had Suica cards, guiding them around on public transport was relatively easy. In the morning, I took the group to popular spots on the western side of central Tokyo. As the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were closed that day, I focused my explanations on the outer views and the Marunouchi area. Although one of the guests had initially hoped for vegetables at lunch, it turned out that everyone in the group enjoyed sushi, so we took a lunch break at a sushi restaurant in Tsukiji. I had planned to take the group to Yanaka in the afternoon if time allowed, but as we spent a longer time in Tsukiji and it was exactly 3:00 p.m. after guiding them around Nezu Shrine, I explained how to make their way back toward Tokyo Station and we parted ways there. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTokyo~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji~Nezu180JPY
    Total900JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel. First, head to Hakone Shrine. 10:15 Pirate Ship from Moto-Hakone. 10:40 Togendai. Light meal at a cafe, then take the ropeway to Owakudani. From Owakudani, take the ropeway substitute bus to Sounzan. 12:32 Cable car from Sounzan. From Gora, take the 12:52 mountain train. 13:00 Enter the Hakone Open-Air Museum. After strolling through the museum, including a light meal at the cafe inside, 14:31 bus (after transferring at Kowakien) 15:00 arrive at Moto-Hakone. Disband. (After free time, the customers will have dinner nearby and return to the hotel next door: we introduced Hakone Terrace nearby for dinner)

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Hakone on the final stop of their trip in Japan before returning to North America the next day. On the day of the tour, I received word that it was a birthday for one of the group, so I quickly made a celebration board and took a photo for them against the magnificent backdrop of Mount Fuji. At Hakone Shrine, we reviewed the proper way to worship and reconfirmed the differences between shrines and temples. At Owakudani, they enjoyed the stunning natural beauty, views of Mount Fuji, and the famous black eggs. Due to maintenance work, the section between Owakudani and Sounzan was served by a substitute bus, but this too was part of the fun. At the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the harmony between nature and art was wonderful, and they also experienced the foot bath, which I believe made for a lovely memory. They were a close and friendly group.

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Harukas Garden

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Harukas Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka
    • 9:30-10:30 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 11:00-11:50 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:10-12:15 Harukas Garden
    • 12-30-13:10@ Dotonbori, National Bunraku Theatre
    • 13:15 Disband @ Kuromon Market

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Although this was a booking arranged through a travel agency that could not be reached, I conducted an interview on the day and we toured Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, Dotonbori, and the National Bunraku Theatre. Osaka was the final stop of their stay in Japan, and since the guests expressed an interest in Japanese culture, the timing worked out well: at Osaka Castle they enjoyed a traditional monkey performance, and at the Bunraku Theatre they experienced a special New Year event, including hands-on puppet manipulation. Together with the bustling Dotonbori, they were able to enjoy the lively New Year atmosphere of Osaka. After the tour, I guided them to Kuromon Market near the Bunraku Theatre, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda (Subway)~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji~Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Total670JPY

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Station & Nijubashimae Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Station & Nijubashimae Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 9:10 Depart Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 10:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 12:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Skytree Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive Tokyo Skytree Station
    • Tokyo Skytree
    • 13:15 Depart Tokyo Skytree Station
    • (Tokyo Skytree Line)
    • Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:45 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 15:00 Arrive Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Skytree, and the Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. It was the first visit to Japan for all of them. This trip to Japan was part of a cruise circling the country. The ship had entered port the previous day. On the previous afternoon, they had reportedly gone by taxi to Harajuku and Shinjuku. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) had originally arranged for a party of several people, but on this day some of them were unable to join due to feeling unwell, so the tour proceeded with the remaining guests. The cruise ship was scheduled to call afterward at Shimizu Port, Kobe Port, Okinawa, and other locations. They mentioned that they were planning shore excursions at each of these destinations. For this day, they mainly wished to visit spots on the eastern side of Tokyo. It was a pleasant tour under clear skies and comfortable weather. First, we went to Tsukiji. After strolling through the Tsukiji Uogashi, we took our time exploring the outer market area. I explained "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were also questions and comments such as "Can we see the tuna auction?", "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?", and "It's crowded, but it really seems like there are a lot of tourists." They bought "tuna sushi" and sampled it while standing. They also purchased "roasted soybeans" as a souvenir. We moved on to Asakusa. Although not as busy as during the New Year season, the temple grounds were crowded with worshippers and tourists. There was a long line to pray at the main hall. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and of Edo becoming 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 Gate, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various other spots. We took our time strolling along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are Japan's main religions?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what religions do people believe in?" From Asakusa Station we went to Tokyo Skytree (which the guests had reserved in advance). I waited at the elevator exit. They said, "Unfortunately we couldn't see Mount Fuji," but also, "It was great to see the overall view of Tokyo." I explained "the size and area of Tokyo," "the population of Tokyo and of Japan," and "the challenges Tokyo currently faces." They said, "We really understood what a vast city Tokyo is." From here we moved on to the Imperial Palace, going to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. One of the guests waited at the rest area near the entrance. First, we went to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained topics such as "having seen 'The Last Samurai,' the history of Japan from Edo to Meiji," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history of the imperial family," "World War II and the air raids on Tokyo," and "how the stone walls were built." There were questions and comments such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?", "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?", "Who is the next Emperor?", "Can a woman become Emperor?", and "How many members are there in the imperial family in total?" There were also comments and questions such as "The city is so clean, there's no litter on the ground," "I was surprised how clean the public restrooms are," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?", and "The subway is complicated and hard to use until you get used to it." I saw them off at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Skytree~Asakusa160JPY
    Section 6TrainAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 7TrainNijubashimae~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 8TrainShimbashi~Tokyo International Cruise Terminal330JPY
    Total1,730JPY

    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 Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Hilton Tokyo
    • 2. 10:30 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 3. 12:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch at Yamashita Honki Udon
    • 5. 13:20 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 6. 15:00 Akihabara
    • 7. 15:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 8. 16:10 Dismissal at Asakusa Station

    What Is a Private First-Day Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, and it was their first time in Japan, with their main goal being to ski in Hokkaido. I guided them according to the requests received in advance, and we were able to complete the itinerary almost exactly as planned. The weather was also favorable, and I believe they thoroughly enjoyed their first day in Japan. For lunch, they seemed torn between ramen and udon, but in the end they decided on udon. They were a very close and cheerful group who smiled throughout the day, and it was a pleasure for me to guide them while enjoying it myself.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Akihabara330JPY
    Section 5SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu Gardens & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu Gardens & Tokyo Tower

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50 Meet up @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 09:30 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace
    • 12:20 Sensoji Temple
    • 13:40 Akihabara
    • 14:55 Tokyo Tower
    • 15:05 Disband @ Tokyo Tower

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for Cruise Ship Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of four visiting Japan for the first time. They came to Japan on a long cruise tour that had traveled via North America. At Hamarikyu Gardens, they were impressed by the beautiful Japanese garden and enjoyed matcha at the Nakajima Teahouse on the island. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji Temple, they were intrigued by explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as the Kaminarimon Gate. In Akihabara, they remarked that it was a unique place unlike anything found in their home region. After visiting Tokyo Tower, they said they could return to the cruise ship on their own, so we parted ways at Tokyo Tower. Since they mentioned they would have lunch after the tour, we did not set aside time for lunch. As I responded according to the guests' wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shiodome330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Tokyo150JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Yushima180JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno-hirokoji~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 6SubwayAkihabara~Kamiyacho210JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    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

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in Half a Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Tokyo Hilton
    • 11:40 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 13:15 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 14:40 Meiji Shrine (Explanation and photos only in front of the torii gate)
    • 15:10 Dismissal at Tokyo Hilton

    What Does a One-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine, and the tour progressed smoothly. We started by purchasing a 24-hour pass at Nishi-Shinjuku Station. One of the guests walked a little slowly and used the handrail on the stairs. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we took our time exploring the gardens and the main keep, and the guests took many photos. In Asakusa we moved at a slightly quicker pace, but there were still plenty of photo opportunities and we were able to talk a lot. Since there was a transfer to Narita later that day, the plan was set to finish by 15:00. It was uncertain whether we would make it to Meiji Shrine in time, but we managed to give an explanation and take photos in front of the torii gate. After that, I saw the guests off at their Hotel, and the tour ended almost exactly on schedule.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNishi-Shinjuku~Otemachi700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTakebashi~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Nishi-Shinjuku0JPY
    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
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    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
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    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
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    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
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    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet at MIMARU SUITES KYOTO SHIJO
    • 09:00 to 09:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:30 to 11:15 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:30 to 12:00 Philosopher's Path
    • 12:40 to 13:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14:00 Disband at Gion

    Title: What Is a Private Family Group Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests today were a group visiting from Oceania. Even when a group has seven or eight people, it is often the case that they do not disagree about where to visit or where to have lunch, but this group had differing opinions at each destination. Some wanted to buy souvenirs, while others wanted to enjoy street food, so it was difficult to reach an agreement. There was also considerable disagreement about lunch. As a solution, I took them to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. Since they could eat not only sushi but also noodle dishes such as ramen and fried items, I thought there would be no disagreement.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)/Kyoto City Bus260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Ginkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusNanzenji・Eikando-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Sanjo Keihan-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5TrainSanjo (Kyoto)~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 6TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total1,430JPY

    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
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    Dec 4, 2024
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  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial & Nunobiki Herb

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial & Nunobiki Herb

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Okura Kobe
    • 09:15 @ Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial Park
    • 09:30 @ Nankinmachi (Chinatown) (view from outside only)
    • 10:00 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 11:30 @ Kitano Ijinkan (Foreign Residences District) (Moegi House)
    • 12:00 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 13:30 Dismiss @ Sannomiya, Sankita Street

    Title: What's a Private Kobe Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a solo traveler from North America. Their parents had lived in Kobe in the 1950s, and many members of the family are said to be great admirers of Japan. In addition, several Japanese students had studied under the guest, and there were plans to meet some of them in Tokyo during this trip. At each spot, the guest showed a great deal of interest and listened attentively to the guide's explanations. The guest seemed particularly interested in the guide's explanations of Shinto and shrines, given their strong interest in religion. At the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the Kitano Ijinkan foreign residences, and the Nunobiki Herb Garden, the guest purchased souvenirs for family members. The guest was a truly pleasant and gentlemanly person. As a gift for a family member back home who is a great admirer of Japan, the guide presented a handmade drawstring pouch made by the guide's sister, and the guest was sure it would be very well received. The guest wished to try Kobe beef, so I guided them to a restaurant I recommended, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)~Maiko320JPY
    Section 2TrainMaiko~Motomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)320JPY
    Section 3SubwayShin-Kobe~Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal)210JPY
    Total850JPY

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Sep 27, 2026
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