Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kagurazaka & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Kagurazaka & Shibuya Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at hotel
    • 10:00 Kagurazaka
    • 11:00 Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon Hall, Tomb of the Shogitai, Statue of Saigo Takamori
    • 11:40 Ameyoko
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Yoshiike Shokudo
    • 13:40 Rikugien Garden
    • 15:10 Shibuya Crossing
    • 15:30 Disband @ Parco

    Title: What's a First-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kagura­zaka, Ueno, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America, and this was the guide for their first day. As a spot without many tourists, we went to Kagurazaka and walked through its back alleys. From the park side of Ueno, we saw Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, and more, and strolled along Ameyoko. For lunch, I asked about their preferences and they said sushi, so we were about to line up at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, but one of the guests asked with a worried look whether tempura was available, so I decided to change locations and we went to a restaurant that has everything. As it was a weekend, there were about six groups waiting, but in the meantime I had them decide on their orders. Since almost everyone around was local, they were pleased. They enjoyed tendon, grilled chicken over rice, Japanese sake (Hakkaisan), and iced tea. Rikugien Garden was quiet and lovely. At the final stop in Shibuya, they were overwhelmed by the terrible crowds. I told them which bus they could take back to the Hotel. I took them to the Pokemon Center as requested, and we parted ways there. One of the guests asked me about good coffee shops, and although there was no time to stop by during the tour, I showed them a few promising shops on Google Maps. A notable stop on the tour was Rikugien Garden. Rikugien is a traditional Japanese landscape garden in Tokyo that was completed in the early 18th century during the Edo period. Its name refers to the six principles of classical waka poetry, and the garden was designed to recreate scenes from famous poems through its carefully arranged hills, ponds, and pathways. It is especially renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and seasonal beauty, with autumn foliage and spring blossoms drawing many visitors.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Ushigome-Kagurazaka220JPY
    Section 2TrainIidabashi~Ueno200JPY
    Section 3TrainOkachimachi~Komagome200JPY
    Section 4TrainKomagome~Shibuya260JPY
    Total880JPY

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet @ Hotel
    • 11:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 11:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Conveyor Belt Sushi Maguro Tonya Megumi Harakado Branch
    • 13:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 14:30 Akihabara
    • 15:20 Sensoji Temple
    • 16:30 Disband @ Tokyo Skytree

    What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen, Akihabara, and Asakusa The guests were a group from Europe visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was greatly different from Shibuya. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they were impressed by the beautiful Japanese garden. In Akihabara, they showed interest in the many shops selling anime and games. At Senso-ji Temple, they listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as about the Kaminarimon Gate. After this tour, the guests had a reservation for Tokyo Skytree, so I guided them to the entrance of Tokyo Skytree and we parted ways there. I responded to everything according to the guests' wishes, so I believe they were satisfied. A notable stop on the tour was Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in the 7th century and dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Visitors enter through the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, with its massive red lantern, and proceed along Nakamise-dori, a lively shopping street lined with traditional snacks and souvenir stalls leading to the main hall. The temple grounds also feature a striking five-story pagoda, making it one of the most popular and historically significant sightseeing spots in the city.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-sanchome180JPY
    Section 4SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae~Yotsuya180JPY
    Section 5TrainYotsuya~Akihabara200JPY
    Section 6SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 7SubwayAsakusa~Oshiage180JPY
    Total1,290JPY

    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…

  • Yamanashi: Shimoyoshida Station via Fujikyu

    Yamanashi: Shimoyoshida Station via Fujikyu

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:50 @Meet up Kawaguchiko Station
    • 10:00 To Shimoyoshida Station via Fujikyu
    • 10:30~11:15 @Arakurayama Sengen Park
    • 11:30 From Shimoyoshida Station to Fujisan Station
    • 11:38 From Fujisan Station to Oshino Hakkai by local bus
    • 11:55~13:20 @Oshino Hakkai
    • 13:26 To Kawaguchiko by local bus
    • 14:00~15:00 Lunch@Mt.Meat
    • 15:00 To Shizen Seikatsukan via Red Line
    • 15:30~16:00 @Oishi Park
    • 16:00 To Kawaguchiko Station via Red Line
    • 16:30 Dismissal@Kawaguchiko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Fuji Five Lakes Day Tour Like from Kawaguchiko Station? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. I happened to have a can badge featuring the motif of their home country's flag, so I attached it to my backpack and welcomed them in front of Kawaguchiko Station. Although the booking was made at the last minute, about five days in advance, and I accepted the guiding assignment only two days before, we were able to coordinate the itinerary and meals (a request for halal food) through our exchanges two days before and the day before, so everything proceeded smoothly. It was not raining, but unfortunately the sky was overcast all day and Mount Fuji was not visible at all. Even so, at the Chureito Pagoda and Oshino Hakkai, the guests listened attentively to my explanations about local life, the history of Mount Fuji, and its registration as a World Heritage Site. At Oshino Hakkai, I bought them the local specialty kusa-mochi and some Yukimi Daifuku from a convenience store, and they enjoyed them very much, saying they were delicious. For lunch, I guided them to a high-end yakiniku restaurant, Mt. Meat, operated by a business partner of mine. They seemed to really enjoy the halal wagyu beef bowl lunch. They were also very pleased with the folding fan and Japanese tenugui cloth I gave them as souvenirs. They kindly left a happy review comment as well, so overall I believe they were satisfied. A notable stop on the tour was Oshino Hakkai, a set of eight clear ponds fed by snowmelt that has filtered down through the layers of Mount Fuji over many decades. The ponds are known for their strikingly clear water and traditional thatched-roof scenery, and the area is part of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Site. Visitors can see the ponds, sample local specialties, and take in views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular stop on tours of the Fuji Five Lakes region.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKawaguchiko~Shimoyoshida310JPY
    Section 2TrainShimoyoshida~Fujisan230JPY
    Section 3BusFujisan Station/Fujikyu Mobility~Oshino Hakkai/Fujikyu Mobility450JPY
    Section 4BusOshino Hakkai/Fujikyu Mobility~Kawaguchiko Station/Fujikyu Mobility620JPY
    Section 5BusKawaguchiko Station/Fujikyu Bus~Kawaguchiko Shizen Seikatsukan/Fujikyu Bus570JPY
    Section 6BusKawaguchiko Shizen Seikatsukan/Fujikyu Bus~Kawaguchiko Station/Fujikyu Mobility570JPY
    Total2,750JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    Introduction to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide ‘May’ had emailed us several times…

    Aug 31, 2026
    Charlene_E
    You get to experience…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    You get to experience moving…

    Aug 31, 2026
    labrinir2016
    Excellent- best in class.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We booked a private tour…

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

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

    Osaka in Half a Day: Keitakuen Garden & Shitennoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:45 Meet @ Hotel Lobby
    • 10:15 @ Keitakuen Garden
    • 11:45 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:45 Disband @ Hotel Entrance

    What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Keitakuen Garden and Shitennoji Temple The guests were older visitors from Oceania. One of the guests had some difficulty walking, so we moved very slowly throughout the day. In the end, at their request, we used a taxi for the trip to the first spot and for the transfer from the last spot back to the Hotel. One of the guests had worked in a field related to landscape gardening, and they greatly enjoyed visiting Keitakuen, a famous Japanese garden in Osaka. On the way to the next spot, we stopped at a Japanese sweets shop, where they tried daifuku mochi wrapped around muscat grapes and told me they were very satisfied. At a shop selling ceramics that we visited afterward, they purchased Arita ware plates and other items. At Shitennoji Temple, they observed with great interest and listened attentively to my explanations. They also bought a protective charm as a souvenir. Near the temple gate, they had a friendly conversation with a monk who was serving there. From the guests, I was also able to hear about the unusual nature and animals of their home region, which I found very interesting as a guide. One of the guests currently works as an English teacher for non-native speakers and spoke very beautiful English, giving me accurate advice on English expressions that I had long wondered about and not fully understood, which was extremely valuable. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, which they were very pleased to receive. As one of the guests was a little tired, we parted ways at the Hotel about 15 minutes early.

    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
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & TSUKIJI Outer Market

    Tokyo in Half a Day: MEIJI JINGU SHRINE & TSUKIJI Outer Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet at the 18fl lobby of HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU
    • 10:30 1 MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 11:30 2 THE IMPERIAL PALACE
    • 13:00 3 TSUKIJI Outer Market
    • 15:30 see off at Odakyu Shinjuku Ticket Information

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour in Tokyo Like for Overseas Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report Despite sharing the proposed itinerary several times in advance, there was no reply. I introduced the itinerary for the first time at the pickup Hotel on the day of the tour. The guests agreed to it, and we started smoothly. When I checked the messaging app, I found that the guide's email had gone unread. The group was very cheerful, and the day was full of laughter and jokes. The tour progressed well, with the guests showing almost no signs of fatigue. Regarding travel to Hakone and Kyoto for the following days, the vouchers had to be exchanged for tickets, so I accompanied the group to the Odakyu and JR information centers at Shinjuku Station, assisted with the procedures together, and then took my leave. A notable stop on the tour was Shinjuku Station. Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest railway stations in the world, serving as a major hub for several train and subway lines in Tokyo. It connects travelers to many destinations, including the Odakyu line toward Hakone and JR lines across the region. The station is well known for its many entrances and exits, as well as its information centers where visitors can exchange rail passes and vouchers for tickets, making it an essential point for those continuing their journeys beyond the city.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)210JPY
    Total780JPY

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spare time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Sep 21, 2026
    judygU2038FZ
    A wonderful time in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had such a…

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Skytree photos & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Skytree photos & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Asakusa Airbnb
    • 9:35 Skytree photos
    • 10:00 Ueno Station, buy Shinkansen tickets and Welcome Suica
    • 10:30 Ueno Park, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Ueno Toshogu. After that, walk around the street stalls in Ueno Park.
    • 11:25 Snacks at New Days in Ueno Station
    • 12:15 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:10 Disband at Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Covering Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and Harajuku? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was good, and the tour went smoothly. Since the accommodation was in Asakusa, we started by taking photos at Azuma Bridge. At Asakusa Station, the guests purchased a Tokyo Metro 24-hour ticket, but it took a little time because credit cards could not be used. At the JR overseas counter at Ueno Station, they bought Shinkansen tickets and a Welcome Suica, but we had to wait quite a while. At Ueno, the group mentioned being hungry, so there was a bit of a scramble to buy rice balls at a convenience store and settle down. We visited the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street, but about halfway down Takeshita Street, the guests said, "We'll go on from here by ourselves," so the tour ended a little ahead of schedule. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine. Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in a spacious forested area in the heart of Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The shrine is approached through a series of large torii gates and a tranquil wooded path, offering a peaceful contrast to the surrounding city. It is one of Tokyo's most visited shrines, especially during the New Year period, and remains a popular place to experience traditional Japanese spiritual culture.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAsakusa~Ueno700JPY
    Section 2Free PassUeno~Takebashi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi~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…

  • Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Kawaguchiko Station – 11:45 Kachi Kachi Yama Ropeway – 13:00 Lake Kawaguchi Sightseeing Boat – 13:30 Lunch – 14:30 Ide Brewery – 15:30 Hotel Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip to Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe, and this was the third day of their tour in Japan, with about a week of travel planned in the country. One of the guests had previously visited Japan in connection with the Tokyo Olympics and mentioned being a fan of Japan, though the reason was not entirely clear. At the observation deck of Kachi Kachi Yama, Mt. Fuji was hidden behind the clouds, but the guests were delighted by the view of Lake Kawaguchiko and the "hoto" lunch we enjoyed afterward. On the way to the Hotel, we stopped at a sake brewery, where the guests enjoyed tasting five kinds of sake and bought armfuls of souvenirs. A notable stop on the tour was Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes located at the northern base of Mt. Fuji. It is one of the most popular destinations in the Mt. Fuji area, known for its scenic lakeside views, seasonal colors, and on clear days, reflections of Mt. Fuji on the water. The surrounding area offers ropeways, observation points, museums, and local specialties such as hoto, a regional noodle dish simmered with vegetables in a miso-based broth, making it a rewarding place for visitors seeking both nature and local culture.

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Seibu Limited Express & Starbucks

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Seibu Limited Express & Starbucks

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel
    • 9:30 Seibu Limited Express
    • 10:40 Honmaru Goten Palace
    • 11:30 Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
    • 12:20 Kurazukuri Street
    • 12:40 Lunch at Shunkashuto
    • 13:30 Kawagoe Festival Hall
    • 14:10 Toki no Kane (Bell of Time)
    • 14:20 Starbucks
    • 15:40 Disband at hotel

    What Is a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kawagoe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who, despite having only a short time in Tokyo, decided to visit Kawagoe on a friend's recommendation. They were cheerful, and I spent such an enjoyable day with them that it sometimes felt like we chatted more than we did sightseeing. At Kawagoe Goten they were deeply impressed by every spot, and walking on tatami for the first time prompted a delighted "This is great." At Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine they tried several of the customary experiences. The paper figure kept drifting on and on even after passing the gate, probably setting a record for distance, and a few Japanese tourists watched while remarking how amazing it was. The sea bream fortune was hard to catch, and perhaps because they ended up lifting it out with their fingers, the result was "small luck" with the message "Don't rush on your travels," which brought a big laugh. On the Kurazukuri warehouse street they struggled a bit with my question about what made it different from the rest of Japan, and afterwards we had lunch at a restaurant run by a soy sauce manufacturer. During that lunch I was genuinely put on the spot when they asked me directly, "It's been a wonderful day, so we'd like to give you a tip — how much would be good?" Even after I explained that tipping isn't customary in Japan and that writing a review would be more than enough, they wouldn't let it go, and we got into a lively conversation about their surprise at needing to tip even for self-checkout purchases back home. Just when I thought I had steered the topic away, they got more specific with "So, a tip of at least ◯◯ yen…," and when I said the thought alone made me happy and looked troubled, they thanked me right there even though the tour was still ongoing (a first for me). Since they already knew about the Kawagoe Festival, they filmed the whole video at the festival museum and admired how beautiful the floats were. I had been told during the tour that they needed to be back at the hotel by 16:00, so I introduced the Toki no Kane bell tower and a Starbucks cafe not found in their home country before wrapping up Kawagoe. Throughout the day they would occasionally slip in jokes, and whenever I was seriously puzzling over something they would burst out laughing and tease me playfully. Even on the Seibu Line back toward the hotel, we spent an enjoyable hour talking about a wide range of things — their upcoming plans, geisha (one was available on Monday but was unfortunately leaving for Nagano), and why they had given up drinking. I'm grateful to have had such bright and cheerful guests. In the end, I promised to look up a shop selling kimono jackets and get in touch, and with that the guiding came to a close.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSeibu-Shinjuku~Hon-Kawagoe600JPY
    Section 2TrainSeibu-Shinjuku~Hon-Kawagoe600JPY
    Section 3BusHon-Kawagoe Station/Eagle Bus~Museum・Art Gallery Mae/Eagle Bus220JPY
    Section 4BusHikawa Shrine Mae/Eagle Bus~Kura no Machi/Eagle Bus220JPY
    Section 5BusIchibangai/Tobu Bus~Hon-Kawagoe220JPY
    Section 6TrainHon-Kawagoe~Seibu-Shinjuku600JPY
    Total2,460JPY

    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
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    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
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    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
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    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
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    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel 9:20 By Izuhako Bus Hakone-Yumoto, after customers purchase the Hakone Free Pass 9:37 By mountain train to Gora 10:25 By cable car to Sounzan
    • By ropeway to Owakudani 11:15 By ropeway to Togendai 12:00 Pirate ship 12:40 Moto-Hakone, stroll along the shore of Lake Ashi, then by bus 13:00 Hakonemachi Port, lunch at Donburi Chaya, Maruyama Bussan sightseeing and shopping, then dismiss at 14:30.

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone-Yumoto The guests were always smiling and full of laughter throughout the day. Although they had experienced an earthquake a few days earlier for the first time, they said the natural beauty of Japan was wonderful. Unfortunately, Mount Fuji could not be seen from Owakudani, but they enjoyed the famous black eggs. On the sightseeing pirate ship, the view of the deep green scenery from the deck was especially impressive, and they filmed a video of the combination of the red torii gate and the pirate ship. At a donburi restaurant, they fully enjoyed a soba lunch while delighting in my explanations about kanji and the exchanges with the staff. At a local specialty shop, they cheered during the presentation of yosegi marquetry woodwork and purchased souvenirs. Afterward, they expressed a wish to do their own shopping and have dinner, so I explained how to reach the Hakone museum area and how to return to Hakone-Yumoto, and the tour concluded with their understanding. A notable stop on the tour was Lake Ashi, a scenic crater lake in the Hakone area formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The lake is famous for its sightseeing cruise ships styled as pirate ships, offering views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. Along its shores stands the striking red torii gate of Hakone Shrine, which appears to rise from the water and is one of the most photographed spots in the region.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara~Odawara6,000JPY
    Section 2BusKami-Tonosawa / Izuhakone Bus~Hakone-Yumoto Station / Izuhakone Bus220JPY
    Total6,220JPY

    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
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    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Toshogu Shrine & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tochigi in One Day: Toshogu Shrine & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00~10:10: Meet and greet at Tobu Nikko Station
    • 10:30~11:30: Sightseeing at Toshogu Shrine
    • 11:40~12:10: Sightseeing at Futarasan Shrine
    • 12:20~13:15: Lunch
    • 13:25~13:50: Sightseeing at Toshogu Shrine Treasure Museum
    • 14:00~14:40: Sightseeing at Rinnoji Temple / its Treasure Hall
    • 15:00~15:40: Sightseeing at Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 16:00: Dismissal at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, on the final day of a week-long trip exploring Japan. Nikko was their last destination before returning home the next day, and they appeared to have grown accustomed to Japanese sightseeing and cuisine. Rather than offering flat, routine explanations, I made an effort to include interesting trivia throughout the guiding. At Toshogu Shrine, we went as far as the inner shrine (Okusha) and covered all the major highlights, and the guests showed no sign of fatigue despite their long trip. At Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park, the restrictions due to bear sightings had been lifted, so we were also able to stroll through the gardens. At the end, after completing the settlement procedures at a coffee shop near Tobu-Nikko Station, the guests were able to rest comfortably until the departure of their train toward the Asakusa area. The rain from the previous days had cleared, and since the roads and sightseeing spots were not especially crowded, I believe the guests were satisfied. A notable stop on the tour was Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. Toshogu Shrine is a lavishly decorated complex dedicated to the enshrinement of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate, and it is renowned for its ornate carvings, including the famous "three wise monkeys" and the sleeping cat. The shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands among towering cedar trees, making it one of the most celebrated cultural and architectural landmarks in Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station~Yasukawacho600JPY
    Total600JPY

    Born and bred in Tokyo I have some native knowledge of Tokyo. I think this may my uniqueness. Thanks to the experiences gained during working for trading company more than 30 years, I’ve come to know the questions and points that people from abroad likely to feel curious about Japan. My basic ideas to attend guests are, For first visitors to Japan, I would like to explain must-see destinations steadily for sure. For repeaters, I would like to hear your experiences so far in order to make tour something new and more exciting. In either case, you are free to request anything in preparing schedule by me in advance. It was my great pleasure/pride to receive a mail from one of female guests saying that I was “exceptional guide with great energy and very positive, polite, informative and solicitous.”
    Having cheerful and bright nature, I am sure I can show you around off-the-beaten track as well as famous spots making you enjoyable. It will never falls short of your expectations. Looking forwards to meeting you soon!

    Sep 16, 2026
    stuartcT9106VM
    Fantastic Tour and Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Hiro was a wonderful guide,…