Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: on the Access Express & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo: on the Access Express & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita, Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Narita Airport T1
    • 8:39 Depart on the Access Express
    • 9:45 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 11:35 Meiji Shrine, however due to lack of time only an explanation and photos in front of the torii gate
    • 11:55 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 12:10 Lunch @ Matsue
    • 13:15 Disband at Shibuya Station, see off on the Narita Express

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour from Narita Airport Like? A Licensed Guide's Report At Narita Airport, the guests were not at the designated meeting spot, so it took some time to meet, and we started about 10 minutes late. In Asakusa, after taking photos with the Skytree, the guests enjoyed walking along Nakamise, though they did not do any shopping. We spent quite a lot of time walking through the Sensoji temple grounds. At Meiji Shrine, we ran short on time, so we only had an explanation and photos in front of the torii gate. From the Shibuya Crossing, I guided the guests to the sushi restaurant they had reserved for lunch. It was well received, though the sushi did not seem to suit the younger members of the group. I guided the group to the boarding gate for their reserved airport express train, confirmed their boarding, and the tour ended. I received a tip.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3TrainNarita Airport (Railway)～Asakusa1,380JPY
    Total1,790JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:00 Takeshita Street
    • 13:00 Shibuya
    • 13:20 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had already visited Osaka and Kyoto, and had enjoyed a week of skiing in Hokkaido. As their final destination, they were staying several nights in Tokyo. To help them get a general sense of Tokyo, I first explained how to use the subway and trains as well as the local geography, and we headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine, and Higashi Honganji Temple. At Tsukiji, they were amazed by the overwhelming energy of the market, and they thoroughly enjoyed a variety of seafood in different spots, which delighted them greatly. They said they would like to visit again during their stay. At the nearby Namiyoke Shrine and Higashi Honganji Temple, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism while looking at the actual sites, and they were especially interested in Shinto. Next, at the Imperial Palace, I explained its history, its connection to the Emperor, and modern Japanese history, and they were very surprised to learn that Japan's modernization began only about 150 years ago. On Takeshita Street, they were fascinated by the distinctive Harajuku culture, a unique culture they said they could not see back home, and they mentioned wanting to return to an animal cafe. Finally, I took them to the Shibuya crossing, which brought one surprise after another and left them very satisfied. Since they wanted to continue enjoying Shibuya, I explained the way back and ended the tour.

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

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

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

    What's a Private Tsukiji Fish Market and Sushi Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who joined a private tour focused on Tokyo's fish market. A fishing enthusiast, the guest planned to enjoy sightseeing in Japan before continuing to another destination for several days of fishing. With a deep love of fish, the guest was very interested in Japanese fish markets and joined the tour with great enthusiasm. Since the guest was fond of fishing, I explained longline fishing methods, the on-board bleeding and preservation techniques for tuna, and other details before the tuna auction began. In particular, when I explained that if the longlines are reeled in too quickly the tuna thrash about and their body temperature rises, degrading the quality of the meat, so the fishermen deliberately spend about ten hours reeling them in, the guest said, "Wow, it makes sense!! Incredible," and was moved by the delicate way Japanese fishermen handle their fish. Watching a single tuna auctioned off in about five seconds and then promptly loaded onto a turret truck, the guest was also amazed by the systematic nature of the Japanese auction. After observing the auction, the guest enjoyed a sushi breakfast at a restaurant within the market. Since the request was to try sushi toppings not seen in North America, I asked the head chef to recommend some, and he prepared ark shell and cod milt. Both offered a texture and flavor new to the guest, who seemed greatly satisfied. Golden eye snapper, which is not eaten as sushi in North America, was also very well received. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, the guest enjoyed strolling among the intermediate wholesalers. Smiling as they looked at all the fresh fish on display, the guest said, "This kind of market atmosphere is wonderful," and thoroughly enjoyed it. Since the guest also cooks and was interested in Japanese knives, I guided them to my recommended knife shop. After careful consideration while listening to the shop staff's explanations, the guest purchased a kiritsuke knife, which can handle a wide range of ingredients such as sashimi and vegetables and can serve the roles of both a yanagiba and an usuba knife. The attached photos show a beaming smile in front of the knife shop after the purchase, and a delighted smile after being thoroughly satisfied with the sushi. Because the guest repeatedly exclaimed "Oishii" to the head chef of the sushi restaurant, the chef happily cooperated in taking a photo with a smile. The guest was also moved by the deliciousness of the dashi sampled at a dried goods shop, purchased dashi packs, and said, "I'm looking forward to making dashi back home." The guest also compared fresh oysters from Iwate and Akkeshi, enjoying the different flavors of each.

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Tour Report by Toru

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

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

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

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    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.…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Uno Port – 9:40 Benesse House Museum – 11:00 Chichu Art Museum – 12:20 Lee Ufan Museum – 12:50 Valley Gallery 13:40 Art House Project – 16:35 Miyanoura Port – 16:55 Uno Port

    Title: What Is a Private Art Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were the group from North America. Although I had expected a Western background from the family name, they were of Asian heritage and had lived in North America for several generations. They were intelligent and warm, and truly a wonderful group to guide. One of the guests worked in the city, and this was described as a final trip together during a period of studies. The meeting point was initially set at a hotel, but through our correspondence beforehand we found that Uno Port would be more convenient. Their actual accommodation was a comfortable one in Uno. After arriving at Miyanoura Port on Naoshima, we walked and viewed two art installations at the port, then took the local town bus toward Benesse House Museum. We carefully explored the art works there, then took the Benesse shuttle bus to the Chichu Art Museum. After spending plenty of time viewing the works, we walked to the Lee Ufan Museum and the Valley Gallery. The path leading from the museum to the beach, along with the art works, seemed to leave a particularly strong impression. We then walked to Tsutsujiso, and while waiting for the bus, we viewed the famous Yellow Pumpkin and other works. After that we headed to Honmura, where the Art House Projects are located, hoping to have lunch, but many places were closed. As we were at a loss, a local resident kindly went out of their way to guide us to a lovely restaurant. This person's warm gesture was truly heartwarming. The prices were reasonable, and although the restaurant had only been open for about seven months, we enjoyed a wonderful French meal there. In fact, I had walked past this restaurant many times on previous tours but had carelessly overlooked it. Afterward, we visited the Art House Project called Minamidera, which we had reserved, though guides are not permitted inside, so I waited outside. We then purchased the combined ticket for the five well-regarded Art House Projects and were able to see all of them. On this day, the outside temperature was around 7 degrees and cold, with occasional bursts of hail, but this actually added a certain charm and atmosphere to the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryUno Port～Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)300JPY
    Section 2FerryMiyanoura Port (Naoshima)～Uno Port300JPY
    Section 3BusMiyanoura Port (Naoshima)～Tsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 4OtherTsutsujiso～Nokyomae100JPY
    Section 5OtherNokyomae～Miyanoura Port100JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

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    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:00-13:00 Miyajima
    • 14:00-14:40 Shukkeien Garden
    • 15:00-16:30 Peace Memorial Park (Dome, Museum, etc.)
    • 17:00 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What's a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. On the day of the tour, the weather was fine and the wind was calm, making it a perfect day for sightseeing. In the morning, the tide was high, so both the Great Torii Gate and Itsukushima Shrine appeared to float on the sea, and the guests seemed to truly enjoy the scenery. After having lunch on Miyajima, in the afternoon I took them to Shukkeien Garden and the Peace Memorial Park. Throughout the tour, questions kept coming, and especially at the Peace Memorial Park, I received many questions about the tragedy of the atomic bomb and the reconstruction of Hiroshima. Overall, I feel I was able to provide guiding that satisfied the guests, but there were some points where I could not give fully sufficient answers, so I would like to continue to develop my skills.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Section 3BusShukkeien-mae～Kamiyacho / JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

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

  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Memorial Hall

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Memorial Hall

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10;00 Hiroshima Station Meet
    • 11:00. Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 12:00 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 13:00 Memorial Hall
    • 14:00 Disband in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the group visiting from Oceania. As they had a strong interest in the atomic bomb, I planned an itinerary centered on the Peace Memorial Park. On the day, I met the guests at the Hiroshima Station platform and explained the itinerary. However, due to a forecast of heavy snow, the bullet train departure time was changed from around 8:00 p.m. to around 3:00 p.m., so we reorganized the schedule. At the museum, one of the guests spent a long time in the first exhibition room and, upon leaving, appeared deeply moved and shed tears. At that moment, I felt it was more important to remain quietly present rather than to say anything.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

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

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Mimaru Tokyo Shinjuku West
    • 10:10 Hotel
    • (Walk)
    • Shinjuku Station Station Travel Concierge
    • 10:20 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:45 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Kamiyacho Station
    • Kamiyacho Tokyo Tower
    • 12:45 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 13:45 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shinjuku
    • 14:00 Disband: Shinjuku Station

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tokyo Tower, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. It was their first visit to Japan. They arrived at Narita Airport last night and traveled to Shinjuku by taxi shuttle bus. The main purpose of this trip to Japan was a ski trip in Hakuba. They planned to stay in Japan for two weeks, with only today in Tokyo. From tomorrow morning they would head to Hakuba, and after returning to Tokyo they planned to fly home immediately. They were also planning to watch a "Sumo Show" this evening. It was a chilly day with clear skies but a cold wind blowing throughout the tour. First, we walked from the hotel to Shinjuku Station. They asked for help with "obtaining train tickets to Hakuba" and "purchasing a Welcome Suica Card." We then moved to Asakusa. Although not as crowded as during the New Year period, the temple grounds were busy with worshippers and tourists. There was a long line to pray at the main hall. I explained "the history of Sensoji Temple and of Edo into Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various other spots. We strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" From here we moved to Tokyo Tower. There were fewer tourists here, so we were able to look around at a relaxed pace. We went up to the main deck and strolled around slowly. I explained the main buildings and spots in each direction. Unfortunately, we were not able to see Mount Fuji. I explained "the size and area of Tokyo," "the population of Tokyo and Japan," and "the issues Tokyo faces today." They said, "We now understand that Tokyo is truly a vast city." From here we moved to Shibuya. The crowd at the Scramble Crossing was not particularly large either. We actually crossed the Scramble Square. There were questions such as "How many people gather here at the busiest times?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. We then strolled slowly along Shibuya Center Street as well. There were comments and questions such as "The streets are clean and there is no litter. So clean.", "I was surprised at how clean the public restrooms are.", and "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" I saw them off at Shinjuku Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Kamiyacho210JPY
    Section 3TrainKamiyacho～Shibuya180JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)180JPY
    Total830JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    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.

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    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…

  • Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:45　Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 15:50 Move to Hotel
    • 16:05 Move to Peace Memorial Museum　
    • 16:20 Visit Peace Memorial Museum, Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and Hondori
    • 19:00 Disband at Hondori

    Title: What's a Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America, traveling through Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Naoshima, and Hiroshima, and continuing to another destination before returning home. A few days earlier, they had changed the meeting time from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. On the day of the tour, after departing Naoshima, it turned out that they needed to take a ferry one departure earlier than the one suggested by ChatGPT and the Hotel in order to make it by 3:00 p.m. This was an unexpected complication, and it reminded me that information from ChatGPT needs to be double-checked. I was impressed that the guests apologized and got in touch with me as soon as they realized the issue. From there, I scrambled to make the tour time as long as possible, and in the end we changed the meeting point to Hiroshima Station on short notice. Ultimately the guests were very pleased, which was a great relief.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Emmy

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

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    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00　Meet up @Mimaru Tokyo Station East
    • 2. 9:20　@Nihonbashi
    • 3. 9:40　@Tokyo Station (Yaesu Exit, JR Central Shinkansen ticket office, GRANSTA Yaekita, Marunouchi side station building, station plaza)
    • 4. 10:00　@Imperial Palace (Imperial Palace Plaza, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 5. 11:15　@Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 12:00　@Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 7. 12:50　Lunch @Sansada (Asakusa)
    • 8. 13:30　@Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park, Azumabashi Bridge)
    • 9. 14:50　@Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 10. 15:15　Dismiss @Age.3 front (Harajuku)

    Can You Do a 3-Day Private Tokyo Tour Before Traveling to Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. They had arrived at Narita the day before the tour and planned to sightsee in Tokyo before moving on to Kanazawa, and finally to enjoy skiing in Iida, Nagano. Coming from the Southern Hemisphere, where it is currently summer, and having just arrived from a region where temperatures do not drop much even in winter, they found the chilly weather in Tokyo very cold. The itinerary was based mainly on the guests' own wishes, and they mentioned that they would like to visit Takeshita Street at the end if time allowed. Starting from their accommodation near Tokyo Station, we walked past Nihonbashi Takashimaya and the Maruzen bookstore, viewing them from outside, and headed to the Yaesu exit of Tokyo Station. They asked about the Shinkansen tickets they had reserved online, so I checked the ticket type at the JR Central counter. Since it was a paper ticket type that required pickup, we completed the ticketing process, and I also purchased three Suica cards at the Marunouchi-side ticket machines. Because one of the guests showed a strong interest in food, I introduced a few recommended dining spots along the Yaeki restaurant street on the way. After that, we walked from Tokyo Station along Gyoko-dori to the Imperial Palace. One of the guests was interested in Japanese gardens, but since we had to skip entering the East Gardens due to time, I recommended it as a destination for another day and explained it using the information board. At Nezu Shrine, they experienced worship in the Shinto style, and they enjoyed taking many photos of the vermilion senbon torii gates. In the Yanaka shopping street, some of the guests bought souvenirs such as cat-shaped chopstick rests. In the Nakamise shopping street as well, one of the guests bought a strap with a small charm attached, seeming to prefer small and cute items. In the Yanaka shopping street, at an old-fashioned senbei cracker shop, they ate one soy-sauce-flavored and one sugar-coated soy-sauce cracker while walking, but since I had explained that the tempura in Asakusa is delicious, they held off from eating too much and looked forward to lunch. Soon after arriving in Asakusa, they had tempura soba at Sandaya and warmed up. They seemed satisfied. In observing the streets of Tokyo, one of the guests noted that there were few dogs seen in the city, no trash cans, that the city was clean and tidy, that there were few overweight people, and that no one was smoking while walking. After lunch, we strolled through Sensoji, where one of the guests tried a strawberry skewer candy in the Nakamise shopping street. Only one of the guests tried an omikuji fortune and drew a "good luck" result. At the water purification fountain, only one of the guests, because it was cold, touched the water to purify themselves. On the Ginza Line heading from Asakusa to Harajuku (Meiji-jingumae), everyone was able to sit for about 25 minutes, and being tired, they dozed off and relaxed. We walked along the very crowded Takeshita Street, and they reacted to the real rainbow-colored cotton candy and the piglets seen through the glass of a piglet café. During our conversation before reaching Takeshita Street, one of the guests expressed a wish to visit a place called "Age.3." As a guide, it was a shop I had never heard of, and I had been pronouncing it "Age Three," but when I researched the details after the tour, I found it is pronounced "Agesan," a name that plays on the idea of deep-fried ("age") sandwiches. Checking on Google Maps, I found it was located quite close to Takeshita Street, so I guided them there and said goodbye.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station～Nezu Station900JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori～Kanda (Tokyo)170JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Kanda Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Asakusa Station～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 08:30 Hotel start
    • Transfer by private car to the front of Sakuradamon Gate at the Imperial Palace
    • AM 09:00-10:00 Stroll from the front of Sakuradamon Gate at the Imperial Palace, through the Imperial Palace Outer Garden to Marunouchi at Tokyo Station
    • Transfer by private car to Meiji Shrine
    • AM 10:30-PM 12:30 After visiting Meiji Shrine, stroll along Takeshita Street (light lunch)
    • Transfer by private car to Odaiba Observation Deck
    • PM 13:15-13:30 Photo shoot from Odaiba Observation Deck
    • Transfer by private car to Hamarikyu Gardens
    • PM 13:45-14:25 Tour of Hamarikyu Gardens
    • Transfer by private car to Tsukiji Market
    • PM 14:30 Tour ends at Tsukiji Market

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. The lead guest had lived in Japan until an earlier stage of life and originally came from Tokyo, and joined the tour after meeting up in Tokyo with a friend's family who were visiting Japan for the first time. Since the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were closed for the day, we strolled through the Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace toward Marunouchi and Tokyo Station, and then visited Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. Because some of the guests wanted to go to a capybara café or go shopping, we decided on a time to regroup and let each family spend time as they wished. With the cooperation of the driver, we then enjoyed a sweeping view of Tokyo from Odaiba before heading to Hamarikyu Gardens. Although the tour was originally scheduled to end at the hotel, at the guests' request it concluded at the Tsukiji Market instead, so I was glad we were able to see as much of Hamarikyu Gardens as possible.

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

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    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!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
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    YOSHI san was incredible!
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    YOSHI met us at our…

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    A morning in Kanazawa
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