Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Yuigahama Station & Jomyoji bus

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Yuigahama Station & Jomyoji bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 10:10 Depart Yuigahama Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 10:20 Arrive Hase Station
    • Hase Kotoku-in / Great Buddha of Kamakura
    • Hasedera Temple
    • 11:20 Depart Hase Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 11:30 Arrive Kamakura Station
    • 11:45 Depart Kamakura Station bus stop
    • (Keikyu Bus)
    • 12:00 Arrive Jomyoji bus stop
    • Jomyoji Hokokuji Temple
    • 12:45 Depart Jomyoji bus stop
    • (Keikyu Bus
    • 13:00 Arrive Kamakura Station bus stop
    • Kamakura Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • Komachi Street
    • Break: Cafe
    • 13:50 Depart Kamakura Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 14:00 Arrive Yuigahama Station
    • 14:00 Disband: Yuigahama Station

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kamakura Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Asia. One of them was visiting Japan for the third time, while the others were visiting for the first time. The main purpose of this trip to Japan was a ski trip to Hakuba. The day before, they had traveled to Kamakura via Tokyo. They planned to stay in Kamakura before returning home. They mentioned, "Tokyo was crowded everywhere and tiring. In that respect, Kamakura is quiet, and we can spend our time in a relaxed way." Since it was their first time in Kamakura, they said, "We would like to visit the major spots." It was a tour under clear skies, in warm and pleasant weather. We took the Enoden train from Yuigahama Station to Hase. Both the Enoden train and the approach road were extremely crowded with tourists. Along the way, I explained about "the history of Kamakura," "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the feudal system," "the Meiji Restoration," and so on. I also explained "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as, "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What other religions do people follow?" We also went inside the Great Buddha, and they said, "Now I understand well how the Great Buddha was made." There was also a question: "Which is bigger, this one or the Great Buddha in Nara? And which was made first?" We moved on to Hasedera Temple, where they said, "The garden within the temple is wonderful. I would like to create a garden like this in my own garden." Returning to Kamakura Station, we took a bus to Hokokuji Temple. They said, "We really want to see the bamboo grove." Unfortunately, the temple was closed, so we could not go inside. We took a leisurely stroll around the area, taking photos of the bamboo grove. They said, "I love the calm atmosphere," and "I definitely want to visit the bamboo path in Sagano in Kyoto too." They asked, "What sect does this temple belong to?" "When was it built?" and remarked, "The atmosphere is quite different from Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo." Returning to Kamakura Station, we walked along the approach road to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. I explained "about Shinto" and "how to worship at a shrine." Although it was the end of the year, we strolled slowly through the very crowded streets. We also worshipped at the Inari Shrine within the precincts. After that, we walked through the very crowded Komachi-dori street back to Kamakura Station. They commented, "Japan is very safe. I want to come back again," "There is no litter on the streets," "There are no homeless people to be seen," and "Everyone is polite." I saw them off at Yuigahama Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYuigahama~Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 2TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)~Kamakura200JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus~Jomyoji / Keikyu Bus220JPY
    Section 4TrainJomyoji / Keikyu Bus~Kamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus220JPY
    Section 5TrainKamakura~Yuigahama200JPY
    Total1,040JPY

    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…

  • Osaka: Namba Yasaka Shrine & Harukas Garden

    Osaka: Namba Yasaka Shrine & Harukas Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:55 Meet @Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba
    • 8:05-8:15 @Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 8:50-9:50 @Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 10:20-10:55 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 11:15-11:25 @Harukas Garden
    • 11:50 Disband @ Sushi making Osaka

    Can You Do a Private Sushi-Making Tour in Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour included a sushi-making experience. The sushi-making had been suggested by a member of the group who did not join this time, as their travel interests differed from those who enjoyed being active and moving around. One of the guests works in the construction industry and travels around the world, with many collaborative projects involving Japanese companies, and holds a fondness for Japan. When I explained that Kongo Gumi, the company that built Shitennoji Temple, is recognized by Guinness as the world's oldest company in the construction industry, they showed particular interest.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba (Subway)~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji~Shinsaibashi240JPY
    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: Shinjuku Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 10:10 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 9:15 Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:20 Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 14:40 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Shinjuku
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    What Does a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was their first visit to Japan for everyone in the group. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening and taken a taxi to their hotel. They mentioned that they had enjoyed dinner at a yakiniku restaurant near their hotel the night before. They were staying in Tokyo only briefly, after which they planned to travel to Osaka and tour the Kansai region before continuing on to further destinations. They said they would return home after that. "Today, we'd like to visit the main spots in Tokyo," they said. It was a clear but somewhat chilly day for the tour. First, we headed to Asakusa. We started in front of the Kaminarimon Gate. One of the guests waited at the Starbucks near the gate. I explained about "Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at the Kaminarimon, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various other spots. We strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. They asked, "What are the main religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" One of them mentioned that their family sometimes visits temples back home. Next we moved to Tsukiji and strolled slowly through the market area. I explained about "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." They asked questions and made comments such as "Can we see the tuna auction?" "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it does seem like there are a lot of tourists." They purchased "tuna sushi" and sampled it while standing. At Meiji Shrine, I explained about "Shinto," "the torii gate," "Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." They asked questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How is Buddhism different from Shinto?" After a break at the Cafe Terrace Meiji Jingu, we also strolled along Takeshita Street. From here, we moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble Crossing. They asked, "Why do so many people gather here?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They made comments and asked questions such as "The city is so clean and there's no litter on the ground," "There don't seem to be any homeless people," and "Why aren't there any trash cans on the streets?" I saw them off at Shinjuku Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)~Asakusa Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 5OtherShibuya~Shinjuku180JPY
    Total1,040JPY

    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. 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo
    • 2. 9:30 @ Tsukiji Market
    • 3. 9:45 @ Ginza (Kabukiza Theatre, Ginza 4-chome Intersection, Mitsukoshi, Kimuraya)
    • 4. 10:10 @ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 5. 10:50 @ Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building, Yaesu Kita Restaurant Street)
    • 6. 11:10 @ Nihonbashi (Takashimaya Basement Food Hall)
    • 7. 12:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 8. 13:00 Lunch @ Roppongi (Meat Specialty Store Sugimoto Tokyo Midtown Branch)
    • 9. 14:00 @ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing)
    • 10. 15:00 Dismiss @ Hotel Tokyo

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Food and Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had entered through the Kansai region and, after sightseeing in Osaka and Kyoto, arrived in Tokyo by Shinkansen the day before this tour. They shared photos they had taken of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Kinkaku-ji Temple, mentioning that they were especially fond of Kinkaku-ji. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to enjoy skiing in Hakuba, Nagano Prefecture. As this was their first full day in Tokyo, I explained how to use public transportation so that it would be helpful when moving around Tokyo on their own, and we purchased a PASMO card and tried it out together. From our email exchanges beforehand about the itinerary, the guest had shown great interest in food. They had selected several options from a list of Bib Gourmand restaurants and had ultimately decided to have lunch at a ramen shop in Roppongi. However, as we passed through Tokyo Station and I introduced a few shops in the Yaesu North dining area, they seemed drawn to the long line at a popular hamburger steak restaurant. Since it was still just past 11:00, they gave up on eating there, and when we went to the basement food floor of Nihonbashi Takashimaya, they said they very much wanted to try the gyoza. They purchased one each of three kinds of gyoza and sampled them on a bench installed in the subway concourse. They seemed satisfied. After finishing our next stop, Meiji Jingu Shrine, they asked, "I've heard Japanese hamburger steak is delicious. I don't need to stick to the ramen shop we planned, so is there a good hamburger steak restaurant somewhere?" I intended to guide them to a grill restaurant in Shibuya, but when I called to confirm, I learned that due to a special year-end schedule for New Year's Eve, the only nearby branches open were in Shinjuku or Shinagawa. After some deliberation, hoping that we could surely find a hamburger steak restaurant somewhere in Roppongi with its many dining options, we headed there. Just as we were about to give up, we discovered an eat-in corner at a beef counter in the basement of Tokyo Midtown Roppongi, where we were able to try delicious beef rice and hamburger steak. They seemed very satisfied. I also introduced sukiyaki as a traditional Japanese dish, as they had not known about it. In the evening, the guest planned to attend a New Year's party held from 9:30 at a hotel in Shinjuku.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Subway Oedo Line Shiodome Station~Tsukijishijo-mae Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihonbashi Station~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Nogizaka Station0JPY
    Section 5BusRoppongi Station Front / Toei Bus~Shibuya Station Front (East Side) / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station~Shinbashi Station0JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    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!

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour

    Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel
    • Fukagawa Enmado
    • Nezu Shrine
    • Yanesen walk
    • Yanaka Cemetery walk
    • Ueno Park walk

    Title: What Is a Quiet New Year's Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour began at a hotel, where the group was seen off by a traditional lion dance. In response to their request for quiet places, we avoided the biggest New Year's crowds in the Monzen-Nakacho area and headed to Fukagawa Enma-do. There we watched a Japanese taiko drum performance, listening to just two pieces before moving on to Nezu. At Nezu Shrine, we did not join the New Year's line but instead viewed the buildings from the outside, took our time visiting the neighboring Inari Shrine, passed through the famous torii gates, and browsed the food stalls before finishing. We had lunch at the only tonkatsu restaurant that was open. It turned out that we shared a love of films, and we had a lively conversation about movies. Then we set off on a Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi walk. Walking along Hebi-michi and through a quiet Yanaka Ginza on New Year's Day, the group, who love dogs, were delighted to pass local dogs being taken for walks several times. Walking further, they did not seem very interested in the cemetery, so we wrapped that part up early. Considering the guests' condition and which businesses were open on New Year's Day, we cancelled the Kappabashi tour that had been planned and instead took our time guiding them through Ueno Park before reaching the Ginza Line. Since they were able to return to their hotel on their own, we parted ways aboard the Ginza Line. Photography was permitted for only one of the guests, so the photo shows just one person.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToranomon~Monzen-nakacho700JPY
    Section 2Free PassMonzen-nakacho~Nezu0JPY
    Section 3Free PassUeno~Toranomon0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Hello everyone, and welcome to Japan!
    I obtained a national tour guide license back in 2001, while I have been busy teaching English full time for many years. Since 2018 I have enjoyed guiding guests from all over the world.

    I live in a western suburb of Tokyo, so I can guide you around the wider Tama area as well as central Tokyo. I love introducing visitors to both the famous highlights and the hidden gems where you can take wonderful photos and experience authentic Japanese culture. Along the way, I enjoy sharing stories about Japanese history, traditions, and daily life.

    I once worked in Australia as a teacher of Japanese language, which gave me many opportunities to communicate with people from different cultures.
    I also enjoy golf — I even traveled alone to the UK for a golf tour.

    I look forward to guiding you and helping your time in Japan both enjoyable and memorable.

    Apr 27, 2026
    Matthew_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend!
    This was the first thing we did in Japan, it…

    Apr 13, 2026
    Beverly_S
    Viator review: Tokyo Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Amazing walking tour. The guide customizes…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Claudia M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Grosartige Tour mit tollem Guide Masa
    Wir haben diese Tour als…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & teamLab Planets TOKYO Shin-Toyosu

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & teamLab Planets TOKYO Shin-Toyosu

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Depart from hotel (Hotel Higashi-Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower)
    • 9:40 Arrive at Asakusa
    • 11:00 Arrive at Tokyo Skytree
    • 12:10 Arrive at Imperial Palace
    • 13:10 Arrive at teamLab Planets TOKYO Shin-Toyosu

    What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Skytree, and teamLab Planets The guests were a group visiting from Europe. As arranged in advance, the plan was to leisurely visit Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree in that order. After touring Tokyo Skytree, it looked like there would be some extra time, so we decided to visit the Imperial Palace before heading to the final destination, teamLab Planets TOKYO. In Asakusa, we walked through Nakamise and visited Sensoji Temple. As it was New Year's Day, there were many people, and even the temple visit itself involved waiting in line. At Tokyo Skytree, we took photos from directly beneath the tower and toured Solamachi, but since the guests did not seem very interested in shopping, I added a visit to the Imperial Palace. At the Imperial Palace, we viewed the Nijubashi Bridge from the Otemon Gate and enjoyed the vast grounds along with the backdrop of Tokyo's buildings. Being New Year's Day, we were also able to see dignitaries leaving the Imperial Palace. Although we could have reached the destination of Toyosu with a single subway line from Sakuradamon Station, since we had been using the subway the whole time, we decided to travel via the scenic Yurikamome line instead. We were able to enjoy the views of the Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba. As a result, we arrived at the final destination, teamLab Planets TOKYO in Shin-Toyosu, about 10 minutes later than scheduled, and parted ways there. The guests said they had enjoyed all of the places we visited.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku~Kuramae220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Section 3SubwayOshiage~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4SubwaySakuradamon~Yurakucho180JPY
    Section 5TrainYurakucho~Shimbashi150JPY
    Section 6TrainShimbashi~Shin-Toyosu390JPY
    Total1,310JPY

    Self-Background

    During my university years, I lived in a dormitory for four years and had the opportunity to live with many international students.
    Of course, we spoke English.
    After graduating from university, I started working as an English teacher at a junior high school.
    I was able to have a fun teaching life while interacting with many students. During that time, I continued to study English on my own and obtained the pre-1st grade English proficiency test.
    After that, I worked for the Board of Education as a supervisor in charge of English education, and then managed a school as a vice principal, and later principal.
    After retiring from teaching, I took the TOEIC (L&R) and achieved my highest score of 945.
    I also obtained a license as a national guide-interpreter, and began working as a guide for overseas visitors in English.
    Currently, I guide tourists to several places around the country.
    Many customers have told me that I am a good guide, saying that my guidance is easy to understand and that I have a lot of knowledge about sightseeing spots and history.
    Furthermore, I will continue to improve my skills and make efforts to give you a better experience in Japan, so please come and enjoy your trip in Japan with me.

  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Shukkeien Garden

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & Shukkeien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 09:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 11:00. Hiroshima Castle
    • 12:00 Shukkeien Garden
    • 13:00 Shukkeien Garden – Disband

    What's a Private Family Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Hiroshima for a group visiting from Oceania. As they came from a region where the seasons are the opposite, they found the cold in Hiroshima somewhat challenging. Since I had heard in advance that the guests wished to explore the city on their own after the tour, I prepared a map of central Hiroshima and sightseeing pamphlets, and welcomed them at the platform of Hiroshima Station. After visiting the Peace Memorial Park, we stopped by Gokoku Shrine on the way to Hiroshima Castle, where I explained the Japanese custom of the first shrine visit of the New Year and other annual events, helping them deepen their understanding of Japanese culture. Throughout the tour, we enjoyed a warm and pleasant atmosphere, and were able to bring it to a satisfying conclusion.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima~In front of the Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total240JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Umeda Sky Building & Shinsekai

    Osaka in One Day: Umeda Sky Building & Shinsekai

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Hotel
    • 12:30 Umeda Sky Building
    • 14:00 Osaka Castle
    • 15:20 LUNCH
    • 16:50 Shitennoji Temple
    • 17:20 Shinsekai
    • 17:30 Disband @ Shinsekai

    What's a Full-Day Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, Shitennoji, and Shinsekai [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a full-day private tour in Osaka for guests visiting from North America, covering the Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, and Shinsekai. The Umeda Sky Building was very crowded, and it took about 30 minutes to reach the top, but the guests waited patiently. They were deeply moved by the view from the rooftop and seemed overwhelmed by the urban scenery around the Umeda area. At Osaka Castle, the main keep and the Toyotomi stone wall museum were closed, but the moats and stone walls alone were impressive enough, and the guests listened with interest to the story of the 1970 World Expo time capsule. For lunch, the guests enjoyed sushi at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant in the Naniwa area and seemed very satisfied. Afterward, we visited Shitennoji Temple, which was already closed, but I explained the garan temple layout, and as we happened to catch the sunset, the guests listened with interest to my explanation of the Nissokan sunset meditation practice. Finally, I guided the guests through Shinsekai, where they took many photos and enjoyed the colorful and lively streetscape.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNoda (Osaka Loop Line)~Osaka150JPY
    Section 2SubwayHigashi-Umeda~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 4SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka~Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Total770JPY

    Dear guests,

    I’m Yuko, your guide. I’m happy to guide you!

    I have lived in Osaka since I was born(almost 50 years), so I’m a Osaka master!!
    Osaka has a long history, so of course, we have some historical places, but the best thing of all is …… food!!
    I can take you not only to the castle, shrines, temples, but also to the nice restaurants or food stands where you can enjoy Osaka’s local foods

    And, Kyoto, I don’t need to say anything, but it’s the most famous place in Japan where you can know Japanese culture. Of course, I can show you around Kyoto. I have guided the guests in Kyoto many times, so you also enjoy Kyoto tour with me!

    Let’s enjoy the tour with me and have an unforgettable memory!

    May 9, 2025
    373gauravm
    Day well spent in Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuko San is one of the best…

    Apr 21, 2025
    marianacJ7585VZ
    Fun, convenient, friendly guide around Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuko was great at guiding us…

    Apr 4, 2025
    K8311RNlaurak
    Great sightseeing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoku was a wonderful guide showing us osaka castle…

    Apr 3, 2025
    andrewfM955FU
    Amazing Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The tour was a great way to see some of…

  • Tokyo: Akihabara shopping

    Tokyo: Akihabara shopping

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:20. Meet with guests (checked the car, but it had not arrived yet)
    • 09:00. Car arrived, tour departed (car was late due to driver's misunderstanding)
    • 9:30-10:45. Sensoji Temple, Nakamise shopping, eating while walking, worship
    • 11:00-12:30. Akihabara shopping,
    • 13:00-13:30 Got off at the Imperial Palace on the way, photo shooting, strolling
    • 14:00-15:00. Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street shopping, finally disbanded at Uniqlo in Ginza
    • 12:40-13:30. Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street

    What Is a Private Family Tokyo Tour with Shopping Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Right up until the last moment, I exchanged several messages with the guests about whether or not to visit Tokyo Skytree. In the end they decided not to go, but this time the car was delayed, which made me nervous. Well before the tour day, the guests had wanted to buy some toys, so I did some research, but we couldn't narrow down the specific items. We decided on the locations based on how things went on the day. Fortunately, there were no fixed appointments on this tour, so we were able to take plenty of time for shopping. It was interesting for me to observe what kinds of things the guests were looking for. I also got a sense of what Tokyo is like on New Year's Eve (which was quite hectic), making it a very stimulating tour for me.

    Thank you for your entry in this tour. Nice to meet you in this mail.
    Your tour guide Kappa is my nickname. Kappa is a traditional, imaginary creature who came into being in Japan over 300 years ago. She is good at swimming, like me, for I like swimming. I would like to make our tour operated smoothly as Kappa does when she swims in the river or pond. It is my pleasure to introduce many aspects in our tour, especially cooking, for it is my hobby and I went to the professional cooking and SAKE school, respectively. If you have any questions or requests about Japanese cooking, of course our tour, I am very delighted to answer to you anytime!

    Jul 30, 2025
    Michael_R
    Customized Hakone tour
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kappa-san, modified the typical Hakone tour…

    May 18, 2025
    Leigh_M
    Kappa, our guide met us…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa, our guide met us at the…

    May 4, 2025
    panderhigs
    Kappa A+ Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa was an amazing guide who created a thorough…

    May 4, 2025
    O9621SBscottp
    Kappa is a wonderful tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I were treated…

  • Tokyo: Oji Inari Shrine & Tokyo Station

    Tokyo: Oji Inari Shrine & Tokyo Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:00 Oji Inari Shrine
    • 12:30 Asakusa・Sensoji Temple
    • 15:00 Akihabara
    • 17:00 Tokyo Station
    • 17:40 End the tour at Tokyo Station

    Title: What's a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like on New Year's Eve? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from South America. They said the whole group had wished to come to Japan for many years. The previous day they had taken a car tour of central Tokyo and covered the main sights, so today we headed to Oji Inari Shrine, which one of the guests had found online as a place famous for a "procession of foxes." It was a small shrine, and unfortunately the main "fox procession" was to be held late that night, so we were not able to see it. Instead, I explained the meaning and history of the shrine and how to worship, and everyone was very interested and actually offered prayers. Next we went to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, which was extremely crowded despite it being New Year's Eve. The guests purchased omikuji fortunes and omamori charms and appeared to greatly enjoy the unique atmosphere. After that we headed to Akihabara, where the guests were delighted to buy many of the figures they had long admired. Finally we went to Tokyo Station, where the guests thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful twilight view and unique atmosphere from the KITTE rooftop, and we concluded the tour at this spot.

    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.

    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…