Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Shijo-mae Station & Otemachi Station

    Tokyo: Shijo-mae Station & Otemachi Station

    Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:00 Meeting point: Hotel, Otemachi
    • 6:00 Hotel, Otemachi
    • (Taxi)
    • 6:15 Toyosu Toyosu Market・Seafood Wholesale Building
    • Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building
    • 7:30 Depart Shijo-mae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • 　 (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 8:00 Arrive Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Breakfast: Tsukiji Itadori Annex
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • 10:00 Dismiss: Otemachi Station

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Fish Market Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toyosu and Tsukiji The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from Europe, on a 14-day holiday. For today's tour, the guest joined alone. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Ten days earlier, the guest had arrived at Narita Airport and immediately headed to the Kansai region. After visiting Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Himeji, and Hiroshima, the guest returned to Tokyo yesterday and plans to fly home the day after tomorrow. Today's tour came from a strong wish to see the heart of Tokyo's fish market. Although the temperature was low, it was a sunny day for the tour. First, we took a taxi from the hotel to Toyosu Market, starting at the seafood wholesale building. From the corridor on the third floor, we observed the tuna auction. I explained the history of Edo/Tokyo's fish markets since the Edo period, the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market, and tuna auctions in general. The guest had many questions, such as "Where are most of the tuna caught?", "Who is allowed to take part in the auction?", "How much does a single tuna cost?", "Is there a price difference between fresh and frozen tuna?", and "Why are the tails of the tuna cut off?" We took a photo in front of the tuna display. From there, we moved to the intermediate wholesale building. The guest also asked, "Why can't we go inside the intermediate wholesale area?" At a tea shop, the guest was served matcha and was delighted. We then moved to the Tsukiji Outer Market. We walked through the Tsukiji Uogashi area and then into the outer market, before strolling slowly through the area. I explained the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period and the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. As always, it was very crowded. The guest asked, "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and commented, "It's crowded, but it really seems like there are a lot of tourists." Since the guest wanted to have sushi for breakfast, we went to a sushi restaurant in Tsukiji. The guest remarked, "Sushi restaurants have been rapidly increasing in Europe too, but there are few satisfying ones, and they are eye-poppingly expensive." The guest also shared these comments: "Japanese people are friendly and polite everywhere you go. I felt this is a country with a completely different culture. The city is clean, with no litter on the streets. The public transportation network is extremely well-organized, whereas the underground and railways back home are completely unreliable." I saw the guest off at Otemachi Station, ending the tour.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo-mae～Toyosu190JPY
    Section 2TrainToyosu～Tsukishima180JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukishima～Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 4OtherTsukiji～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total730JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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 in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet in front of Tsukiji Market
    • 8:05 @Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10:30 @Asakusa, Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 12:00 Disband @Nakamise

    Private Food Tour of Tsukiji Outer Market and Asakusa in Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of the Tsukiji Outer Market and the Kappabashi Kitchenware Street in Asakusa for a group visiting from North America. As it was their first visit to Japan and they wished to try a variety of foods, they enjoyed a seafood-focused food walk at the Tsukiji Outer Market. At the fish market, they tasted freshly cut chunks of tuna and compared different cuts such as otoro (fatty tuna), chutoro (medium fatty tuna), and akami (lean tuna). In Asakusa, they also sampled various kinds of dango and senbei rice crackers. At Kappabashi, they purchased many souvenirs at a shop selling sample food replicas.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza～Asakusa220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Seky

    Hi friends, I’m Seky, a tour guide in Tokyo, but I cover all over Japan, namely from Hokkaido to Kyushu. I have lived overseas for more than 15 years in total, such as US, UK, Singapore and others, and enjoyed local culture there. Back in Japan, I wish I could help travelers to Japan enjoy Japanese culture, and this is why I became a tour guide.
    In Tokyo, my favorite places are Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and if you are interested in fish market, I’d love to take you to the world largest Tuna auction and/or if you are sports lovers, I’ll go to ball games (baseball) too.

    Request Booking

    May 8, 2025
    J
    jeanne_c
    Sell was very…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sell was very knowledgeable and willing to talk…

    Mar 2, 2025
    Joe_F
    Excellent Custom Tokyo Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour, customized to my interests, Edo period…

    Mar 1, 2025
    R2911ISjoef
    Excellent Custom Tours, Great Guides, Reasonable Prices.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a friendly…

    Oct 27, 2024
    Jennifer_G
    Great day touring Tokyo !
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Yokohama Minato Mirai & Yokohama Station

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Yokohama Minato Mirai & Yokohama Station

    Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8
    • 10:10 Hotel
    • (on foot)
    • 10:20 Yokohama Minato Mirai
    • 　　　Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama
    • 11:00 Depart Minato Mirai
    • (on foot)
    • 11:10 Arrive at Bashamichi Station
    • (Minato Mirai Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive at Motomachi-Chukagai Station
    • Motomachi Yamashita Park
    • Harbor View Park
    • Don Quijote
    • Chinatown
    • Lunch
    • 13:45 Depart Motomachi-Chukagai Station
    • (Minato Mirai Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive at Yokohama Station
    • Dismissal: Yokohama Station

    What Is a Private Yokohama Day Tour Like Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. The main purpose of this trip was a cruise departing the next day from Yokohama Port and arriving in Singapore. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous day and taken a taxi to their hotel. Due to traffic congestion, they reached the hotel around 9:00 PM. The cruise ship was scheduled to depart Yokohama Port in the afternoon of the following day. The guests are all now retired and enjoy an overseas trip together once every year. It was a tour under clear skies, with a slightly cold feel in the air. One of the group had a knee condition and walked slowly, and mentioned, "Stairs and escalators are difficult, so I would like to use elevators whenever possible," so we proceeded at a slow pace. First, in line with their wishes, we headed to the Cup Noodles Museum near the hotel. As it was a holiday, the museum was almost full of visitors, many with children. After going around the museum, they bought souvenirs for their grandchildren at the shop. They said, "We often eat Cup Noodles at home too." I explained about the history of Yokohama, the Meiji Restoration, and the movements before and after it. They commented, "This is a pleasant port town." From here we moved west. We strolled around Yamashita Park and inside the New Grand Hotel. We entered "Mega Don Quijote" near the entrance of Harbor View Park, and here again they bought a large amount of souvenirs for their grandchildren, such as T-shirts and cosmetics. We moved on to Chinatown. As it was a national holiday, the streets were very crowded. They said, "We haven't had breakfast and would like to enjoy dim sum," so after searching here and there, we finally entered a Chinese restaurant tucked away in a quiet corner. Everyone ordered various dim sum and enjoyed a relaxed meal while chatting. They remarked, "This is far larger and more crowded than the Chinatown back home." They also had questions and comments such as, "The whole town is clean and there is no litter on the ground," and "Unlike back home, no one throws trash out onto the streets." They said, "We would like to do some shopping at a Yokohama department store," so I saw them off at Yokohama Station and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainBashamichi～Motomachi-Chukagai200JPY
    Section 2TrainMotomachi-Chukagai～Yokohama230JPY
    Total430JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Only within Glover Garden

    The QR codes prepared by the guests for the admission tickets did not work smoothly at the on-site reception, so it took about 10 minutes longer than expected to enter, which shortened the time available for activities inside the park. In addition, a brief unforecasted rain shower led the group to take shelter inside a building, which also shortened the planned sightseeing route by about 10 minutes. The guests moved quickly and were very attentive to the verbal explanations along the route and to the exhibition panels. Note: The guests preferred to take photos with their own smartphones, so the images attached this time were taken during the preliminary site visit.

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

    Tour Report by Hiro

    My name is Hirotaka and I am a nationally licensed tour guide and certified small and medium enterprise consultant. Based in Saga Prefecture, I specialize in providing exceptional guided tours across the Kyushu region, which is the most southern main islands in Japan.
    With my extensive experience and deep knowledge, I aim to offer guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in Kyushu’s exquisite cuisine, rich traditions, fascinating history, and breathtaking landscapes.
    It is my sincere hope to create unforgettable moments filled with profound inspiration and lasting memories.
    I look forward to welcoming you on an unforgettable journey.

    Request Booking

    Sep 11, 2026
    Stephen_A
    Fantastic Way to see Nagasaki!
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had been here before and…

    Jul 19, 2026
    stephanielI2834SK
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Flexible guide good stops
    We had a nice day with…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Manuel_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Outstanding Full-Day Nagasaki Tour – Deeply Moving & Beautifully Balanced!…

    Mar 2, 2026
    Mary_M
    Wonderful private tour of…
    Viator review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful private tour of Fukuoka with Hiro!…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet @Nagoya Port Garden Pier 8:30
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and tour the Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle tower 8:30-10:20・・Move to Nagoya Castle by subway
    • 3. Move to Tokugawaen and tour Tokugawaen (Japanese Garden) 10:20-11:20・・Move to Tokugawaen by taxi
    • 4. Move to Oasis 21 and tour the area around Mirai Tower 11:20-11:50・・Move to Oasis 21 by taxi
    • 5. Move to the Osu shopping area, give an overview of the Osu district and an explanation of the way home, then disband at Osu 11:50-12:30・・Move to Osu by subway

    Title: Can You Do a Private Half-Day Tour of Nagoya from Nagoya Port? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan, some from North America and some from Asia. The guided tour was originally scheduled from 9:00 to 13:00, but I arrived at Nagoya Port Garden Pier more than 30 minutes ahead of the planned time, and since the guests had already come out to the entrance gate, we started at 8:30, 30 minutes earlier than originally planned. Among the places on the itinerary, the guests especially enjoyed visiting Nagoya Castle and the Japanese garden at Tokugawaen. At Tokugawaen, the guests expressed a wish to have coffee, so I guided them to a coffee shop near the entrance of Tokugawaen where they could enjoy the garden, which pleased them. Since the guests wished to part ways at Osu and freely enjoy meals and sightseeing on their own, I explained an overview of the Osu area and the way back, and we ended the tour at that location.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoya Port～Nagoya Castle270JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakae (Aichi Prefecture)～Kamimaezu210JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Request Booking

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet at Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
    • 2. 10:30 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3. 12:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4. 12:45 Lunch at Tsukiji Sushisei
    • 5. 14:30 Monzen-nakacho (Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, Fukagawa Fudodo Temple)
    • 6. 15:30 Disband at Otemachi Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Japanese Gardens, Tsukiji, and Fukagawa Body: The guests were visitors from Europe who were staying in Tokyo for several days after finishing a cruise ship tour. They requested to visit a Japanese garden and a fish market, and asked to avoid tourist spots that were overcrowded, so I planned a route that matched their wishes. Since they wanted to have sushi for lunch, I timed our visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market and took them to a sushi restaurant. They commented that it was the most delicious sushi they had ever eaten and were very pleased. As we had a little time to spare, I took them to Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine and Fukagawa Fudo in Monzen-nakacho, then accompanied them to the Marunouchi Line entrance at Otemachi to end the tour. The weather was wonderful, and they told me it had been a splendid day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro～Shimbashi210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Monzen-nakacho180JPY
    Section 3SubwayMonzen-nakacho～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet up @Capital Tokyu
    • Lunch @Shio Tsukemen
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Harajuku
    • 15:30 Shibuya
    • 16:15 Shinjuku
    • 17:15 Disband @Shinjuku Station

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of West Tokyo (Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinjuku) Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were friends visiting from Europe. They had arrived on the morning of the tour and seemed a little tired, but they were able to check in during the morning and get some sleep. In our first exchange, the guests said they were not very interested in famous tourist attractions, but they did not specify where they wanted to go, so we started the tour without a fixed plan. After meeting the guests, we discussed options together and decided to visit Harajuku, Shibuya, and Shinjuku. They also showed interest in an unstaffed convenience store at Takanawa Gateway, but since it was a bit far from the other locations, they decided to visit it on their own. On the way to the hotel in the morning, the guests contacted me to say they wanted to eat something before starting the tour, so we first had lunch at a ramen restaurant in Akasaka near the hotel and I gave a brief introduction to the surrounding area. While the guests were eating, we decided on the schedule for the day. I asked whether, if they preferred places that are not typical tourist spots, they might enjoy a residential neighborhood or an autumn foliage spot, but they did not show much interest. Since they said they wanted to go to Shibuya and Shinjuku, it ended up being a standard tour of the west side of Tokyo. When there is no specific destination decided in advance, I felt it is important to discuss things thoroughly with the guests. They were very pleasant, and I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka (Tokyo)～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Shinjuku170JPY
    Total350JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Sep 22, 2026
    grenfell69
    Half-day tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    While visiting Tokyo we chose the Customized…

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 10:20 @ Himeji Castle
    • 3. 12:15 Lunch @ Maegura (Nadagiku Sake Brewery)
    • 4. 14:20 @ Shoshazan Engyoji Temple (Maniden, Daikodo, Jogyodo, Jikido)
    • 5. 16:00 Disband @ Himeji Station Shinkansen Ticket Gate

    What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Himeji Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of seven visiting from North America, including two elementary-school-aged children. Since this was a tour with a vehicle, getting around was easy. Today we met at Himeji Station and visited Himeji Castle, the Nadagiku Sake Brewery (for lunch), and Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha. This course was decided at the guests' request, but it is a slightly tight itinerary to cover in six hours. However, since the guests had tickets for a Shinkansen to board after the tour, I explained that we needed to keep a good pace as we went. At the Nadagiku Sake Brewery after Himeji Castle, we went straight to lunch without a detailed explanation of the sake-making process, but the guests happily enjoyed the original cotton-candy beef hot pot and a junmai ginjo sake that can only be tasted at the brewery. The tour of Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha was also a quick one, but the autumn foliage was beautiful (which is why there were many tourists), and the guests greatly enjoyed the tour.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Other[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinnojo Ropeway Mountaintop Station～Below Maniden)]500JPY
    Total500JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Food floor at Shibuya Hikarie

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Food floor at Shibuya Hikarie

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Conrad Tokyo
    • 11:30 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Ramen Takesaburo
    • 13:30 From the Imperial Palace to Tokyo Station
    • 14:40 Food floor at Shibuya Hikarie
    • 15:05 Disband at Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and Shibuya It was a slightly cold day with occasional rain. When we arrived in Asakusa it began to rain, so I helped the guests buy a plastic umbrella. In Asakusa they enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes and other activities. They had mentioned wanting ramen for lunch, and since they specifically preferred a local ramen shop, I guided them to one. It was well received. The guests were interested in castles, so I guided them from the Otemon Gate to the Nijubashi Bridge and on to Tokyo Station. The tour was scheduled to end in Shibuya, but as there was a little time to spare, I guided them through the food floor of Shibuya Hikarie. They were fond of the large and beautiful fruits, sweets, and breads on display. I then guided them to the Scramble Crossing, where the tour ended. I received a tip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinbashi～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo～Shibuya0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

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

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
    • 9:45 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:25 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 13:10 Dismissal in front of Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro

    What Does a Private Full-Day Tokyo Walking Tour Include? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was clear and the tour proceeded smoothly. After the guests purchased a Tokyo Metro 24-hour pass in Ikebukuro, we set off. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, I talked extensively about Edo Castle and the Imperial Family. The guests took many photos in the gardens, and we talked a lot about gardening. At Meiji Shrine, I discussed the Meiji era and the relationship between the two nations, including the Anglo-Japanese Alliance. I also explained Shinto, as well as Omiyamairi and Shichi-Go-San (there happened to be worshippers for both). The request to see the Shibuya Scramble Crossing came about because a friend had talked about it, but the guests were surprised by the crowds at Shibuya Station. I saw them off in front of their hotel and the tour ended. I received a tip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassIkebukuro～Takebashi700JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya～Ikebukuro0JPY
    Total850JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…