Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Koishikawa Korakuen & Harajuku: Takeshita

    Tokyo in One Day: Koishikawa Korakuen & Harajuku: Takeshita

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Niwa
    • 9:15 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 10:40 Imperial Palace: Statue of Kusunoki Masashige, Nijubashi Bridge, Sakuradamon Gate
    • 11:20 Akihabara: Radio Kaikan
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Sushiya Ginzo
    • 13:30 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 14:30 Harajuku: Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Disband @ Omotesando Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Koishikawa Korakuen, Akihabara, Meiji Shrine, and Harajuku I guided a group visiting from North America. They were calm and thoughtful, with well-considered views. The autumn foliage at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden was beautiful, and they listened with great interest to stories about the shogun and Confucianism. Having grown up watching a lot of anime, they said they would return to Akihabara on their own to buy souvenirs for friends. For lunch they chose sushi, so I explained how to eat it, and they enjoyed it very much. They loved the sacred atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and received an omikuji fortune and a protective charm. They were delighted by the chrysanthemum exhibition. At a souvenir shop they purchased magnets, keychains, and other items. Shibuya had been planned next, but since I learned they would be visiting Shibuya the following day, I suggested guiding them to Harajuku instead, and we walked along Takeshita Street. As they were heading to Tokyo Tower, which they had reserved, after the tour, I accompanied them to Omotesando, explained the train transfer, and ended the tour there. The guests were especially interested in Japanese history and culture, and spoke passionately about the good points of Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySuidobashi~Hibiya180JPY
    Section 2TrainSakuradamon~Akihabara330JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Harajuku180JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Omotesando180JPY
    Total870JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:02 Hotel meetup
    • (We got lost and caused you trouble, we are truly sorry. We also apologized to the guests.)
    • 10:50 Osaka Castle
    • 12:30 Kuromon Market〜Dotonbori
    • 13:10 Lunch at Chibo Dotonbori branch
    • 14:30 Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 16:10 Dismissal at Dotonbori entrance

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from North America. They had just arrived at Kansai Airport the night before, so we started the day at Osaka Castle. It was not too crowded, and the autumn foliage seen from the top floor was beautiful. Afterward, I took them to Kuromon Market and then to Dotonbori. Our timing at a well-known okonomiyaki restaurant in Dotonbori was good, so we were able to get in without waiting, and the guests enjoyed okonomiyaki, an Osaka specialty. At Hozenji Temple I explained Buddhism, and later at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine I explained Shintoism, which the guests found very interesting. After the tour, the guests wanted to visit Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi Shopping Street again, so I guided them back to Dotonbori, and the tour ended there. In the morning I had allowed more than 30 minutes of extra time, but I lost my way and arrived two minutes late, for which I sincerely apologize. I also apologized to the guests directly. I will make sure this does not happen again.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Umeda~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Nipponbashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Section 3TrainNamba (Nankai Line)~Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total910JPY

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Chishaku-in

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Chishaku-in

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet (@Musse Kyoto Shjo Kawaramachi Kintetsu)
    • 7:00-7:35 Travel (Keihan Train; Gion-Shijo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 7:35-8:30 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • 8:30-9:00 Travel (Keihan Train; Fushimi Inari → Kiyomizu-Gojo)
    • 9:00-10:30 Visit Kiyomizu-dera (including Sannen-zaka, Ninen-zaka, Yasaka Pagoda, Koshin-do)
    • 10:30-11:00 Visit Yasaka Shrine
    • 11:00-11:30 Travel (City Bus: Gion-mae → Higashiyama-Nanajo)
    • 11:30-12:20 Visit Sanjusangen-do
    • 12:20-13:00 Visit Chishaku-in
    • 13:00 Tour ends after visiting Chishaku-in.  After the tour, we took the guests to Gion-Shijo (the station near the hotel) and said goodbye.

    Title: What's an Early-Morning Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and More The guests were visitors from North America who were visiting Japan for the first time. They had no trouble with English (I explained in another language only once), and because arranging a guide in that other language was difficult, the tour company had advised them to request an English-speaking guide. The tour started early at 7:00, and I took them to Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Shrine, Sanjusangendo, and Chishaku-in. I had not originally planned to include Chishaku-in, but since we had time to spare, I added it. Among the guests, one especially enjoyed Fushimi Inari, and another liked Sanjusangendo the most. Chishaku-in, the final place I took them to, was not crowded, so they were able to enjoy the garden at a leisurely pace, and they seemed very pleased with it.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Kiyomizu-Gojo240JPY
    Section 3BusGion / Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama-Nanajo / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total710JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up @ Courtyard by Hotel
    • 2. 8:40 @ Kabukiza Theatre (main entrance, Kobikicho)
    • 3. 9:00 @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4. 10:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 5. 11:00 @ Takeshita Street
    • 6. 11:40 Light lunch @ Shibuya Foodshow eat-in
    • 7. 12:20 @ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Pepper Parlor)
    • 8. 13:10 @ Roppongi Hills
    • 9. 13:45 @ The National Art Center, Tokyo
    • 10. 14:00 @ Aoyama Cemetery
    • 11. 14:20 Dismissal @ The National Art Center, Tokyo

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Roppongi The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan. They had previously only passed through Japan on the way to other destinations, and this time decided to explore Tokyo, where they planned to spend about five days. [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. First, on the walk from the hotel to Tsukiji Market, we passed through Higashi-Ginza, where I introduced the front of the Kabukiza Theatre, the Kobikicho souvenir shop, single-act (hitomakumi) tickets, and the Kabuki Gallery. The guests showed great interest in the single-act Kabuki experience. At Tsukiji Market, they enjoyed a free tasting of beans, and otherwise took in the market with their eyes, planning to return on a later day for breakfast. It was their first time seeing fresh wasabi. Next we visited Meiji Shrine. Since it was a Monday, I had not expected much, but we happened to encounter a wedding. The guests were delighted to see traditional attire, including the bride's tsunokakushi headpiece. They purchased amulets inscribed with the character for "victory" (勝) as souvenirs for their university-aged relatives. On Takeshita Street, they were interested in capsule toys (gashapon) and a piglet café. Since one of the guests mentioned wanting a light bite, we decided to eat something they liked at an eat-in spot in Shibuya. At Tokyu Food Show, one purchased pressed sushi and the other bought yakitori, and they sat at a free table to enjoy their meal, expressing great satisfaction. After that, we actually walked across the Scramble Crossing, saw the Hachiko statue, and I guided them to the Pepper Parlor inside FUKURAS, which they very much enjoyed. The itinerary had been arranged based on their prior requests, but I explained that Shinjuku Golden Gai, which they had wished to visit after Shibuya, would still have most of its shops closed around 2:30 p.m., the time the tour was ending. Instead, I suggested guiding them around the Roppongi area. They had originally been interested in art-related spots, so I introduced the Roppongi Art Triangle (Mori Art Museum, Suntory Museum of Art, and The National Art Center). We traveled by bus from Shibuya and I guided them to Maman (the giant spider sculpture) at Roppongi Hills and to the beautiful Keyakizaka, which is lovely when lit up in the evening. Nearby was also a small gallery that had been on the guests' original list of places to visit, so we located it using the address and confirmed its location so they could visit at a later date. Continuing, we passed Tokyo Midtown Roppongi and headed to The National Art Center. The guests were interested in the current special exhibition, "Prism of the Times," and after taking a roughly ten-minute stroll through Aoyama Cemetery, they expressed a wish to return to the museum, so the tour ended at the museum entrance.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Oedo Line Tsukijishijo Station~Yoyogi Station220JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station180JPY
    Section 4BusShibuya Station Front (East Side) / Toei Bus~EX Theater Roppongi Front / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total760JPY

    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Yudaki Falls & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tochigi in One Day: Yudaki Falls & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Tsurukame Daikichi lobby, explanation about the itinerary
    • 9:35 Board taxi
    • 10:15 Yudaki Falls
    • 10:30 Lake Yunoko
    • 10:45 Ryuzu Falls
    • 11:10 Lake Chuzenji Kagahama
    • 11:30 Kegon Falls
    • 12:20 Taxi ends. Lunch at Maruhide Shokudo
    • 13:20 Futarasan Shrine
    • 13:40 Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:35 Rinnoji Shoyoen Garden
    • 15:00 Rinnoji Sanbutsudo
    • 15:30 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 15:45 Tour ends at Hotel Tsurukame Daikichi

    Title: What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like for Families? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were a family visiting from North America. One of the guests had wanted to visit Japan since childhood and had finally made the trip come true. They had debated between Takayama and Nikko before choosing Nikko, so I made sure to guide them to many beautiful spots to make them feel glad they had come. The weather was excellent, and since the guests had arranged a taxi charter for three hours in advance, I was able to show them plenty of the stunning scenery of Oku-Nikko. One of the younger guests loved to talk and was constantly chatting with the family, and spoke to me a lot as well, though the fast pace made it difficult to catch everything (it almost sounded like music). Among the words I did catch was the term "Taisho era," and when I asked why that term came to mind rather than the Edo or Showa periods, I learned it was because of a fondness for the anime Demon Slayer. This was a lovely child who kept cards and small toys obtained in Akihabara tucked into pockets and enjoyed showing them to me. One of the guests was very knowledgeable about Japan, having long wished to visit, and explained things such as the Warring States period and the meaning of torii gates to the family — topics I would normally cover myself. Although there were some slight differences, I respected their explanations and let them stand. It seems this guest had read a novel about the shogun and watched the drama adaptation, and had studied a great deal, so they were very well informed. As a result, I only spoke about half as much as usual. Interestingly, one of the guests who had seemed relatively uninterested listened to my explanations with unexpected enthusiasm. The day before, the guests had visited Nikko Edomura, where they enjoyed dressing up in samurai, princess, and ninja costumes, and they showed me photos as well. The guests spent several nights in Nikko and seemed to thoroughly enjoy it, which was wonderful. Going forward, they plan to visit Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakone.

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

  • Tokyo: Ikebukuro Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo: Ikebukuro Station & Asakusa Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Depart Ikebukuro Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 9:30 Arrive Komagome Station
    • Komagome Rikugien Garden
    • 10:30 Depart Komagome Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Nippori Station
    • Nippori Yanaka Ginza
    • Yanaka Cemetery
    • 11:30 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:35 Arrive Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Nishi-Nippori Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 14:00 Asakusa・Jidaiya
    • 14:00 Dismissal: in front of Jidaiya

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from Europe. This was the first visit to Japan for the group. They came as part of a larger group tour visiting Japan, and since today was their only free day, this private tour was arranged. They had arrived at Narita Airport on a direct flight the previous night, taking a taxi from the airport to their hotel. However, due to a flight delay, they reached the hotel around 10:00 p.m. As part of the group tour, in addition to Tokyo, they planned to visit Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, and then return home after coming back to Tokyo. One of the guests had some difficulty walking, especially with descending stairs, so it was a slow-paced, gentle walking tour. The tour took place under clear skies and warm, pleasant weather. First, in line with their wishes, we headed to Rikugien Garden. They mentioned that they love Japanese gardens. They commented, "The pine trees are especially wonderful," and "The surrounding area feels like a quiet residential neighborhood, very calming." Next, we went to the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area. They had requested, "We'd like to see the old streetscapes of Tokyo." We strolled leisurely through Yanaka Ginza. They purchased chopsticks and matcha as souvenirs. They said, "I love streetscapes like this." We then moved to Nezu Shrine. In the shrine grounds, many families were visiting for the "Shichi-Go-San" celebration. With permission, we took photos. I explained about Shinto, about torii gates, and about the history of Edo and Tokyo, and as we passed through the torii gates, I also explained about Inari shrines. There were questions such as, "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "Why did Shinto arise?" We then moved to Asakusa. First, from the observation floor of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, I explained the surrounding scenery. We started from in front of Kaminarimon 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 Kaminarimon, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various other spots. We strolled leisurely through the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as, "What are the major religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" I saw them off near their next destination, and we parted ways. They made comments and asked questions such as, "The town is so clean and free of litter," "I was surprised at how clean the public toilets are," and "There are no trash cans around town. Why is that?"

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro~Komagome170JPY
    Section 2TrainKomagome~Nippori150JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi~Nezu180JPY
    Section 4TrainNezu~Nishi-Nippori180JPY
    Section 5TrainNishi-Nippori~Ueno150JPY
    Section 6TrainUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Total1,010JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Eizan Electric Railway, Demachiyanagi Station, Meeting
    • 13:50~15:00  Kurama-dera, Niomon Gate, Cable Car, Main Hall Kondo
    • 15:30~16:00  Kifune Shrine, Main Shrine
    • 16:15~17:00  Disband at Demachiyanagi Station

    Title: What Is a Private Autumn Tour of Kurama and Kifune in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and they arrived about 15 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. One of them was wearing a rental kimono but had on sneakers, so we set off with peace of mind. The weather was fine, and they were impressed by the autumn foliage along the Eizan Railway. In Kurama, they were moved by the giant tengu statue in front of the station and the autumn leaves around the Niomon Gate of Kurama-dera Temple. We climbed up to the main hall, the Kondo, discussed Sonten, the principal deity of Mount Kurama, and they experienced the power spot. They also took many photos. In Kifune, the autumn foliage along the Kifune River and around the main shrine was wonderful, and they were deeply impressed, taking many photos. They were concerned about needing to return to Gion by 5:30 to return the rental kimono, but after we parted, they contacted me via a messaging app to say they had returned it safely.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDemachiyanagi~Kurama470JPY
    Section 2TrainKurama~Kibuneguchi220JPY
    Section 3TrainKibuneguchi~Demachiyanagi470JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet at the b ginza
    • 2. 9:30 Asakusa
    • 3. 10:45 Tsukiji
    • 4. 11:15 Lunch (Tsukiji Sushisei Tsukiji Shinkan)
    • 5. 12:30 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 6. 13:45 Odaiba
    • 7. 14:30 Disband at Odaiba (in front of Decks Tokyo Beach)

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Odaiba The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to spend a total of twelve days in the country, visiting places such as Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Kyoto after their time in Tokyo. About twenty-five years ago they had stayed one night in Tokyo during a transit, but this was effectively their first time sightseeing here. I guided them around Asakusa, Tsukiji, Hamarikyu Gardens, and Odaiba. We were blessed with good weather, and they enjoyed taking photos at each spot while listening to my explanations. Since they wanted to have sushi in Tsukiji for lunch, we went to a sushi restaurant, and they were delighted with how delicious it was. Odaiba is a place I don't often have the chance to guide, but I arranged the route so they could take in the views of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Bay. At the end, they wanted to do some shopping in Odaiba, so I explained the location of the shopping mall and how to get back to their hotel, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainShiodome~Daiba330JPY
    Total750JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Sep 29, 2026
    S77OGjoyh
    Excellent Guided walking tour of temple, shrine and outdoor food market Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day…

    Sep 16, 2026
    Kerry_M
    10/10 tour with Haruhiko Yokota
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We toured Tokyo with Haruhiko Yokota…

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 9:00 – Sunpu Park 10:00 – Shizuoka Station ~ Hotel 11:30 – Yume Terrace ~ Nihondaira Ropeway ~ Toshogu Shrine ~ Ropeway Entrance 13:30 – Shizuoka Station 15:00

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Shizuoka City Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests from North America at their Hotel and we walked together to Sunpu Park. Unfortunately, the Momijiyama Garden was closed that day, but the guests listened attentively to the history of the moat, the faithfully reconstructed Tatsumi Yagura turret, the statue of Lord Ieyasu, and the excavation site. Afterward, I had planned to visit Nanaya for matcha ice cream, but it was still too early before opening, so we gave up on that and headed to Shizuoka Station. Since it looked like we might be able to see Mount Fuji, I suggested the Nihondaira Hotel, and we took the shuttle bus there. With a wonderfully clear view of Mount Fuji right in front of us, we enjoyed cake and drinks. After that, we walked to the Yume Terrace, watched a video about how Nihondaira was formed, admired another exceptional view of Mount Fuji, and headed to the ropeway entrance. We climbed up to the Toshogu Shrine at a good pace, then descended back to the Nihondaira Hotel, took the shuttle bus back to Shizuoka Station, savored the gyoza the guests had requested inside the station, and said our goodbyes.

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Gora (Tensui Saryo) 11:15 → Gora Station 11:28 → Sounzan 11:45 → Owakudani 13:30 → Togendai [Lunch] 15:10 → Motohakone 17:00 → Hakone-Yumoto 17:48 → Gora (Arrival back at hotel) 18:25

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani and Mount Fuji Views This was my very first assignment as an interpreter guide. The guests were visiting from North America, and since I had traveled in the same region before, we enjoyed sharing stories about it. It was their first trip to Japan, and I was asked about Japan's declining birthrate, to which I offered my own thoughts. The guests had also spent time living in Europe, so they kindly shared many stories about that region as well. The weather was not particularly good that day, but we managed to see Mount Fuji from Owakudani, and the guests were very pleased. It was an enjoyable tour from start to finish, and when we said goodbye at the hotel at the end, I received words of gratitude. This tour confirmed for me that I am well suited to the work of a licensed interpreter guide.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassGora~Gora (After completing one loop of the tour)6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Hi my name is A-sushi. Welcome to Japan!
    I’ve been working in the telecom, and international cooperation fields for more than 35 years in Japan and overseas including 3 Southeast Asian countries and Morocco. I became a licensed tour guide last year after returning back from Morocco.
    Japan is full of yummy food and interesting culture, about which I’d like to show you around. I am looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Bonjour, je m’appelle A-sushi. Bienvenue au Japon !
    J’ai travaillé dans le domaine des télécommunications et de la coopération internationale pendant plus de 35 ans, au Japon et à l’étranger, notamment dans trois pays d’Asie du Sud-Est et au Maroc. Je suis devenu guide touristique agréé l’année dernière après mon retour du Maroc.
    Le Japon regorge de plats délicieux et de cultures intéressantes, que j’aimerais vous faire découvrir. J’ai hâte de vous voir bientôt !