Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 9:45 Yanesen – 12:00 Lunch – 13:00 Yanaka – 14:30 Imperial Palace Outer Garden – 15:150 Tokyo Tower 16:00 Roppongi Hills 17:00 Takeshita Street Dismissal

    What's a Private Tokyo Art and Culture Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from South America. After a stay of about two weeks, they planned to continue by cruise ship, stopping at Kochi and Nagasaki before returning home via other destinations in Asia. Walking along the Hebi-michi (Snake Path) in Yanaka, they purchased a French brand scarf at a vintage secondhand clothing shop. After lunch, we visited the atelier of an artist who had lived in Japan for several decades, where the guests happily purchased a painting worth several hundred thousand yen. After visiting Tokyo Tower, we appreciated art once again at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills. On the way to Harajuku by taxi, I explained the many notable architectural works along Omotesando, and then took the guests to a mini-pig cafe on Takeshita Street before parting ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Nezu320JPY
    Section 2SubwayNezu~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 3SubwayKasumigaseki (Tokyo)~Kamiyacho180JPY
    Section 4SubwayKamiyacho~Roppongi180JPY
    Total860JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Castle & Hondori shopping street

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Castle & Hondori shopping street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:15 Started ahead of schedule at the guest's request
    • 12:15-12:30 To Hiroshima Castle by taxi
    • 12:30-13:45 Strolling around the Hiroshima Castle area, including a break
    • 13:45-14:00 Walked to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    • 14:00-14:40 Inside Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park; did not enter the museum at the guest's request
    • 14:40-15:40 Strolling around Hondori shopping street
    • 15:40 At the guest's request, took a taxi from Nagarekawa Street (to the hotel). Tour ended, dismissed

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since we had some time to spare, I suggested visiting Shukkeien Garden and the Peace Memorial Museum, but the guests preferred to explore the town on foot, so we walked through the shopping arcade toward the area near the Hotel while I showed them candidate restaurants and dining areas for dinner. Along the way we found a taxi, so the guests took it back to the Hotel, which meant the tour ended a little earlier than the scheduled time. At Hiroshima Castle, the guests were interested in the process of how a sword is completed, and were also curious about how the current structure consists only of the castle keep and is built of concrete. They did not go inside the Peace Memorial Museum, but they listened intently to the story about the prisoners of war who were affected by the atomic bombing. The guests were looking for a place to have dinner by the riverside, so I introduced several options.

    Hi, I’m Emiko. Until March 2025, I worked as a school teacher, and now I’ve started guiding visitors in Hiroshima. I’ve traveled to about ten different countries, and each journey has given me wonderful memories. I was deeply impressed by the breathtaking nature, delicious food, rich history, and diverse cultures in each place. Meeting kind and welcoming local people was also a highlight. The friendships I formed during my travels have turned into lifelong connections, and we sometimes visit each other. Having friends across the globe is one of the greatest joys of traveling.
    If I can help visitors to Hiroshima experience the same sense of warmth, connection, and discovery, I would be truly honored.
    I have lived in Hiroshima City, Saijo, and Fukuyama for several years each, which allows me to guide you not only to Hiroshima’s two World Heritage Sites—the Atomic Bomb Dome and Miyajima—but also to places like Saijo, Fukuyama, and Fukuyama’s neighboring city, Onomichi. If you’re able to explore beyond the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I would love to introduce you to many other fascinating places across Hiroshima Prefecture.
    Most visitors to Hiroshima include the Peace Memorial Park in their itinerary, where the Atomic Bomb Dome is preserved alongside the Peace Memorial Museum, and the Peace Memorial Museum. We all hope for a peaceful world, and simply visiting these places is a meaningful step toward that vision. At the same time, it reminds us how fortunate we are to live in the present and spend time with loved ones. This site not only tells a tragic story of war but also inspires hope and courage to move forward in life.
    Another must-see destination in Hiroshima Prefecture is Miyajima. Since ancient times, this island has been considered sacred, believed to be the dwelling place of the gods by local people. The stunning Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic torii gate, both appearing to float on the sea, create a breathtaking contrast with the blue Seto Inland Sea and the lush primeval forest behind them. Miyajima also holds traces of Japan’s unique religious history—the fusion and separation of Shintoism and Buddhism—something visible in only a few places across Japan. If you love nature, you can hike or take the ropeway to explore the island’s scenic beauty. Miyajima also offers a variety of delicious local specialties, including Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, maple-leaf-shaped pancakes, conger-eel rice bowls, and Japanese matcha tea tastings. The island is packed with historic shrines and temples with fascinating stories, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and amazing food.
    I would be delighted to make your visit even more enjoyable and memorable! I am very much looking forward to exploring interesting places in Hiroshima with you!

    May 20, 2026
    Travel123629
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A great tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima
    What a…

    Apr 16, 2025
    D
    Diabl0
    Lovely tour of Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our tour with…

  • Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Hotel – 5:30 Toyosu Market – 7:30 Tsukiji Outer Market – 8:20 Disband at Tsukiji

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Food Tour of Toyosu and Tsukiji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, near the end of a trip through Japan and scheduled to return home in a few days. They were all quite knowledgeable about Japan and even understood some Japanese. After touring the Toyosu Market, they enjoyed a sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant on the dining floor. We then headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market on the Yurikamome line. Luckily, we were able to sit in the very front seats of the leading car, taking in the futuristic scenery of Odaiba and the waterfront cityscape. The guests were able to enjoy both the traditions of Japanese food culture and the modern side of Tokyo. This private tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures. [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is a winner of the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo-mae~Tsukiji Shijo570JPY
    Total570JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet guests at the hotel→Travel to Nijubashi 830~9:00→Stroll around Nijubashi then stroll around the East Gardens 9:00~10:00→Travel to Asakusa 10:00~10:30→Stroll around Sensoji Temple 10:30~11:30→Travel to Tsukishima 11:30~11:50→Enjoy a monjayaki lunch 11:50~12:50→Travel to Meiji Shrine 12:50~13:20→Stroll around Meiji Shrine 13:20~14:10→Travel to Shibuya 14:10~14:20→Stroll around Shibuya Crossing・Disperse

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Shibuya Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. We traveled by chauffeured car and first strolled around Nijubashi Bridge and the Imperial Palace. Unfortunately it was raining a little, which was not ideal for taking photos, but everyone happily took commemorative pictures and enjoyed themselves. Next we moved on to Asakusa. Since everyone walking along the street was carrying umbrellas, I think it was a bit hard to see Nakamise and the surrounding area. After that we headed to Tsukishima and enjoyed monjayaki. I was able to confirm that monjayaki suits people who do not eat certain foods very well. Next we moved on to Meiji Shrine, and finally the group experienced the Shibuya Crossing before we parted ways.

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Oct 14, 2025
    Randi R
    Amazing tour of Tokyo with Yuji
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuji was an amazing guide.…

    Sep 30, 2025
    K6530TRangelor
    Great tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuji was excellent. He was very punctual and…

    Sep 19, 2025
    belindaf2022
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day with being shown the key…

    Sep 8, 2025
    S8908ADcarolinab
    Family friendly guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with our 6 hour…

  • Osaka: after arranging the hired car & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Osaka: after arranging the hired car & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet the guests
    • 10:30 Depart after arranging the hired car
    • 12:20 Isuien Garden
    • 12:30 Todaiji Temple
    • 13:50 Nigatsudo Hall
    • 14:25 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 15:55 Imanishi Seibei Shoten, Nigiwai no Ie, Naramachi shopping
    • 16:50 Shimomikado Shopping Street, Mochiidono Center-gai
    • 18:30 Disband in front of the Italian restaurant at Osaka Umeda

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour with a Hired Car Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After meeting the guests, since one member of the group had difficulty walking long distances, I quickly arranged a hired car. I was relieved that we were able to depart after about a 20-minute wait following the arrangement. During our conversation, the guests mentioned that they had already seen many temples, so I took them to a Japanese garden, which they were delighted with, saying how beautiful it was. After that, to reduce the walking distance, we got out at a parking area near Todai-ji Temple and toured the site. The guests listened attentively to my explanations at each location. Afterward, one member of the group rested near the exit while I took the others to Nigatsu-do Hall. They took their time enjoying the view from there. After reuniting with the group, I explained the Nandaimon Gate and we moved on to Kasuga Taisha Shrine. There were some stairs, so I proceeded while carefully watching to make sure the guests were not too tired. They enjoyed strolling through the grounds with their lanterns and sacred atmosphere, and seemed particularly amazed by the size and age of the sacred tree. After that, we moved to Naramachi, where at Harushika I explained about amazake, and they wanted to try it and purchased some. They also showed great interest in the traditional Japanese house. Some of the guests found a cute one-of-a-kind accessory made by a Japanese creator at a small boutique and purchased it, appearing very pleased. Finally, they bought a kukurizaru charm, saying they wanted to decorate their office with it. At the shopping street, they bought onigiri and departed for Osaka. We parted ways at an Italian restaurant for dinner.

    Hello. My name is Momoyo Kanagawa. I’ve been a certified interpreter guide for 7 years. I have experience guiding not only in the Kansai
    area such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, but also in the Tokyo area. I have a passion for sharing the rich history and culture of Japan.
    Japan is a beautiful country with diverse culture and nature. If you come to Japan, you might be able to experience things like:
    Sight: You can see the scenery of cherry blossom petals dancing in the wind, or the majestic figure of Mt. Fuji.
    Hearing: You can hear the sound of traditional instruments such as Japanese drums and shakuhachi, or the lively atmosphere of festivals and fireworks.
    Touch: You can relax in a hot spring, or try on Japanese costumes such as kimono and yukata.
    Taste: You can taste famous Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, ramen, or Japanese drinks such as matcha and sake.
    Smell: You can smell the fragrance of incense and flowers, or feel the unique air of temples and shrines.
    These are just some of the charms of Japan. There are still many things to discover in Japan. Please use your five senses and feel the wonder of Japan.
    I’m excited to be able to explore Japan together with you and make your visit memorable! I will escort you with the best hospitality.

    안녕하세요. 간사이에서 가이드를 하고 있는 카나가와 모모요라고 합니다.
    오사카·교토·나라·고베를 중심으로 역사와 문화, 미의식, 그리고 일본인의 정신성까지를 차분하고 깊이 있게 전하며 오래 기억에 남는 간사이 여행을 안내합니다.

    단순한 명소 방문이 아닌, 봄의 벚꽃, 여름의 신록, 가을의 단풍, 겨울의 고요함 등 일본 사계절 자연의 아름다움을 온전히 느낄 수 있는 여행을 중요하게 생각합니다.
    또한 일식을 비롯한 일본의 식문화와 지역의 제철 식재료, 신뢰할 수 있는 고급 레스토랑과 명점 소개를 통해 미각으로도 일본을 깊이 경험하는 시간을 제안합니다.

    커플 여행부터 가족 여행까지, 어르신부터 어린이까지 다양한 연령대와 상황에 맞춘 무리 없는 일정 구성이 가능합니다. 한일 양국의 문화적 공통점과 차이를 세심하게 고려하여, 편안하고 신뢰할 수 있는 가이딩을 제공하고자 합니다.

    최고의 호스피탈리티로 고객님의 여행 추억 속에 오래 남을 소중한 한 페이지를 장식하는 동반자가 되겠습니다.

    Sep 13, 2025
    O7109SGricardoc
    Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had an excellent experience…

    May 23, 2025
    R
    Road294776
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Mt Koya Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Really smooth experience. Our…

    Sep 10, 2024
    famililuxe
    Amazing Osaka Introduction with Momo
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We love Momo Kanagawa! This…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Simon C
    Best tour guide in Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Momo is the best. She is…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Knot Tokyo Shinjuku 9:40 Meiji Shrine 10:30 Harajuku (Takeshita Street, Kiddy Land, Harry Potter House) 12:00 Shibuya (Crossing, Pokemon Center, Mega Donki) 13:00 End at Shibuya Station

    What's a Private Family-Friendly Tour of Harajuku and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour in Tokyo for a group visiting from Oceania. It was the final day of their trip to Japan. In Harajuku, we visited Takeshita Street, Kiddy Land, and the Harry Potter House, which the guests thoroughly enjoyed, purchasing a number of items. In Shibuya, we walked through the famous crossing, Center Street, and Spain Slope before arriving at the Nintendo and Pokémon Center, where the guests were wide-eyed with amazement. Finally, they were also delighted by Mega Don Quijote and did some shopping there. The booking came through a tour company, and the guests were very mindful about their food while enjoying the walking tour. Because we focused the itinerary around the guests' interests, they seemed very satisfied, and at the end they kindly gave me some sweets as a gift.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total300JPY

    Before I started the guiding job in 2022, I had worked for private companies and been engaged in overseas business, which led me to be stationed in various English-speaking countries. Taking advantage of such experiences and also wishing to reciprocate the kindness extended to me during my career, I have decided to help visitors to Japan enjoy their stay and obtained a national guide license.
    I am very honored and pleased to assist guests from overseas and enjoy seeing them having a great time visiting interesting spots in Japan and learning about the country. I look forward to serving more new guests and seeing them smile at the end of my private tours.

    Jun 8, 2025
    T1516LOmarkg
    Tokyo tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
    LaToya_S
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…

    Feb 27, 2025
    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly!…

    Feb 17, 2025
    Trip29223434750
    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    For those not wanting to…

  • Nagasaki: Martyrs Memorial Museum & Sanno Shrine

    Nagasaki: Martyrs Memorial Museum & Sanno Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Nagasaki Station
    • 09:10 26 Martyrs Memorial Museum
    • 10:30 Oura Cathedral
    • 11:45 Kaisei High School
    • 12:00 Lunch in Chinatown
    • 13:00 St. Kolbe Memorial Museum
    • 14:20 Nagasaki Prefecture Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 16:00 Hypocenter Park
    • 16:20 Nagai Takashi Memorial Museum / Nyokodo
    • 17:00 Peace Park
    • 17:15 Urakami Cathedral
    • 17:30 Sanno Shrine
    • 18:00 Disband at Nagasaki Station

    What Is a Private Nagasaki Tour of Atomic Bomb and Christian History Sites Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests wished to focus mainly on the history of Christianity and the atomic bomb in Nagasaki. With a 3-hour extension by vehicle, I had thought there might be extra time to spare, but it was memorable how thoroughly the guests explored each site — so much so that toward the end we had to move a little quickly. At the Takashi Nagai Memorial Museum, the taxi driver was asked to convey that the museum director is a grandchild of Takashi Nagai, and when this was shared, one of the guests was moved to tears. At Sanno Shrine, the guests were deeply impressed that the atomic-bombed camphor trees, despite having suffered the effects of the bomb, were still flourishing with leaves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherNanko Ura Monmae / Nagasaki Bus~Nagasaki Station / Nagasaki Bus250JPY
    Section 2OtherNagasaki Station~Nanko Ura Monmae250JPY
    Total500JPY

    Hello, I’m Rikako, but please call me Coco. It would be my absolute pleasure to show you around my hometown of Nagasaki. Having performed in the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in my childhood, I developed a deep interest in history and cultural exchange. This motivated me to become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter during my university years. Since then, I have gained valuable experience—from assisting ambassadors at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony to handling a wide variety of tours, including private and coach tours, site inspections, international conference support, and VIP hospitality.
    Explaining about Nagasaki’s history and culture is the most important to me. It is not only about this. I would love to provide genuine care so that your time in Nagasaki remains in your heart forever.
    I’m truly looking forward to guiding you in Nagasaki 🙂

    Jul 21, 2026
    Dawnery_V
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful city. Great guide.
    Rikako was a great guide. She…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a very nice…
    Had a very nice experience. Coco was very…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Explore34946025848
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagasaki
    Really good day out with a local guide, very informative about…

    Apr 4, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Good
    Nagasaki is a very interesting tour
    I would recommend…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Waited at The Royal Park Canvas Ginza 8 but met up at The Royal Park Canvas Ginza Corridor
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Market (strolling around Toritou, Yamamoto Bean Shop, matcha shop, etc., buying sushi at the Odawarabashi building and eating it on the 3F, viewing the old market, Namiyoke Shrine)
    • 11:30 Hamarikyu
    • 12:30 Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise, lunch at Yoroiya)
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko
    • 16:10 Ginza (disbanding at Nissan Crossing)

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Ginza The tour progressed smoothly and on schedule. For guests who walk at a fast pace, a route covering Tsukiji, Hamarikyu, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Ginza works very well. On this day, the meeting point designated by [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) was one Hotel, but the guests were actually waiting at a different Hotel nearby, so we contacted each other by phone and I hurried over as quickly as I could. They kindly told me not to worry, and I responded with a smile, but since I had been waiting at the designated location, I had mixed feelings about it. In fact, this was the second time this had happened. It may possibly be a system issue.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 4BusJingumae 6-chome/Toei Bus~Shibuya Station West Exit/Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Ginza210JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Hello. My name is Hiromi Murata. Sometimes called Minnie.
    I work as an interpreter guide in Tokyo, Nikko, Nagasaki, etc.
    I was born in Nagasaki, graduated from a university in Tokyo, and had overseas experience due to my husband’s work.
    In the United States, I lived in Connecticut and California for a total of 10 years.
    Especifically, in California, I completed a course on teaching English as a second language at UCI Extension.
    My motto is to be a fun guide.
    I’m interested in art, architecture, gardens, etc.
    I also like Japanese culture and have experience in tea ceremony, kendo, calligraphy, and flower arrangements.
    Japan is a country with beautiful nature and history. The town is clean and full of delicious food.
    I would like to help guests create fun memories in Japan.
    Sincerely,
    Hiromi

    Jul 28, 2026
    Valerie_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of beautiful Nagasaki
    Honestly, I had no idea…

    Jun 14, 2026
    lozzaj81
    Excellent way to get your bearings after arriving
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiromi was exceptionally responsive…

    Apr 23, 2026
    pbh2015
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Beautiful port day in Nagasaki
    Arriving in Nagasaki on a…

    Mar 3, 2026
    Robert_Q
    More than WW2, Nagasaki has been leading changes in Japan for 500 years
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Nara in One Day: Nara Park & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Nara in One Day: Nara Park & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kintetsu Nara Station
    • 10:15 Nara Park
    • 11:00 Todaiji Temple
    • 12:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:30 Lunch (Higashimuki Shopping Street)
    • 14:00 Kofukuji Temple ~ Naramachi Nigiwai no Ie
    • 15:00 Disband at Kintetsu Nara Station

    What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Because the guests were tired from tours on the previous days, we started one hour later than the scheduled time. One member of the group was wearing sandals rather than sneakers, so I was a little worried about how the day would go. However, the group stayed surprisingly energetic all day, without complaining or showing signs of fatigue, which impressed me. If anything, some of the other members of the group seemed a bit more tired. The tour progressed smoothly thanks to perfect weather (with low humidity) and the good spirits of the group. The guests had purchased a goshuin stamp book in Tokyo and were collecting goshuin stamps whenever possible, so we also stopped by Kofuku-ji Temple. For lunch, the guests requested conveyor belt sushi, so I took them to a conveyor belt sushi restaurant in the shopping street. Unlike Osaka or Tokyo, Nara does not have large sushi chain restaurants in its downtown area (though there are some along the main roads). In that sense, arranging lunch in Nara can sometimes (often) be a bit of a challenge.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu Nara Station / Nara Kotsu~Todaiji Daibutsuden / Kasuga Taisha Shrine / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusKasuga Taisha Main Shrine / Nara Kotsu~Kintetsu Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total500JPY

    I am Yoshi, a Nara Local Government Licensed Guide Interpreter and also, a National Government Licensed Interepreter.
    Let’s go out! The Kansai region was the center of Japan for a long time. It was from the 4th century to 19th century. Thus the Kansai region is rich in scenic and historic interest. Why don’t we see, feel, and find so many attractions in Nara Kyoto and Osaka. I was born and raised in Nara. Also I have been to Osaka and Kyoto for working, shopping and dining. I can show you not only major tourist spots but also shops and delicious food that only locals know. I am looking forward to sharing wonderful moments with you!

    May 29, 2025
    Dana_K
    Get ready to climb and explore
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    There is a lot of climbing…

    Aug 16, 2024
    Dylan_N
    Yoshi was a great tour guide
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 9, 2024
    Tour39164063770
    Tolle Stadtführung mit erfahrenem Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Auf unserem Trip durch Japan hatten wir…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo
    • 9:10 Depart Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10:15 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:30 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Tokyo National Museum
    • 11:30 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:00 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 14:00 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The day before, the guest had arrived at Yokohama Port on a cruise ship that had traveled through Singapore, Taiwan, and Okinawa, then taken a taxi to the hotel. The previous evening, the guest strolled around the west side of Shinjuku. The plan was to spend today in Tokyo and fly home from Narita Airport the following day. The guest also planned to join a "food tour" in Shinjuku this evening. Although it was overcast, it was quite hot and humid during the tour. First, we went to Tsukiji. As always, it was extremely crowded with tourists. We strolled through Tsukiji Uogashi and then went to the outer market. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Outer Market." The guest asked and commented, "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it seems like there are a lot of tourists." We then went to the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno. I explained the history of the national museum. The guest seemed interested in "Japanese history," especially "swords" and "Zen," and was quite knowledgeable. We moved to Shinjuku Gyoen. The guest mentioned "liking Japanese gardens" and "having planted a maple in the garden at home," so we strolled slowly through the grounds. The guest said, "Japanese gardens really are wonderful. The pine trees in particular are marvelous." After that, we moved to Harajuku. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." The guest asked questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" "This is completely different from Sensoji Temple," and "How does Buddhism differ from Shinto?" We took a break at the café terrace of Meiji Jingu. From here, we moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble intersection. The guest 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. The guest commented and asked, "Japanese people are all quiet and polite." "You don't see homeless people in the city. Downtown in my hometown is now overflowing with homeless people, and you can't walk around safely." "The streets are clean and there's no litter." "Why aren't there any trash cans on the streets?" I saw the guest off at Shinjuku Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTochomae~Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Shinjuku-gyoemmae210JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku-gyoemmae~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya~Shinjuku170JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    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…