Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @The Peninsula Tokyo
    • 2. 10:45 @Zojoji Temple
    • 3. 11:20 @Tokyo Tower (including Main Deck)
    • 4. 12:20 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 5. 12:40 @Sanrio Shop (Shibuya 109)
    • 6. 13:45 @Roppongi (Tokyo Midtown Roppongi)
    • 7. 14:00 Disband @Tokyo Midtown Roppongi Basement Eat-in Area

    Family Private Walking Tour in Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report on Zojoji, Tokyo Tower, and Shibuya The guests were a group from North America who had arrived in Japan three days earlier. It was the first visit to Japan for some of the guests, while another had been to Japan about fifteen years ago, though hardly for sightseeing. Tomorrow they would head to Hakone, then Kyoto, before flying out from Itami Airport in Osaka to travel through Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore on their way home. This was the beginning of a long journey of 27 days. To please both a guest who wished to see historical places and a younger guest who was hoping for slightly more thrilling sightseeing activities, I accessed the area from the Daimon Station (Hamamatsucho Station) side and guided the group to Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower. The Sangedatsumon Gate is still under restoration and covered with curtains, but when I introduced the Himalayan cedar planted by General Grant, the 18th President of the United States, one of the guests eagerly took commemorative photos in front of it. Also, the interior of the main hall, which I had thought might not interest a younger guest, greatly captured their curiosity, and while the rest of the group watched, one of the guests took on the challenge of offering incense. At Tokyo Tower, we went up to the observation deck at a height of 150 meters. Although the hoped-for view of Mount Fuji was not possible, we could see Zojoji Temple, which we had just visited, as well as the distant Tokyo Skytree. It was a pleasant, crisp autumn day, and one of the guests remarked many times, "The weather is wonderful today." After coming down from the observation deck, the group took a break during which one of the guests enjoyed a crepe, and they lay down on the artificial lawn and took photos, enjoying a very relaxed and pleasant time together. Next, we visited Shibuya. The day before, the group had visited teamLab Borderless and some temples and shrines in the surrounding area, but since they had not yet been to "the famous Shibuya," they wished to visit, so I guided them there. One of the guests was thrilled at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, taking videos and photos. After that, the group shopped for character goods at a Sanrio shop inside Shibuya 109. Having accompanied the whole process, one of the guests said, "Shibuya is too crowded. I'd like to have lunch somewhere quieter." So we moved by bus to Roppongi, where I introduced several dining options inside Tokyo Midtown Roppongi before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Mita Line, Hibiya Station~Toei Asakusa Line, Daimon Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Kamiyacho Station~Fukutoshin Line, Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3BusShibuya Station Front (East Side) / Toei Bus~Roppongi Station Front / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total1,110JPY

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

    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…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Oita in Half a Day: Beppu Wharf & Kannawa district

    Oita in Half a Day: Beppu Wharf & Kannawa district

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Beppu Wharf
    • 09:00-09:15 Travel to Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden (taxi)
    • 09:15-10:30 Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden
    • 10:30-10:45 Travel to Umi Jigoku (taxi)
    • 10:45-11:20 Umi Jigoku
    • 11:20-11:30 Travel to Jigoku Mushi Kobo (on foot)
    • 11:30-12:20 Jigoku Mushi cooking experience
    • 12:20-12:55 Exploring the Kannawa district (Yukemuri Observatory, viewing the bamboo hot spring cooling device)
    • 12:55 Travel to Beppu Wharf (taxi)

    What Is a Private Beppu Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Takasakiyama Monkeys and Hell Steam Cooking The guests were visitors from North America. According to the original plan, we were going to visit Takasakiyama around midday, but on the morning of the tour I received information that monkeys had appeared, so I changed the schedule and headed to Takasakiyama first. Luckily, a large number of monkeys had come down from the mountain, and the guests were very pleased to observe wild monkeys up close at the feeding ground. On top of that, a staff member took photos from an angle that ordinary visitors cannot access, so the guests were able to get pictures together with the wild monkeys and were delighted, saying it would be a wonderful memory. They were also impressed by Umi Jigoku. At the Jigoku Mushi Kobo (Hell Steam Cooking workshop), they showed great interest in the traditional cooking method and enjoyed their meal, saying it was delicious. After that, we strolled through the Kannawa district and let them experience the distinctive atmosphere of the area. They were also intrigued by the simple bamboo cooling devices used to cool down the very hot spring water. There was one thing I felt I needed to consider, which was planning the visit to Takasakiyama. I included Takasakiyama in the plan at the guests' request, but autumn is the season when wild monkeys can find plenty of food in the mountains. It had become a season in which the times the monkeys come down from the mountain to the feeding ground are limited. From about a week beforehand, I checked the monkeys' movements every day, and on the day before the tour there were zero monkeys after 10:00. I was anxious right up until the morning of the tour. It was fortunate that we were able to observe many wild monkeys on the day. In the future, when including Takasakiyama in a course, I plan to inform guests in advance that there may be days when the monkeys do not appear, and to decide on alternative candidate destinations beforehand.

    Hallo, my name is Chiharu Horigome. I am a national government-licensed guide interpreter. I was born in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, and living in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. I lived for 42 years in Chiba City until April 2023, during that time I worked as a volunteer guide for Narita Airport transit tours. I studied chemistry at university and have over 20 years of experience as a chemical patent translator, so I can also assist with factory tours. My specialty is Japanese culture, especially the tea ceremony, which I have been familiar with since I was a child. In addition, I have a license for kimono dressing. I hope people from other countries feel authentic Japanese culture. I can also help them understand hot springs and sake, including chemical explanations. I am happy to assist you during our tour. If you have any questions about our tour, feel free to ask. I am glad to answer them to the best of my ability! I am looking forward to seeing you.

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Ferry

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Ferry

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at JR Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 8:10 JR Ferry
    • 8:20 Arrive at Miyajima
    • 8:30 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 9:00 Mount Misen climb via Momijidani route
    • 12:00 Tour ends after reaching the summit

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Miyajima Walking and Hiking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were friends from Europe traveling together, and after arriving in Tokyo they immediately took the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, where on the first day they visited the Peace Memorial Park on their own before joining today's 4-hour Miyajima tour. After arriving on Miyajima, we visited the Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine and toured the shrine grounds. As this was their first visit to a shrine or temple, they asked questions very eagerly. It was a beautiful clear autumn day, and since the guests were fit, I accepted and guided a climb up Mount Misen without using the ropeway. At the summit, they showed truly delighted expressions.

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

    Jul 31, 2026
    Helene R
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Experienced guide Hiroshi
    Hiroshi was a great experienced…

    Jul 26, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Miyajima Half-Day customized tour with licensed local guide (Hiroshi)
    We went…

    Jul 17, 2026
    oswaldom406
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour, Fantastic guide!
    We had an absolutely wonderful…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Jennifer L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Perfect day in Miyajima and Hiroshima
    Hiroshi is…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Park and

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Park and

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hiroshima Station
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 11:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:00 Daishoin Temple
    • 14:00 Lunch (Hiroshima Station)
    • 15:00 Hiroshima Castle (exterior)
    • 15:30 Peace Memorial Park and Museum
    • 17:45 Disband at the museum

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had just completed a walking tour along the Kumano Kodo the previous day and were scheduled to join a cycling tour along the Shimanami Kaido the following day. Because the tide at Itsukushima Shrine was very high today, we hurried to the shrine and were able to get in just in time. For lunch, the guests enjoyed okonomiyaki near Hiroshima Station, and afterward, at their request, I explained the history of Hiroshima Castle while we viewed its exterior. Finally, we visited the Peace Memorial Museum. At the Peace Memorial Museum, one of the guests carefully read the text and photographed all of the exhibits and asked many questions, making it a very rich and meaningful tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total840JPY

    Hello! My name is Rena, and I’m excited to be your guide during your visit to Japan.
    I was born and raised in Hiroshima, a city rich in history and natural beauty.
    Growing up here has given me a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, from its traditional tea ceremonies and temples to the vibrant festivals that bring communities together.

    I also have a passion for Japanese pop culture, including anime and manga, which I would be happy to share with you.
    Beyond Japan, I enjoy exploring the world through travel.
    Discovering different cultures and meeting new people have been some of the most enriching experiences of my life.

    As your guide, I hope to provide not only insights into Japan’s history and traditions but also a personal connection to its modern culture. Let’s create wonderful memories together during your time here!

    Jul 18, 2026
    Paul_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    outstanding tour
    Thank you Rena for a wonderful day…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Halie_G
    Great trip!
    Viator review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Rena was absolutely lovely! She gave us…

    Jul 4, 2026
    cheryldG9378NX
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide for Miyajima and Hirishima
    Rena was very…

    May 7, 2026
    73parash
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Emotional and educational
    The experience was very good and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shiomi Station & Shin-kiba Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shiomi Station & Shin-kiba Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Depart Shiomi Station
    • (JR Keiyo Line)
    • Hatchobori Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:45 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:50 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:00 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 14:00 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
    • (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
    • Nagatacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shin-kiba Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Shin-kiba Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Shinjuku Gyoen, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guest was visiting Japan for the first time, coming from Europe. They arrived at Haneda Airport last night on a direct flight and took a taxi to the hotel. They were on a trip to Japan, planning to stay in Tokyo before visiting Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then returning to Tokyo before heading home. The guest mentioned that they had been studying Japanese. The tour took place under cloudy skies with occasional strong gusts of wind due to the influence of a typhoon. We started at Asakusa, which was very crowded as always. Beginning in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-storied pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon, in front of the five-storied pagoda, and at various other spots, and leisurely strolled through the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the major religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?", and "Are there Catholics in Japan?" Next, we went to Tsukiji, which was crowded with tourists as usual. We strolled through the Tsukiji fish market area and then visited the outer market. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji outer market." There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyoites come here to buy fish?" and "It is crowded, but it seems there are many tourists after all." We then moved to Shinjuku Gyoen. Since the guest liked Japanese gardens, we walked leisurely through the grounds. The guest said, "Japanese gardens really are wonderful. The pine trees in particular are splendid." After that, we moved to Harajuku. I explained "about Shinto," "about the torii gate," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "The atmosphere is completely different from Sensoji Temple," and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" We took a break at the cafe terrace of Meiji Shrine. From here, we moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the scramble crossing. There were questions such as "Why do so many people gather here?" and "Why did it become famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "The Japanese are all quiet and polite," "The subway is far more refined than the one in London," "The city is clean with no litter on the ground," and "Why are there no trash bins around the city?" The guest also noted, "However, it is strange that young people do not give up their seats to older people on the subway." On the way toward the hotel, I saw the guest off at Shinkiba Station and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTochomae~Ueno-okachimachi220JPY
    Section 2OtherUeno-okachimachi~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji~Shinjuku-gyoemmae210JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku-gyoemmae~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 6TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya~Shin-kiba260JPY
    Total1,440JPY

    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…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 0930→1000 Nagamachi Samurai District 1040→1050 Hotel 1050→1110 Higashi Chaya District 1230→1245 Omicho Market 1330→1400 Kanazawa Castle Ruins Park & Kenrokuen 1530→1600 Kanazawa Station (End)

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. It was their first trip to Japan, and they were actively exploring the Golden Route on an independent journey. The group joined for the first stop at the Nagamachi samurai district, but one of the guests felt unwell and had to withdraw at that point. I arranged a taxi to take them back to the Hotel, and then resumed the tour. Listening to their wishes (streetscapes with willow trees and antique shops), we focused on exploring the Higashi Chaya district in detail, including a visit to a teahouse and a tour of a sake brewery. Afterward, we had a lunch break at Omicho Market, and then took a leisurely stroll through the Kanazawa Castle ruins and Kenrokuen Garden.

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

    Mar 17, 2026
    jodonr2026
    Amazing. Go with Yoshi!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a fantastic…

    Jan 2, 2026
    Fearless67262385503
    Memorable experience
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide, Yoshi-san, a sweet and gentle elderly…

    Oct 17, 2025
    Laura_C
    Amazing experience…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience getting to see sites outside of…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Kinkakuji temple & Nijojo castle

    Hyogo in One Day: Kinkakuji temple & Nijojo castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 11:30-12:00. Kinkakuji temple
    • 12:30-13:10. Lunch
    • 13:40- 14:40. Nijojo castle
    • 14:10-15:30. At Kyoto station for a cup of coffee and shopping at Uniquro
    • 17:00. End of the tour

    After visiting Nijo Castle, the plan was to go to Nishiki Market and Fushimi Inari Taisha, but due to the heat the guests seemed tired, and after having some coffee and doing a little shopping for clothes, they said they wanted to return to the ship. We decided to stop by Kyoto Station on the way back. I suggested driving around somewhere with nice scenery, but the guests said they were ready to return to the ship. The guests got along very well with each other. It seemed quite difficult for them to bend their knees, and getting in and out of the car appeared challenging. The guests were very cheerful. We were able to chat about various things in the car, and although the tour ended earlier than scheduled, the guests were pleased.

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: TSUKIJI Outer Market & KAPPABASHI Kitchen Town

    Tokyo in One Day: TSUKIJI Outer Market & KAPPABASHI Kitchen Town

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 meet in the lobby of Hotel VILLA FONTAINE Shiodome
    • 10:00 1 TSUKIJI Outer Market
    • 11:15 2 THE IMPERIAL PALACE & the Tokyo Station
    • 13:00 3 UENO TOSHOGU SHRINE
    • 14:00 4 ASAKUSA
    • 15:00 5 KAPPABASHI Kitchen Town
    • 15:30 See off at Kappabashi TDI

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report A two-day tour originally planned for October 9-10 had to be adjusted when the guests' cruise itinerary changed due to weather, so October 9 was moved to a request for October 8, and a different guide had to be assigned for that day. The guests were a group of five who all loved taking photos. Whenever I spoke about history and culture, everyone gathered around and listened attentively. By the fifth stop of the itinerary, Kappabashi, the guests were understandably getting tired, so they said the nearest point, TDI, would be fine, and we parted ways at TDI.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji~Hibiya700JPY
    Section 3Free PassYurakucho~Sakuradamon/Tokyo〜Ueno〜Asakusa〜Tawaramachi0JPY
    Total880JPY

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spear time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Shibuya
    • 15:50 Tour ends at Shibuya Station

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Including Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They mentioned that in two days they would be departing from Yokohama on a cruise around Japan. Since I had also frequently visited North America in the past, we enjoyed sharing memories together. First, the guests enjoyed a variety of seafood at the Tsukiji Outer Market, then we headed to Namiyoke Shrine near the market and Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, where I explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the differences in worship practices. They seemed especially interested in the teachings of Shinto. After the Imperial Palace, we headed to Meiji Shrine, where they were delighted to see a wedding ceremony being held within the grounds. One of the guests purchased an "omamori" charm while wishing for recovery, and seemed very happy about it. They also purchased a variety of additional souvenirs and appeared very satisfied. Finally, we headed to the Shibuya Crossing, and after I explained the way back to the hotel, we concluded the tour at Shibuya Station.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

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

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

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
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  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Traveled by subway & Shinjuku/Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Traveled by subway & Shinjuku/Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30〜11:00
    • When we met, I was consulted that since they had booked the Shinkansen, Kintetsu Railway, and Odakyu Railway themselves for this 14-day trip to Japan, they wanted to confirm them and go to the stations if necessary. I planned the tour incorporating sightseeing and station stops, and we departed.
    • 11:00〜11:45 Sensoji Temple. Since they are staying at a nearby hotel, they said they would like to come back on their own later.
    • 11:45〜12:20 Traveled by subway.
    • 12:30〜12:45 Mrs. Diane could not walk due to the heat, fatigue, and stomach pain, and said she wanted to rest. She collapsed onto the lawn on the way to Nijubashi. We rested there.
    • 12:45〜13:15 We sat on a bench near a tea stand, and she had coffee and a banana she had brought. She said she had not eaten anything all day.
    • She recovered and started walking again.
    • 13:15〜13:40 Nijubashi
    • 13:40〜14:00 Tokyo. I guided them on the Shinkansen boarding area and how to board within Tokyo Station, which they will use the day after tomorrow.
    • 14:00〜14:20 Tokyo/Shinjuku
    • 14:20〜14:40 Shinjuku Station. At the Odakyu Romancecar counter, I showed the reservation form and asked for instructions. I explained that they would need to display the QR code themselves, and they understood.
    • 14:40〜14:50 Shinjuku/Shibuya
    • 15:00〜15:30 I guided and showed them the Shibuya crossing and the building in Shibuya that is the meeting point for the food tour they plan to join the day after tomorrow.
    • 15:35 I guided them once again to the Ginza Line subway platform. They said they would use Shibuya/Asakusa to return to their hotel on their own.
    • At the Ginza Line station entrance, I thanked them for joining this tour, said goodbye, and took my leave.

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Imperial Palace Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived at Narita Airport the previous day after a long journey and had only managed to sleep three or four hours. Since some of the guests had not eaten anything all day, they felt unwell, and while walking to the Nijubashi Bridge, one of them almost collapsed and lay down to rest on the grass. We sat together and rested there for a while. Afterward, they took a break at a cafe beside the Kusunoki statue, having some coffee and Japanese tea. They ate a banana they had brought for breakfast and recovered their energy. Fatigue, the heat, and a stomachache had left them feeling unwell, which was worrying. I have permission to post the photos. They booked with us because a friend had used the service on this site last year and had a great experience, and recommended it. The photo is from Shibuya Station. They plan to travel from Tokyo to Nagoya and Ise, then on to Kyoto, Osaka, and Okinawa, before returning to Tokyo, staying two nights in the Fuji-Hakone area, then returning to Tokyo to head home. It is a long trip. Take care!

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Nijubashimae290JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo~Shinjuku210JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku~Shibuya170JPY
    Total670JPY

    Hello! How are you?
    I am a National Licensed Tour Guide Interpreter, Yumiko Komatsu. Nick name is coco.

    I have started this guide job since 2014. I live in Tokyo, but I was born in Matsumoto. I guided many places throughout Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa. I guided and am interested in Japanese Art, pop culture, Manga, Japanese landscape, Japanese history, culture, religions and Japanese custom. In Tokyo there are a lot of things you need to visit such as Asakusa temple, Shrine, Team labo, food, Shibuya, and Akihabara. Every place is changing on everyday in Tokyo. I will get you updated information and I hope that you may enjoy your staying in Tokyo. Shall we go?

    Mar 22, 2025
    Deborah_S
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    What an amazing experience…

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    We enjoyed seeing Tokyo with Coco.…

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    Oct 3, 2024
    Dreamer43508203689
    Tokyo highlights – Imperial Palace, Fish Market, Rotation Sushi lunch, Takeshita Street.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide…