Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Mimaru Tokyo Ikebukuro meet up
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 Harajuku Lunch at Kyushu Jangara Ramen
    • 12:10 Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 13:00 Shibuya PARCO
    • 14:30 Asakusa
    • 15:40 Akihabara
    • 16:00 Disband at Akihabara Electric Town

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They were very friendly, and the whole group was cheerful and well-mannered, which made it a pleasure to guide them. I was surprised that everyone found the Kyushu Jangara ramen delicious and nearly finished it all. In the backstreets of Harajuku (Ura-Hara), they bought many stylish T-shirts and were delighted that there were so many cool shops in the area. At PARCO in Shibuya, one of the guests was thrilled to get an item they had been looking for. Finally, I took the group to Akihabara, where I introduced the history of the district and recommended some shops, bringing the tour to a close.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro~Harajuku180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOmotesando~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa (TX)~Akihabara210JPY
    Total830JPY

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Tokyo: GOTOKU-JI Temple & MEIJI JINGU SHRINE

    Tokyo: GOTOKU-JI Temple & MEIJI JINGU SHRINE

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet in the 5 fl lobby of Hotel Resol Stay Akihabara
    • 10:30 1 GOTOKU-JI Temple
    • 12:00 2 the Metropolitan Gov Observation Deck
    • 13:00 3 KOISHIKAWA KORAKUEN Garden
    • 2:15 4 SHIBUYA CROSSING
    • 3:00 5 MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 4:15 back at the hotel

    Can You Do a Private Full-Day Tour of Modern and Historic Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide welcomed the group as scheduled in the lobby on the fifth floor of the Hotel. The driver had also been waiting from early on, so we were able to get off to a smooth start. Today's tour leaned toward showing a more modern side of Tokyo, while at Gotokuji Temple and Koishikawa Korakuen Garden I explained both 17th-century Japan and the present day. By comparing the two, the guests deepened their understanding of Japan and Tokyo as it is today. The group also listened with great interest to my explanation of the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. I paid attention to the pace of movement and made sure to include rest breaks for the group's comfort.

    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
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:10 Meet up@Hotel Metropolitan (Ikebukuro)
    • 2. 08:15 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 08:55 Visit@Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 09:50 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 10:15 Visit@Asakusa
    • 6. 11:45 Travel∶Subway
    • 7. 12:15 Visit@Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 8. 12:45 Lunch@Koragumi
    • 9. 13:50 Travel∶On foot
    • 10. 14:10 Disband@Ginza 4-chome Intersection

    What Is an 8:00 AM Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived a little late, which caused me some concern. Since there is also a Hotel in Iidabashi, I worried that they might have gone there by mistake, but I was relieved when we successfully met at 08:10. On tours starting at 8:00, I often take guests to Nezu Shrine before guiding them to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Sensoji Temple, and this time as well it was very well received. In the early morning hours it is still uncrowded, and I think it is an excellent spot for taking photos. The guests seemed to enjoy grilled crab, so for lunch I chose a restaurant where they could have a seafood barbecue. I had planned to guide them through Hamarikyu Gardens at the end of the tour, but since I learned that the guests were interested in Ginza, we walked from Tsukiji toward Ginza and parted ways at the Ginza 4-chome intersection.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayIkebukuro~Todaimae210JPY
    Section 2SubwayNezu~Yushima180JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno-hirokoji~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji290JPY
    Total860JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Start from the hotel
    • 9:20-12:00 Himeji Castle
    • 12:10-13:00 Kokoen (Lunch at Kassuitei)
    • 13:20 End at Kokoen

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We were able to start a little earlier than scheduled, and went to Himeji Castle, where I gave explanations. The guests listened very attentively. Since one of the guests did not understand English, another translated while we toured the inside of the castle. At Bizenmaru, I used a translation app to answer questions in French and Japanese. I received questions such as how many people were involved in building the castle, and why the Showa-era repairs were started after leaving it untouched for so long. Around noon, we entered Koko-en Garden, made a reservation at the tea house, and had lunch together. As expected, the warabimochi was not well received, as the texture was disliked. This was the second time it had been turned down, following an earlier guest from North America. Chawanmushi also did not seem to be much to their liking. After enjoying the meal, we returned to the garden of Koko-en, where the tour concluded.

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:20 Tokyo Monorail Hamamatsucho Station Central Exit
    • 2. 09:25 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:55 Stay @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 4. 10:10 Travel: Train
    • 5. 10:15 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 11:10 Stay @ Takeshita Street
    • 7. 11:30 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 11:55 Stay @ Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 9. 12:20 Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan, Stay @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10. 13:20 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 13:40 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 12. 14:50 Travel: Subway
    • 13. 15:00 Stay @ Akihabara
    • 14. 15:15 Travel: Train
    • 15. 15:30 Dismissal @ Tokyo Monorail Hamamatsucho Station Central Exit

    The guests were active visitors from Europe. They appeared to be staying at a hotel along the Tokyo Monorail line, and as they requested, we set the meeting point at Hamamatsucho Station on the monorail. There were two exits, but they were close to each other, so we met up without any trouble. They had Suica cards, and we traveled using both the subway and JR lines. The guests were both strong walkers, so we took longer routes at each spot. Surprisingly, Takeshita Street was very well received. Since there was still time to spare after I had shown them Asakusa, we finished by walking briefly through Akihabara while I explained the area, then returned to Hamamatsucho Station on the Tokyo Monorail, the same meeting point, before parting ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayDaimon (Tokyo)~Shibuya290JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 6TrainAkihabara~Hamamatsucho170JPY
    Total1,290JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel Meet
    • 09:00 Miyajima
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 16:00 Hiroshima Station, Dismissal

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like for a First-Time Visitor to Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America, on their first trip to Japan. They had arrived in Tokyo about a week earlier and mentioned enjoying a fun evening in the Golden Gai area of Shinjuku. They liked sashimi, with salmon being a favorite. As the guest wished to make the most of the sightseeing spots, they chose a convenience store bento from the lunch options I offer. Although there was some light rain, the guest listened very attentively to the explanations at each point and asked very relevant questions, making for a smooth tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station (Koi)/Bon Bus~Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 4TrainGenbaku Dome-mae~Hiroshima240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Kokoen Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 09:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 11:45 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 12:30 Disband @ Himeji "Menme"

    Can You Do a Private Himeji Castle Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on a trip to Japan, and everything went smoothly throughout the tour. I received many questions from one of the guests, which showed a strong interest in Japan. They kindly commented that I had guided them to great spots at all three of the places we visited that day. I was also pleased to hear one of the guests say, "I have visited several castles so far, but Himeji Castle today is truly wonderful." As requested in advance, the guests wished to have an early lunch at an udon restaurant near Himeji Castle, so I showed them to the restaurant and helped with ordering, and we parted ways with about 30 minutes to spare. As a small birthday gift, I presented a handmade drawstring pouch, which was very warmly received.

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East & Shinjuku Gyoen National

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East & Shinjuku Gyoen National

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Residence Asakusa Kappabash
    • 10:50 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Inataya Palace Building
    • 13:00 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 14:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 14:35 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 16:10 Dismiss at Kappabashi Street

    What's a Full-Day Private Nature and Garden Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was excellent and not too hot, so the tour proceeded smoothly. After picking up the guests at the hotel, we bought a 24-hour pass at the station and set off. Since the guests had expressed an interest in gardens and nature, I selected the places to visit accordingly. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, I focused my explanations on history. For lunch, the guests wanted Japanese cuisine, so I recommended a set of soba and tempura rice bowl, which was very well received. At Meiji Shrine, the guests enjoyed the man-made forest. In Shibuya, they seemed intrigued by the contrast with Harajuku. I gave a thorough tour of Shinjuku Gyoen, and finally, at a point with a straight route back to the hotel, I obtained permission to end the tour there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTawaramachi~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Section 5Free PassShinjuku-gyoemmae~Tawaramachi0JPY
    Total850JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Fukushima in One Day: Nanukamachi & Samurai Residences

    Fukushima in One Day: Nanukamachi & Samurai Residences

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Meet at Shosuke no Yado lobby
    • 9:01 Board the bus
    • 9:11 Tsuruga Castle, Rinkaku
    • 11:06 Board the bus
    • 11:26 Stroll around Nanukamachi. (Shibukawa Donya, Amidaji Temple, several general stores, etc.)
    • 12:30 Lunch at Ramen Kuyama
    • 13:15 Board the bus
    • 13:35 Samurai Residences
    • 14:57 Board the bus
    • 15:05 Disband at Hotel Shosuke no Yado

    Title: What's a Private Walking and Bus Tour of Aizu Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Oceania. They were a friendly group, and we were able to enjoy talking together right from the start. Before the tour, communication had been through a travel agency, and I was told the itinerary would cover the general highlights of Aizu, with no dietary restrictions and travel by taxi. However, when I confirmed directly with the guests the day before, I learned there was a dietary restriction (no seafood) and that they preferred to travel by bus rather than taxi. They also wanted to include some walking around town, so it became clear that the intentions of the travel agency and the guests themselves were quite different. Aizu is very convenient by bus, so I had already conveyed this to the agency, and since a taxi arrangement would have meant calling two cars each time, which is actually less convenient, I had been worried throughout. I was glad I could confirm the guests' wishes directly the day before, and as a result everything went smoothly according to their preferences. Some of the guests seemed to really enjoy browsing for souvenirs, and on Nanukamachi they bought many handmade accessories. At the castle and the samurai residence, the guests enjoyed how completely different the culture and architecture were. While waiting at the bus stop, we chatted happily with a group of visitors from Niigata (with me interpreting), and on the bus a group of junior high school students from another region also kept talking to us. Since it was a small bus, it turned into a very rare and enjoyable situation where all the passengers chatted together. Throughout the town, tourists and locals greeted us very warmly, and I believe the guests were able to enjoy plenty of interaction with Japanese people in Aizu. Originally we had planned to visit Oyakuen as well, but since they had seen many gardens in Kyoto and were getting tired in the latter half, we discussed it and decided to skip Oyakuen. The weather and climate were pleasant, and I was glad everything went smoothly and enjoyably.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAizu-Wakamatsu Station~Higashiyama Onsen Station600JPY
    Total600JPY

    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?

    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…

    Nov 10, 2025
    Salutory
    A fascinating tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Yumi…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:30 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo
    • 2.11:00 @ Asakusa
    • 3.12:00 @ Tokyo Station
    • 4.12:30 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 5.13:40 @ Nijubashi Bridge
    • 6.14:15 @ Tokyo Station
    • 7.14:30 Disband @ Hotel Tokyo

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace The guests visited Japan from North America and had no trouble walking. We began by viewing the whole of Asakusa from the observation deck of the Asakusa information center, then went to Sensoji Temple and Nakamise. At Nakamise, the guests enjoyed a strawberry smoothie. After that, we visited Meiji Shrine, and the guests said it was very beautiful. We then went to the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace and took photos. We walked to Tokyo Station, where the guests activated their JR Pass, and since the station was not crowded that day, the staff made all of their train reservations for their upcoming trip. They planned to travel next to Hakone, Takayama, Kyoto, and Osaka. The JR staff were very kind, which the guests appreciated. Afterward, I saw them to their hotel and the tour came to an end. It was a fine day with good weather.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Shimbashi150JPY
    Total840JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…