Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shiomi Station & Hatchobori Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shiomi Station & Hatchobori Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Depart Shiomi Station
    • (JR Keiyo Line)
    • Hatchobori Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:30 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Station Travel Concierge
    • 10:00 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:10 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:20 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 13:15 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:25 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Lunch: Hidakaya
    • Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Hatchobori Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Hatchobori Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Oceania, and it was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening via a connecting flight. This trip was a journey of about 14 days in Japan. They would stay in Tokyo, and afterward planned to travel around Hakone, Hida-Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Osaka before returning home from Kansai Airport. Today, their request was: "We would like to visit the notable spots in Tokyo while getting used to how to ride the trains and subways." Despite it being September, the tour took place in hot and humid weather. They said, "First, we'd like to obtain the JR Pass and reserve Shinkansen tickets. We'd also like to buy a SUICA card," so we first went to the Ekitabi Concierge at Ueno Station. It took a fair amount of time, but the procedures were completed. We then moved on to Asakusa. Starting from in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "What the five-story pagoda is for," "What Buddhism is," and "The difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various spots. We strolled slowly through the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as: "What are the main religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" "Are there Christians in Japan?" "Is there something like a weekly sermon by a pastor, as in church?" After this, we went to Tsukiji. As always, it was very 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 the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were also questions and comments such as: "Do all people in Tokyo come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it does seem like there are a lot of tourists." At the request of one of the guests, they purchased and sampled "matcha ice cream." They also bought "coffee peanuts" as a souvenir. We moved to Harajuku. First, we went to Meiji Shrine. 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 "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" There were also comments and questions such as "This place has a lot of greenery and is very calming" and "Where can we enjoy sake tasting?" After resting for a while at "Forest Terrace," we went to Takeshita Street. From there, we headed to Shibuya. First, we took a photo looking down at the Scramble Square from the entrance of the Keio Inokashira Line platform, and then actually walked across the scramble crossing. There were questions such as "Why do so many people gather here?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "The Japanese are all quiet and polite" and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" Since they said, "We're not yet used to the transportation system," I saw them off to the Keiyo Line platform at Hatchobori Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi~Hatchobori (Tokyo)170JPY
    Section 2TrainHatchobori (Tokyo)~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 5TrainTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 6TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya~Hatchobori (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Hotel pickup
    • 7:40-10:40 Visit Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum
    • 10:55-11:40 World Heritage Sea Route from Motoyasu Bridge to Miyajima Port
    • 11:40-14:45 Miyajima, lunch, Itsukushima Shrine and more
    • 11:45-15:30 World Heritage Sea Route from Miyajima Port to Motoyasu Bridge, dismissal

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who came to Japan and made a trip to Hiroshima during a break in their travels. They especially wanted to deepen their understanding of what the atomic bomb brought to Hiroshima, so I set aside extra time to spend at the Peace Memorial Park and the museum. In the park, the guests asked me many questions about what I explained, and in the museum they viewed each exhibit very carefully, one by one. On the ferry to Miyajima they shared their impressions with me, and it was a time of great learning for me as well. On Miyajima, the guests enjoyed lunch and a stroll around the island.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1JGA Pre-Approved FeePeace Park Motoyasu Pier~Miyajima2,200JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroshima Station~Fukuromachi240JPY
    Section 4TrainAtomic Bomb Dome Mae~Miyajimaguchi660JPY
    Total3,520JPY

    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…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:22 Meet the guest boarding the Hakone No. 41 at Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • Stop by the ticket window to activate the Hakone Free Pass, and after preparations are complete, depart on the Hakone Tozan Railway
    • From Gora, take the cable car to Sounzan, transfer to the ropeway and move to Owakudani
    • Have lunch such as ramen and go shopping at Owakudani
    • Move to Togendai and board the pirate ship departing at 13:15
    • Get off at Motohakone Port and go to Hakone Shrine
    • After sightseeing, take the bus departing at 15:05 to Amazake-chaya
    • Board the bus departing at 16:10 and get off at Yumoto-Nakajuku. Move to Hakone Airu, guide them until check-in and finish

    What's a Full-Day Private Hakone Tour from Hakone-Yumoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Up until the day before, the itinerary and other details were arranged through a travel agency. Activating the Hakone Free Pass did not go smoothly on the day before and on the day itself, which took up some time, but in the end it worked out, and from there we were able to follow the itinerary as planned. Being able to cover the Golden Route plus the Amazake Chaya tea house from Hakone-Yumoto using only the Free Pass was something made possible by a tour with plenty of time to spare. The guests enjoyed shopping and grabbing snacks along the way, so it was great that they could have fun here and there throughout the day. Unfortunately, Mount Fuji was not visible, but the guests seemed to truly experience the beauty of Hakone with its early hints of autumn.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHakone-Yumoto~Gora460JPY
    Section 2TrainGora~Sounzan430JPY
    Section 3OtherSounzan~Togendai1,500JPY
    Section 4FerryTogendai Port~Motohakone Port (Hakone Pirate Ship)1,200JPY
    Section 5BusMotohakone Port/Hakone Tozan Bus~Amazake-chaya/Hakone Tozan Bus320JPY
    Section 6BusAmazake-chaya/Hakone Tozan Bus~Yumoto-Nakajuku/Hakone Tozan Bus550JPY
    Total4,460JPY

    Hi, I’m Naho – your friendly, English-speaking guide in Japan!
    With over 10 years of experience as a licensed guide and more than 30 years living in the Tokyo area, I’m passionate about helping travelers of all ages enjoy Japan in a fun, meaningful, and stress-free way.

    Whether you’re into ancient temples, seasonal nature, local street food, or modern pop culture, I’ll design a private tour that matches your interests and travel style. I love sharing not just the famous sights, but also lesser-known hidden gems and local tips that make your trip truly special.

    Traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with kids? I’ll make sure everyone feels comfortable and included. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming experience and unforgettable memories for you in this amazing country.

    Let’s explore Japan together — I can’t wait to meet you!

    May 27, 2026
    Chris T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo with Naho!
    We had a great time exploring the in…

    Apr 24, 2026
    Megaso1970
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    The tour was nicely planned and Naho is very nice and friendly.

    Apr 9, 2026
    B4204QCcarolc
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Once in a lifetime experience!
    I want to express are…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Dee R
    Great guided tour of notable Tokyo sites and experienced all modes of transportation with the great help of our guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:50 Meet up @ the Hotel
    • 12:30 Tsukiji Market
    • 13:45 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 14:40 Lunch @ Kaiten Sushi Misaki Harajuku Takeshita Street Branch
    • 15:50 Imperial Palace
    • 16:45 Akihabara
    • 18:15 Disband @ the Hotel

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Akihabara The guests were a group from Oceania visiting Japan for the first time. Before coming to Tokyo, they had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakone, and after sightseeing in Tokyo they planned to return home. At Tsukiji Market, they looked with great interest at the retail fish market and the many shops in the outer market. On Takeshita Street, one of the guests was very interested in a mini-pig café, while another purchased a T-shirt at a soccer goods shop near Takeshita Street. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. In Akihabara, one of the guests bought souvenirs at shops selling anime figures and miniature cars. Since I responded to all of the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka (Tokyo)~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae~Shin-Ochanomizu180JPY
    Section 5TrainOchanomizu~Akihabara150JPY
    Section 6OtherAkihabara~Akasaka210JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Kochi: Handmade Japanese Paper Experience & Kochi Shinko Port

    Kochi: Handmade Japanese Paper Experience & Kochi Shinko Port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Taxi
    • 11:00 Handmade Japanese Paper Experience
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:30 Taxi
    • 14:10 Kochi Castle
    • 15:10 Taxi
    • 15:30 Chikurin-ji Temple
    • 16:00 Taxi
    • 16:10 Kochi Shinko Port

    What's a Private Kochi Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Washi Paper-Making, Kochi Castle, and Chikurin-ji Temple The guests were visitors from North America. The handmade washi paper experience cost 6,000 yen per person, which is relatively expensive, but it was very well received because it covered the entire process starting from stripping the bark of the kozo (paper mulberry) plant, along with a chigiri-e torn-paper art activity. For lunch, the guests had hoped for a stylish restaurant where they could enjoy wine and similar drinks, but none could be found nearby, so we went to a self-service eatery close to the paper-making workshop. Their wish to try a little bit of many different dishes was fulfilled, so they were satisfied. Since the guests were interested in history, they also viewed Kochi Castle and Chikurin-ji Temple with great interest.

    Hi! I’m Kay.
    It’s my pleasure to be your guide.
    I was born and raised in Kochi city, and I worked for Kochi City Hall for nearly 30 years, so I think I know a lot about Kochi.

    Firstly, I can guide you to the Kochi castle. Most castles you can find in Japan have been rebuilt after fires, wars, or natural disasters. However, Kochi Castle is one of the very few castles that still have the whole structure of its original tower and the mail palace from the Edo period (1603–1868). This makes it especially valuable for understanding Japan’s history and traditional architecture. You’ll like it!

    Other major tourist sites are adventurous Ryugado limestone cave, Makino botanical garden, Chikurinji temple with historical stonesteps, Zenjibuji temple with the spectacular panoramic view, paper-making activity, Oboke gorge, Nakatsu gorge, Niyodo river with a historical bridge and so on.
    If you like sake, you can visit sake brewery, and if you are interested in walking local streets, you can stroll my neighborhood.

    Kochi is a small city, but it’s very popular among tourists for its beautiful nature and good food. I took my kids to rivers and mountains when they were little. If you are interested in those places, please ask me. And I know many good restaurants, too.
    I’m looking forward to enjoying them together with you!

    Jul 7, 2026
    A_J
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent tour with Kay
    Had an amazing time with our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    romankU9693SM
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our trip to Kochi
    Kay was a wonderful guide, very…

    May 28, 2026
    nancykotr
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Kay was a wonderful…
    Kay was a wonderful guide. We…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Jörg R
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Ein toller Ausflug in Kochi
    Pünktliche Abholung, kurze Transferzeiten…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 9:45 Tokyo Station – 10:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens – 11:50 Harajuku Lunch – 12:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing – 13:15 Disband at Shibuya Station

    Can You Do a Private Tokyo Day Tour of the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Harajuku? A Licensed Guide's Report This was the second day of a private Tokyo tour with guests visiting from North America. On the way to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, which we could not visit the previous day because it was closed on Monday, I took them to the Shinkansen platform at Tokyo Station in preparation for their trip to Kyoto the next day, and then we walked toward the Imperial Palace East Gardens. The guests seemed to be in awe of the contrast between the four-hundred-year-old remains of Edo Castle and the modern high-rise buildings of Otemachi and Marunouchi. On the way to Shibuya, the guests requested vegan ramen for lunch, so we visited a specialty shop in Harajuku. They were surprised at how delicious the ramen broth was even in a vegan version, and they were able to fully enjoy Tokyo through both its scenery and its flavors.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakeshiba~Tokyo340JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae Station / Shibuya Ward, Tokyo210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total700JPY

    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 in One Day: Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge & Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge & Ginza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:30 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:30 Tokyo Station
    • 13:00 Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Shibuya
    • 16:00 Ginza
    • 17:00 Tour ends at Shimbashi Station

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who arrived in Japan the day before and planned to travel around the country over the coming two weeks. They had traveled extensively before and had put a great deal of enthusiasm into this trip, even studying some Japanese in preparation. This 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. To help the guests get to know the main areas of Tokyo, the private one-day tour started at the Imperial Palace, passed through Tokyo Station, and continued on to Shinjuku. In the Golden Gai area, they enjoyed the scheduled action of the Godzilla statue. Next, at Meiji Shrine, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the way people pray. The guests were deeply impressed to learn that much of the behavior and manners of Japanese people can be traced back to these roots. To let the guests experience as many places as possible, we finally made our way to Ginza, and the tour concluded at Shimbashi Station, the closest station to their accommodation.

    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
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Zuigu-do Hall & Pontocho

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Zuigu-do Hall & Pontocho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:30 Zuigu-do Hall
    • 16:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple > Sannenzaka > Hokan-ji Temple
    • 16:45 Yasaka Koshin-do Hall > Ishibei-koji Alley
    • 17:30 Yasaka Shrine > Souvenir shop next to the Kanji Museum
    • 18:00 Hanamikoji Street > Tatsumi Bridge
    • 18:30 Pontocho
    • 18:50 Station building tour at JR Kyoto Station
    • 19:05 Dismissal in front of the hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest had just arrived in Kyoto from Tokyo about an hour earlier. The guest was visiting from North America. We began with the darkness experience at Zuigudo Hall, and then continued to the stage of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The guest showed great interest in all of the explanations and seemed to enjoy the tour very much. The guest appeared to love photography and took many pictures. In particular, upon seeing the lit lanterns in Gion, the guest was delighted, saying this was exactly what they had wanted to see. We also encountered geiko three times, and the guest was careful to refrain from taking photos when appropriate. The guest was very polite and waited patiently for photo spots to become available, and seemed to have a wonderful time. The guest also gave a tip.

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Cruise Ship Terminal Meet
    • 8:40-9:05 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 9:23-10:20 Travel to Miyajima
    • 10:25-12:50 Miyajima
    • 12:55-14:00 Peace Memorial Park
    • 14:00-15:30 Peace Memorial Park
    • 15:40-16:05 Travel to Cruise Ship Terminal
    • 16:10 Dismissal

    Can You Do a Private Cruise Port Day Tour in Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from South America. Since they were cruise ship passengers, the tour was arranged so that they would be able to return to the cruise terminal by around 16:00 without fail. The tour was carried out with safety as the top priority, and as a result, we were able to complete it safely and on schedule. On this occasion, it was not possible to finalize the itinerary with the guests by the day before (the only contact came at 8:00 p.m. the previous night from one member of the group), so the original itinerary that had been prepared several weeks in advance had to be changed late the night before. The guests explained that the reason they had not replied despite several confirmations of the itinerary I had initially sent was that they had already accepted it. I truly felt the difference in how each side interpreted the situation. I apologize for the concern caused this time. Going forward, I would like to finalize the itinerary a little earlier.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Yokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)330JPY
    Section 3TrainYokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)~Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total990JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. After completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima—and have now lived here for over 42 years. I earned a Ph.D. through a national university’s professional program while working at Mazda Motor Corporation. Five years before retiring from the company, I was seconded to Hiroshima University, a national university, where I served as a specially appointed professor. In addition to my domestic career, I spent a total of about five and a half years living and working abroad. These international experiences have given me valuable cross-cultural understanding and the ability to connect comfortably with guests from around the world. Currently, as a Hiroshima Prefectural Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, I introduce visitors not only to famous attractions such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, but also to the local lifestyle, culture, and culinary delights, tailored to your interests. I hope to provide each guest with a memorable experience that stays in your heart.
    I look forward to meeting you here in Hiroshima!

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

    Jun 25, 2026
    52leannei
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing day trip and tour to Hiroshima
    My family…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Shannon_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide was amazing. He…
    Our guide was amazing. He…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Thomas L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with a Great Guide
    Our guide Kazuhisa…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • Ritz-Carlton Kyoto 830→900 Bamboo Path & Tenryu-ji Temple 1000⇒1030 Ryoan-ji Temple 1115⇒1145 Tenkaippin Ramen 1230⇒1240 Kinkaku-ji Temple 1330→1345 Philosopher's Path 1415⇒1430 Hotel

    Can You Do a Flexible Private Day Tour of Kyoto with a Driver? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who were touring Tokyo and Kyoto for a few days each, each stop accompanied by a private tour guide, before attending an international conference. Because they were hoping for a flexible itinerary, we proceeded by consulting with the driver and adjusting not only the order but also the destinations from the originally prepared plan, which I believe contributed to the guests' satisfaction. Within the time constraints, the driver's flexible provision of information and willingness to accommodate changes was also a key factor in the tour's success.

    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…