Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2. 10:30 @ Ginza (4-chome Intersection, NISSAN Showroom, Ginza Main Street)
    • 3. 11:00 @ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 4. 11:30 @ Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building, Midori no Madoguchi Ticket Office)
    • 5. 12:00 @ Nihonbashi (Underground Food Court)
    • 6. 12:45 Lunch @ Maeda Shokudo (Okuyama Omairimachi)
    • 7. 13:30 @ Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Azumabashi Bridge)
    • 8. 15:00 @ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 9. 15:20 @ Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 10. 16:15 Disband @ Hotel

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Shibuya The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. It was their second day in Japan. The tour day turned out to be surprisingly hot and humid for late September. I had asked them in advance to stay well hydrated, and during the tour the guest was drenched in sweat, saying they felt very thirsty, and drank more than three 500ml bottles of water. Their home region is apparently less humid than Tokyo and is fairly cool at the moment, so the heat seemed to take a toll. The first topic began with a question from the guests: "Do you like baseball?" I replied, "Even I, who am not particularly interested in baseball, watch Major League games on TV thanks to the performances of Shohei Ohtani." It then turned out that the guests were devoted fans of a Major League team that is one of Ohtani's rivals. Apparently, when Ohtani appears as an opponent, there is booing — which just goes to show how formidable a player he is. Their hotel was near Gaienmae (close to Jingu Stadium), and they planned to buy a Japanese Chunichi Dragons baseball cap as a souvenir for a fellow baseball fan back home. When one of the guests asked, "Are the Yomiuri Giants disliked in Japan?", I explained situations such as how Hanshin Tigers fans tend to be anti-Giants, and they understood, comparing it to how "everyone except Yankees fans is thoroughly anti-Yankees." At the Imperial Palace, the guests were moved by the beauty of the pine trees in the plaza and took many photos. After my explanation about the Emperor, they asked how Japanese people honestly feel about the current situation regarding a certain country and its people, so I offered comments on how economic policies, including tariffs, affect Japan's economic situation. During this conversation, one of the guests mentioned having once worked under a former administration and showed me a two-shot photo taken with the president at that time. The guests were very interested in Japanese food and looked forward to lunch, but since they had already eaten sushi and tempura after arriving in Japan, they chose ramen. When I guided them to a popular ramen shop in Asakusa, there was a queue, so we gave up and went to an eatery in the Okuyama Omairimachi area. They tried omurice and katsudon, sharing half of each between them, and both were "very delicious!" according to their impressions. In Shibuya, they already knew about the Scramble Crossing but did not seem to know about the Hachiko statue. When I introduced it, the guests, who love dogs and keep one themselves, were moved by the story of the loyal dog Hachiko. After returning to the hotel, I explained the subway route to Shinjuku, where they had reserved a yakitori dinner for the evening, and we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Omotesando Station~Ginza Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Nihonbashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Asakusa Station~Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Shibuya Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Meiji-jingumae Station~Ginza Line, Gaienmae Station0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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!…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shibuya Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:50 Hotel
    • 8:30 Tokyo Station
    • 9:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 10:30 Asakusa
    • 11:30 Marugoto Vegan Dining Asakusa
    • 12:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:40 Shibuya Crossing
    • 14:30 Disband at Shinjuku Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania who had just finished a cruise tour around Japan. When I arrived (15 minutes early), they were already waiting, and since I had shared my description in advance, the guests called out to me. Because a family member was fond of Japan and had visited many times, they had chosen the places to visit after consulting with that person. The guests enjoyed conversation, and I was able to guide them happily throughout the day. They were very sharp: among the quiz questions I posed, they correctly answered in one shot the giboshi (ornamental railing caps), the flame monument, and the number of trees planted at Meiji Jingu, prompting a comment along the lines of "the best student." They also showed interest in many things. For example, perhaps because their work was related to nature observation (a family-run business), they asked many questions about trees and materials, such as "Why is that one cedar, and why is this one cypress? The way we describe camphor is different in Oceania." They understood and were interested in the Japanese fear of fire, but rather than sightseeing information, we mostly got into casual conversation about topics such as school education, employment, and healthcare. Comments included things like "Japanese is the most popular second-language choice at school and many students take it, though hardly anyone can speak it, so come over and be a Japanese teacher," "One young family member has already changed workplaces five times, so young people these days switch jobs every few years," and "If the job-offer ceremony is held tomorrow, we might get to see many young people walking around Shinjuku in new suits, which would be fun." Before lunch, when I asked about their preferences, the reply was that seafood was off the menu and gluten-free was needed, and the only place that came to mind was a fully vegan dining spot in Asakusa. Fortunately, at 11:30 just after opening, we got in without waiting, and both said, "It was delicious, and even better because it's a local place tucked away in the back — thank you for bringing us here," giving it high marks (I usually hesitate a bit because it's very much vegan cuisine, but it may be good for gluten-free needs). Conversely, at Meiji Jingu, after quite a bit of walking, when I said, "Shall we take a short break? You can have free green tea," the reply was, "Green tea is a total no for me, I can't drink it," which was unusual for a guest these days. As they were heading to Kamakura the next day (they seemed disappointed that a Mount Fuji tour had been canceled because no guide could be found), I introduced how to get there from Shinjuku, how to get around in Kamakura, and the sightseeing spots, which brought the tour to a close. Partly because we were able to exchange all sorts of information with each other, and partly because the guests were cheerful and warm, I was able to spend a very enjoyable day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Tokyo210JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Shinjuku170JPY
    Total970JPY

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kagurazaka Zenkokuji Temple & Nezu Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Kagurazaka Zenkokuji Temple & Nezu Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel Shinjuku East Annex
    • 11:30 Kagurazaka Zenkokuji Temple
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Daikonya
    • 13:30 Ameyoko, Statue of Saigo Takamori, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 15:00 Yanaka Cemetery, Tsuiji-bei Wall, Yanaka Ginza
    • 16:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 16:50 Dismissal @ Korakuen Station

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Kagurazaka, Ameyoko, and Yanaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The day before, I noticed there was a hotel of the same chain across the street, so I confirmed the location with the guests. The group visiting from Europe was originally planned to be three, but since one of the guests had leg pain from the day of arrival in Japan and decided not to join today, only the rest of the group took part. Because they had requested places not usually visited by tourists, I included Kagurazaka in the itinerary and guided there for the first time. We walked through charming alleys lined with traditional Japanese restaurants, visited Zenkoku-ji Temple, and then enjoyed a delicious meal at a Japanese restaurant. At Niki no Kashi in Ameyoko, the guests were delighted and bought curry roux, Japanese tea, and recommended Japanese sweets. At Yanaka Ginza they bought several pairs of chopsticks as souvenirs, and when I introduced kokeshi as a traditional doll, they said they had a shelf at home for displaying souvenirs from various countries and purchased one. Along the way we looked around inside a supermarket and bought some drinks. They were deeply moved by how beautiful Nezu Shrine was. When we parted, I was surprised to receive one of the pairs of chopsticks they had just purchased as a gift. I guided them to the point where they could understand the subway transfer to return to their hotel, and the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-shinjuku~Iidabashi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayUshigome-kagurazaka~Ueno-okachimachi180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Nippori150JPY
    Section 4SubwayTodaimae~Korakuen180JPY
    Total690JPY

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

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour

    Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:45 Arrive at Makino Botanical Garden, 12:20 Walk from Makino Botanical Garden to Chikurinji Temple, 13:00 Depart Chikurinji Temple, 13:20 Arrive at Hirome Market (lunch, shopping), 14:40 Walk from Hirome Market, 2 people wish to visit the Kochi Castle Museum of History and the rest go to Kochi Castle, unable to go inside the castle tower and descend, 15:30 Meet up at the Museum of History and depart, 15:55 Visit the Yosakoi Information Center, 16:25 Depart the Yosakoi Information Center, 16:40 Arrive at Kochi New Port

    What Is a Private Family Group Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of three families from North America. Although some members were older, everyone was relatively fit, curious, and kept up with the pace of the tour in good spirits. They told me the destinations were "up to me," so I prepared a base itinerary to present, and then decided the destinations together, adjusting each time according to their condition and interests. One point of reflection is that I should have informed them in advance which facilities require paid admission and how much they cost. On this occasion, there were two times when, after arriving at a destination, they decided "if it costs money, we won't go." I want to make use of this lesson going forward. The guests reside in North America, and since some of them, while able to understand English, did not seem confident in speaking it, I felt a slight barrier in communication. I only wish I could understand even a little of their first language.

    Hello everyone, I am Saori Nishida.
    I was born in Hokkaido, but risen up in Tokyo, and live in Ehime prefecture.
    I met my husband in Australia. Our honeymoon was traveling around Japan by hitchhiking, It can be said that I am a natural born traveler like you.

    Uwajima city where I live is famous for Japan’s top produce and shipping volume of citrus and pearl. And we are also proud of the quality and quantity of fish farming in our city.
    There is one of the 12 existing castle towers. Those castle towers are originally constructed more than 400 years ago. Our city is located on the route of pilgrimage to visit 88 temples on Shikoku island where our prefecture is.

    I run a guesthouse with my family : we have small daughters. I think I can pass on the happiness of doing what I like to my children and the younger generation in the community.

    My favorite things are sake brewery, temples and shrines, art museum, castles, water activities, and karaoke. I am sure I will get along with one of you.
    I always drink coffee in the morning and beer at night. This is how I stay healthy.

    My first tour was in 2023. Since then, I have been guiding approximately 300 guests each year on average, spending around 90 days annually taking them to various places across Shikoku as well as to Okayama, Hiroshima, Wakayama, Kyoto, Kyushu, and other regions.

    As a licensed English-speaking tour guide, I have worked with a wide range of clients, from individuals to large groups. I can accommodate everything from short tours lasting half a day to extended tours of around two weeks.
    Whether it’s a shore excursion from a cruise ship, a Shikoku round-trip tour, guiding for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, or a cycling tour, I lead each experience with energy, humor, and lots of fun!

    Shikoku, where I live, is a hidden gem where Japan’s original landscapes and traditional culture still remain deeply preserved. It is also home to the Seto Inland Sea, a region that has gained global attention as a sanctuary of contemporary art. Shikoku is where the 1,200-year-old pilgrimage route, the Shikoku Henro, continues to be walked even today. Here, the old and the new coexist in perfect harmony. I promise to show you a fascinating side of Japan that you’ve never seen before. Let’s travel together!

    Sep 30, 2025
    Eveline_E
    If this tour is available for your date I would grab immediately!
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Aloft Tokyo Meetup
    • 8:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 9:20 Yanaka Ginza
    • 10:30 Rikugien Garden
    • 12:00 Asakusa
    • 13:15 Akihabara
    • 13:30 End at Akihabara Electric Town

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Yanaka, Rikugien, and Akihabara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Both were active and cheerful, and I adjusted the walking pace to be comfortable for the group. They had expressed a strong wish to visit Yanaka Cemetery, where they observed the graves with great interest and listened attentively to explanations about sotoba wooden tablets, posthumous Buddhist names, and the Ohigan season. At Rikugien Garden, the group strolled at their own pace and were deeply moved by the beauty of the garden. Finally, I took them to Akihabara, where I explained the history and origins of the district, and the tour concluded in front of the Radio Kaikan building. The guests were very grateful and said it had been a truly meaningful tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Sendagi210JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Asakusa330JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa (TX)~Akihabara210JPY
    Total930JPY

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:50 Meet up @ The Tokyo EDITION Ginza
    • 2. 10:00 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:25 Stay @ East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 4. 11:45 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 12:10 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 13:25 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:40 Stay @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 8. 13:55 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:15 Disband @ Tokyo Metro Ginza Station

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the East Gardens, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan. The hotel had an atmosphere that made it a little difficult to enter, so I waited outside the entrance. Since the guests wished to purchase a 48-hour metro pass, I first took them to the tourist information center at the nearest station, Ginza Station. Anticipating that they would prefer a late lunch, I decided to guide them through the East Gardens first and then take them to Meiji Shrine and Shibuya in the afternoon. At the East Gardens, the seasonal plants were very well received, so I allowed a little extra time there. As the guests said they wanted to have lunch after returning to the hotel, I saw them off to Ginza after guiding them to the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya~Ginza210JPY
    Total780JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:30 Meet at the hotel in Higashi-Shinjuku
    • 08:30 Enjoy various foods at the Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 Visit Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 11:30 At the souvenir floor in the basement of the Kabukiza Theatre, explain how to get to Asakusa on the tour, then finish

    What Is a Private Tokyo Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. The day of the tour and the guests' reactions The guests had a clear goal for the tour: "to eat as many delicious Japanese foods as possible," so I guided them to every restaurant they wanted to try as well as the ones I recommended, and they were very satisfied. What they especially enjoyed included four kinds of tuna sashimi (lean, medium fatty, fatty, and cheek meat) at Kurogin, a tasting comparison of four kinds of sea urchin along with strawberry daifuku at Soratsuki, fish paste products at Hamato, and king crab and snow crab BBQ at Koragumi. They ate a great deal of other food as well, and they happily posed for photos with satisfied smiles. 2. Other impressions, notes, and requests The guests came from Asia and spoke English with the distinctive intonation of Southeast Asia. Having myself spent time in the region for several years, I found this familiar English pleasant to hear and enjoyed our conversations very much. We named it the "Go Makan!" ("Let's go eat" in Malay) tour, and it was a lot of fun. There was one sad moment. While we were waiting in a long line for gyudon at Kitsuneya, the customer in front of us (probably an office worker from nearby) seemed to have come to buy takeout for breakfast and did not seem happy about the number of tourists. As they left with their takeout, they said in Japanese to us behind them, "You're in the way, move." Since the guests do not understand Japanese, this remark seemed to be directed at me as the guide. I felt once again the gap between longtime local users frustrated by overtourism and those of us welcoming many visitors, and I want to be mindful in how I handle such situations. Although some harsh words were said, nothing more came of it, and I was relieved that the guests, who do not understand Japanese, were not hurt. All of the guests come to Japan because they love it so much, so I felt anew that bridging this gap is a challenge for inbound tourism going forward.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-Shinjuku~Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2BusTsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus~Higashi-Ginza Station / Chuo City, Tokyo210JPY
    Total490JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel pickup 9:15 Tsukiji Outer Market 10:45 Sensoji Temple 11:30 Lunch (Asakusa) 12:45 Shinjuku (3D cat, Godzilla) 13:15 Harajuku 13:45 Meiji Shrine 13:45
    • 15:10 See off at Kasumigaseki Station on the Hibiya Line

    What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine Although the group was originally expected to include eight people, some of the guests remained at the hotel, and the rest joined the tour. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, the guests ate and drank more than expected and clearly enjoyed themselves. We had lunch at a Japanese restaurant near Sensoji Temple, where they also ordered a great deal. Some of the guests went off separately and ate at a fast-food restaurant. We had planned to visit Shinjuku Gyoen, but I remembered that it is closed on Mondays, so we changed plans and went to see the giant 3D cat and Godzilla in Shinjuku instead. In Harajuku, the guests were delighted by the newly opened Harry Potter facility. There was also an idea to visit Shibuya, but since the guests felt they could go there on their own, we made a last-minute change and headed to Meiji Shrine, which they seemed to be very impressed by as well. Despite it being the end of September, the temperature reached 31 degrees, and we walked quite a lot, so it must have been demanding, but the guests remained cheerful and relaxed throughout without any sign of dissatisfaction, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHatchobori (Tokyo)~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainHigashi-Ginza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Shinjuku360JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Kasumigaseki (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total1,080JPY

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

    Jun 8, 2025
    T1516LOmarkg
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    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
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  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30. Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West
    • 8:50-9:20 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 9:40-10:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:40-11:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 12:30-13:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:20-14:10 Lunch
    • 14:30 End at Nijo Castle

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, the Bamboo Grove, and Kinkaku-ji We decided to visit Kiyomizu-dera while there were fewer school-trip students, and then went to Fushimi Inari Taisha. I introduced the famous pine tree and we took photos, and we had planned to go to Nijo Castle. However, as had been asked the day before, the guests wanted to visit the Bamboo Grove Path, so we suddenly decided to skip Nijo Castle, partly because it was close to the Hotel. We headed to Arashiyama, and the driver chose the shortest route, so we were able to tour the Bamboo Grove Path in less than 30 minutes and then head to Kinkaku-ji. Everyone walked quickly, so things went right on schedule, and the guests had lunch at the Kura Sushi Kinkaku-ji branch. I heard that each person ate about 10 plates, and it seemed they were very pleased. I am always grateful for the driver's advice.

    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
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    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 & Shinjuku Golden Gai

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shinjuku Golden Gai

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hikifune Airbnb
    • 9:45 Tsukiji
    • 11:05 Ueno Park, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Ueno Toshogu, Shinobazu Pond
    • 12:00 Snack @Ueno Park
    • 12:55 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:50 Harajuku (Takeshita Street ~ Ura-Harajuku)
    • 14:55 Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 15:00 Disband at Shinjuku Golden Gai

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ueno, Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street There was a little rain in the morning, but otherwise there was no rain and the conditions were good for the tour. It became especially hot and humid from the afternoon, which was hard on the guests, who came from a cooler place. At Harajuku, staying indoors seemed to be a good choice. At Tsukiji, the guests saw a fish market unlike anything they had seen before and asked many questions about the food and the meals. At Ueno Park, they asked many questions about religion, especially Shinto. We bought some snacks at a convenience store and ate them near Shinobazu Pond, then went on to Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. They were surprised at the difference between the two areas, which are so close yet completely different in character. It was still far too early for Golden Gai, so we only took a quick look at the exterior, but the tour finished as planned.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeisei Hikifune~Oshiage150JPY
    Section 2Free PassOshiage~Higashi-ginza900JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji~Ueno0JPY
    Section 4Free PassYushima~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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
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    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
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    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
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    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
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    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…