Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel > Walk and see a bit of the Imperial Palace
    • 10:30 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:55 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 12:30 Lunch @Toki no Niwa
    • Move by Ginza Line, but since the Chiyoda Line is not running, walk from Omotesando
    • 14:30 Meiji Shrine, also see the gardens
    • 15:50 Ginza Station, guide the way to Matsuya
    • 16:10 Tokyo Station, guide the passage to the Shinkansen
    • 16:30 Disband at Hotel

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Covering the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The sun came out from time to time, but it was not too hot, making it a pleasant day. When I asked whether the guests would like to go from Tokyo Station to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace underground or above ground, they preferred going above ground, so I guided them along while explaining the old Edo Castle. In Asakusa and in the car, I received many questions about religion. The guests were also very fond of photography and enthusiastically took pictures with an SLR camera. We finished at Meiji Shrine right on schedule, but I was asked to guide them to Ginza Matsuya, the meeting point for the next day's Mount Fuji tour, and to explain the route from Tokyo Station, the next day's arrival point, to their hotel. Since I attended to these requests, the tour ran slightly over time. No tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOtemachi~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa~Omotesando0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Ginza0JPY
    Section 4Free PassGinza~Tokyo0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto: Thousand Kyoto & Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto: Thousand Kyoto & Bamboo Grove

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 The Thousand Kyoto
    • 09:30 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • 11:00 Fushimi inari (0) by taxi
    • 12:30 Kinkaluji (500) by taxi
    • Lunch (Japanese Cuisine Now Joy Nishioji Branch)
    • 14:30 Bamboo Grove by taxi
    • 15:15 The Thousand Kyoto by taxi
    • End of the tour

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from North America and had attended an international conference in Yokohama before continuing on to Kyoto. Both walked at a relaxed pace, but we were able to complete the itinerary largely as planned. I had asked in advance about their preferences, but since there were no particular places they wanted to visit, I guided them to the classic, popular highlights of Kyoto. Although school excursion groups have been increasing, none of the sites were especially crowded today. I had been a little worried because rain was forecast for the afternoon, but we were fortunate that it barely rained at all. It is my job either way, but today was a truly pleasant day of guiding.

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Harajuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Meet at Hotel
    • 10:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens~Tokyo Station
    • 13:15 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 14:45 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 15:15 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 16:15 Dismiss at Meiji-jingumae Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour with JR Pass Support Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe on their first trip to Japan, planning to stay for about two weeks. On this day, in addition to the tour itself, the guests had requested support with purchasing public transport tickets and learning how to use them, as well as help exchanging their JR Pass and making Shinkansen reservations. After visiting the Imperial Palace, I took them to Tokyo Station and assisted with the JR Pass exchange and reservations. The guests appeared to be studying Japanese history and culture, listened attentively to my explanations, and seemed to understand them well. Overall, I believe the guests were satisfied with the day. P.S. Recently, it seems many guests skip lunch. If I know in advance, I can plan accordingly, but it is often mentioned on the spot, and running a tour without a lunch break can be a little tough.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-shinjuku~Otemachi (Tokyo)220JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Total840JPY

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting place: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
    • 11:10 Depart Daiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 12:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 13:45 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omote-sando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:15 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Lunch: Tsukiji Sushisei
    • 16:30 Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Arrive Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 17:00 Arrive Daiba Station
    • 17:00 Disband: Daiba Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. They arrived this morning at Narita Airport via a connecting flight. After reaching the Hotel, they were unable to check in, so they left their luggage and waited in the Hotel lobby. Having time on their hands, they contacted me with a request to start earlier than planned, so I hurried to the Hotel and we began two hours ahead of schedule. This trip is a 13-day visit to Japan. After staying three days in Tokyo, they plan to visit Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then depart from Kansai Airport. They expressed a strong wish to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine somewhere along the way. It was a tour under intense heat. They mentioned that where they come from it is early spring and the air is dry, so adjusting to the humidity was difficult. First, we headed to Asakusa. As always, it was crowded with many tourists. I explained the history of Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple, as well as the history of Edo and Tokyo. We then set off from the front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained what the five-story pagoda is for, what Buddhism is, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon and the five-story pagoda, and strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as how many Buddhists there are in Japan, what other religions people believe in, and whether there are Christians in Japan. From here, we moved to Shinjuku Sanchome. I explained the origins and history of Shinjuku and the differences between the east and west sides of the station. We walked around Shinjuku Golden Gai, Kabukicho, the Godzilla Head, and Omoide Yokocho. They eagerly recorded video of the 3D cat display. We moved on to Harajuku, first visiting Meiji Shrine. I explained about Shinto, the torii gates, Emperor Meiji, and why sake barrels and wine barrels are displayed there. There were questions such as how Buddhism and Shinto differ, and roughly when Shinto came into being. We took a break for a while at the café terrace near Meiji Shrine. After further strolling along Takeshita Street, we went to Shibuya. First, we took photos looking down at Scramble Square from the platform of the Keio Inokashira Line, then actually crossed the intersection. There were questions such as why so many people gather there and whether the crowds are mostly locals or tourists. We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. After this, we went to a sushi restaurant, where they said the sashimi was delicious. They commented that Tokyo felt clean and safe, and asked why there are no trash bins in the streets, noted that they saw no homeless people, and remarked that the public restrooms were clean and pleasant. Since they said they still did not fully understand how to use the subway, I saw them off at Daiba Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Shinjuku-sanchome260JPY
    Section 4OtherShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 7TrainShimbashi~Daiba330JPY
    Total1,670JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:30 Tokyo International Cruise Terminal – 15:30 Meiji Shrine – 16:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing – 18:00 Tokyo Skytree – 19:30 Asakusa – 20:30 Disband at Shimbashi Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Cruise Day Trip Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Skytree, and Asakusa [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour in Tokyo for guests from Europe who were visiting Japan for the first time, arriving by a cruise ship that had departed from Asia. The guests had a strong interest in Japanese culture and history, so the tour visited Meiji Shrine and Shibuya before continuing on to Tokyo Skytree. Afterward, in Asakusa, the guests wanted to have a light meal and drinks, so we went into an izakaya that was full of local office workers relaxing after their workday. A table happened to open up just in time, and we made a toast with a draft beer and a glass of red wine. Even with simple snacks such as edamame, yakitori, and Japanese pickles, the guests were able to catch a glimpse of everyday Japanese life, which made the drinks taste even better and allowed them to savor a truly happy moment.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo Teleport~Harajuku510JPY
    Section 2BusSangubashi Station (in front of Koma Terrace Nishi-sando) / Keio Bus~Shibuya Station / Keio Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Oshiage260JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo Skytree~Asakusa160JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Shimbashi220JPY
    Total1,380JPY

    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 Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:50 Meet at Hotel Ginza Premier
    • 13:25 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 13:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:25 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 15:45 Tsukiji Market
    • 16:35 Sensoji Temple
    • 17:30 Disband at Hotel Ginza Premier

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. Before coming to Tokyo, they had already visited Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagano, and after sightseeing in Tokyo they planned to join a cruise tour around Japan. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was so different from Shibuya. At Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, they showed great interest in the Indian-style temple design. At Sensoji Temple, they listened with interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as about Kaminarimon Gate. They also purchased goshuin seals at both Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple. I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Shimbashi210JPY
    Total960JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel 9:25 Fushimi Inari 11:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 12:40 Lunch (sushi) 13:40 Kinkaku-ji (Taxi to Nishioji Oike) 15:00 Shopping near Gion in Higashiyama (Taxi to Sanjusangendo) 15:40 Sanjusangendo (Taxi to Gion) 16:20 Gion 17:10 Guide to Pontocho and tour ends

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. One of the guests was a university student living in Europe. Since I had also attended university there, we enjoyed talking about the city for a little while. The meeting point was originally planned for Kyoto Station, but at the guests' request it was changed to a hotel meeting. The tour began under strong, hot sunshine, but the weather was changeable, and we were caught in rain at Arashiyama and Sanjusangendo. To avoid the crowded city buses, we used taxis for the sections from Kinkakuji-michi to Nishioji Oike, from Gion to Sanjusangendo, and from Sanjusangendo back to Gion. Their native language was German, and I could sense a German accent in parts of their speech. The English of the student among the guests was relatively easy to understand. The photo was taken as they were writing on an ema votive plaque at Fushimi Inari.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Enmachi180JPY
    Section 5BusEnmachi~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6OtherNishioji Oike~Higashiyama260JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel→10:30~10:50 Travel to Meiji Shrine→10:50~11:50 Explore Meiji Shrine→11:50~12;00 Travel to Nihonbashi→12:00~12:30 Shopping at the Pokémon Center→12:30~13:15 Lunch at a sushi restaurant in Nihonbashi→13:15~14:00 Travel to Asakusa→14:00~14:40 Explore Sensoji Temple→14:40~15:10 Travel to Shibuya→15:10~16:00 Experience the Shibuya Crossing, then shopping at Cyberspace Shibuya→Disband

    Title: What Is a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from Oceania. The weather was nice, but the temperature and humidity were very high, so I did my best to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone in the group. We first visited Meiji Shrine, where the abundant shade made it comfortable to walk around. I took commemorative photos of the group in front of the decorative sake barrels and the large torii gate. Next, we moved to the Pokémon Center, where the mood of the group gradually brightened. They seemed to thoroughly enjoy the largest Pokémon Center in Japan. For lunch, we went to a sushi restaurant in Nihonbashi, where the group admired the beautifully arranged sushi and were very satisfied with the taste. We had originally planned to visit the Imperial Palace next, but considering the lack of shade, I changed the plan to Asakusa instead. After that, we moved to Shibuya, where the group experienced Super Mario and Pokémon at an entertainment space in Shibuya, and then we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku-gyoemmae~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nihonbashi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 3SubwayNihonbashi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Total830JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Ryogoku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Ryogoku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @Hyatt Regency
    • Shinjuku
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 Ryogoku
    • 13:00 Disband @Sumida Edo Kiriko Museum

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine, Ryogoku, and Edo Kiriko Glass The guests were visiting from North America. This private walking tour of Tokyo, arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), followed the guests' own requests and covered Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine, and Ryogoku during a sumo tournament, ending at the Sumida Edo Kiriko Museum in Kinshicho, where I saw them off. The guests had researched the trip carefully in advance and had even found the Edo Kiriko glass-cutting workshop online themselves. The day of the tour was likely the last extremely hot day of the summer, and one of the guests began to have trouble breathing partway through, so I kept a close watch and guided them with frequent rest breaks. Since the weather forecast had predicted rising temperatures, I brought along cooling towels from a 100-yen shop as a gift. The guests told me these were a real lifesaver. They planned to have a sumo-themed dinner in Ryogoku in the evening, and had I known this in advance, I would have avoided Ryogoku and guided them elsewhere. Even so, I believe the guests were satisfied. I hope for a speedy recovery for the guest who felt unwell. At the Sumida Edo Kiriko Museum, the guests took part in the glass-cutting workshop, but since the online booking screen was only in Japanese, I made the reservation on their behalf. I made this reservation as a special exception because the shop staff asked me to and there was no cancellation fee, but in principle I think it is better not to do this, as it can lead to trouble.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Ryogoku230JPY
    Section 3TrainRyogoku~Kinshicho150JPY
    Total530JPY

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Tokyo: Shibuya & Kappabashi Street to Akihabara

    Tokyo: Shibuya & Kappabashi Street to Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:30 Meet @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal 13:50 Departure
    • 14:30 Via Tokyo Tower (from the vehicle) to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 15:45 Meiji Shrine, Omotesando from the vehicle
    • 16:30 Shibuya (Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing)
    • 17:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Nitenmon)
    • 18:30 Via Kappabashi Street (from the vehicle) to Akihabara
    • 19:00 Nihonbashi and Ginza Street from the vehicle,
    • 19:30 Photographing the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo night view from the Statue of Liberty in Odaiba
    • 20:00 Dismissal @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal

    Can You Do a Private Cruise Port Day Tour in Tokyo from a Ship Arrival? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America arriving on a cruise ship. The ship's scheduled arrival at Tokyo Bay was 13:30, but I could see from my home that it appeared in Tokyo Bay at 12:00, so I hurried out and met the guests 30 minutes earlier than planned. After confirming the itinerary and giving an introduction to Japan, the car also arrived early, so we departed at 13:50. The temperature dropped along the way and it did not rain, which made for a good tour. At Nakamise, the guests purchased a maneki-neko (lucky cat), and in Akihabara they bought a figure they had been asked to get. Since we had time, as a bonus I made a stop at the Statue of Liberty in Odaiba. Today's driver was quick-witted and made good choices about the routes, which made things easy for me. However, the guests had expected a black Alphard-class vehicle and, upon seeing an Esquire painted like a private taxi, seemed a little dissatisfied, saying, "Isn't this just a regular taxi?" I said, "That car that looks like a London taxi is the taxi, and the black Alphard next to it is an illegal vehicle," and had them get in. For high-end guests, an Alphard-class vehicle should ideally be arranged. In the end, they were able to take nice photos and buy souvenirs, and they seemed satisfied.

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…