Category: Uncategorized

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8.25 近鉄奈良駅 (ツアー開始 → 14:30 ツアー終了)
    • タクシー2台 1台900円
    • 8:40-9:20 春日大社 (ユネスコ世界遺産)
    • 入場料: 700円
    • 徒歩10分
    • 9:30-50 若草山のふもと: 元刀鍛冶屋など
    • 徒歩5分
    • 10:00- 東大寺 (ユネスコ世界遺産):
    • 10:00-30 東大寺二月堂
    • 徒歩5分
    • 10:40-50 東大寺鐘楼
    • 徒歩10分
    • 11:00-30 東大寺大仏殿 入場料: 800円 徒歩5分
    • 11:50-12:10 東大寺南大門
    • 徒歩5分
    • 12:30-13:00 吉城園
    • 近鉄奈良までタクシー2台
    • 13:10-15:00 東向通りで昼食: お好み焼き おかる (ツアー終了)

    What Is a Private Family Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. I had been told in advance that one of the guests could only walk slowly, so I arranged the tour to minimize walking and to take frequent breaks. During the breaks, I shared stories about Shinto, Buddhism, and history in an entertaining way. For some reason, today I was able to catch quite a bit of the Spanish conversation, which turned out to be very helpful. After okonomiyaki and beer, one of the guests enjoyed ice cream. I very much wanted to talk about improving eating habits, but I ran out of time. Once again, I had a wonderful and enjoyable day. Thank you very much to the guests, and of course to the staff of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) as well.

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:40 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:10 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 13:10 Light meal @ Otemon Chaya
    • 5. 13:40 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 14:30 Disband @ Koko-en Garden

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Asia. After meeting in front of the central ticket gate at Himeji Station, we obtained a Himeji sightseeing guidebook for the guests at the Himeji Tourist Information Center, and then visited the Castle View, Himeji Castle (the Nishi-no-Maru Hyakken Corridor and the Main Keep), the Otemon Chaya, and Koko-en Garden, ending the tour inside Koko-en Garden. Because the group was large and everyone was very enthusiastic about taking photographs, the tour took longer than planned, but each of the guests explored the sights with great interest and thoroughly enjoyed the tour.

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • Take a taxi to Nezu Shrine
    • 10:20-11:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 11:45-12:45 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 13:00-13:40 Lunch at Omoide Yokocho
    • 13:50-14:15 Golden Gai
    • 14:30-14:45 Isetan
    • Buy non-reserved seat for JR Shinkansen, and purchase Suica
    • 15:30-15:50 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • End at Ginza Line Tawaramachi

    Can You Take a Private First-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nezu Shrine, Koishikawa Korakuen, and Shinjuku The guests were visitors from Europe. They had booked half a year in advance, and for their very first day in Japan they requested rather off-the-beaten-path spots such as Nezu Shrine and Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, which was quite a knowledgeable choice for a first day. After Tokyo, they planned to travel to Kyoto, Nara, Kanazawa, and Takayama, then tour the Izu area, and from Kanazawa onward they intended to use a rental car to reach Haneda. Their trip was to last three weeks. In Shinjuku they requested Golden Gai, and along the way we also visited Omoide Yokocho, where we had lunch. They were very pleased. During the tour, we made reservations for the Shinkansen. We booked non-reserved seats.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTodaimae~Iidabashi900JPY
    Section 2Free PassIidabashi~Shinjuku-nishiguchi0JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku~Shibuya170JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya~Tawaramachi (Tokyo)0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Hello!
    I’m Maki. Nice to meet you.
    I used to work at a travel agency as a tour escort so I have traveled to more than 50 countries and all 47 prefectures in Japan.
    When I came back to Japan from abroad, I always noticed virtues in Japan anew.
    I’m thrilled to introduce such kinds of stories and favorite places to you.
    I like bar hopping, cooking, history, and outdoor activities such as camping, cycling.
    I have a licence of International Sake Sommlier and Wine Expert. I’m happy if I would have a chance to introduce you about sake and wine.
    I’m also a mother of junior high school girl. Let’s have fun together!

    Oct 9, 2025
    301catherinep
    Fabulous customised tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki is a wonderful, well informed guide. She customised…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Gene L
    Our 6 hour tour with Maki was fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and…

    Aug 31, 2025
    T
    tmay2921
    Maki is the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day exploring…

    Jul 12, 2025
    O6400ONsaram
    Maki san kakkoii desu
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki was generous and flexible! She met us…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji & Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Nihonbashi Premier
    • 9:30 Tsukiji (Honganji Temple, Market, Namiyoke Shrine)
    • 11:00 Tokyo Station
    • 11:20 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:20 Takeshita Street
    • 13:40 Disband at Fender Flagship Store

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street The guest was a visitor from North America who was very calm, polite, and fond of history. Because they believed that much can be learned from history, they listened with genuine interest to everything and asked more questions than I had ever received before. On topics such as World War II, including the atomic bombings, and the question of imperial succession, I shared mainly my personal opinions, but since the guest was well informed, we were able to have a meaningful exchange of views. Since no destinations had been decided in advance, we held a short meeting on the morning of the tour and decided to visit Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street. We stopped here and there to talk about all sorts of things unrelated to the specific locations, so it was a tour that did not progress very quickly, but I believe I was able to at least partly satisfy the guest's wish to know how Japanese people live and think. At the same time, the guest also seemed eager to share information about their home area, and I was able to hear some fascinating stories, so I feel we achieved a genuine international exchange (such as a church that for some reason was built in an Egyptian architectural style). Since I often pose little quizzes, the guest found it amusing and would say "Question!" and toss one back at me, and the atmosphere grew relaxed and warm without any need to force laughter or work hard at it. As for photos, although I took some myself, the guest's photos came out far more beautifully, so I received them and have attached them here (I would love to know why the same composition can look so different). The guest was a musician, so at one point they asked whether I knew where guitar shops could be found. I mentioned that there are many in the Jimbocho to Ogawamachi area, but when we headed to Takeshita Street, I remembered that there was a guitar shop near the exit, so even though we had gone over time, I took them there. In the end, in front of the guitar shop, I received a business card, words of thanks, and a souvenir, and we parted ways. It was a truly enjoyable day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMitsukoshimae~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Tokyo180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Total570JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel Namba
    • 9:30-10:40 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 11:10-12:00 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:15-12:30 @ Shinsekai
    • 12:45-13:00 @ Harukas Garden
    • 13:10-13:40 Lunch @ Q's Mall
    • 14:05-14:40 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 15:00-15:15 @ Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:25 Disband @ Hozenji Temple

    What Is a Private Kyoto Temple and Shrine Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, traveling through Asia and Japan over the course of their trip, with Japan chosen at the request of one of the guests. All of the destinations had been decided by the guests themselves. They were very quiet and reserved, but they listened attentively to my explanations and enjoyed each location in their own way, collecting goshuin stamps at the shrines and temples and taking photographs. For lunch, the guests both had ramen and gyoza. It was a little unexpected when a large mug of beer was ordered.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba (Subway)~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji Station~Sumiyoshitorii-mae240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total910JPY

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 Hotel Annex(directly connected to Ginza Line Tameike-Sanno Station) Meeting
    • 0830 Asakusa Azuma Bridge Kaminarimon Nakamise Sensoji Temple Asakusa Shrine
    • 1050 Tsukiji Outer Market(Lunch at Sushizanmai Annex) Kabukiza Theatre Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1320 Harajuku Overview explanation in front of the First Torii Gate Takeshita Street
    • 1400 Shibuya Hachiko Statue Scramble Crossing
    • 1415 Explain the location of the Ginza Line station, Parco (Pokemon, Nintendo), and Magnet (One piece), then disband

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Harajuku The guests were a group from North America, arriving in Japan for the first time the night before. During the pre-tour planning stage, they had requested a focus on history, food, and anime (especially Studio Ghibli), but the Ghibli option was set aside due to distance and difficulties obtaining tickets. Instead, I printed and handed over related materials I had written as a resource (even more detailed than the standard ones) and explained them, though only one of the guests was actually interested in Ghibli. The others were interested in a different title (I could not identify it since it was not the Japanese name), so I explained which shops to visit in Akihabara for their later trip there. Their interests were not all the same, but taking photos was something everyone shared, and if I was not careful the group tended to spread apart. Since we arrived at Asakusa early in the morning, we were able to see the temple grounds at a relaxed pace, but 5 out of the 6 guests drew "bad luck" omikuji. I explained that about 35% here are "bad luck," but many chose to try again. On the way back, the shops had opened, so they also bought souvenirs. They had been looking forward to Tsukiji, and enjoyed a slightly early lunch at a sushi restaurant in Tsukiji. During the planning stage there was no time to visit Meiji Shrine, so I only explained it, but they were very taken with Takeshita Street afterward, and said they would come back another day just for Harajuku and Shibuya. They also said they definitely wanted to visit Parco (Pokemon, Nintendo) and Magnet (One Piece), so I guided them on the route and we parted ways. In addition, one of the guests mentioned that a relative had once lived in Tachikawa and expressed a wish to go there, but I explained it would take quite some time, and instead directed them to my website, which includes an account of a visit I had guided in the past (during my volunteer guiding days). https://www.japan-guide-ted.com/archive-01

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total750JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Hokkaido in Half a Day: Tour Nijo Market & Sapporo Station

    Hokkaido in Half a Day: Tour Nijo Market & Sapporo Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the Hotel lobby
    • 10:30 Tour the former Hokkaido Government Office building and visit the Clock Tower
    • 11:00 Climbed the TV Tower from Odori Park and saw downtown Sapporo and the Okurayama Ski Jump
    • 11:30 Tour Nijo Market
    • 12:30 Visit and rest at Hokkaido Shrine
    • 14:00 Sapporo Station (Reserve JR seats and head to Otaru)

    What's a Private Sapporo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hokkaido Jingu, a Knife Shop, and Otaru The guests were a group visiting Hokkaido for the first time from Europe. They had visited Japan two years earlier, when they experienced a pilgrimage in Shikoku and traveled to Kyoto. One of the guests had studied Japanese at university and had planned to come to Japan as an exchange student, but was unable to do so, and is a great fan of Japan. Their Japanese was excellent, another of the guests loved Japanese manga, and one more knew a little Japanese as well. Because the guests were interested in old and traditional things in Japan, they were very pleased to visit Hokkaido Jingu. They did not seem particularly interested in food, so we skipped lunch. They were heading to Otaru next, so I explained how to get there and shared some sightseeing tips for Otaru. One of the guests wanted to buy a Japanese knife that had been requested, so I took the group to a knife shop, where they purchased a santoku knife and a nakiri knife. They were also interested in Ainu culture and mentioned that they were planning to visit a museum. The guests were very much looking forward to experiencing an onsen and riding the Shinkansen.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori~Maruyama Koen210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMaruyama Koen~Sapporo250JPY
    Total460JPY

    Hello I’m Hiroko.
    I started tour guide in 2017. I work not only in Hokkaido but also in Honshu area.
    Last year
    Freelance tour guide-operates over 120 days of operation.
    8 times of long -term escort tour in Hokkaido. 4 times of 8-10days in Honshu.
    12 times of Cruise guests’ one day excursions in Hokkaido and Tohoku. I love my job.
    Until then I’ve worked as a short-term study abroad coordinator of an English language School in Japan and Canada.
    I was born and brought up in Sapporo, I’m good at skiing.
    I majored Japanese history at college in Tokyo. I like Calligraphy.
    Let’s enjoy the tour together!

    Aug 11, 2024
    M
    Miller A
    Good intro to Sapporo
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide was very knowledgeable…

    May 24, 2024
    Brian_K
    Sapporo with guide
    Viator review: Sapporo Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Views from Sapporo TV Tower and visiting and…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: SHINJUKU & HARAJUKU/CAT STREET

    Tokyo in Half a Day: SHINJUKU & HARAJUKU/CAT STREET

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 meet at Mimaru Tokyo Shinjuku West
    • 9:15 1 SHINJUKU
    • 10:15 2 MEIJI JINGU SHRINE
    • 11:15 3 HARAJUKU/CAT STREET
    • 12:15 4 SHIBUYA, Crossing
    • 13:00 See off at Shibuya Muji

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Asia, and I met them at the Hotel as scheduled and explained the itinerary. Since they planned to visit the Metropolitan Government Building on their own, we strolled through the Kabukicho area. They planned to return on their own to the discount store as well. They were delighted by the Godzilla Head. At Meiji Shrine, I gave explanations using simple, easy-to-follow logic to suit the interests of the group. As expected, the group grew especially lively along Takeshita Street. They stopped at several shops for their own purchases and souvenirs and seemed very satisfied. After receiving feedback that they were not particularly interested in things like Pokémon in Shibuya, I introduced them to a lifestyle goods store and the Disney Store. I took my leave in front of the lifestyle goods store.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Total150JPY

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

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

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

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

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

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Sep 21, 2026
    judygU2038FZ
    A wonderful time in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had such a…

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

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

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa Station & Tawaramachi Station

    Tokyo: Asakusa Station & Tawaramachi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Hotel Premier International, Asakusa
    • 9:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Nippori Station
    • Nippori Yanaka Ginza
    • Yanaka Cemetery
    • 11:00 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:10 Arrive Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • Break: Coffee shop
    • 12:00 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • Nihonbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Tawaramachi Station
    • Tawaramachi Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 13:20 Depart Tawaramachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • 13:30 Disband: Asakusa Station

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Walking Tour of Yanaka, Nezu, and Kappabashi in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. About a week before this tour, they had arrived at Haneda Airport and immediately traveled to Sapporo, spending a week in Hokkaido, where they enjoyed the autumn foliage, hot springs, and fresh seafood. They came to Tokyo the day before and strolled around the Asakusa area the previous evening. They planned to stay in Tokyo until the following day and return home the day after that. This was a tour held in rainy weather. We first headed to the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area. The guests had requested to see "the old streetscapes of Tokyo." They were all very fond of cats and mentioned that they had learned about the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area through social media. We strolled slowly through the streets, and they purchased a stuffed-cat toy, saying, "We love this kind of townscape." We also took our time walking through Yanaka Cemetery. We then moved to Nezu Shrine. Within the grounds, many families were visiting for the Shichi-Go-San ceremony. I explained about Shinto, torii gates, the history of Edo and Tokyo, and Inari shrines. There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "Why did Shinto arise?" Everyone bought omikuji fortunes, drawing "great blessing" and "small blessing." We took a break at a coffee shop along the way. Next we moved to the Kappabashi kitchenware street. Their goals were kitchen knives and plastic food samples. They browsed each shop slowly, checking the items again and again, and each person purchased a knife and food sample they liked. They said, "We've achieved the goal of our trip to Japan." They also made comments and asked questions such as "The city is so clean and there's no litter," "We don't see any homeless people," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" I saw them off at Asakusa Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno~Nippori150JPY
    Section 3TrainSendagi~Nezu180JPY
    Section 4TrainNezu~Tawaramachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 5TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Total900JPY

    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

    • 1.9:30 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2.10:00 @ Tsukiji
    • 3.11:30 @ Asakusa
    • 4.13:00 @ Ueno
    • 6.13:40 @ Ginza
    • 7.14:30 Lunch @ Tokyo Station Ramen Street
    • 8.15:30 Disband @ Metro Ginza Line Kyobashi Station

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Ginza The guests were a friendly group visiting from Oceania. One of the guests especially loved Japanese food, so they purchased otoro (fatty tuna) and enjoyed it at a rest area. Since it was close to their hotel, they mentioned they would like to return on Wednesday. Afterward, we went to Asakusa and offered prayers at Kaminarimon, Hozomon, and the main hall. When they drew an omikuji fortune, they got "daikichi" (great blessing), which delighted one of the guests. They wanted to purchase Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to Kyoto, so we made a reservation and bought the tickets at the ticket office in Ueno, and then headed to Ginza. From the rooftop garden of Ginza Six, they took in the cityscape and were amazed by the Uniqlo building. At Ramen Street, at the request of one of the guests, we went to a shio (salt) ramen shop called Hirugao, and they said it was delicious. Afterward, they wanted to return to Ginza, so I took them to Kyobashi Station and ended the tour. It was fortunate that there was almost no rain.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi~Tsukiji350JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Ginza180JPY
    Section 5TrainYurakucho~Tokyo150JPY
    Total1,150JPY

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

    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

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

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