Category: Uncategorized

  • Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour

    Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet the guests at Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple→Explore Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple 9:00-9:20→Move to Tsukiji Market 9:20-9:25→Explore Tsukiji Market 9:25-10:00→Sushi lunch at Tsukiji 10:00-10:45→Move to Asakusa 10:45-11:15→Explore Senso-ji Temple 11:15-12:15→Move to Kappabashi 12:15-12:25→Explore Kappabashi 12:25-12:50→Move to Shibuya and disband 12:50-13:20

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Kappabashi Today's guests were visitors from North America. We met at Tsukiji Honganji Temple, where I explained how this stone-built temple differs from other temples. Next, we walked to Tsukiji Market and strolled around, where the guests were surprised by the large number of foreign tourists. After having lunch at a sushi restaurant in Tsukiji, we headed to Asakusa. I explained the Kaminarimon Gate and its large red lantern at Sensoji Temple, and we strolled along Nakamise. The guests tried ningyo-yaki and a strawberry treat, and they enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. Finally, we moved on to Kappabashi, where they purchased plastic food samples as souvenirs, and then we made our way to Shibuya, their next destination, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Tawaramachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Shibuya260JPY
    Total650JPY

    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…

  • Fukuoka in One Day: Kido Nanzoin

    Fukuoka in One Day: Kido Nanzoin

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Depart Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka
    • 9:39 Board JR train from Hakata Station bound for Nogata
    • 10:00 Arrive Kido Nanzoin
    • 11:16 Depart JR Kido Nanzoin Station
    • 11:40 Arrive JR Hakata Station JR Hakata Station Observation Deck
    • 12:12 Board subway Nanakuma Line bound for Hashimoto
    • 12:42 Arrive subway Hashimoto Station
    • 13:00 Konoha Mall Hashimoto Lunch at Ten, a rice flour tempura specialty restaurant
    • 13:50 Depart subway Hashimoto Station
    • 13:53 Arrive subway Jiromaru Station
    • 13:56 Board Nishitetsu bus bound for Hakata Station from Jiromaru bus stop 
    • 14:15 Get off at Fukuoka Tower Minamiguchi bus stop Tour Fukuoka Tower
    • 14:45 Board Nishitetsu bus bound for Hakata Station from Fukuoka Tower Minamiguchi bus stop
    • 14:50 Get off at Nishitetsu Momochi Ramp Mae bus stop
    • 14:55 Walk from Hotel to Fukuoka PayPay Dome.
    • 15:15 Disband at Fukuoka PayPay Dome

    Title: What's a Private Fukuoka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nanzoin Temple and Fukuoka Tower The guests enjoyed the natural surroundings of Nanzoin Temple in Kido and the view of Fukuoka city from Fukuoka Tower. They seemed especially fond of animals and insects, often taking photos of spiders, butterflies, cats, and more. Because they could only eat gluten-free meals, choosing a restaurant was a bit challenging. I had received information from the Tokyo guide in advance and researched beforehand, but some places listed as open on Google turned out to be closed on Mondays when I called, and others were far from our route. After the tour, the guests planned to experience teamLab near Fukuoka Dome, so we intended to part ways in that area. For this reason, although it took a little time, I chose a gluten-free restaurant near Hashimoto Station on the subway line. The guests were satisfied to be able to enjoy a chicken set meal and rice-flour udon.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNishitetsu Grand Hotel Mae/Nishitetsu Bus~Ekimae Itchome/Nishitetsu Bus260JPY
    Section 2TrainHakata Station/JR Kyushu Bus~Kido Nanzoin Mae450JPY
    Section 3TrainKido Nanzoin Mae~Hakata Station/JR Kyushu Bus450JPY
    Section 4SubwayHakata~Hashimoto (Fukuoka Prefecture)340JPY
    Section 5SubwayHashimoto (Fukuoka Prefecture)~Jiromaru210JPY
    Section 6BusJiromaru/Nishitetsu Bus~Fukuoka Tower Minamiguchi/Nishitetsu Bus320JPY
    Section 7BusFukuoka Tower Minamiguchi/Nishitetsu Bus~Momochi Ramp Guchi/Nishitetsu Bus210JPY
    Total2,240JPY

    Hello, my nickname is Sasuke. I have been working as a National Government Licensed Guide since 2006. I was born and raised in Fukuoka city. I also work as a teacher. Recently my work as a grandmother has become busier and busier. What I like about being a guide is that I talk to people from different countries, get exposed to different ideas, and grow as a person. I would be happy to help make your trip more enjoyable. If you have any requests, please feel free to ask me. I will do my best to fulfill your request as much as possible. Looking forward to seeing you.

    Sep 25, 2026
    Inspire07663535521
    Amazing Fukuoka
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sasuke, was very prepared and…

    Jul 8, 2026
    jdtudor
    Great day!
    Viator review: Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This is a great way to see…

    Oct 8, 2025
    jacquiwinn62
    A great day sightseeing in Fukuoka and ate the best Ramen ever!
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Raeanne101184
    City tour of popular shopping and shrines and temples.
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Sasuke showed…

  • Nagasaki in One Day: Atomic Bomb Museum & Glover Garden

    Nagasaki in One Day: Atomic Bomb Museum & Glover Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:20 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 11:40 Peace Park & Hypocenter Park
    • 13:00 Lunch at Stadium City
    • 14:30 Glover Garden
    • 15:30 Disband at Shinchi Chinatown

    What Is a Private Nagasaki Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Atomic Bomb Museum, Stadium City, and Glover Garden The guest was a visitor from Europe. At the Atomic Bomb Museum, they viewed each exhibit slowly and listened carefully to my family's account of the atomic bombing experience. As the conversation went on, I learned that the guest was a football fan, so we decided to have lunch at Stadium City. Since the guest wanted to try champon, they were delighted with the experience of enjoying champon while watching football. As we were both football fans, the conversation was lively. At Glover Garden, the guest fully enjoyed the scenery.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainStadium City South~Atomic Bomb Museum150JPY
    Section 2TrainPeace Park~Stadium City North150JPY
    Section 3OtherStadium City South~Ishibashi (Nagasaki Prefecture)150JPY
    Section 4TrainIshibashi (Nagasaki Prefecture)~Shinchi Chinatown150JPY
    Total600JPY

    Hello, I’m Rikako, but please call me Coco. It would be my absolute pleasure to show you around my hometown of Nagasaki. Having performed in the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in my childhood, I developed a deep interest in history and cultural exchange. This motivated me to become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter during my university years. Since then, I have gained valuable experience—from assisting ambassadors at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony to handling a wide variety of tours, including private and coach tours, site inspections, international conference support, and VIP hospitality.
    Explaining about Nagasaki’s history and culture is the most important to me. It is not only about this. I would love to provide genuine care so that your time in Nagasaki remains in your heart forever.
    I’m truly looking forward to guiding you in Nagasaki 🙂

    Jul 21, 2026
    Dawnery_V
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful city. Great guide.
    Rikako was a great guide. She…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a very nice…
    Had a very nice experience. Coco was very…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Explore34946025848
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagasaki
    Really good day out with a local guide, very informative about…

    Apr 4, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Good
    Nagasaki is a very interesting tour
    I would recommend…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku-sanchome Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku-sanchome Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Tokyu Stay Shinjuku
    • 10:10 Depart Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:00 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita-dori Street
    • 14:40 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Shinjuku-sanchome Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Covering Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, and Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, visiting Japan for the first time. They had lived in Europe for many years before relocating. This time they were on a longer trip to Japan, planning to stay in Tokyo for a few days before traveling to Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then returning to Tokyo before heading home. They had arrived at Haneda Airport that morning on a direct flight and taken a taxi to their hotel. The day before, they had explored the east exit of Shinjuku and the Kabukicho area. The tour took place under light rain. We started in Asakusa, which was as crowded as ever. Beginning in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, an introduction to Buddhism, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon Gate, in front of the pagoda, and at various other spots, and strolled leisurely along the Nakamise shopping street. The guests asked questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" As they had visited China several times, they also asked about the differences between Buddhism in China and Japan. Next we moved to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained the history of Japan from the Edo period to the Meiji era, the Meiji Restoration, why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace, and the Tokyo air raids. They asked questions and made comments such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?", "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?", and "Who was the emperor at the time?" After that, we moved to Harajuku. I explained Shinto, the meaning of torii gates, Emperor Meiji, and why sake barrels and wine barrels are displayed there. They asked questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?", and "Why did Shinto originate in Japan?" We took a break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu and also strolled along Takeshita Street. From there we moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble Crossing, and they asked "Why do so many people gather here?" and "How did it become so famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. The guests made comments and asked questions such as "Everyone in Japan is so quiet and polite," "We were amazed that the public restrooms are free and clean — so different from Europe," "The streets are clean and there is no litter," and "Why are there no trash cans in the streets?" As they mentioned that taking the subway still felt difficult, I saw them off at Shinjuku-sanchome Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Train新宿三丁目~浅草260JPY
    Section 2Train浅草~大手町(東京都)180JPY
    Section 3Train大手町(東京都)~明治神宮前210JPY
    Section 4Train明治神宮前~渋谷180JPY
    Section 5Train渋谷~新宿三丁目180JPY
    Total1,010JPY

    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 in Half a Day: Hamarikyu & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu & Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel 1899 Tokyo
    • 9:50 Hamarikyu
    • 11:20 Sakuradamon, Nijubashi, Kusunoki Masashige Statue
    • 12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:20 Takeshita Street
    • 13:40 Disband @ Omotesando

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Europe. They had visited Kyoto nine years ago, fell in love with Japan, and this time they were exploring areas other than Kyoto, so today was their first day. As is often the case with guests from Europe, they chose historical sites and listened to the explanations with great interest. It was about a 20-minute walk to Hamarikyu, so I asked whether that would be alright, and since they said they were happy to walk the whole way, we headed there on foot. At the Nakajima teahouse they enjoyed matcha and sweets. At Meiji Shrine, they drew omikuji fortunes and received protective charms as gifts to bring home. They were amazed by Takeshita Street, saying it reminded them of an orange festival in Europe. We planned the rest of today and tomorrow together, and since they seemed confident about taking the subway on their own, we ended the tour at Omotesando. At the end, they gave me a treat of stroopwafels in a tin decorated with a traditional European design.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Sakuradamon290JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Total500JPY

    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!!

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:55 Meet up @ Meiji Shrine, in front of the First Torii Gate
    • 2. 09:00 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 09:50 Move: Subway
    • 4. 10:30 Stay @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 5. 11:50 Move: Subway
    • 6. 12:15 Stay @ Ueno Park
    • 7. 13:15 Disband @ Ueno Park

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Ueno Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of them had been to Japan before, so the tour became mainly a matter of explaining things to the other members of the group. Since they wished to meet at the site directly, I designated the spot in front of the first torii gate of Meiji Shrine, which has plenty of space and makes it easy to spot the people you are waiting for. The Chiyoda Line had been delayed since the morning, and there seemed to be an accident or malfunction as well, so it was completely stopped by the time we finished our visit to Meiji Shrine. With no other choice, we first went out to Shibuya Station and transferred between the Ginza Line and the Hibiya Line to head to Tsukiji, which resulted in a considerable loss of time. If we had not met at the site directly, I think it would have affected the ending time of the tour. At Tsukiji, the guests ate more than expected, and it turned into what you might call a food tour. After strolling through Ueno Park, I showed them a nearby restaurant where they could have lunch, and then we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Ueno180JPY
    Total390JPY

    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.

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Depart from Ryokan "Uemura"  
    • 9:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 9:00~10:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 10:40~12:30 Nijo Castle
    • Using the subway 
    • Using the Kyoto Municipal Tozai Line and Kyoto Municipal Karasuma Line to Shijo
    • 13:00 Nishiki Market, disband

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip, and the meeting point was a ryokan on Ishibe-koji near Kodai-ji Temple. First, we visited Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion). The guests were intrigued to learn that the admission ticket is designed like a paper talisman, and that placing it at the entrance of a home is said to ward off misfortune. They were also deeply moved by the beauty of Kinkaku-ji seen across the pond, and were interested in hearing how it has often been depicted in literature, such as in the novels of Yukio Mishima. Next, we went to Nijo Castle. When I explained that the Ninomaru Palace consists of five buildings — the first and second for imperial envoys, the third for the outer feudal lords (tozama daimyo), the fourth for the hereditary feudal lords (fudai daimyo), and the fifth for the shogun, with 33 rooms and enough space for 800 tatami mats — the guests seemed very surprised. They also asked many questions, showing interest in the nightingale floors, the wall paintings by the Kano school, and the large decorative nail covers. In the Ninomaru Garden, they were interested to hear that the large pond and the stones shaped like a turtle and a crane symbolize longevity. Finally, we visited Nishiki Market, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijojo-mae~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total220JPY

    I have been an English teacher since 1979. In 2024, I obtained the national qualification of Certified Guide Interpreter.
    Currently, after retiring, I teach English as a part-time lecturer at a Hyogo Prefectural High School.
    My hobbies are tennis, table tennis, traveling, studying English, and Japanese history.
    I play tennis and table tennis twice a week. I love traveling because I can see beautiful scenery and learn about Japanese history.
    I chose Kyoto and Nara prefectures as my guiding locations. Both were once the capitals of Japan.
    Kyoto was the residence of emperors from 794 to 1868 and was a stage for Japanese history.
    It has beautiful scenery, Japanese history, magnificent buildings and gardens, and delicious food.
    I would like to share the charms of Japan with foreign tourists as much as possible.
    I live in Amagasaki City, which is adjacent to Osaka. Kyoto is a little far from my home,
    but I would like to leave home early in the morning and enjoy traveling with my guests.
    Thank you for your consideration.

    Mar 30, 2026
    MrJames_L
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour with Kaji
    We had an excellent…

    Jul 3, 2025
    Radit T
    Worthwhile private tour on our first full day in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle…

    Jun 7, 2025
    Lisa_H
    Great tour guide and driver
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Overall a great…

  • Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day

    Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel 10:45 Arrive at Kita-Kamakura 11:00 Kenchoji Temple 11:45 Lunch 13:00 Hasedera Temple 13:45 Kotokuin Temple 15:00 Depart from Kamakura Station 16:30 Arrive at hotel, disband

    Title: What Is a Private Kamakura Day Tour Like for Older Travelers? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. As noted, they had accumulated some fatigue from walking on previous days, so rather than covering everything energetically, they said they would be satisfied simply seeing the Great Buddha. Throughout the day, including during transit, the guests asked me many questions. They asked not only about Japanese customs but also about my own work and daily life, and it was wonderful that the conversation continued from start to finish. As walking was a bit of a concern, the walk from Kita-Kamakura to Kenchoji Temple, which normally takes about 7 minutes on foot, took more than 10 minutes. We had lunch at a Japanese restaurant near Kenchoji Temple (famous for kenchin soup), but since one of the guests was not hungry, they only had shaved ice. The guests frequently asked me about the walking distance to each destination. In the end, being able to see the Great Buddha left the guests very satisfied. On the way back, at my suggestion, they rode in the Green Car, which turned out to be very effective and greatly appreciated. I had worried that the trains to Kamakura on a Sunday would be crowded, but fortunately the guests were offered seats and were able to travel seated for most of the journey.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Kita-Kamakura950JPY
    Section 2TrainKita-Kamakura~Kamakura150JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura~Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 4TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)~Kamakura200JPY
    Section 5TrainKamakura~Shinjuku950JPY
    Total2,450JPY

    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
    Tokyo tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
    LaToya_S
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…

    Feb 27, 2025
    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly!…

    Feb 17, 2025
    Trip29223434750
    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    For those not wanting to…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • (on foot)
    • Shibuya Shibuya Station・Ekitabi Concierge
    • 10:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 12:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Takeshita-dori
    • 13:50 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • 14:00 Dismissal: Shibuya Station

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Harajuku The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous day and taken a taxi to their hotel. The evening before, they had strolled around the Shibuya area. This was a short trip to Japan, and starting tomorrow they planned to travel around Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. Their wish was simply to see the main highlights of Tokyo first. It was a sunny but hot and humid day for the tour. First, they wanted to activate their JR Pass, make Shinkansen reservations, and purchase a Suica card. They had been told by a travel agency that the guide would take care of everything. We first went to the travel concierge counter at Shibuya Station. Their itinerary had not been firmly established, so with some assistance we managed to complete the reservations. We then went to Asakusa, which was very crowded as usual. Starting from in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained about Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, what Buddhism is, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon, in front of the five-story pagoda, and at various other spots, and strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" Next we went to Tsukiji, which was packed with tourists. We walked slowly through the crowds. I explained the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period and the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. There was a question: "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" They bought and tried some matcha ice cream. We then moved to Harajuku. I explained about Shinto, torii gates, Emperor Meiji, why sake barrels are displayed, and why wine barrels are displayed as well. There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "This is completely different from Senso-ji," and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" After taking a break at the café terrace at Meiji Shrine, we also strolled along Takeshita Street. There were comments and questions such as "The streets are so clean and there is no litter," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" We parted ways at Shibuya Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total860JPY

    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.

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  • Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangen-do & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangen-do & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Kiyomizu-dera
    • 9:30 Sanjusangen-do
    • 10:45 Fushimi Inari
    • 12:00 Shinkyogoku
    • 12:40 Nishiki Market
    • 13:20 Nijo Castle
    • 14:20 Disperse at Shijo

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania, traveling around various parts of Japan during a month-long stay. Because of this, I initially wondered whether a 6-hour walking tour might be too demanding, but the guests turned out to be strong walkers and completed the planned itinerary without any trouble. We had lunch at a sushi restaurant in Shinkyogoku, which the guests enjoyed. However, they felt Nishiki Market was expensive, so they walked through without buying or eating anything. The guests mentioned they love Japanese sake, so I introduced the sake brewery tours in Fushimi, and they said they would try to visit during their stay. Our conversation about sake was very enjoyable. Since the guests wanted to buy chopsticks, sake cups, sushi tubs, and plates, and were heading to Osaka next, I recommended Sennichimae Doguyasuji, where they could purchase these items affordably. The guests were cheerful company, and the 6 hours did not feel long at all.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Museum Sanjusangen-do-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainShichijo~Fushimi Inari180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShijo (Kyoto City)~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae~Shijo (Kyoto City)220JPY
    Total850JPY

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Jul 11, 2026
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