Category: Uncategorized

  • Okayama in Half a Day: Former Ohashi Family Residence

    Okayama in Half a Day: Former Ohashi Family Residence

    Kurashiki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kurashiki Station
    • 10:20 Former Ohashi Family Residence
    • 11:10 Enter the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
    • 11:20 Kurashiki Monogatarikan
    • 11:45 Guide from outside the Ohara Museum of Art, Kojima Torajiro Memorial Hall, etc. (closed on Mondays)
    • 12:20 Tourist Information Center
    • 12:40 Stroll along the canal. Introduce Ivy Square (former Kurashiki Spinning Mill), the Toy Museum, Denim Street, masking tape shops, pudding shops, etc.
    • 13:10 Peach dessert and coffee at a cafe
    • 13:50 Guide ends at Kurashiki Station

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Kurashiki's Bikan District Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. The tour started at the former Ohashi Residence. I explained that the family was originally samurai serving under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, with the surname Sasaki, but after being attacked by Tokugawa Ieyasu, they survived near the foot of Gojo Bridge and changed their name to "Ohashi." The guests were fascinated by this. I also introduced the episode of how, although they were merchants in Kurashiki, their achievements were recognized, and the Tokugawa shogunate permitted them to build a residence in the samurai style. The guests were deeply moved. In the Bikan Historical Quarter, since it was a Monday, many facilities such as the Ohara Museum of Art were closed, but the guests said, "We have no plans tomorrow, so please guide us through everything," and we covered the entire standard guiding course. At a cafe we enjoyed Kurashiki's famous "peach dessert," and the guests exclaimed, "This is the most delicious thing I've ever had!!"

    Click here for more details: Kurashiki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

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    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:35 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2. 08:40 Travel: Subway, Train
    • 3. 09:10 Visit @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 10:20 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:20 Visit @ Senso-ji Temple
    • 6. 12:25 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 12:55 Visit @ Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 8. 13:50 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:10 Visit @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10. 14:40 Disband @ Tsukiji Outer Market

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for a Group? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Some of the guests arrived late, so we met up a little later than planned. Most of the guests already had Suica cards, but those who did not purchased PASMO cards at Tochomae Station. Since it was a fairly large group, we proceeded at a slightly relaxed pace. At the first stops, Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple, everyone moved together, but at Hamarikyu Gardens only those who wished to entered the garden, while those who were not very interested in the Japanese garden waited outside and rested. At the end, in keeping with the wish to have lunch in Tsukiji, I took the group to the outer market. However, since some of the guests did not particularly care for seafood, they decided to eat elsewhere and parted from the group here. After that, I had a meal with the remaining guests, explained how to get to Ginza, and we parted ways on the spot.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Yoyogi180JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shimbashi220JPY
    Section 5SubwayShiodome～Tsukijishijo180JPY
    Total990JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    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.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Met at the 36th floor front desk of Prince Gallery Kioicho. Regarding the route to visit, we had decided in a prior meeting on Nihonbashi → Ryogoku → Yanaka Ginza, but just to be sure we reconfirmed it, and it was OK, so we departed.
    • 10:30-12:10 Got off at Nihonbashi subway station, and guided in the order of Nihonbashi Tourist Information Center → Nihonbashi → Kidai Shoran displayed near Mitsukoshimae Station Exit A3 → Bunmeido Nihonbashi Main Store → Ibasen → Bank of Japan. After finishing, moved to Ryogoku.
    • 12:30-13:15 Went to "Kirishima" in front of a chanko nabe restaurant near Ryogoku Station, and gave a guide about chanko nabe and sumo wrestlers. Next, when we went to the "Sumo Museum," it turned out we could not enter because it was just before the autumn tournament. So we went to "Ryogoku Noren" next to the station, and explained the sumo ring there. When we finished, since they said they were hungry, we decided to have lunch by going to Ueno Hirokoji before heading to Nippori.
    • 13:45-14:20 Lunch at "Hokkaido Ramen Miso Kuma" near the entrance of Ameyoko Street (Matsuzakaya side). After finishing, went to Ameyoko.
    • 14:20-14:50 Walked through Ameyoko to Ueno Station. After finishing, moved to Nippori.
    • 15:00-15:50 Walked from Nippori Station to Yanaka Ginza. Guided Yanaka Ginza, and from there to Nezu Station, we walked while guiding through the old residential area by going one or two backstreets rather than the main street. After finishing, boarded the Chiyoda Line from Nezu Station and saw them off to Akasaka-mitsuke Station.
    • 16:20 Said goodbye at Akasaka-mitsuke Station.

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Nihonbashi, Ryogoku, and Yanaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had recently married. They had held a wedding ceremony in North America and planned to hold another one abroad later, and since neither of them had ever been to Japan, they were spending ten days in Tokyo and Kyoto before continuing on. From the second day after this tour through the fifth day, they had signed up for several tours such as a guided food-tasting walk and also planned to visit various parts of the city on their own, so I asked which places they would be visiting during those days and basically guided them to places not already included, which resulted in an itinerary of Nihonbashi → Ryogoku → Yanaka. While viewing the replica scroll display of the "Kidai Shoran" beneath the Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store, I explained the society and economic activities of the Edo period, and it was wonderful that one of the guests was greatly delighted by it. Ibasen in Nihonbashi is a shop that opened in 1590, and since there are various exhibits related to their family business of Japanese folding fans and ukiyo-e publishing throughout the building, I took them there, and both of them were pleased, saying it was "very beautiful." At the Bunmeido Nihonbashi Main Store we had castella, which was also a good choice. As for the Bank of Japan Head Office behind Mitsukoshi, since one of the guests has a background in finance, I asked, "Would you like to see it? It's just around the back," and they said, "By all means," so I took them there. At the Hokkaido ramen shop in Ueno, one of the guests finished the whole bowl and said it was very delicious, which was great. They also enjoy gyoza and ordered and ate some. They were not especially interested in Yanaka Ginza itself, but they were very fond of the residential neighborhood around Nezu. When we parted, their overall impression was, "We learned so much about Japan. Thank you very much," so I feel they enjoyed themselves.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkasaka-mitsuke～Nihonbashi900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMitsukoshimae～Kiyosumi-shirakawa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassKiyosumi-shirakawa～Ueno-okachimachi0JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Nippori150JPY
    Section 5Free PassNezu～Akasaka-mitsuke0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by MINORUASAI

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

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    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at lyf Shibuya Tokyo
    • 2. 9:15 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing・Hachiko Statue)
    • 3. 10:15 Asakusa
    • 4. 12:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 5. 13:00 Disband at Forest Terrace Meiji Shrine

    What Does a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from North America, arriving in Japan the day before, with plans to stay in Tokyo before traveling on to another destination in Asia and then returning to visit Kyoto and Osaka. It was their first visit to Japan. I guided them through Shibuya (the Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue), Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine. One of the guests had a professional camera and enjoyed taking photos at each location as we went around. Although it was already September, it was still very hot, so I made sure the guests stayed hydrated to avoid heatstroke. Since we did not take any particular breaks during the tour, we finished with a rest at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu, where we had sports drinks and ice cream. After the tour, the guests planned to have a light meal there before heading to Shinjuku, so we parted ways at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. I explained the highlights of Shinjuku, how to get there, and how to return to their accommodation.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Meiji Jingumae260JPY
    Total520JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

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    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 Meet at Hotel Ginza Premier (8 min from Ginza Line Ginza Station)
    • 　　 Ginza 4-chome Intersection　Kabukiza Theatre　Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 0940 Asakusa　Nakamise　Sensoji Temple　Asakusa Shrine
    • 1150 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
    • 1240 Shinjuku West Exit　Omoide Yokocho　3D Cat Display
    • 1325 Shibuya　Hachiko Statue　Scramble Crossing
    • 1340 Disband after crossing the Scramble Crossing. Details below

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Shibuya The guest was a first-time visitor to Japan from North America, who had arrived the previous night. The guest works freelance in fashion. The guest planned to stay in Tokyo for a while and look at a few fashion-related spots. For the rest of the time, since there were many possible options, I provided a Tokyo Travel Guide and explained various destinations. After Tokyo, the guest would head to the Kansai region. During the stay, the guest planned to visit Mount Fuji on one day. On another day, the guest wanted to go to a beach, with Kamakura as a candidate. I explained how to get to Kamakura and, for the beach, suggested going a little further to Enoshima, explaining the route as well. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, the guest was amazed at the size of the oysters, but since it was not long after breakfast, the guest did not eat them today, planning to try them here tomorrow morning instead. In Asakusa, the guest enjoyed melon bread, and at a knife shop in the Shin-Nakamise area, purchased two kitchen knives. At around $180, the guest was pleased that it was cheaper than expected. At Omoide Yokocho, the guest enjoyed a beer in the heat and was delighted with the yakitori and grilled rice balls. From the moment we met, the guest expressed a wish to look around fashion-related spots in Shibuya (such as large Uniqlo stores), so I explained the area where 109, Uniqlo, and H&M are clustered before we parted ways. The guest had already researched Harajuku and planned to explore it at a leisurely pace the next day.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Tochomae330JPY
    Section 3SubwayTochomae～Shinjuku West Exit180JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku～Shibuya170JPY
    Total890JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    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.

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    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…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

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

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

    Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 10:45 Nagasaki Stadium City
    • 12:30 Dejima
    • 13:40 Glover Garden
    • 14:30 Dismissal

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Nagasaki Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report When the group got off at the Atomic Bomb Museum tram stop, a Nagasaki local Pokémon-themed streetcar featuring Ampharos happened to pass by. When I asked whether they liked Pokémon, they said they did. Since I knew that a Pokémon Center pop-up shop was open at Stadium City until October, I took them there. They purchased Ampharos and other Pokémon goods. We changed our lunch plan from Chinatown and had a meal at Stadium City instead. Eating while looking out at the soccer stadium seemed to be a fresh experience for them. They also enjoyed Dejima and Glover Garden.

    Click here for more details: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNankou Uramon-mae／Nagasaki Bus～Oura Cathedral-shita／Nagasaki Bus190JPY
    Section 2OtherOura Kaigan-dori～Atomic Bomb Museum150JPY
    Section 3TrainStadium City South～Dejima150JPY
    Section 4OtherDejima～Ishibashi (Nagasaki Prefecture)150JPY
    Section 5BusOura Cathedral-shita／Nagasaki Bus～Nankou Uramon-mae／Nagasaki Bus190JPY
    Total830JPY

    Tour Report by Coco

    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 🙂

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station & Nara-machi

    Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station & Nara-machi

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Kintetsu-Nara Station
    • taxi
    • 9:20-40 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 10:00-30 Kasuga-taisha Shinto Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 10:40-11:00 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • former katana sword manufacturer's etc.
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 11:10- Todaiji Buddhist Temple (UNESCO World Heritage):
    • 11:10-20 Tamukeyama-Hachiman Shrine
    • 11:20-40 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall (light lunch at Emado Chaya?)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 11:50-12:00 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:10-40 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:50-13:00 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:05-10 Back at Tamukeyama-Hachiman Shrine to listen to Gagaku music.
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:20 Great Buddha Front Intersection taxi stand
    • taxi
    • 13:30- Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town):
    • traditional merchant's house, private collection of katana etc.
    • 15:10 Nakatani-do (End of Tour)

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since the guests had come without eating breakfast, I first had them try one persimmon-leaf sushi each, and they liked it. So they bought a pack of seven and ate while walking through the park. Because of that, lunch ended up being late. We tried to find somewhere to eat between Naramachi and Kintetsu Nara, but as expected, we ran right into Nara's unfortunate habit of most restaurants being closed from 2 to 5 p.m. Hungry and misjudging the situation, I chose a rather dubious-looking takoyaki stand at a plaza near Mochiidono Benzaiten, and it was some of the worst food I had ever tasted. A complete failure. But since the guests had no prior image of what takoyaki should be, they simply thought "so this is what it is like," which was a saving grace. At Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine, a little after 11, I mentioned that there is a gagaku (court music) performance from 1 p.m. on the first of every month, but that it was still too early. The guests said they would very much like to hear it, so after seeing other places such as the Great Buddha Hall, we returned to Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine. I learned for the first time that it alternates in a pattern of norito prayer, then gagaku, then norito, then gagaku, and so on. We parted at Nakatanido, but the guests said they would buy more persimmon-leaf sushi at the station to take home. I was amazed that guests from North America enjoyed it this much!

    Click here for more details: Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Junichi

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 to 10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 11:00 to 11:40 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00 to 12:30 Ryoan-ji
    • 13:00 to 13:20 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 14:00 Disband at Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Back home it is currently midwinter, with temperatures around 7–8 degrees, so continuing a tour in Kyoto's near-40-degree heat was physically demanding for them. We had planned to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple after the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Sagano, but the guests asked to end the tour early, so we finished at 2:00 p.m., an hour ahead of schedule. They said they would visit Kiyomizu-dera on their own the following day. Since it would be hot again, with many uphill paths and stairs, I recommended that they go early in the morning.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto Station / Kyoto City Bus～Nijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Ryoanji-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Kyoto240JPY
    Total930JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Request Booking

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Hotel – 13:30 Meiji Shrine – 14:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street – 15:00 Lunch – 16:15 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace – 17:15 Fukagawa Fudodo – 18:15 Asakusa Sensoji Temple – 18:35 Asakusa Nakamise Street, dismissal

    Title: What's a First-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan. To start their first full day of a private Tokyo tour, we first purchased PASMO cards at a metro station. After Meiji Shrine, we headed to Takeshita Street in Harajuku, where they enjoyed matcha drinks and decided on a spontaneous egg sandwich lunch. At the animal cafes they especially stopped at a mini-pig cafe, and they also spent a while enjoying the playful baby dogs at a pet shop near the entrance of Takeshita Street. They experienced a goma fire ritual at Fukagawa Fudodo, and we said goodbye amid the bustling crowds of Asakusa. I believe the guests fully enjoyed Tokyo.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku～Yoyogi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji Shrine (Harajuku Station) / Shibuya, Tokyo～Otemachi (Tokyo)280JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Monzen-Nakacho180JPY
    Total640JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

    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!

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    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Blossom Hibiya & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Blossom Hibiya & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Blossom Hibiya
    • 9:10 Shinjuku
    • 　　3D CAT Godzilla Head　Golden Gai　Hanazono Shrine
    • 10:30 Shinjuku-sanchome
    • 11:00 Harajuku
    • 　　Lunch　Vegan Ramen
    • 11:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Takeshita Street・Omotesando
    • 14:00 Tour ends at the Omotesando subway entrance

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Shinjuku and Harajuku in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, based in different areas. Since they had only a short time in Tokyo, we planned a walking itinerary centered on Shinjuku and Harajuku, incorporating the group's own wishes. As one of the guests preferred a vegetarian meal, we had lunch at a vegan ramen restaurant in Harajuku, and the group was delighted, saying it was extremely delicious. They found the shops along Harajuku Street very cool and said they planned to return the next day to go shopping on their own. We had originally intended to walk toward Shibuya at the end, but amid the hottest heat of the summer, one of the guests became tired, and by the group's wishes we ended the tour a little earlier. They told me it was a very good tour and gave me a generous token of thanks.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi～Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Total390JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

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    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…