Category: Uncategorized

  • Nagasaki in Half a Day: Suwa Shrine & Confucius Temple

    Nagasaki in Half a Day: Suwa Shrine & Confucius Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel
    • 9:00 Suwa Shrine
    • 9:30 Peace Park
    • 9:50 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 10:50 Taxi
    • 11:30 Inasayama Observatory
    • 12:00 Confucius Temple
    • 12:30 Hotel

    What's a Private Day Tour of Nagasaki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests at the hotel at 8:30. First, we took the streetcar to Suwa Shrine, where I explained its relationship with the shogunate. We then rode the streetcar to Peace Park and walked to the Atomic Bomb Museum. After explaining the Atomic Bomb Museum, we took a taxi to the Inasayama Observatory, where the guests enjoyed the view. We visited the Confucius Shrine, where I explained Confucianism, and finally returned to Nagasaki Station. As the guests had to catch a train right away, we skipped the Dejima Museum, Glover Garden, and Oura Church, but they said they would love to come back for Nagasaki's rich history. A notable stop on the tour was the Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki. The museum documents the atomic bombing of the city in 1945 and serves as a powerful memorial to the victims. Its exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts that convey the devastation caused by the bomb and the city's subsequent recovery. The museum, together with the adjacent Peace Park, has become an important site for reflection on peace and the consequences of nuclear weapons, drawing visitors from around the world who come to learn about this significant chapter of history.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNagasaki (Nagasaki Prefecture)~Suwa Shrine150JPY
    Section 2TrainSuwa Shrine~Peace Park150JPY
    Section 3TrainIshibashi (Nagasaki Prefecture)~Nagasaki (Nagasaki Prefecture)300JPY
    Total600JPY

    Experienced, skillful tour guide with high customer satisfaction. My purpose is to spread world peace through cultural communication.
    A witty conversation enriched with abundant academic knowledge. My strength is the strong academic background of the history, culture and religion of Japan.
    I have abundant tour guide experiences in Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Yanagawa, Dazai-fu, Kagoshima, Hiroshima, and Saga.
    I have many experiences of guiding Fukuoka city area including Fukuoka city museum, Dazaifu shrine, Nanzoin Buddha statue, Tochiji temple, Kushida shrine, Fukuoka ramen and sushi restaurants and Fukuoka tower.
    I also have many experiences of guiding Nagasaki area including Atomic bomb museum, Dejima museum, Oura church, Glover park, Inasayama mountain and Shimabara castle.
    I have abundant knowledge on porcelains, potteries of Imari, Arita, Kashima, Ogi, and sake of Saga.
    I have a national itinerary manager license(80-25-F00030) and a national travel service manager license(2025-171) in addition to a national tour guide license.
    TJT-certified Tour Guide by Car (N26007バ).
    A member of Japan Health Tourism Society (J26-10019).
    While my dialogue is laced with sparkling wit and humor, it never lacks for intellectual depth.
    Great Britain Guiness Scotch Whiskey Student Ambassador
    Only orders from the company are accepted. The company is the sole contracting party with customers.

    Sep 22, 2026
    Inspire07663535521
    Beautiful Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a full itinerary but our…

    Aug 17, 2026
    inexology
    Fun and Knowledgeable Tour Guide, thank you Hiro-san!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    I…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Nancy_P
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Select Hiro as your guide
    It was a wonderful experience…

    May 13, 2026
    Edwin_R
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro is a hero!
    Hiro is a very knowledgeable and skilled guide.…

  • Kagawa in One Day: Takamatsu Port Ferry Terminal & Outdoor Art works

    Kagawa in One Day: Takamatsu Port Ferry Terminal & Outdoor Art works

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:20 Hotel Zest Takamatsu lobby [Meet]
    • on foot
    • 07:40 Takamatsu Port Ferry Terminal
    • 08:12 Takamatsu Port
    •  by ferry
    • 09:02 Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)
    • 09:06 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 09:20 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • on foot ,Outdoor Artworks including “Yellow Pumpkin”
    • 10:00~10:40 Benesse House Museum
    • on foot
    • 10:55~11:40 Lee Ufan Museum & Valley Gallery
    • 11:50 Lee Ufan Museum Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 11:52 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 12:00~13:45 Chichu Art Museum (including lunch)
    • 14:10 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 14:17 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • 14:27 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 14:33 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • 14:40~15:50 Art House Project ( "Kadoya", "Ishibashi","Gokaisho" and "Haisha")
    • 15:56 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 16:03 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • 16:05~16:25 Outdoor Art works (including the Red Pumpkin)
    • 17:00 Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)
    • by ferry
    • 18:00 Takamatsu Port
    • 18:10 Takamatsu Port [Say goodbye]

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Naoshima Art Island Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a solo traveler visiting from Oceania. It was their first visit to Japan. They had joined a bus tour that traveled from Tokyo to Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Kotohira-gu Shrine in Kagawa, Hiroshima, and Osaka, and afterward continued independently from Osaka to Takamatsu, Naoshima, Osaka, Tokyo, and then home. They mentioned that Naoshima had been recommended to them by a travel agency. As it was a pleasant October day on the third Saturday of the month, Naoshima was busier than usual with international visitors. The local town buses and the Benesse shuttle buses were running extra services to accommodate the crowds, so we were able to get around smoothly. The guest was blessed with fine weather all day and seemed to thoroughly enjoy the nature and art of Naoshima. A notable stop on the tour was Naoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea known worldwide as a center for contemporary art. The island is home to numerous museums and installations, including works designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, where art is integrated into the natural landscape and even into renovated traditional houses. Naoshima has become a leading destination for visitors seeking a unique blend of modern art, striking architecture, and the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyanoura Port / Naoshima, Kagawa~Tsutsujiso / Naoshima, Kagawa100JPY
    Section 2BusTsutsujiso / Naoshima, Kagawa~Nokyomae / Naoshima, Kagawa100JPY
    Section 3BusNokyomae / Naoshima, Kagawa~Miyanoura Port / Naoshima, Kagawa100JPY
    Total300JPY

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel
    • 9:05 Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 10:45 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 11:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:10 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka
    • 13:00 Nishiki Market
    • 14:15 Nijo Castle
    • 15:00 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu-dera, and Nijo Castle Body: The guests visited Japan for the first time from Oceania. They were a calm and gentle group, and we were blessed with good weather, which made for a wonderful tour. At Sanjusangen-do, they looked very attentively at the thousand Buddhist statues, the twenty-eight guardian deities, and the statues of the Wind God and Thunder God. As it was the day before an annual event, we were fortunate to see special hanging scrolls and displays. Afterward, at Kiyomizu-dera, one of the guests enthusiastically took many photographs. From Kiyomizu-dera we walked to Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, and then on to Nishiki Market for lunch. This took quite a lot of time, so the guided visit to Nijo Castle ended up being a little rushed. I took the photo in the garden of Sanjusangen-do. A notable stop on the tour was Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples, founded in the 8th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is especially famous for its large wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering sweeping views over Kyoto, particularly stunning during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The temple's name, meaning "Pure Water Temple," comes from the Otowa Waterfall on its grounds, where visitors can drink from streams said to bring good fortune in health, success, and longevity.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2BusKyoto Station/Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama Shichijo/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3OtherHigashiyama Shichijo~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total900JPY

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

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Ropeway departs from Togendai & Gora Park

    Kanagawa in One Day: Ropeway departs from Togendai & Gora Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet up at the hotel
    • 11:15-11:55 Lunch
    • 12:10 Bus departs from Hakone-Yumoto
    • 13:20 Ropeway departs from Togendai
    • 13:30-14:35 Owakudani
    • 15:10-15:55 Gora Park
    • 16:08 Depart from Gora
    • 16:50 Arrive at Hakone-Yumoto, end

    What's a Private Weekend Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since it was a weekend in Hakone and crowds were expected, the start time was moved up by 30 minutes. The guests were a group from North America. We had planned to have soba for lunch at Hatsuhana, but it was crowded, so we went to Tobiume instead. We arrived at the bus stop five minutes before departure, and boarding was cut off just as everyone managed to get on. The Susuki grass at Sengokuhara, which we had been looking forward to, was beautiful, and the guests took photographs. For the ropeway at Togendai, we had anticipated a 40-minute wait, but it only took a few minutes, so we could spend that extra time at Owakudani. After viewing the volcanic steam, we walked up to the Jizo statue, admired a bit of Mount Fuji appearing above the clouds, and then enjoyed the black eggs. At Gora Park, we viewed the rose garden and visited the tea house and greenhouse. We returned to Hakone-Yumoto by mountain railway, and the tour came to an end. This time, everything proceeded surprisingly close to the planned schedule. A notable stop on the tour was Owakudani. Owakudani is a volcanic valley in Hakone created by an eruption of Mount Hakone thousands of years ago, known for its sulfurous fumes and bubbling hot springs. One of its most famous attractions is the black eggs, which are boiled in the naturally hot sulfur springs until their shells turn black, and are said to add years to one's life when eaten. On clear days, visitors can also enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji from the area.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHakone-Yumoto~Togendai/Hakone Tozan Bus1,330JPY
    Section 2TrainSounzan~Koen-kami250JPY
    Section 3TrainGora~Hakone-Yumoto460JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    Hello. My name is Kazuo Fukuda. I was born in 1958 and grew up in Okayama Prefecture, located in western Japan. I majored in physics at university and worked as an engineer in the manufacturing industry. During that time, I moved around various parts of Japan before settling in Tokyo in 2009. I personally love traveling and have a deep interest in art and history. I have traveled to Europe many times. In 2018, I left my company and started working as a tour guide. Tokyo developed into a modern city after being destroyed by the Great Kanto Earthquake and the air raids of World War II, but many historical aspects still thrive there. Recent pop culture is also fascinating. Discovering these cultural aspects will surely be an enjoyable experience for you. I would be happy to help you make such discoveries and understand their origins. If you tell me your favorite tourist destinations, I will create the perfect itinerary for you. And with heartfelt hospitality, I will make your tour the best it can be. I am looking forward to meeting you.

  • Takamatsu Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Takamatsu Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ・09:00 Meet (Takamatsu Port)
    • ・09:20 Ritsurin Garden
    • ・11:20 Lunch (Cafe de Ritsurin inside Ritsurin Garden)
    • ・13:00 Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum
    • ・14:30 Disband (Takamatsu Port)

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Takamatsu Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ritsurin Garden and the Isamu Noguchi Museum The group was originally planning to come as a larger party, but one member could not join due to a sudden illness, so the group arrived together. They seemed to have traveled together often with the same members, and were a very cheerful and friendly group. Some of them were interested in history, and while guiding them through Ritsurin Garden and showing them visual materials, I explained Japanese history. They listened very attentively and fired off a variety of questions one after another. Others were fond of plants and asked me the names of this and that, but I regret that I couldn't immediately recall the English names for plants such as sago palm. They were also amazed by the shape of the pine branches and the appetite of the carp. They seemed satisfied with lunch at Cafe de Ritsurin, where they again asked many questions about the ingredients. They were also more pleased than I expected with the Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum, and peppered the curator with questions. One of them made a somewhat cool remark, saying "a stone is just a stone," but from there the conversation about each person's view of art became lively again. They were truly delightful people. A notable stop on the tour was Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. Ritsurin Garden is one of Japan's most celebrated historical landscape gardens, developed over many years during the Edo period by the local feudal lords. It is known for its beautifully arranged ponds, hills, carefully pruned pine trees, and borrowed scenery of the surrounding Mount Shiun, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in traditional Japanese garden design.

    Hello! My name is Kaoru(Karen) Yamakawa. 
    Before becoming a guide, I worked as a Reuters journalist for over 30 years. I have a deep love of Japanese history and culture, which I continue to study every day. I would be delighted to help you experience all that Japan has to offer.
    I am a certified Japanese language teacher and I currently work as a Japanese language teacher as well.
    I enjoy daily jogging and would be happy to accompany anyone who would like to go for a run in Japan, at a location of their choice.
    I live in Tokyo, but I also have a base in Kyoto and visit around ten times a year. I am very knowledgeable about Kyoto’s shrines and temples.

  • Tokyo: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Imperial Palace Outer Garden

    Tokyo: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Imperial Palace Outer Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Greet guests at the Harumi Passenger Ship Terminal arrival lobby, tour begins
    • 08:05 Depart Harumi Passenger Ship Terminal (private vehicle)
    • 08:35 Arrive at Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 08:40 Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 09:30 Visit ends
    • 09:40 Depart Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 09:50 Arrive at Shibuya
    • 09:55 Stroll around the Hachiko loyal dog statue, Scramble Crossing, Center Gai, Miyashita Park, etc.
    • 10:25 Stroll ends
    • 10:30 Depart Shibuya, sightseeing from the vehicle of Tokyo Tower, Ginza Chuo-dori, Tokyo Station Marunouchi side station building, etc.
    • 11:10 Arrive at Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:15 Lunch (@Tsukiji Outer Market)
    • 12:10 Lunch ends
    • 12:20 Depart Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:50 Arrive at Azumabashi, commemorative photo with the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree in the background
    • 13:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center observation floor & visit to Sensoji Temple
    • 14:00 Visit ends
    • 14:10 Depart Nitenmon Gate
    • 14:30 Arrive at the Imperial Palace Outer Garden
    • 14:40 View Nijubashi Bridge
    • 15:00 Viewing ends
    • 15:05 Depart the Imperial Palace Outer Garden
    • 15:25 Arrive at the Harumi Passenger Ship Terminal, tour ends

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The guests were from North America. One of them had visited Japan for work about 40 years ago, making this their second visit, while the other was visiting Japan for the first time. At Meiji Shrine, it was early in the day and there were few worshippers. After completing the prayer at the main hall, they viewed the sacred camphor trees and a flower arrangement exhibition. They also happened to come across a pre-wedding commemorative photo session and were very moved by it. In Shibuya, after taking commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue, they experienced walking across the scramble crossing, passed through the streetscapes of Center Gai and Spain-zaka, and strolled around Miyashita Park. At the driver's suggestion, we enjoyed sightseeing from the car window at Tokyo Tower, Ginza Chuo-dori, and the Marunouchi side of Tokyo Station, before heading to Tsukiji. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, they wished to sample a bite at a time from several shops, and thoroughly enjoyed grilled squid, fried chicken, fatty tuna sushi, sea urchin, and Kobe beef, saying it was all "very delicious." After taking photos at Azuma Bridge with the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree in the background, they enjoyed the view from the observation floor of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center and a visit to Senso-ji Temple. At the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, they showed great interest in the magnificent scenery of the spreading pine trees, the origin of the Nijubashi Bridge, and the topic of the public New Year greeting at the Imperial Palace. The journey to the Harumi Passenger Ship Terminal was smooth without any particular traffic. At the end, they expressed their satisfaction and gratitude for the driver's careful driving and my guiding, and the tour came to a close.

    Hi everyone!

    I am Tatsu Nakayama, Japan Licensed Guide (2009-), Certified Travel Supervisor (2025-) and Domestic Itinerary Manager (2024-).

    I am originally from Kannami Town of Shizuoka Prefecture, which is located just south of Hakone.

    My guiding areas cover all over Japan, but I mainly guide in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Enoshima, Yokohama, Nikko, Mt. Fuji, Izu and Chiba.

    I am ready to help my guests have wonderful experiences and unforgettable memories in Japan.
    I always make sure everyone is happy and joyful while your needs are fully met with my big smiles and warmest hospitality. Lots of fun and new discoveries are an essential part of my tours.

    Here is my guide history:

    (In 2025)
    – DEC 31: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a group from USA & El Salvador (10 PAX) – Tokyo Character Street, Ginza, Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo, Asakusa
    – DEC 30: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a group from USA & El Salvador (10 PAX) – Tsukiji Outer Market, teamLab Planets
    – DEC 29: Tokyo Tokyo private car tour for a family from USA & El Salvador (5 PAX) – Shibuya, Omote Sando/Takeshita Street
    – DEC 28: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (* Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – NOV 15: Kamakura & Enoshima private walking tour for a group from Ghana (9 PAX) – Enoshima Shrine, Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden, Kotoku-in Temple (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    – NOV 14: Nikko private walking tour for a group from USA (3 PAX) – Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi Abyss, Kirifuri Falls (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – NOV 1: Nikko private walking tour for a family from Mexico (4 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple Shoyoen Garden, Shinkyo Bridge (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – OCT 27: Tokyo private car tour and airport transfer for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Hotel, Tokyo Sumo Show, Meguro, Haneda Airport
    – OCT 16: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from UK & Norway (4 PAX) – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tsukiji Outer Garden, Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Tokyo Tower
    – OCT 12: Tokyo private car tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Asakusa (Kimono & tea ceremony experience), Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza
    – OCT 11: Hakone private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone, Hakone Open Air Museum
    – OCT 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA (4 PAX) – Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – SEP 28: Fuji Hakone private car tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Oshino Hakkai, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
    – SEP 27: Tokyo private car tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Asakusa (Kimono & tea ceremony experience), Kappabashi Street, Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya)
    – AUG 7: Hakone private walking tour for a family from USA (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Open Air Museum (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – JUL 24: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Canada (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUL 22: Hakone private walking tour for a family from Austria (3 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone, Hakone Gora Park (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – JUL 9: Hakone private walking tour for a family from Canada (3 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 15: Hakone private walking tour for a couple from New Zealand (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, cu-mo Hakone
    – MAY 3: Hakone private walking tour for a couple from Spain & Mexico (2 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine/Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Open Air Museum (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 30: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Scotland (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Kabuki-za Tower, Ginza (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 18: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (2 PAX) – Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, Akihabara Electric Town, Ginza, Kabuki-za Tower, Shibuya
    – APR 13: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Shinjuku (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – APR 12: Hakone private car tour for a VIP couple from Canada (2 PAX): Onshi Hakone Park, Hakone Shrine, Hotel de Yama, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Owakudani Valley
    – APR 7: Tokyo private car tour for a VIP family from USA (3 PAX) – Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Skytree, teamLab Borderless, Shibuya
    – APR 6: Airport transfer for a VIP family from USA (3 PAX) – Narita Airport to Tokyo
    – APR 5: Nikko private car tour for a couple from USA & Colombia (2 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    – MAR 31: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers (Yokohama DEP.) from USA (22 PAX) – Tokyo Tower, Meiji Jingu Shrine & Asakusa
    – MAR 30: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from USA, UK, Canada, Mexico & the Philippines (40 PAX) – Asakusa & Ginza
    – MAR 29: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Asakusa, Kappabashi Kitchenware Street, Ameyoko Shopping Street
    – MAR 22: Hakone private walking tour (Tokyo DEP.) for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, Hotel de Yama, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, Owakudani Valley, Choanji Temple (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Tripadvisor)
    – MAR 20: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from Australia (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Skytree
    – MAR 17: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA (3 PAX) – Hamarikyu Gardens, Shibuya, Daiba, Ginza
    – MAR 16: Tokyo private tour with a vehicle for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Imperial Palace, Nezu Shrine, Asakusa
    – MAR 2: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2024)
    – DEC 30: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (4 PAX) – Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree (*Received two 5-star evaluations on Viator)
    – DEC 29: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Australia (5 PAX) – Ueno, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Shinjuku, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street
    – DEC 19: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – DEC 3: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from India (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace Inui Street
    – NOV 16: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from Mexico (4 PAX) – Shibuya, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Asakusa, Tokyo Tower (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – NOV 13: Nikko private walking tour for a family from Colombia (3 PAX) – Kegon Falls, Shinkyo Bridge, Rinnoji Temple, Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    – OCT 27: Airport transfer for a couple from Mexico (2 PAX) as Spanish-speaking assistant guide – Tokyo to Narita Airport
    – OCT 22: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from India (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – OCT 14: Hakone private walking tour a guest from Austria (1 PAX) – Hakone Open Air Museum, Choanji Temple, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
    – OCT 13: Hotel transfer for a couple from Mexico (2 PAX) as Spanish-speaking assistant guide – Narita Airport to Tokyo
    – OCT 9: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – AUG 10: Tokyo private walking tour for a VIP family from Brazil (3 PAX) – teamLab Borderless, Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa, Nishiazabu, Omote Sando, Shibuya
    – JUL 20: Tokyo private car tour for a VIP family from USA (8 PAX) – teamLab Borderless, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUL 19: Airport transfer and Tokyo private tour for a VIP family from USA (8 PAX) – Tokyo Haneda Airport Private Jet Terminal to Tokyo, Kamiyacho, Akihabara
    – JUL 15: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Scotland (2 PAX) – Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUN 23: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from USA (5 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa
    – JUN 1: Tokyo private walking tour for a group from USA & Albania (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Viator)
    – MAY 15: Tokyo bus tour for VIP participants of “SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 – City Leaders Program (Hosted by Tokyo Metropolitan Government),” representing 41 world cities (some 120 PAX) as one of guide team members – teamLab Borderless, Happoen, Toyosu Fish Market & Senkyaku Banrai, Tokyo Big Sight
    – APR 13: Tokyo bus tour & Narita Airport transfer for a group of cruise passengers from USA (30 PAX) – Tokyo Tower
    – APR 12: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from UK & USA (14 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa
    – APR 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Ireland & USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 6: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from the Netherlands (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Takeshita Street/Omote Sando, Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – APR 4: Tokyo private car tour for a group from India (10 PAX) – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Shibuya, Rainbow Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and Decks Beach Tokyo Odaiba, Ginza Six
    – MAR 31: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from New Zealand & USA (25 PAX) – Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Tower
    – MAR 30, 2024: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from USA & Australia (28 PAX) – Imperial Palace Outer Garden & Nijubashi Bridge, Asakusa

    (In 2023)
    – JUL 8: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from India & USA (4 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa
    – JUN 7: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from Ireland (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Garden, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 18: Tokyo private walking tour for a family from Germany (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa (*Received a 5-star evaluation on Tripadvisor)
    – MAY 14: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa
    – MAY 5: Tokyo bus tour for cruise passengers from France, Sweden, UK, USA, etc. (16 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Hamarikyu Gardens, Yokohama Hammer Head
    – APR 23: Tokyo private walking tour for a guest from the USA (1 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2019)
    – SEP 21: Tokyo private walking tour for a couple from USA (2 PAX) – Meiji Jingu Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ginza, Marunouchi, Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa

    (In 2014)
    – APR 6: Tokyo bus tour & airport transfer for top executives from a German company (10 PAX) – Odaiba, Narita Airport
    – APR 5: Hakone bus tour for top executives from a German company (10 PAX) – Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani, Lake Ashi, Sengokuhara

    Apart from my experience as a professional guide, I traveled to, worked, studied, volunteered in approx. 50 countries and regions of the world. It includes 1-year travel in North America and Europe, 4-year work experience in Viet Nam and 1-year study in Spain.

    I have worked for a non-profit organization for 25+ years, working extensively with foreign ambassadors and diplomats from over 100 countries.

    From my rich experience of communication with people from all over the world, I look forward to serving you for your unforgettable memories in Japan.

    I am highly skilled in photo-shooting. So, you can return home with some great photos!

    I hope to see you all soon !

    May 10, 2025
    P8195NRcaroliner
    A Truly Special Day in Japan – Unforgettable Experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full-Day Private Tour(Tokyo DEP.) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

    May 4, 2025
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    Excellent Guide Made Our Hakone Trip Unforgettable
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  • Niigata in One Day: Former Saito Residence & Hakusan Shrine

    Niigata in One Day: Former Saito Residence & Hakusan Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at the arrival point of the shuttle bus heading from Niigata West Port to downtown Niigata
    • 9:45-11:00   Former Saito Residence
    • 11:15-12:00   Hakusan Shrine
    • 12:10-12:40   Toki Messe Bandai Island, Bekamoke Observation Deck
    • 13:00-15:00   Market tour, lunch, and shopping at Pier Bandai
    • 15:30    See off at the shuttle bus stop

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Niigata Cruise Port Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a friendly group visiting from North America. It was my first time guiding guests who arrived in Niigata City via the shuttle bus from the port, so I was quite nervous. Aside from a reply saying they did not need a private taxi or a pickup at the port, there was almost no communication from the guests beforehand, and I was anxious about whether we would actually be able to meet on the day. However, they appeared from the shuttle bus with beaming smiles, which was a huge relief. Since they ran a company and had likely been very busy right up until the trip, my impression was that they had done almost no preparation and had simply hopped aboard the cruise ship. They had zero specific requests about what they wanted to do in Niigata. It is precisely at times like these that a guide must step up, so we first took a taxi to the former Saito Residence. A volunteer English guide is always stationed there, so I left half of the explanation to that guide while I quickly put together an itinerary in my head. They had traveled by cruise ship from Tokyo to Miyako, Hakodate, Aomori, and then Niigata, and since I heard they had not yet visited a large shrine, we next took a taxi to Hakusan Shrine. I explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto and the occasions on which Japanese people visit shrines. There happened to be a notice about "Shichi-Go-San" posted, and there were fishing-style omikuji fortunes, so I think they enjoyed it and deepened their understanding of Japan. Wanting to introduce the characteristics of Niigata, we next went to the Bandai-jima Observation Deck, where I explained how the Shinano River, the longest in Japan, nurtures Japan's top rice-producing region. Then we went to Pier Bandai. They gazed intently at the turban shells in the tank, which must have seemed unusual to them. For lunch, we bought packaged sushi and ate it on the outdoor terrace. They were amazed at the low price, saying that eating this amount of sushi in their home country would cost over 10,000 yen. Soon it began to rain suddenly, so we spent the rest of the time inside Pier Bandai, sampling sake and stopping by a sweets shop.

    Hello. I’m Kayoko. I’m registered as a National Licensed Guide Interpreter by Tokyo Metropolitan City Government.
    I had been living in Yamagata City, 400 kilometers north up to Tokyo for 1 and 3 months, and now just have come back to Tokyo. I really enjoyed living in Yamagata.
    My hobby is horse riding and playing some musical instruments such as piano, clarinet, euphonium and tuba.
    Thanks to my riding experience, I had a special opportunity to do volunteer works at 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in the equestrian venue in Tokyo.
    I am also a certified kimono instructor and can help you dress in the traditional Japanese kimono.
    I’m really looking forward to meeting you.

    Sep 9, 2026
    Adrian_H
    Day trip in Niigata
    Viator review: Niigata Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    fantastic guide who went to…

    May 28, 2025
    X3079KNdeans
    Sado Island Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
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  • Nagasaki in One Day: Suwa Shrine & Oura Cathedral

    Nagasaki in One Day: Suwa Shrine & Oura Cathedral

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:20 Suwa Shrine
    • 11:00 Peace Park
    • 11:20 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 12:20 Lunch
    • 13:20 Mount Inasa Observatory
    • 14:40 Confucius Shrine
    • 15:20 Glover Garden
    • 16:00 Oura Cathedral

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Nagasaki Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met at the Hotel at 10:00. First, we took the tram to Suwa Shrine, where the guests enjoyed the view. We then took the tram to Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum, where I explained the damage caused by the atomic bombing. Nearby, the guests tried champon and kakuni manju (braised pork buns). Next, we took the tram to Stadium South and rode the ropeway up to the Mount Inasa Observation Deck. The guests told me it was the most fun they had ever had in their life. We then took the bus to the Confucius Shrine, where I explained the influence of Chinese culture, and afterward visited Glover Garden, where I explained its connection with Mitsubishi. A notable stop on the tour was Glover Garden in Nagasaki. Glover Garden is an open-air museum built on a hillside overlooking Nagasaki Harbor, featuring the former residences of foreign merchants who lived in the city during the late nineteenth century. It is named after Thomas Glover, a Scottish merchant who played a significant role in Japan's modernization and industrial development. The garden offers beautiful views of the harbor and preserves several historic Western-style houses, making it one of Nagasaki's most popular landmarks and a lasting symbol of the city's history as an international trading port.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHamamachi Arcade~Suwa Shrine150JPY
    Section 2TrainSuwa Shrine~Peace Park150JPY
    Section 3TrainAtomic Bomb Museum~Stadium City South150JPY
    Section 4BusRopeway-mae / Nagasaki Bus~Glover Garden / Nagasaki Bus200JPY
    Total650JPY

    Experienced, skillful tour guide with high customer satisfaction. My purpose is to spread world peace through cultural communication.
    A witty conversation enriched with abundant academic knowledge. My strength is the strong academic background of the history, culture and religion of Japan.
    I have abundant tour guide experiences in Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Yanagawa, Dazai-fu, Kagoshima, Hiroshima, and Saga.
    I have many experiences of guiding Fukuoka city area including Fukuoka city museum, Dazaifu shrine, Nanzoin Buddha statue, Tochiji temple, Kushida shrine, Fukuoka ramen and sushi restaurants and Fukuoka tower.
    I also have many experiences of guiding Nagasaki area including Atomic bomb museum, Dejima museum, Oura church, Glover park, Inasayama mountain and Shimabara castle.
    I have abundant knowledge on porcelains, potteries of Imari, Arita, Kashima, Ogi, and sake of Saga.
    I have a national itinerary manager license(80-25-F00030) and a national travel service manager license(2025-171) in addition to a national tour guide license.
    TJT-certified Tour Guide by Car (N26007バ).
    A member of Japan Health Tourism Society (J26-10019).
    While my dialogue is laced with sparkling wit and humor, it never lacks for intellectual depth.
    Great Britain Guiness Scotch Whiskey Student Ambassador
    Only orders from the company are accepted. The company is the sole contracting party with customers.

    Sep 22, 2026
    Inspire07663535521
    Beautiful Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a full itinerary but our…

    Aug 17, 2026
    inexology
    Fun and Knowledgeable Tour Guide, thank you Hiro-san!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    I…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Nancy_P
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Select Hiro as your guide
    It was a wonderful experience…

    May 13, 2026
    Edwin_R
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    Hiro is a hero!
    Hiro is a very knowledgeable and skilled guide.…

  • Aichi in Half a Day: Nagoya Castle

    Aichi in Half a Day: Nagoya Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hotel, go to Nagoya Castle by subway
    • 11:30 Stroll around Nagoya Castle
    • 12:30 Go to Sakae by subway, stroll around Oasis 21
    • 13:00 Go to Atsuta Shrine by subway, stroll around Atsuta Shrine
    • 14:30 Go to Osu by subway, stroll around Osu
    • 15:30 Late lunch
    • 16:00 Tour ends at Osu

    Title: What's a Private Nagoya Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and Osu In the morning we held a brief planning discussion and decided to visit Nagoya Castle, Oasis 21, and Osu. When we arrived at Nagoya Castle, admission happened to be free that day, so there were a great many visitors. The wait to enter the Honmaru Palace, which the guests had hoped to see, was about 40 minutes, so we decided to skip it. We changed the plan and visited Atsuta Shrine instead. After that, we strolled around Osu. We walked around while trying foods such as kushikatsu, and then had a late lunch at a gyoza restaurant. Afterward, since there was a wish to walk around Osu a little more, I handed over a map of Osu and a subway route map, and the tour came to an end. The guests took many photos, and I believe they enjoyed themselves thoroughly. A notable stop on the tour was Atsuta Shrine, one of the most important and revered Shinto shrines in Japan. It is said to enshrine the sacred sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan, and its history is believed to stretch back nearly two thousand years. Set within a tranquil forest in the heart of Nagoya, the shrine grounds offer visitors a peaceful atmosphere, ancient trees, and traditional architecture that make it a meaningful cultural stop.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassDonichi Eco Ticket~Within Nagoya City620JPY
    Total620JPY

    Gifu Prefecture, where I was born and raised, is located in the heart of Japan. It is home to many mountains exceeding 3,000 meters, and the historic Nakasendo (Samurai Road) runs through this dramatic landscape. Once a vital artery for travelers during the Edo period, the route still preserves the traditional atmosphere of that era, with many historical houses standing much as they did centuries ago. Walking along this path allows you to experience Japan’s original rural landscape—a distinct and refreshing contrast to the bustling former capitals of Kyoto and Nara.

    I also spent many years working in Nagoya, so I can guide you through the city with confidence. Nagoya is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. Furthermore, the city is famous for “Nagoya-meshi,” a variety of delicious local specialties unique to the region.

    It is my great pleasure to introduce visitors to the depth of Japanese cuisine, history, and culture. Welcoming guests from all over the world is always a joy for me, and I truly look forward to guiding you and creating wonderful memories together.

    Jul 14, 2026
    wandahB6389XA
    Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide
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    Great trail with a fantastic guide
    Excellent experience with…

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    rubia_k
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    Nakasendo Trail
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  • Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shimbashi Station Underground

    Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shimbashi Station Underground

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:45 Meet @ Hotel Lobby
    • 09:15 Tsukiji: Fish Market, Odawarabashi Building, Outer Market, Honganji Temple, Kabukiza Theatre
    • 11:00 Asakusa: Azumabashi Bridge, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Break @ Kamiissa, Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise
    • 12:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:15 Harajuku: Lunch @ Kyushu Jangara, Meiji Shrine, Omotesando, Takeshita Street
    • 16:15 Shibuya: Scramble Crossing, Scramble Square
    • 17:00 Shimbashi Station Underground
    • 17:15 Dismissal @ Hotel Lobby

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from Europe. One of them had been to Japan several times before for work but was sightseeing for the first time, while the other was visiting Japan for the first time. Part of this trip was also for work. Since the agency that had been involved stepped aside early, we were able to communicate directly, which led to the itinerary above. They had arrived the previous day after a 26-hour journey, so I paid attention to their energy levels and hydration, but they walked energetically throughout. As the weather was extremely sunny, we made sure to walk in the shade at places like Asakusa and the Imperial Palace. At Nakamise shopping street, they purchased a happi coat to wear at their mountain cottage. At Meiji Shrine, they fully enjoyed the sacred camphor trees, a wedding ceremony, and an ikebana (flower arrangement) exhibition. They seemed very satisfied to have seen the many different faces of Tokyo today. As a little extra, I also helped look for a necktie in the underground shops at Shimbashi Station, since one for work had been forgotten. Rather than rushing through four places in six hours, I believe it is more beneficial for both sides to spend eight hours leisurely visiting five places, even if it costs the guests a little more. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine. Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in a tranquil forest in the heart of Tokyo, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Surrounded by approximately 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, the shrine offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors often encounter traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies, and the serene grounds make it one of Tokyo's most popular spots for experiencing Japanese spiritual culture.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-Jingumae210JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya~Shimbashi180JPY
    Total1,130JPY

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

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
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    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

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

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

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