Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet up @ Front of Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 2. 09:00 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 3. 10:40 Move: Subway
    • 4. 11:20 Stay @ Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 5. 11:50 Lunch @ Sushizanmai Annex
    • 6. 13:00 Move: Subway
    • 7. 13:10 Stay @ Ginza
    • 8. 13:30 Move: Subway
    • 9. 13:45 Stay @ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 10. 15:00 Disband @ Front of Otemon Gate, Imperial Palace East Gardens

    What Does a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo from Asakusa Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Tokyo. Since they wished to start the tour from Asakusa, I designated the front of the easily recognizable Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center as the meeting point. Although the tour began in Asakusa, the guests did some shopping at a handmade wallet shop along the way, so the time spent in Asakusa ended up being quite long. At Tsukiji, we had lunch at an annex of a sushi restaurant that can relatively easily seat larger groups. Since many of the guests were interested in Ginza, we got off at Higashi-Ginza Station and I guided them around, including the Kabukiza Theatre. After strolling through the East Gardens, the guests wished to go their separate ways, so we parted in front of the Otemon Gate.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji290JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Higashi-Ginza180JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total650JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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

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

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

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

  • Hyogo in One Day: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Pontocho

    Hyogo in One Day: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Pontocho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet Kobe Port Terminal
    • 11:50 to 12:40 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 13:00 to 13:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:00 to 14:45 Nishiki Market
    • 15:10 to 16:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:30 to 17:30 Yasaka Pagoda, Ninen-zaka, Sannen-zaka
    • 17:45 to 18:15 Gion
    • 18:30 to 19:00 Pontocho
    • 20:30 Dismiss Kobe Port Terminal

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like for Guests Who Move at a Slower Pace? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. Despite finding walking difficult, the group had tremendous enthusiasm for travel and said they wanted to visit every spot on the day's itinerary. In particular, they said they wanted to photograph the Yasaka Pagoda at sunset, and they waited ready with their camera. Although they moved slowly, they visited all the spots they had hoped to see, which meant the tour ran considerably over the scheduled time. Even so, they seemed to enjoy themselves, and I was very glad about that.

    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 !!

    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: Meiji Shrine & Kiyosumi Garden

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Kiyosumi Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the lobby of the Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • Go to Shinjuku by shuttle bus.
    • 10:20〜11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00〜14:00 Tsukiji Market 
    • Lunch: sushi at "Sushi Zanmai". Afterwards, grilled wagyu skewers
    • 14:30〜15:10 Fukagawa Edo Museum
    • 15:20〜16:00 Kiyosumi Garden
    • 16:08 Disband at Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station

    What Is a Family-Friendly Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji and Kiyosumi Garden The guests were a group visiting Tokyo from North America. They had been planning to visit Japan since before the pandemic, and they were delighted to have finally made it. Since the group was traveling with a very young child, it took extra effort to find diaper-changing spaces, prepare milk, and locate elevators, but I was glad to help make their family trip enjoyable. (Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple and the Fukagawa Edo Museum have diaper-changing and nursing spaces, which are very convenient for those traveling with a baby.) The group loved the tuna at a sushi restaurant in Tsukiji and even learned the Japanese words "otoro" and "chutoro" for the fatty cuts. At Kiyosumi Garden, they were amazed by the colors and sizes of the stones and took many photos of the soft-shelled turtles and carp. I was relieved that they were satisfied with the quiet Japanese garden. On the way back, we parted at Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station on the Oedo Line. They had become comfortable using a digital Suica and said they wanted to explore Tokyo on their own starting the next day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Market~Kiyosumi-shirakawa220JPY
    Total580JPY

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @The Peninsula Tokyo
    • 2. 10:45 @Zojoji Temple
    • 3. 11:20 @Tokyo Tower (including Main Deck)
    • 4. 12:20 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 5. 12:40 @Sanrio Shop (Shibuya 109)
    • 6. 13:45 @Roppongi (Tokyo Midtown Roppongi)
    • 7. 14:00 Disband @Tokyo Midtown Roppongi Basement Eat-in Area

    Family Private Walking Tour in Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report on Zojoji, Tokyo Tower, and Shibuya The guests were a group from North America who had arrived in Japan three days earlier. It was the first visit to Japan for some of the guests, while another had been to Japan about fifteen years ago, though hardly for sightseeing. Tomorrow they would head to Hakone, then Kyoto, before flying out from Itami Airport in Osaka to travel through Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore on their way home. This was the beginning of a long journey of 27 days. To please both a guest who wished to see historical places and a younger guest who was hoping for slightly more thrilling sightseeing activities, I accessed the area from the Daimon Station (Hamamatsucho Station) side and guided the group to Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower. The Sangedatsumon Gate is still under restoration and covered with curtains, but when I introduced the Himalayan cedar planted by General Grant, the 18th President of the United States, one of the guests eagerly took commemorative photos in front of it. Also, the interior of the main hall, which I had thought might not interest a younger guest, greatly captured their curiosity, and while the rest of the group watched, one of the guests took on the challenge of offering incense. At Tokyo Tower, we went up to the observation deck at a height of 150 meters. Although the hoped-for view of Mount Fuji was not possible, we could see Zojoji Temple, which we had just visited, as well as the distant Tokyo Skytree. It was a pleasant, crisp autumn day, and one of the guests remarked many times, "The weather is wonderful today." After coming down from the observation deck, the group took a break during which one of the guests enjoyed a crepe, and they lay down on the artificial lawn and took photos, enjoying a very relaxed and pleasant time together. Next, we visited Shibuya. The day before, the group had visited teamLab Borderless and some temples and shrines in the surrounding area, but since they had not yet been to "the famous Shibuya," they wished to visit, so I guided them there. One of the guests was thrilled at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, taking videos and photos. After that, the group shopped for character goods at a Sanrio shop inside Shibuya 109. Having accompanied the whole process, one of the guests said, "Shibuya is too crowded. I'd like to have lunch somewhere quieter." So we moved by bus to Roppongi, where I introduced several dining options inside Tokyo Midtown Roppongi before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Mita Line, Hibiya Station~Toei Asakusa Line, Daimon Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Kamiyacho Station~Fukutoshin Line, Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3BusShibuya Station Front (East Side) / Toei Bus~Roppongi Station Front / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Oita in Half a Day: Beppu Wharf & Kannawa district

    Oita in Half a Day: Beppu Wharf & Kannawa district

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Beppu Wharf
    • 09:00-09:15 Travel to Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden (taxi)
    • 09:15-10:30 Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden
    • 10:30-10:45 Travel to Umi Jigoku (taxi)
    • 10:45-11:20 Umi Jigoku
    • 11:20-11:30 Travel to Jigoku Mushi Kobo (on foot)
    • 11:30-12:20 Jigoku Mushi cooking experience
    • 12:20-12:55 Exploring the Kannawa district (Yukemuri Observatory, viewing the bamboo hot spring cooling device)
    • 12:55 Travel to Beppu Wharf (taxi)

    What Is a Private Beppu Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Takasakiyama Monkeys and Hell Steam Cooking The guests were visitors from North America. According to the original plan, we were going to visit Takasakiyama around midday, but on the morning of the tour I received information that monkeys had appeared, so I changed the schedule and headed to Takasakiyama first. Luckily, a large number of monkeys had come down from the mountain, and the guests were very pleased to observe wild monkeys up close at the feeding ground. On top of that, a staff member took photos from an angle that ordinary visitors cannot access, so the guests were able to get pictures together with the wild monkeys and were delighted, saying it would be a wonderful memory. They were also impressed by Umi Jigoku. At the Jigoku Mushi Kobo (Hell Steam Cooking workshop), they showed great interest in the traditional cooking method and enjoyed their meal, saying it was delicious. After that, we strolled through the Kannawa district and let them experience the distinctive atmosphere of the area. They were also intrigued by the simple bamboo cooling devices used to cool down the very hot spring water. There was one thing I felt I needed to consider, which was planning the visit to Takasakiyama. I included Takasakiyama in the plan at the guests' request, but autumn is the season when wild monkeys can find plenty of food in the mountains. It had become a season in which the times the monkeys come down from the mountain to the feeding ground are limited. From about a week beforehand, I checked the monkeys' movements every day, and on the day before the tour there were zero monkeys after 10:00. I was anxious right up until the morning of the tour. It was fortunate that we were able to observe many wild monkeys on the day. In the future, when including Takasakiyama in a course, I plan to inform guests in advance that there may be days when the monkeys do not appear, and to decide on alternative candidate destinations beforehand.

    Hallo, my name is Chiharu Horigome. I am a national government-licensed guide interpreter. I was born in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, and living in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. I lived for 42 years in Chiba City until April 2023, during that time I worked as a volunteer guide for Narita Airport transit tours. I studied chemistry at university and have over 20 years of experience as a chemical patent translator, so I can also assist with factory tours. My specialty is Japanese culture, especially the tea ceremony, which I have been familiar with since I was a child. In addition, I have a license for kimono dressing. I hope people from other countries feel authentic Japanese culture. I can also help them understand hot springs and sake, including chemical explanations. I am happy to assist you during our tour. If you have any questions about our tour, feel free to ask. I am glad to answer them to the best of my ability! I am looking forward to seeing you.

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Ferry

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Ferry

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at JR Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 8:10 JR Ferry
    • 8:20 Arrive at Miyajima
    • 8:30 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 9:00 Mount Misen climb via Momijidani route
    • 12:00 Tour ends after reaching the summit

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Miyajima Walking and Hiking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were friends from Europe traveling together, and after arriving in Tokyo they immediately took the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, where on the first day they visited the Peace Memorial Park on their own before joining today's 4-hour Miyajima tour. After arriving on Miyajima, we visited the Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine and toured the shrine grounds. As this was their first visit to a shrine or temple, they asked questions very eagerly. It was a beautiful clear autumn day, and since the guests were fit, I accepted and guided a climb up Mount Misen without using the ropeway. At the summit, they showed truly delighted expressions.

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

    Sep 25, 2026
    philiprA2432ZA
    Hiroshima & Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Hiroshi picked us up…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Sygeplejersken78
    The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Pioneer19650761736
    You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had the most amazing…

    Sep 11, 2026
    stephanie782022
    Fantastic tour experience
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi,…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Park and

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Park and

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hiroshima Station
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 11:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:00 Daishoin Temple
    • 14:00 Lunch (Hiroshima Station)
    • 15:00 Hiroshima Castle (exterior)
    • 15:30 Peace Memorial Park and Museum
    • 17:45 Disband at the museum

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had just completed a walking tour along the Kumano Kodo the previous day and were scheduled to join a cycling tour along the Shimanami Kaido the following day. Because the tide at Itsukushima Shrine was very high today, we hurried to the shrine and were able to get in just in time. For lunch, the guests enjoyed okonomiyaki near Hiroshima Station, and afterward, at their request, I explained the history of Hiroshima Castle while we viewed its exterior. Finally, we visited the Peace Memorial Museum. At the Peace Memorial Museum, one of the guests carefully read the text and photographed all of the exhibits and asked many questions, making it a very rich and meaningful tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total840JPY

    Hello! My name is Rena, and I’m excited to be your guide during your visit to Japan.
    I was born and raised in Hiroshima, a city rich in history and natural beauty.
    Growing up here has given me a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, from its traditional tea ceremonies and temples to the vibrant festivals that bring communities together.

    I also have a passion for Japanese pop culture, including anime and manga, which I would be happy to share with you.
    Beyond Japan, I enjoy exploring the world through travel.
    Discovering different cultures and meeting new people have been some of the most enriching experiences of my life.

    As your guide, I hope to provide not only insights into Japan’s history and traditions but also a personal connection to its modern culture. Let’s create wonderful memories together during your time here!

    Jul 18, 2026
    Paul_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    outstanding tour
    Thank you Rena for a wonderful day…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Halie_G
    Great trip!
    Viator review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Rena was absolutely lovely! She gave us…

    Jul 4, 2026
    cheryldG9378NX
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide for Miyajima and Hirishima
    Rena was very…

    May 7, 2026
    73parash
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Emotional and educational
    The experience was very good and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shiomi Station & Shin-kiba Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shiomi Station & Shin-kiba Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Depart Shiomi Station
    • (JR Keiyo Line)
    • Hatchobori Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:45 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:50 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:00 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 14:00 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
    • Nagatacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shin-kiba Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Shin-kiba Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Shinjuku Gyoen, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guest was visiting Japan for the first time, coming from Europe. They arrived at Haneda Airport last night on a direct flight and took a taxi to the hotel. They were on a trip to Japan, planning to stay in Tokyo before visiting Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then returning to Tokyo before heading home. The guest mentioned that they had been studying Japanese. The tour took place under cloudy skies with occasional strong gusts of wind due to the influence of a typhoon. We started at Asakusa, which was very crowded as always. Beginning in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-storied pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon, in front of the five-storied pagoda, and at various other spots, and leisurely strolled through the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the major religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?", and "Are there Catholics in Japan?" Next, we went to Tsukiji, which was crowded with tourists as usual. We strolled through the Tsukiji fish market area and then visited the outer market. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji outer market." There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyoites come here to buy fish?" and "It is crowded, but it seems there are many tourists after all." We then moved to Shinjuku Gyoen. Since the guest liked Japanese gardens, we walked leisurely through the grounds. The guest said, "Japanese gardens really are wonderful. The pine trees in particular are splendid." After that, we moved to Harajuku. I explained "about Shinto," "about the torii gate," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "The atmosphere is completely different from Sensoji Temple," and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" We took a break at the cafe terrace of Meiji Shrine. From here, we moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the scramble crossing. There were questions such as "Why do so many people gather here?" and "Why did it become famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "The Japanese are all quiet and polite," "The subway is far more refined than the one in London," "The city is clean with no litter on the ground," and "Why are there no trash bins around the city?" The guest also noted, "However, it is strange that young people do not give up their seats to older people on the subway." On the way toward the hotel, I saw the guest off at Shinkiba Station and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTochomae~Ueno-okachimachi220JPY
    Section 2OtherUeno-okachimachi~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji~Shinjuku-gyoemmae210JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku-gyoemmae~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 6TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya~Shin-kiba260JPY
    Total1,440JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
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    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

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    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

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    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

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  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 0930→1000 Nagamachi Samurai District 1040→1050 Hotel 1050→1110 Higashi Chaya District 1230→1245 Omicho Market 1330→1400 Kanazawa Castle Ruins Park & Kenrokuen 1530→1600 Kanazawa Station (End)

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. It was their first trip to Japan, and they were actively exploring the Golden Route on an independent journey. The group joined for the first stop at the Nagamachi samurai district, but one of the guests felt unwell and had to withdraw at that point. I arranged a taxi to take them back to the Hotel, and then resumed the tour. Listening to their wishes (streetscapes with willow trees and antique shops), we focused on exploring the Higashi Chaya district in detail, including a visit to a teahouse and a tour of a sake brewery. Afterward, we had a lunch break at Omicho Market, and then took a leisurely stroll through the Kanazawa Castle ruins and Kenrokuen Garden.

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

    Aug 7, 2026
    D1494MYdanielleg
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    One day walking tour in Tokyo
    Yoshi was great!…

    Aug 6, 2026
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    Private Führung in Kyoto
    Die Tour mit Yoshi war…

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    We had…

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  • Hyogo in One Day: Kinkakuji temple & Nijojo castle

    Hyogo in One Day: Kinkakuji temple & Nijojo castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 11:30-12:00. Kinkakuji temple
    • 12:30-13:10. Lunch
    • 13:40- 14:40. Nijojo castle
    • 14:10-15:30. At Kyoto station for a cup of coffee and shopping at Uniquro
    • 17:00. End of the tour

    After visiting Nijo Castle, the plan was to go to Nishiki Market and Fushimi Inari Taisha, but due to the heat the guests seemed tired, and after having some coffee and doing a little shopping for clothes, they said they wanted to return to the ship. We decided to stop by Kyoto Station on the way back. I suggested driving around somewhere with nice scenery, but the guests said they were ready to return to the ship. The guests got along very well with each other. It seemed quite difficult for them to bend their knees, and getting in and out of the car appeared challenging. The guests were very cheerful. We were able to chat about various things in the car, and although the tour ended earlier than scheduled, the guests were pleased.

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
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    Sep 28, 2026
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    Sep 27, 2026
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    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…