Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:30 Hotel Meet
    • 08:30 Miyajima
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 15:30 In front of Atomic Bomb Dome – Dismissal

    What Is a Private Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had the pleasure of guiding a group of guests visiting from North America. This was the first visit to Japan for some of the guests, while one of them had visited Japan about 30 years ago. Compared to that earlier visit, they were surprised at how inexpensive prices had become, and asked me directly, "Could this reflect a decline in Japan's national strength? Is this situation seen as a problem in Japanese society?" As my personal view, I answered, "Many people in Japan tend to focus on short-term policies such as subsidies and tax cuts rather than on the fundamentals of the economy, and I feel a little sad about that attitude." Reflecting on it again, it made me feel that today's Japanese society tends to place more importance on "being given" than on "earning for oneself," and may be gradually losing the vitality it once had. That said, in contrast to such social topics, the guests thoroughly enjoyed their time on Miyajima, and were especially captivated by interacting with the deer. Watching them touch the deer and take photos together was truly heartwarming and made for a delightful time. As it was a very hot day, I guided them while recommending frequent hydration to make sure the guests did not suffer from heatstroke.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station (Koi) / Bon Bus~In front of Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total990JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo: Hyatt House Shibuya & Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Tokyo: Hyatt House Shibuya & Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hyatt House Shibuya (Shibuya)
    • 9:20 Depart Hyatt House Shibuya
    • (Minivan: Driver Hayama)
    • (via Odawara-Atsugi Road)
    • 11:25 Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 12:00 Arrive Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Kurotamago-kan
    • Hakone Geomuseum
    • 12:;40 Depart Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 13:00 Arrive Togendai Station
    • 13:15 Depart Togendai Station
    • (Lake Ashi・Hakone Pirate Ship)
    • 13:55 Arrive Motohakone Port
    • (Minivan: Driver Hayama)
    • 14:00 Hakone Shrine
    • (Minivan: Driver Hayama)
    • Motohakone Hakone Shrine
    • 14:30 Depart Hakone Shrine
    • (Minivan: Driver Hayama)
    • 15:00 Arrive Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • Hakone Open-Air Museum Restaurant in Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 16:30 Depart Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • (Minivan: Driver Hayama)
    • (via Gotemba)
    • 18:30 Hyatt House Shibuya (Shibuya)
    • 18:30 Dismissal: Hyatt House Shibuya entrance

    Private One-Day Hakone Tour from Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. This was a trip of about ten days. After arriving at Haneda Airport and staying in Tokyo for several days, they planned to visit Kyoto before returning to Tokyo and then flying home. This booking came through a travel agency, which passed along two requests: that great care be taken with regard to food, and that the guests not be burdened with repeatedly having to "line up to buy tickets" for the various rides in Hakone. It was a very hot and humid day for the tour. Although there were clouds overhead, we were able to catch a view of Mount Fuji. The tour followed the guests' wish to "circle around all the main spots in Hakone." We departed from the accommodation in Shibuya. However, due to a delay in the guests' preparations, the departure itself was about 20 minutes behind schedule. As usual, there was heavy traffic from Yokohama-Machida to Ebina, so it took more than two hours to arrive. In the car, I introduced myself and gave an overview of Hakone. We drove to Sounzan, and from there took the cable car to Owakudani. I explained the overview and history of Owakudani. Everyone tried the "black eggs," and we also visited the Geo Museum. There were questions such as "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it erupted recently?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano?" They bought souvenirs at the shop, especially "yosegi" marquetry (they mentioned that there is a similar craft in their home region). We continued by ropeway to Togendai. After a short wait, we boarded the "pirate ship." We took a spot on the upper deck and took many commemorative photos. There were questions such as "What is the water temperature?" "How deep is Lake Ashi?" and "Can you swim in it?" We took many photos on board. We disembarked at Motohakone Port, moved by car to Hakone Shrine, and walked to both the main hall and the torii gate in the lake. The line for photos in front of the torii was so long that we gave up on taking a picture there. After this, we drove to the "Hakone Open-Air Museum." Since the guests said they were hungry, we went to the restaurant inside the museum. I had been a little concerned, but without any issue at all they ordered "pizza," "pasta," and "Caesar salad" (with the comment, "We eat this all the time."). We toured the Hakone Open-Air Museum briefly. They took photos here and there. They also bought many souvenirs at the shop. From here, after checking the traffic conditions, we headed back via Gotemba. There were comments such as "Everywhere in Japan, the towns are orderly and clean. There's no litter on the ground." "Everyone is polite." "The subways in the city are really well maintained." We arrived at the Hotel later than scheduled and parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassSounzan Station~Motohakone Port5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

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

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:55 Kobe Port Terminal Meet 10:30 Fushimi Inari 12:20 Lunch (Sushi) 13:10 Kinkaku-ji 14:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 16:00 Gion 
    • 18:30 Arrive at Kobe Port Terminal・Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Kobe-to-Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The assigned booking name was complex, but their English was mostly easy to understand, which made communication comfortable, with only one part of the conversation being a little harder to follow. The transfer from Kobe Port to Kyoto went relatively smoothly. At the first stop, Fushimi Inari Taisha, the guests spent extra time writing wishes on the fox-shaped ema plaques and trying the "omokaru-ishi" lifting stones, so I rescheduled the lunch reservation. The guests were deeply impressed by the sights in Kyoto. It was an extremely hot day exceeding 38 degrees, so there was concern about heatstroke, but everyone stayed hydrated and we managed to complete the itinerary. The younger members of the group got along very well. One of the guests occasionally acted unpredictably, but another member of the group was very calm, which helped. At each sightseeing spot, it has become noticeably more common to see international visitors sitting and resting wherever there is shade. On the way back, we had planned to return from Kyoto Kawaramachi to Kobe by the Hankyu Line, but due to a personal injury accident on the Hankyu Kobe Line, we went to Osaka Umeda and transferred to the JR line to head to Kobe. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji. *Since no receipt is issued for the JR fare from Sannomiya to Inari, the attached transportation IC pass has a red underline. This private day tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal~Sannomiya210JPY
    Section 2TrainSannomiya~Inari1,300JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Enmachi200JPY
    Section 4BusEnmachi~Waratenjinmae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Enmachi230JPY
    Section 6TrainEnmachi~Saga-Arashiyama180JPY
    Section 7TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Nijo200JPY
    Section 8SubwayNijo~Higashiyama (Kyoto)260JPY
    Section 9OtherHigashiyama-Sanjo~Gion230JPY
    Section 10TrainKyoto-Kawaramachi~Osaka-Umeda (Hankyu Line)410JPY
    Section 11OtherOsaka~Sannomiya420JPY
    Section 12TrainSannomiya (Kobe New Transit)~Port Terminal210JPY
    Total4,080JPY

    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.

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Meet at Ishicho Shokikuen
    • 1020 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 1120 Nijo Castle
    • 1225 Nishiki Market (lunch)
    • 1340 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove ~ Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 1515 Tour ends with drop-off at Katsura Imperial Villa

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was a very hot day, with the maximum temperature reaching 38°C. The guests had, two days earlier, made their own reservation for Katsura Imperial Villa, which had not been included in the original plan, with a start time of 15:20, so I revised the planned itinerary leading up to that. On the day, due to some time lost because of the size of the group and time spent on shopping, the schedule fell behind, so we shortened the course from the bamboo grove to the Sogenchi Garden, headed to Katsura Imperial Villa via Togetsukyo Bridge, and I was able to see them to the reception on time.

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Oct 10, 2025
    alijohn48
    Just what we were looking for
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Tomy was…

    Aug 8, 2025
    Katherine_G
    Fantastic day touring Kyoto with private tour guide & driver!
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max…

    Jul 22, 2025
    98patrickn
    early morning tour of Kyoto with guide Tomy
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We did an early…

    Jul 20, 2025
    Mark_S
    Great day in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a great…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto & Shijo

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto & Shijo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Mercure Kyoto Station
    • 9:30-9:35 Kyoto → Inari JR 150 yen
    • 9:40-11:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine sightseeing
    • 11:30 Fushimi Inari → Jingu-Marutamachi 280 yen Keihan
    • 11:50- 12:00 Marutamachi Keihan → Fucho-mae Bus 230 yen
    • 12:20-13:10 Lunch @ Marutamachi Junidanya
    • 13:19-13:27 Marutamachi → Nijojo-mae Subway 220 yen
    • 13:40-14:50 Nijo Castle sightseeing
    • 14:58-15:07 Nijojo-mae → Karasuma Subway 220 yen
    • 15:10-15:30 Nishiki Market stroll
    • 15:34-15:37 Shijo → Kyoto Subway 220 yen
    • 16:00 Disband @ Mercure Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and Nishiki Market The guests came from North America. Initially, the plan was to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama, and Nijo Castle, but since they had already visited Arashiyama two days earlier, we quickly adjusted the plan and I suggested visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace instead. However, due to the extreme heat on the day, we ultimately decided not to go to the Imperial Palace. The guests experienced the history and beauty of Nijo Castle, and afterward enjoyed the lively atmosphere and food culture unique to Kyoto at Nishiki Market. Although we were moving around in the heat, I proceeded by flexibly adjusting the schedule to match the guests' pace.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2OtherFushimi Inari~Jingu-Marutamachi280JPY
    Section 3BusMarutamachi Keihan-mae / Kyoto City Bus~Bunkacho-mae・Fucho-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayMarutamachi (Kyoto Municipal)~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae~Karasuma220JPY
    Section 6SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Total1,320JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 ~Meet at Hyatt Regency Tokyo, then to Meiji Shrine
    • 12:40 ~From Takeshita Street to Omotesando, through Cat Street toward Shibuya
    • 13:50 ~From Parco to Hands, Scramble Crossing and Hachiko
    • 15:00 End at a restaurant in Scramble Square

    What Is a Private Walking Tour from Harajuku to Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The group often travels together and spoke Spanish among themselves. Since they had already been to Kyoto, I planned a walking-focused tour tailored to their wishes so that it would not feel like a similar place. It was a hot day, but the group walked the entire route from the Harajuku area to the Shibuya area without any trouble. Aside from drinks, they did not do any shopping, but they enjoyed window shopping and strolling around the streets. They seemed to especially like Takeshita Street and Cat Street. We looked for a place to eat in Shibuya together, and I guided them into the restaurant, which brought the tour to a close.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Total150JPY

    Hi, I’m Naho – your friendly, English-speaking guide in Japan!
    With over 10 years of experience as a licensed guide and more than 30 years living in the Tokyo area, I’m passionate about helping travelers of all ages enjoy Japan in a fun, meaningful, and stress-free way.

    Whether you’re into ancient temples, seasonal nature, local street food, or modern pop culture, I’ll design a private tour that matches your interests and travel style. I love sharing not just the famous sights, but also lesser-known hidden gems and local tips that make your trip truly special.

    Traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with kids? I’ll make sure everyone feels comfortable and included. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming experience and unforgettable memories for you in this amazing country.

    Let’s explore Japan together — I can’t wait to meet you!

    May 27, 2026
    Chris T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo with Naho!
    We had a great time exploring the in…

    Apr 24, 2026
    Megaso1970
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    The tour was nicely planned and Naho is very nice and friendly.

    Apr 9, 2026
    B4204QCcarolc
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Once in a lifetime experience!
    I want to express are…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Dee R
    Great guided tour of notable Tokyo sites and experienced all modes of transportation with the great help of our guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel, board the taxi
    • 9:45 Sengakuji Temple, Ako Gishi Memorial Museum
    • 11:30 Lunch
    • 12:45 Imperial Palace
    • 14:00 Disperse

    Title: Can You Do a Private Tour of Sengakuji Temple and the Imperial Palace in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. Originally, the plan had been to visit Asakusa, but two days beforehand they contacted me to say, "We watched a movie about the Ako Roshi, so we would like to go to Sengakuji Temple and the Imperial Palace," and the itinerary was changed at short notice. Since I had never had guests request Sengakuji before, and because there were younger members in the group, I explained that "these are the graves of real historical figures, and we must show the utmost respect." In response, they told me that the Maori also have such important places and that they fully understand the value of showing respect. The film they had watched was "47 Ronin" starring Keanu Reeves, which differs from the historical record, but they had remembered the names of the main figures, so the explanations went smoothly. Sengakuji Temple is very welcoming to foreign visitors, and on occasion a monk explained things to us directly in English. They were especially moved to hear the story of Oishi Chikara, the son of Oishi Kuranosuke, who had only just come of age and died at the age of sixteen, and they sympathized with how young he had been. The group offered incense at the graves of Asano Takumi-no-kami, Yozenin, and all forty-seven retainers, and viewed the entire memorial hall and the display of wooden figures. They thanked me, saying they could never have come here on their own. Then, at the group's strong request, we went to see the site of the Corridor of the Pines (Matsu no Oroka) at the Imperial Palace, where they reflected deeply, thinking, "So this is where the sword incident took place…"

    Hi, I’m Sam.
    I am happy to welcome you all to Japan.

    Since I was a child, my parents welcomed many international students into our home and I had many opportunities to interact with them. My mother is a translator, and I have always seen her guiding foreigners around Japan, so it was natural for me to start doing the same.

    I am good at guiding people to popular places such as Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, as well as photogenic spots in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Since I was a child, I’ve watched anime like Pokémon and played Nintendo games, and I still buy around 100 manga comic books a month. I love shopping in Akihabara! I currently live in Urayasu City, Chiba, so close that I can see fireworks from Disneyland from my house every night.

    Please feel free to ask me anything!

    Jul 10, 2026
    Brooke_J
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo History Modernized!
    This tour was a wonderful experience.…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Catherine_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    We had a wonderful time with Sam, who took our…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Elena_Q
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun visit to Tokyo!
    Wonderful customized tour of Tokyo with Sam. She…

    May 12, 2026
    Leonard B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience with a very knowledgeable friendly guide.
    We had an…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet up @The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo
    • 2. 10:00 @Tokyo Tower
    • 3. 12:00 Lunch @Tsukiji Market (Koromo Sushi and food walk)
    • 4. 13:00 @Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Street, Nishisando)
    • 5. 15:00 @Akihabara (Yodobashi Akiba)
    • 6. 16:15 Disband @The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo

    Family Private Tour in Tokyo from Shinagawa: A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were a family from North America visiting Japan for the first time. They had requested an itinerary that would keep the younger members of the group entertained. Although the intense summer heat nearly overwhelmed one of the guests at one point, in the end everyone was able to enjoy all of the hands-on activities while taking precautions against heatstroke. To avoid being overwhelmed by the heat at the very start of the tour, I explained the situation and we traveled by taxi from the Hotel in Shinagawa to Tokyo Tower, the stretch that would otherwise have involved the most walking. The guests arrived at Tokyo Tower full of excitement, and after enjoying the view, they stamped commemorative seals onto paper they had brought and made original personalized coins as souvenirs. At the Look Down Window, one of the guests was not frightened at all and even made a point of showing the adults how unafraid they were, lying down for a commemorative photo. Coming down to Foot Town, we found that the family could try the boat race at an amusement park blending digital and real experiences such as VR/AR, e-sports, and board games, with one free ride available, so the whole group gave it a try. One of the guests was not able to wear the VR goggles but took part in a TV-game-style version instead, and everyone said it was fun. At Tsukiji, the group sat at the counter at a sushi restaurant and ordered tuna and salmon nigiri. Two of the guests together polished off a full adult portion. After leaving the sushi restaurant, they also ordered fried shrimp and beef croquettes of their own accord and finished them all. According to one of the guests, the younger members were normally quite picky eaters, so it was surprising that they ate everything. Saving dessert for Asakusa, we headed to Sensoji Temple. Along Nakamise Street, they enjoyed soft-serve ice cream, strawberry daifuku, and skewered strawberry candy. After visiting the temple, they tried goldfish scooping on the west approach. Unfortunately they did not manage to catch a single goldfish, but they enjoyed the first-time experience. I was worried they might be quite tired, but the energy of the guests never ran out, and we headed to Akihabara as planned, where they got a few toys from the gashapon corner at a large electronics store. They also asked for other games and toys, but were gently reminded that they could not spend a lot of money all at once.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Kamiyacho Station~Tsukiji Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassToei Asakusa Line, Higashi-ginza Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Asakusa Station~Hibiya Line, Akihabara Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Akihabara Station~Toei Asakusa Line, Takanawadai Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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!

    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…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Kyoto: Ryoanji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto: Ryoanji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Six Senses Kyoto
    • 10:30-11:10 Ryoanji Temple sightseeing
    • 11:25-11:50 Kinkakuji Temple sightseeing
    • 12:00-12:40 Lunch @ Gontaro Kinkakuji branch
    • 13:00-13:45 Tea ceremony experience Koto
    • 14:10- 14:40 Bamboo Grove Path sightseeing
    • 15:20-15:40 Nishiki Market stroll
    • 16:00 Disband @ Six Senses Kyoto

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ryoanji, Kinkakuji, and Nishiki Market I guided a private Kyoto tour for a group of guests from North America. At their request, we made an unplanned stop at Ryoanji Temple, where they enjoyed the beauty of the famous rock garden. Next, at Kinkakuji Temple, they were captivated by its magnificent golden radiance and took photographs enthusiastically. After that, they experienced a traditional tea ceremony at a venue near Kinkakuji, spending valuable time engaging with traditional Japanese culture. To conclude the trip, we strolled through Nishiki Market, where they purchased souvenirs such as chopsticks. The driver was also cooperative, which helped everything proceed smoothly.

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
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    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
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  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:30 Meet at Hotel by Marriott Tokyo Ginza
    • 2. 11:00 Imperial Palace (East Gardens, Outer Gardens)
    • 3. 12:30 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, Harajuku Street)
    • 4. 14:10 Shibuya (Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing)
    • 5. 14:30 Disband at Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya and Harajuku The guests were visitors from North America, and since it was their first time in Japan, I guided them based on the requests they had sent in advance. This day was also hot and humid, so I paid the utmost attention to preventing heatstroke, taking breaks at air-conditioned rest areas along the way. After the tour, the guests wanted to return to a cosmetics store in Harajuku to do some shopping, so I guided them to the ticket gate at JR Shibuya Station and ended the tour there. They were very cheerful guests who got along well and listened attentively to my explanations, making them very easy to guide.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-ginza~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…