Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 10:00 Imperial Palace Outer Garden – 11:30 Tokyo Tower 13:45 Lunch – 14:45 Tsukiji Outer Market – 15:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    Can You Do a Private Taxi Day Tour of Tokyo in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had chosen a Tokyo tour for the final day of their two-week trip. They had visited Japan several times before. Due to the intense summer heat and humidity, a tour using public transportation was not suitable, so we took a taxi from the hotel toward Sakuradamon Gate at the Imperial Palace. The guests, who enjoy photography, eagerly took many photos around Sakuradamon Gate and Nijubashi Bridge. We then took a taxi to Tokyo Tower. Upon arriving, one of the guests realized that a credit card and driver's license had been left behind in the taxi. I contacted the taxi company, and the items were safely recovered, which was a great relief. Despite the moment of anxiety, the guests were able to enjoy their last day in Japan.

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Pontocho to Kamogawa River & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Pontocho to Kamogawa River & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Hotel Kyoto Meeting
    • 7:35 Pontocho to Kamogawa River
    • 8:00 Shirakawa Minami-dori Street, Tatsumi Bridge
    • 8:45 Gion Hanamikoji Street to Kenninji Temple
    • 9:45 Break at Arabica Coffee in front of Yasaka Pagoda
    • 10:20 Yasaka Pagoda, from Yasaka Koshindo to Sannenzaka
    • 11:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:30 Disband at Sannenzaka

    What Does a Private Kyoto Walking Tour from Gion to Kiyomizu-dera Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were the group visiting from North America. They had planned in considerable detail the places they wanted to see, and we visited all of their desired spots from Gion to Kiyomizu-dera. Since we started early in the morning, there were few people in Gion, which was pleasant. I was able to give many explanations along Pontocho. They were also very delighted that there was almost no one at Tatsumi Bridge. We took a break at Arabica Coffee near the Yasaka Pagoda, and they said the coffee was delicious, so they bought coffee beans as a souvenir. At Sannen-zaka, they also browsed various souvenirs and made some purchases. Kiyomizu-dera was less crowded than usual, which was nice. However, the heat had made them tired, and although we had planned to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, they preferred to look at souvenirs in a cool place rather than walking around outside, so we ended the tour a little early.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet at Kyoto Station 9:37 Board JR bound for Nara 9:23 Arrive at JR Nara Station 9:45 Nara Park & Todai-ji Temple 11:30 Isuien Garden 13:00 Lunch (vegetarian restaurant)
    • 14:05 Nigiwai-no-ie 15:20 Kasuga Taisha Shrine 16:40 Arrive at JR Nara Station 17:07 Board JR bound for Kyoto 18:20 Arrive at Kyoto Station Tour ends

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They were very calm, friendly, and easygoing, and the whole group was a pleasure to be with. In the heat, which felt like it exceeded 40 degrees, I planned the tour so that we could walk in the shade as much as possible. I scheduled Isuien Garden, which has little shade, for the morning, and placed Niginoya and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, which offer more shade, in the afternoon. The group was very cooperative and trusted the guide, moving efficiently without wasting time, which was a great help. The guests loved animals and played with the deer whenever they had a chance. While we were waiting for the bus to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, which took quite a while to arrive, they happily played with the deer, which was a relief. The photo was taken at the Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple. (I accidentally took it in portrait orientation. My apologies.)

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Nara720JPY
    Section 2Free PassJR Nara Station~JR Nara Station600JPY
    Section 3TrainNara~Kyoto720JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    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…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Odawara Station via Gora

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Odawara Station via Gora

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Odawara Station
    • 12:00 Hakone Shrine
    • 13;30 Hakone Pirate Ship
    • 14:50 Owakudani
    • 17:50 To Odawara Station via Gora
    • 18:10 Tour ends

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Hakone from Odawara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Hakone was the final stop of their long trip in Japan. We were originally scheduled to meet at Odawara Station at 10:00, but they missed their train at Tokyo Station, so the tour started 30 minutes late. We first headed to Hakone Shrine, where I explained the differences between shrines and temples, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the differences in how people worship. They said it was very educational, as they had gained new knowledge they had not learned on their tour so far. The weather was good, and the children were delighted by the pirate ship, and they seemed excited to see something in Japan that they had never seen before. At Owakudani, they were able to buy the "black eggs" they had been interested in, and they also bought several souvenirs and enjoyed their time there. Finally, I saw them off at Odawara Station, helped them purchase Shinkansen tickets, and accompanied them to the platform to end the tour.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Shimizu Port 830→850 Miho no Matsubara 940→1000 Nihondaira Yume Terrace 1040→1100 Kunozan Toshogu 1300→1330 Shimizu Port

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Shizuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Miho no Matsubara and Kunozan Toshogu The guests were a group visiting from Europe. We had discussed the meeting time, location, and destinations in advance via a messaging app and email, so we were able to depart smoothly. What they enjoyed most was Miho no Matsubara, which we visited first before it got hot. Despite being summer, they were strongly impressed that they could see the view of Mount Fuji and could play with the seawater along the shore. In addition to the legend of the celestial maiden's feathered robe (Hagoromo), they properly understood the value of Mount Fuji's registration as a World "Cultural" Heritage site. Since Mount Fuji could not be seen from the Nihondaira Yume Terrace, the impression of Miho no Matsubara seemed all the better for it. They also enjoyed Kunozan Toshogu Shrine all the way to the Ieyasu Mausoleum at the inner sanctuary.

    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.

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

    Mar 17, 2026
    jodonr2026
    Amazing. Go with Yoshi!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a fantastic…

    Jan 2, 2026
    Fearless67262385503
    Memorable experience
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide, Yoshi-san, a sweet and gentle elderly…

    Oct 17, 2025
    Laura_C
    Amazing experience…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience getting to see sites outside of…

  • Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40 JR Nara Station (Start of Tour → 15:40)
    • (bus)
    • 10:00-20 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 10:40-11:10 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 11:30-50 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • former katana sword manufacturer's shop etc.
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:00- Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • 12:00-30 lunch at Emado-chaya
    • 12:30-13:00 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:40-50 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 14:00-30 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    •     (walk 5 minutes)  Rest at Kinsho Hall (cool down the body)
    • 14:50-15:00 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    •     (walk 5 minutes)
    • 15:10-30 Yoshikien Garden
    •     (walk 5 minutes)
    • 15:40-15:00 Nara Prefectural Government Rooftop Observation Deck
    • (walk 5 minutes and then bus)
    • 15:50 (End of Tour) back at JR Nara Station

    What Is a Private Nara Deer Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They greatly enjoyed feeding the deer. At the same time, since their home region borders an area affected by conflict, our conversation also touched on international topics, such as concerns that certain tensions could escalate and speculation about how events in one region might trigger developments in another. It made me feel that these matters are not distant concerns for people from that part of the world. It was a memorable day of both sightseeing and thoughtful conversation.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nara Station / Nara Kotsu~Todaiji Daibutsuden / Kasuga-taisha Mae / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusKencho-mae / Nara Kotsu~JR Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total500JPY

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Tokyo: Iidabashi Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo: Iidabashi Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo
    • 9:10 Depart Iidabashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • Nihonbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:30 Arrive Inaricho Station
    • Put the daughter in a taxi to the hotel
    • 9:50 Depart Inaricho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:15 Arrive Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 12:30 Depart Suehirocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihonbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace
    • Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:00 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:15 Arrive Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya Lunch: Hibiya Chanter
    • 15:30 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 15:45 Arrive Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • Shinjuku Isetan Shinjuku Store
    • Kabukicho
    • Golden Gai
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 16:40 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Sobu Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive Iidabashi Station
    • Dismissal: Iidabashi Station

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Akihabara, the Imperial Palace, and Shinjuku The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. About two weeks earlier, they had arrived in Japan and first traveled around the Kansai area, visiting Kyoto, Kanazawa, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, arriving in Tokyo the previous evening. They planned to stay in Tokyo for the coming days before flying home. They also planned a day trip to Mount Fuji the following day. The previous night, they had arrived at their planned accommodation near Shinsen Station but found it "far too cramped and dirty," so they suddenly changed their accommodation to a hotel near Iidabashi Station. They commented that they had stayed at similar accommodations in Kyoto and Kanazawa, and although those were small, they were tidy and comfortable. As a result, the meeting point was also changed. Their request was: "Today we would like to visit as many spots in Tokyo as possible in a short amount of time." It was a tour under clear skies and intense heat. Shortly after we set off, one of the guests felt unwell, so that person returned to the Hotel by taxi from Inaricho Station together with another member of the group. The tour continued with the remaining three guests. First, we went to Asakusa, which was as crowded as ever with many tourists. Starting from the front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, an overview of Buddhism, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon and strolled slowly through Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" As some of the guests were fans of Japanese anime, we next went to Akihabara, which was also crowded with many international tourists. I explained the history and current state of Akihabara. They purchased Pokemon cards and miniature Tomica cars. We then moved to the Imperial Palace, where I explained the history of Edo, the transition from the Edo period to the Meiji era, the Meiji Restoration, why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace, and why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. There were questions such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?", "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?", and "How do Japanese people feel about the next Emperor?" We took photos in various spots around the East Gardens. Since they said, "We would really like to eat sushi for lunch," we went to a sushi restaurant in Hibiya Chanter. Some of the guests each finished two full servings. From there, we moved to Shinjuku. First, since they said, "We'd like to try some good sake — fine sake is hard to obtain in Europe," we visited the sake section of a department store. Afterward, we went to Kabukicho, where I explained the origins and history of Shinjuku and the differences between the east and west sides of the station. We walked around and explored Golden Gai, Kabukicho, the Godzilla Head, and Omoide Yokocho. They remarked, "This area feels different from other neighborhoods." There were also comments and questions such as: "Tokyo feels clean and extremely safe, even at night," "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?", "The Tokyo subway is very well made — in Kyoto, the subway wasn't very useful," and "The public restrooms are wonderful." Finally, I saw them off at Iidabashi Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIidabashi~Inaricho (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2TrainInaricho (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4TrainSuehirocho (Tokyo)~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 5TrainNijubashimae~Hibiya180JPY
    Section 6TrainHibiya~Shinjuku-sanchome180JPY
    Section 7TrainShinjuku~Iidabashi170JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    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…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Transportation AM 09:15 Take the hotel shuttle bus to Kanazawa Station
    • Transportation Bus To Higashi Chaya District
    • AM 09:45-10:30 Stroll through Higashi Chaya District Utasu Shrine
    • Transportation Bus Kenrokuen-shita
    • AM11:00-11:40 Visit Kenrokuen Garden
    • AM11:40-PM12:30 Kanazawa Castle Park Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura Gojikken Nagaya Visit Hishi Yagura
    • PM 12:30 Transportation On foot Nagamachi Samurai District area  Via Gyokusen-in and Oyama Shrine
    • PM 13:10 Tour ends in the Nagamachi Samurai District area

    What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. Following the course specified by the travel agency, I guided them through Higashi Chaya District, Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park, and the Nagamachi Samurai District. However, since spending a lot of time at each spot would make it impossible to cover everything in four hours, at Higashi Chaya District and the Nagamachi Samurai District I introduced only an overview of the places open for viewing, so that the guests could visit them on their own in the afternoon if interested, thereby saving time. It was a hot day with temperatures reaching 35 degrees, but as the guests seemed to be collecting goshuin stamp books and stamp booklets, they enjoyed gathering stamps at Kanazawa Castle, Oyama Shrine, and Utasu Shrine.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station/Hokuriku Railway Bus~Hashibacho/Hokuriku Railway Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho/Hokuriku Railway Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokuriku Railway Bus210JPY
    Total420JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo International Terminal & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo International Terminal & Asakusa Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meeting place: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 8:40 Depart Tokyo International Terminal Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 9:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 9:40 Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 10:20 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:00 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 13:45 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:45 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 18:00 Dismissal: Asakusa, Kura Sushi entrance.

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Covering Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.) (https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private one-day tour of Tokyo. For this trip, the group was traveling on a 12-day cruise from Seoul to Tokyo. After stopping at Jeju Island in Korea, Kagoshima, Kobe, and Nagoya, the ship arrived at Tokyo Port this morning. Tonight they will stay on board, then spend two nights at a hotel in the city before returning home by air. The guests' request was: "We would like to see as many places as possible. Tonight we want to watch the fireworks in Asakusa, so please take us to Asakusa at the end." It was a tour under clear skies and extreme heat. The originally planned departure of "13:00" was moved up by one hour. (The cruise ship arrived considerably earlier than scheduled, and I received a phone call asking to start earlier.) First, we went to Tsukiji before it closed. After going through Tsukiji Uogashi, we headed to the Tsukiji 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 also questions and comments such as "Do all people in Tokyo come here to buy fish?" and "It is crowded, but there seem to be many tourists." We moved to the Imperial Palace. I explained "the history of Edo," "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There were questions such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?" "Does the current Emperor of Japan have any political power?" and "Who will be the next Emperor?" We moved to Harajuku and went to Meiji Shrine. I explained "about Shinto," "about the torii gate," "about Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." There were questions such as "What kind of teaching is Shinto?" "Around when did Shinto originate?" and "How many shrines are there in Japan?" We took a break for a while at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. We also strolled leisurely along Takeshita Street. Then to Shibuya. First, we took photos looking down at Scramble Square from the entrance to the Keio Inokashira Line platform, and then actually crossed the intersection. There was also a question: "Why do so many people gather here?" We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue as well. We moved to Asakusa. It was even more crowded than usual, and traffic restrictions had already begun, so we could only move very slowly. We started from in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "the history of Sensoji Temple and of Edo becoming Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate and strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the major religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" There were also questions and comments such as "Tokyo felt clean and safe," "Why are there no trash cans in the streets?" and "I think the Tokyo subway system is extremely well made." At the request of "dinner before watching the fireworks," I took them to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4TrainNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    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
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  • Osaka: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Tempozan Passenger Terminal
    • 09:45 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only, including Miraiza)
    • 12:15 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 13:45 @ Kuromon Market (including light meal)
    • 15:00 Disband @ Tempozan Passenger Terminal

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like for Senior Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. This was the oldest group the guide had ever accompanied. Because one of the guests used a walking aid and found stairs somewhat difficult, it became a very slow-paced tour with frequent rest breaks. Due to the intense summer heat, one of the guests grew quite tired and paused to rest partway through both at Osaka Castle and at Sumiyoshi Taisha. At Osaka Castle, one of the guests enthusiastically bought souvenirs at the adjacent "Miraiza." At Sumiyoshi Taisha, some of the guests offered prayers, picked up the popular "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles, and purchased an amulet pouch. Because the schedule ran significantly over time, two of the originally planned spots had to be cut, and "Kuromon Market" became the final stop. Here, at the guests' request for a light meal, the guide showed them to a recommended local udon restaurant, and received a comment that it was very delicious. Two of the guests had "nabeyaki udon" and one had "tendon." The guide also presented handmade drawstring pouches, made by the guide's own family member, to some of the guests, who were very pleased. Today's driver was also very courteous and drove carefully, and was well-informed about local information. The driver also attended kindly to the guest using a walking aid. It was very moving to see how kindly and gently the guest treated the group.

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

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