Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet
    • 9:23-10:20 Travel to Miyajima
    • 10:25-12:50 Miyajima
    • 12:55-14:00 Travel to Shukkeien Garden
    • 14:00-15:20 Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima Castle
    • 15:50-17:15 Peace Memorial Park
    • 17:20-17:55 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 18:00 Dismissal

    What Is a Private Family-Friendly Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Hiroshima for a group visiting Japan from Oceania. The original itinerary in the city of Hiroshima was to visit only Shukkeien Garden and the Peace Memorial Park, but the guests suddenly expressed a wish to also see Hiroshima Castle, so this was accommodated. In addition, because it was a Sunday and the Peace Memorial Museum was expected to be crowded, the time spent at the Peace Memorial Museum was shortened, and that time was instead used to visit the memorial exhibit at Honkawa Elementary School. The guests seemed very satisfied with this arrangement.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Section 3BusHiroshima~Shukkeien-mae240JPY
    Section 4BusPeace Memorial Park/Hiroshima Bus~Hiroshima240JPY
    Total1,320JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Hyogo in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 to 11:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:40 to 12:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 13:00 to 14:20 Shopping and food tasting at Nishiki Market
    • 14:50 to 15:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple

    What Is a Private Group Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. Each member of the group freely mentioned places they wanted to go, so the itinerary changed frequently throughout the tour. The destination even changed while the car was in motion, and I think the driver handled these changes very well. In the end, the itinerary turned out quite different from what had originally been planned, but the guests seemed to enjoy themselves, so I was glad it all worked out.

    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 in Half a Day: Tsukiji & Kagurazaka

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji & Kagurazaka

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @Hotel
    • 10:30 Tsukiji
    • 11:50 Imperial Palace Nijubashi
    • 12:30 Kagurazaka
    • 13:00 Lunch @Oishinbo
    • 14:00 Disband @Bishamonten

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tsukiji and Kagurazaka in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. At their request, I guided them around Tsukiji and Kagurazaka, along with the Nijubashi Bridge on the way. Since they had purchased Suica cards in advance, I was able to guide them smoothly. They mentioned that they had learned about Kagurazaka through social media. As it was a place I had guided several times before, I showed them Kakurenbo Yokocho and Hyogo Yokocho, alleys that can be difficult to find on your own, and they also enjoyed shopping at a store along the way. For lunch, we ate at a restaurant in Hyogo Yokocho set in a renovated traditional old house. Since I had been informed in advance that one of the guests needed to avoid certain foods, I checked with the restaurant beforehand and, on the day, they let me know which menu items would be suitable. After lunch, I guided them to Bishamonten, explained how to get to the station, and we said our goodbyes. The guests were very pleasant, and although our time together was short, it was a truly enjoyable tour to guide.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToranomon Hills~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShintomicho (Tokyo)~Sakuradamon180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Iidabashi180JPY
    Total540JPY

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Sep 22, 2026
    grenfell69
    Half-day tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    While visiting Tokyo we chose the Customized…

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Koko-en

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Koko-en

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 13:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 13:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 16:00 @ Koko-en (entrance only)
    • 16:45 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    Can You Do a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Himeji for guests visiting from Oceania. The guests seemed very interested in Japan, and I received many questions at Himeji Castle. There were some questions I could not answer, and in those cases I asked the on-site staff and relayed the answers, which allowed me as a guide to gain new knowledge as well. The guests took their time and explored Himeji Castle very enthusiastically. In addition, they visited a souvenir shop and enjoyed doing plenty of shopping. We then went to Koko-en Garden, but the guests had misunderstood and had not purchased admission tickets. Although tickets can also be purchased on-site, they were a little tired and said they did not need to tour it, so we only went as far as the entrance of Koko-en. On the way back, the guests wanted to buy more souvenirs and Japanese-made chocolate, so we also stopped by a convenience store. As the guests wished to have a light meal around JR Himeji Station, we ended the tour about 15 minutes early.

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meeting point: Kobe Port Terminal
    • 2.10:40 Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 3.12:30 Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 4.13:00 Lunch @ The Herb Dining (Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden)
    • 5.15:30 Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 6.16:30 Dismissal: Nankinmachi Shuttle Bus Stop

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Nunobiki Herb Garden, and a Sake Brewery Today's guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We met at the Kobe Port Terminal, then visited the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, and the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, ending the tour at a shuttle bus stop near Nankinmachi. The guests seemed to enjoy each of the destinations and took many photos. They grow many plants at home and were quite knowledgeable about flowers. They were also very interested in the sake brewing process and the tasting. Because the destinations the guests had requested were geographically spread out, the actual tour ran for a long time, but the guests enjoyed the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPort Terminal~Sannomiya (Kobe New Transit)100JPY
    Section 2TrainSannomiya~Maiko320JPY
    Section 3TrainMaiko~Sannomiya320JPY
    Section 4OtherSannomiya (Kobe Municipal)~Shin-Kobe110JPY
    Section 5OtherShin-Kobe~Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal)110JPY
    Section 6TrainKobe-Sannomiya (Hanshin)~Sumiyoshi (Hyogo Prefecture, Hanshin Line)200JPY
    Section 7TrainSumiyoshi (Hyogo Prefecture, Hanshin Line)~Motomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)200JPY
    Total1,360JPY

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 10:40 Assistance with purchasing Welcome Suica at the Travel Concierge at Shinjuku Shin-Minami Exit Station.
    • 11:00 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 12:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 13:30 Lunch at "Tsukiji Sushi Sei Shinkan"
    • 14:45 Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple
    • 16:20 Disband at "Hoppy Street"

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Asakusa in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests, who came from Europe, had checked in the previous day and planned to stay in Tokyo for about a week before visiting Nagoya, Osaka, and Kyoto, then boarding a cruise ship in Yokohama to return home. Since they hoped to travel by train from the next day and visit as many places as possible, I offered some advice using route maps of JR, private railways, and the subway so they could use the trains with confidence. Afterward, we strolled around Nakamise and the area near Sensoji Temple, arriving at Hoppy Street. The guests showed interest in the origin of Hoppy and the history of Hoppy Street, and seemed to enjoy the atmosphere. As they wished to have a meal there, we parted ways at Hoppy Street.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae Station / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

    Aug 25, 2026
    T8432CMjeffr
    6 hr Tokyo tour with Bruce
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The tour was…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Polly1818
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Bruce was the best !! 5⭐️
    Bruce was our…

    Aug 3, 2026
    AJEDav
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Bruce Sagano was terrific! He was very…

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel KODEMMACHO-EKIMAE
    • 9:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:20 Ueno Park, Shinobazu Pond, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon Temple
    • 12:26 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 13:15 Disband at Ueno Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Ueno, and Asakusa The guests arrived at Haneda at 5:30, but due to procedures, taking the wrong train, and using the wrong exit, they checked in at the hotel at exactly 9:00. After the explanation, since they already had a Suica card, we were able to proceed with the tour smoothly. The weather was pleasant, not too hot and with no rain. We first visited Meiji Shrine, where I received many questions about religion and history. At their request, we also entered the inner garden and I explained sites such as Kiyomasa's Well. At Ueno Park, I gave historical explanations and described how old shrines and temples have miraculously survived to the present day. In Asakusa there were quite a lot of tourists, which made it difficult to take photos, but we managed to continue, and the guests said they would come back here again. We parted ways at Ueno Station on the way back to the hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKodemmacho~Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Yushima0JPY
    Section 3Free PassUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa~Ueno0JPY
    Total700JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Guided through Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Guided through Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 After the guests' lunch, meet up at Shogun Burger in Asakusa.
    • Due to the meeting location, Sensoji Temple was guided in reverse route.
    • 13:50 At the knife shop the guests had researched in advance, they purchased the knife they were looking for.
    • After that, moved by taxi to Omotesando.
    • 14:30 Walking from Omotesando along Takeshita Street.
    • 15:30 Guided through Meiji Shrine.
    • 16:30 Strolling around Harajuku while looking at sneakers and more.
    • 17:00 Disbanded at Harajuku

    What's a Private Tokyo History and Culture Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had a strong interest in history and culture, and had watched the drama Shogun, showing great curiosity about the history of the Edo period. At the same time, they were also interested in contemporary culture and were keen on the street fashion of Harajuku. They were very interested in shopping and dining, asked many questions, and our conversations were very lively. One of the guests, who enjoys cooking, purchased a knife they had been looking for and seemed very satisfied. They love traveling, and although this was their first visit to Japan, they greatly enjoyed Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine as well.

    As a passionate traveler, I’ve explored many countries and always enjoyed meeting people from different backgrounds, discovering new cultures, and sharing meaningful moments.

    In recent years, I’ve come to appreciate my own culture more.

    Having lived in Tokyo for over 20 years, I’m still fascinated by how the city constantly changes, blending fresh energy with deep-rooted traditions. From its vibrant streets to quiet temples, from seasonal flavors to historical crafts, there’s always something that inspires me here.

    I would love to share the beauty and depth of Japan with you.

    Let’s make lasting memories together.

    — Mina

    May 16, 2025
    M
    Mariauxy_C
    Beautiful morning at the fish markets
    Viator review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mina was an excellent…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station & Meiji-jingumae Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Hotel
    • (walk)
    • Shibuya Station Travel Concierge
    • 9:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 10:45 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Break: café
    • 12:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 12:45 Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • Kabukicho
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 13:45 Depart Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 14:45 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Shibuya Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all coming to the country for the first time. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening via connecting flights. This was a trip of about ten days, with the main purpose being sightseeing in Osaka (the Osaka Expo, Universal Studios Japan, and exploring Osaka's food scene). From the next day they planned to travel to Osaka, stay for seven days, then return to Tokyo before flying home. Despite it being September, the tour took place in hot and humid weather. Since they had not yet been able to reserve their Shinkansen tickets to Osaka for the following day, we went to the "Ekitabi Concierge" at Shibuya Station to complete the reservation. After that, we first headed to Tsukiji, which was as crowded with tourists as ever. We strolled through the Tsukiji Uogashi and then moved on to the Outer Market. I explained the history of Tokyo's fish market dating back to the Edo period, as well as the differences between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It is crowded, but it seems like there are a lot of tourists." At the request of one of the guests, we bought and sampled tuna sushi and matcha ice cream. We then moved to Asakusa. Starting from in front of the Kaminarimon Gate, I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, an introduction to Buddhism, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos at the Kaminarimon, in front of the pagoda, and at various other spots, and leisurely strolled along the Nakamise shopping street. There were many 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?", "Are there Christians in Japan?", and "Are there weekly sermons like in a church?" We took a break at a café. From there, we moved to Shinjuku. I explained the origins of Shinjuku, the differences between the east and west sides, and the history of Kabukicho. The guests especially liked the "Godzilla Head" and the "cat billboard," and enthusiastically filmed them on video. Regarding Omoide Yokocho, they said they would come back in the evening. We then moved to Harajuku, first visiting Meiji Shrine. I explained about Shinto, torii gates, Emperor Meiji, and why sake barrels are displayed there, as well as why wine barrels are also on display. There were questions such as "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" From there, we went to Shibuya, where the guests said they would do some shopping. There were also comments and questions such as "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" and "Are there no homeless people?" We parted ways at Shibuya Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)260JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total1,040JPY

    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.

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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2. 10:30 @ Ginza (4-chome Intersection, NISSAN Showroom, Ginza Main Street)
    • 3. 11:00 @ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 4. 11:30 @ Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building, Midori no Madoguchi Ticket Office)
    • 5. 12:00 @ Nihonbashi (Underground Food Court)
    • 6. 12:45 Lunch @ Maeda Shokudo (Okuyama Omairimachi)
    • 7. 13:30 @ Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Azumabashi Bridge)
    • 8. 15:00 @ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 9. 15:20 @ Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 10. 16:15 Disband @ Hotel

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Shibuya The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. It was their second day in Japan. The tour day turned out to be surprisingly hot and humid for late September. I had asked them in advance to stay well hydrated, and during the tour the guest was drenched in sweat, saying they felt very thirsty, and drank more than three 500ml bottles of water. Their home region is apparently less humid than Tokyo and is fairly cool at the moment, so the heat seemed to take a toll. The first topic began with a question from the guests: "Do you like baseball?" I replied, "Even I, who am not particularly interested in baseball, watch Major League games on TV thanks to the performances of Shohei Ohtani." It then turned out that the guests were devoted fans of a Major League team that is one of Ohtani's rivals. Apparently, when Ohtani appears as an opponent, there is booing — which just goes to show how formidable a player he is. Their hotel was near Gaienmae (close to Jingu Stadium), and they planned to buy a Japanese Chunichi Dragons baseball cap as a souvenir for a fellow baseball fan back home. When one of the guests asked, "Are the Yomiuri Giants disliked in Japan?", I explained situations such as how Hanshin Tigers fans tend to be anti-Giants, and they understood, comparing it to how "everyone except Yankees fans is thoroughly anti-Yankees." At the Imperial Palace, the guests were moved by the beauty of the pine trees in the plaza and took many photos. After my explanation about the Emperor, they asked how Japanese people honestly feel about the current situation regarding a certain country and its people, so I offered comments on how economic policies, including tariffs, affect Japan's economic situation. During this conversation, one of the guests mentioned having once worked under a former administration and showed me a two-shot photo taken with the president at that time. The guests were very interested in Japanese food and looked forward to lunch, but since they had already eaten sushi and tempura after arriving in Japan, they chose ramen. When I guided them to a popular ramen shop in Asakusa, there was a queue, so we gave up and went to an eatery in the Okuyama Omairimachi area. They tried omurice and katsudon, sharing half of each between them, and both were "very delicious!" according to their impressions. In Shibuya, they already knew about the Scramble Crossing but did not seem to know about the Hachiko statue. When I introduced it, the guests, who love dogs and keep one themselves, were moved by the story of the loyal dog Hachiko. After returning to the hotel, I explained the subway route to Shinjuku, where they had reserved a yakitori dinner for the evening, and we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Omotesando Station~Ginza Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Nihonbashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Asakusa Station~Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Shibuya Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Meiji-jingumae Station~Ginza Line, Gaienmae Station0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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
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