Category: Uncategorized

  • Nagasaki in One Day: Peace Park & Oura Church

    Nagasaki in One Day: Peace Park & Oura Church

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel
    • 9:10 Peace Park
    • 9:20 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 10:20 To Mount Inasa by streetcar and ropeway
    • 11:50 To Dejima Museum by streetcar
    • 12:50 To Chinatown on foot
    • 13:20 To Glover Garden by streetcar
    • 14:10 Oura Church
    • 14:30 Tour ends

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip in Nagasaki? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Asia. They initially mentioned wanting to eat sushi, but when I told them there were many other delicious foods in Nagasaki City, they quickly changed their minds. We took the streetcar to Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum, where I gave explanations, and they listened intently. Since they wanted to visit Mount Inasa, we went up by ropeway. While enjoying the view, I explained the unique topography of Nagasaki. We then took the bus to the Dejima Museum. There is a similar port in their home region, so we discussed the differences in their roles. At Chinatown we ate kakuni manju (braised pork buns), and then took the streetcar to Glover Garden. I received questions about Glover and Mitsubishi. After seeing Oura Church, we parted ways. A notable stop on the tour was Glover Garden. Glover Garden is an open-air museum in Nagasaki that preserves several Western-style residences from the late 19th century, including the former home of Scottish merchant Thomas Blake Glover, who played a significant role in Japan's industrialization. Set on a hillside overlooking Nagasaki Harbor, the garden offers sweeping views of the city and the sea. Its well-preserved buildings and gardens make it one of the most popular historical sites in the region, reflecting Nagasaki's long history as a gateway for foreign trade and cultural exchange.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNagasaki (Nagasaki Prefecture)~Peace Park150JPY
    Section 2TrainAtomic Bomb Museum~Stadium City South150JPY
    Section 3BusRopeway-mae / Nagasaki Bus~Chuo-bashi / Nagasaki Prefectural Bus340JPY
    Section 4TrainShinchi Chinatown~Ishibashi (Nagasaki Prefecture)150JPY
    Total790JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kagoshima: Sakurajima Yunohira Observatory & Statue of Saigo Takamori

    Kagoshima: Sakurajima Yunohira Observatory & Statue of Saigo Takamori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:20  Meet up @ Kagoshima Port North Wharf
    • 08:40 Board the ferry from Kagoshima Port to Sakurajima
    • 09:15  Sakurajima Yunohira Observatory
    • 09:50  Sakurajima Visitor Center
    • 10:25  Board the ferry from Sakurajima to Kagoshima Port
    • 11:10 Sengan-en
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Oukatei (inside Sengan-en)
    • 14:00 Shiroyama Observatory
    • 14:30  Tsurumaru Castle Ruins
    • 15:00 Statue of Saigo Takamori
    • 15:30  Disband @ Kagoshima Port North Wharf

    Title: What Is a Private Kagoshima Cruise Port Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. They had come to Kagoshima as part of a cruise tour that started at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal. After Kagoshima, they planned to visit Nagasaki, Asia, Hiroshima, Kobe, and other destinations. At the Sakurajima Yunohira Observatory, they seemed impressed by the majestic view of Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay. At the Sakurajima Visitor Center, they enjoyed a video about Sakurajima and the hot spring foot bath. At Sengan-en, they seemed impressed by the beautiful garden and residence of the Shimazu family. Since I accommodated the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied. A notable stop on the tour was Sengan-en, a historic Japanese garden built in 1658 by the Shimazu clan, the powerful family that once ruled the Satsuma domain. The garden is famous for its use of "borrowed scenery," incorporating Sakurajima volcano and Kagoshima Bay as part of its landscape design. Sengan-en is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution, reflecting Japan's early modernization and industrial heritage.

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Kotoku-in Great Buddha & Komachi-dori Street

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Kotoku-in Great Buddha & Komachi-dori Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Kamakura Station West Exit
    • 9:30 Kotoku-in Great Buddha
    • 10:10 Hasedera Temple
    • 11:20 Hokoku-ji Temple
    • 12:00 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 12:40 Komachi-dori Street
    • 13:10 Disband at Kamakura Station East Exit

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kamakura Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan, with one currently working in Japan for a global company and the other visiting from North America. We followed the schedule exactly as arranged in advance and covered nearly all of the planned locations. Thanks to clear skies after a passing typhoon, the weather was wonderful (though a little hot), and the guests were especially impressed by the Great Buddha against the blue sky, and the view from the observation deck at Hasedera Temple with the blue sky and calm sea in the background. Unfortunately, the Benten Cave was closed due to the effects of heavy rain. The bamboo grove at Hokokuji Temple reminded them of the Arashiyama bamboo grove they had visited in 2018, and they showed me photos from that time. At Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, they were delighted to see a traditional wedding ceremony being held at the Maiden dance hall. Although it is a small town, its calm atmosphere seemed to suit the guests well. Since they showed genuine interest in everything, today I deliberately posed a number of questions and answered them, as a way to help the experiences stay in their memory. I asked questions at each location, including along Komachi Street at the end, but the only one they got right was a question about the pigeons regarded as messengers of the gods at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, with perhaps a ten percent success rate. Even when I said "Here comes another question," they responded with a playful "Oh no" while happily taking part. After the tour, they were planning to return to Tokyo for lunch, and they told me they were glad they could efficiently visit the major sights and hear many related stories along the way. For me as well, it was a very enjoyable guiding experience.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKamakura~Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 2TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)~Kamakura200JPY
    Section 3BusKamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus~Jomyoji / Keikyu Bus240JPY
    Section 4BusJomyoji / Keikyu Bus~Hachimangu / Keikyu Bus240JPY
    Total880JPY

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:30 Meet at Miyajimaguchi Ferry Terminal
    • 14:40 Travel to Miyajima
    • 14:50 Miyajima sightseeing
    • 17:49 Travel to Hiroshima
    • 18:30 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What Is a Private Tour of Miyajima in Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I welcomed a group visiting from Oceania. They had divided the roles among themselves very skillfully, researching the places to visit, planning the tour, and even studying some Japanese in advance, which truly impressed me. They had also kept a close eye on the typhoon updates and arrived in Hiroshima at the best possible timing. During the Silver Week holiday period, when there was a surprisingly large number of domestic tourists, they cleverly chose the options that matched their own preferences from among my suggestions, and seemed to thoroughly enjoy Miyajima. Even the owner of the shop where we stopped for a break could sense how much the group was enjoying themselves. Before boarding the train toward their hotel, we said goodbye with a group hug. A notable stop on the tour was Miyajima, an island in Hiroshima Bay famous for the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic vermilion "floating" torii gate, which appears to stand on the water at high tide. The island has been regarded as a sacred place for centuries and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also enjoy walking among the free-roaming deer, exploring the historic shrine buildings, and taking in the natural scenery of Mount Misen, making it one of the most celebrated scenic spots in Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total420JPY

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel > Installing Welcome Suica Mobile takes time
    • 9:00 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 10:50 Report lost item at Omotesando Station
    • 11:05 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:10 Snack @ Cafe Enseigne d'Angle Harajuku branch
    • 12:45 Harajuku Takeshita Street – Ura-Harajuku – Onitsuka Tiger
    • 14:15 Shibuya Police Station
    • 14:40 Shibuya Crossing
    • 15:10 Disband in front of SHIBUYA SKY

    タイトル:What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Asakusa and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report It was a rainy day, sometimes pouring very heavily, making it a challenging day for a guide. After entering an underground passage, it was discovered that a Suica card was missing, so it was added to a smartphone instead. From the Hotel until leaving Asakusa, we were able to travel underground the whole way, but in Asakusa we were caught in heavy rain, and I had to give explanations indoors at the tourist center, making the progress difficult. After leaving Asakusa, when getting off the Ginza Line at Omotesando Station, one of the guests realized that a smartphone had been left on the train. It was reported to the station but could not be found, so we had no choice but to continue. (Later, on the advice of the metro, a report was also filed with the police, but in the end, after the trip, there was a reply to the metro's online application, and the guest was able to go to Shimbashi Station to retrieve it.) After a break at a coffee shop, we visited and shopped along Harajuku Takeshita Street, Ura-Harajuku, and Onitsuka Tiger, and after taking photos and videos at Hachiko and the Shibuya crossing, we parted ways as planned in front of SHIBUYA SKY. A notable stop on the tour was Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in the 7th century, and is one of the city's most famous and visited landmarks. Visitors approach the temple through the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and walk along Nakamise-dori, a shopping street lined with traditional stalls selling snacks and souvenirs. The area around Asakusa retains a nostalgic, old-Tokyo atmosphere and remains a popular destination for those wishing to experience traditional Japanese culture.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku-sanchome~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: To-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Osaka in One Day: To-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Meet
    • 9:00 To-ji Temple
    • 10:35 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 12:45 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:00 Nijo Castle
    • 16:00 Return to hotel and tour ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and To-ji Temple The guests were visitors from North America. The tour was originally planned for a larger group, but due to some of the party not feeling well and resting at the hotel, it became a tour for the guests who could join. Before leaving Japan, they had invited family to travel together, visiting Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, with a further trip to Okinawa planned afterward. The weather was mostly cloudy, but it was changeable throughout the day, with occasional patches of blue sky and light passing rain. As it was the middle of a major holiday week, there were many domestic tourists everywhere. At Nijo Castle in particular, it felt like there were even more domestic visitors than international ones, which made it clear how popular Nijo Castle is among Japanese travelers visiting Kyoto. Because walking quickly was difficult for one of the guests, we spent extra time going up and down the slopes and stairs. I was glad we were able to complete the tour within the scheduled time. The photo was taken in the garden of To-ji Temple. A notable stop on the tour was To-ji Temple. To-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Kyoto founded in the early Heian period, and it is renowned for its five-story pagoda, which is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. The temple is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers beautiful gardens along with important examples of Buddhist art and architecture.

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tochigi in One Day: Lake Chuzenji & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tochigi in One Day: Lake Chuzenji & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel 2
    • 10:00 Lake Chuzenji
    • 10:20 Kegon Falls
    • 11:45 Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 12:40 Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:25 Rinnoji Temple
    • 14:40 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 15:10 Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although it rained occasionally, it did not cause any major problems, and the tour proceeded smoothly. After meeting, we waited for the bus at Tobu Nikko Station, but there were so many people that we could not board, which was troubling; however, an extra bus was arranged, and we continued with only about a 10-minute delay. At Kanmangafuchi Abyss, the guests seemed to enjoy the contrast between the green and the red. In addition to the waterfall, the river had a large volume of water, and the guests enjoyed the scenery. At Toshogu Shrine, the guests were surprised by the long lines, but we were able to buy tickets online and pass through quickly. Due to the crowds within Toshogu Shrine as well, we moved somewhat quickly through Rinnoji Temple and the Shinkyo Bridge, and the tour concluded without any issues. A tip was received. A notable stop on the tour was Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. Toshogu Shrine is a lavishly decorated Shinto shrine and the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Known for its elaborate carvings, including the famous "three wise monkeys" and the sleeping cat, it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Japan's most ornate religious complexes.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus~Chuzenji Onsen/Tobu Bus1,250JPY
    Section 2BusChuzenji Onsen/Tobu Bus~Kanaya Hotel History Museum/Tobu Bus1,150JPY
    Section 3BusShinkyo Bridge/Tobu Bus~Tobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Total2,620JPY

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Meet at Hotel (5 min from Higashi-Shinjuku Station on the Toei Oedo Line)
    • 1035 Asakusa Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, lunch at "Towada" on Kannon-dori
    • 1300 Tokyo Station, Marunouchi Building matsugui, Gyoko-dori, Tatsumi Yagura
    • 1420 Harajuku, visit Meiji Shrine
    • 1515 Shibuya, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 1540 Escort to Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station on the Oedo Line and disband

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like During a Typhoon? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of them was of Japanese descent, with roots in Okinawa, and the other was originally from a region that later became part of a different country. They had arrived the previous night, and it was the first visit to Japan for one of them, while the other had been to Japan several times before. They were scheduled to depart on a cruise afterward. The hotel where I picked them up was located in an area surrounded by love hotels. This particular property was an eight-story hotel dedicated to inbound travelers, and there were no Japanese guests other than the front desk staff. Various warnings for Typhoon No. 25 had been issued since the morning, so I was concerned about how the day would go. Around the time we left Asakusa the rain was still light and I thought we would be fine, but as we reached the Marunouchi area the rain gradually grew heavier. While we were visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine, alert sounds began ringing not only from my own phone but from those around us as well. The rain then became torrential, rainwater started flowing toward the lower Shinkyo Bridge along the approach, and water began overflowing from the roadside gutters of the path. Checking the warnings and the rain cloud radar on my phone, it appeared that conditions would only worsen, so after consulting with the guests we skipped Takeshita Street. They had originally planned to visit Yasukuni Shrine after Shibuya, and I had intended to see them to Kudanshita, but we skipped this as well and instead took them to Shinjuku. I advised them to be careful of the rain going forward and suggested that it would be better to wait at the hotel until around six o'clock, and then we said goodbye. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Jingu Shrine. Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine in the heart of Tokyo dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, completed in 1920. It is surrounded by a vast forest of around 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, offering a tranquil escape from the surrounding city. Visitors pass through large torii gates along a gravel approach and often observe traditional rituals and, at times, Shinto weddings held on the grounds.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku~Asakusa320JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Kanda (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainKanda (Tokyo)~Tokyo160JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya~Shinjuku200JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet @ Hotel Lobby
    • 2. 9:15 @ Asakusa
    • 3. 11:00 @ Tokyo National Museum
    • 4. 12:15 Lunch @ Ueno
    • 5. 13:00 @ Tokyo Station → KITTE Building
    • 6. 13:45 @ Ginza
    • 7. 14:30 Disband @ Ginza

    Tokyo 6-Hour Private Tour Report: What Can a Licensed Guide Cover from Asakusa to Ginza? Tour name: Tokyo 6 Hours Weather: Typhoon rain, 24°C Guests: A group visiting from Europe 【First stop】Asakusa After looking out over the whole of Asakusa from the 8th floor of the Culture and Tourism Center (commemorative stamp), we strolled through Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Street, and Senso-ji Temple. The guests experienced Japanese culture, including drawing omikuji fortunes, standing in the smoke of the large incense burner, purifying at the water pavilion, and praying at Senso-ji Temple (goshuin seal stamp). I explained Buddhism and Shinto. 【Second stop】Tokyo National Museum We set aside 40 minutes of free time so the guests could take a quick look at the exhibits on Japanese culture and history (another commemorative stamp here), followed by a ramen lunch at Ueno Station. 【Third stop】Tokyo Station → KITTE Building From the red-brick station building we walked to KITTE. In the old postmaster's office, the guests posed for photos playing the role of the postmaster. 【Fourth stop】Ginza We went to Nissan Crossing → Itoya (stationery), where the guests shopped for their favorite stationery items. We parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMita (Tokyo)~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Tokyo200JPY
    Section 4SubwayTokyo~Ginza180JPY
    Total780JPY

    Hello! My name is Katsu Hayama.
    My nickname is “goreilo” and it means a futsal goalkeeper in Portuguese.
    I love football. I play football every weekend with my senior teammates.
    I live in the suburban area in Tokyo, where surrounded by the nature.
    I used to be a mechanical engineer of commercial vehicle,
    heavy duty truck and bus, for long years. After retirement, I studied hard,
    and I could become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
    I will navigate you all around the fascinate city, old and modern Tokyo wherever you want to go!
    I’m looking forward to meeting you soon!
    Thank you very much.

    Halo! Nama saya Katsu Hayama. Nama panggilan saya adalah “goreilo” yang berarti penjaga gawang futsal dalam bahasa Portugis.
    Saya suka sepak bola. Saya bermain sepak bola setiap akhir pekan dengan rekan-rekan senior saya.
    Saya tinggal di daerah pinggiran kota Tokyo, yang dikelilingi oleh alam.
    Saya dulunya adalah seorang insinyur mekanik kendaraan komersial, truk tugas berat, dan bus, selama bertahun-tahun.
    Setelah pensiun, saya belajar keras, dan saya bisa menjadi Juru Bahasa Pemandu Berlisensi Pemerintah Nasional.
    Saya akan memandu Anda berkeliling kota yang mempesona, Tokyo lama dan modern ke mana pun Anda ingin pergi!
    Saya berharap dapat segera bertemu dengan Anda!
    Terima kasih banyak.

    Sep 6, 2026
    629jayalakshmia
    Best guide – Goreillo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Goreillo San was a wonderful…

    Aug 3, 2026
    Chefshunter
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    BTS Thunfisch Auktion
    Goreiilo hat uns als Foodies den…

    Jul 10, 2026
    ecthomps17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Tokyo exceeded every expectation. From the energy of the city and…

    Jul 7, 2026
    luisacQ7698XW
    Fabulous and unique experience
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    The Toyosu tuna…

  • Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus & Outdoor Art works

    Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus & Outdoor Art works

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:03 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop [Meet]
    • 09:06 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 09:20 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • visit “Yellow Pumpkin”
    • 09:55 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • Benesse shuttle bus
    • 10:05 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 10:10~11:25 Chichu Art Museum
    • 11:35 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    •   Benesse shuttle bus
    • 11:37 Lee Ufan Museum Bus Stop
    • 11:40~12:25 Lee Ufan Museum & Valley Gallery
    • 12:25 Lee Ufan Museum Bus Stop
    • Benesse shuttle bus
    • 12:27 Benesse House Museum Bus Stop
    • 12:30~14:20 Benesse House Museum (including lunch) & Outdoor Artworks
    • on foot
    • 14:27 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 14:33 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • 14:45~15:30 Naoshima New Museum of Art
    • on foot looking around the Art House Project from the outside
    • 15:56 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 16:03 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • 16:05~16:25 Outdoor Art works (including the Red Pumpkin)
    • 16:25 Miyanoura Port [Say goodbye]

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Naoshima Art Island Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who mentioned this was their first trip together after some time. Their itinerary in Japan ran through mid-September into early October, following a route of Tokyo, Kyoto, Naoshima, and Osaka, with additional travel in Asia before returning to Tokyo. One of the guests had visited Japan a few years earlier, while the other was visiting for the first time. It was during Silver Week, and Naoshima was very crowded, much like during the previous year's Setouchi art festival, so getting around by island buses was quite challenging. Nevertheless, we were able to complete the planned itinerary without any trouble. They were very pleasant and cheerful, and it was an enjoyable day of guiding. The guests seemed to have a great time as well. A notable stop on the tour was Naoshima. Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea known worldwide as an art island, home to contemporary art museums, striking architecture, and outdoor installations. It is famous for landmarks such as the pumpkin sculptures and museums designed by renowned architects, which blend modern art with the island's natural landscape. The island draws many visitors, especially during the Setouchi Triennale art festival, and getting around often involves local buses and ferries.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyanoura Port / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture~Tsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 2BusTsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture~Nokyomae / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 3BusNokyomae / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture~Miyanoura Port / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Total300JPY

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

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

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

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

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