Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Capitol Tokyu Meeting
    • 5:30 Toyosu Market
    • 7:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 8:00 Disband at Tsukiji Station

    Title: What's a Private Toyosu and Tsukiji Market Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was the final day of their trip to Japan, and after the tour they had plans for a sushi experience in Akasaka. One of the guests was very sharp and experienced, handling everything smoothly. They were impressed by how each fish auction proceeded in about six seconds, and asked many enthusiastic questions about the market system and trading prices. When one of the guests said they wanted to buy salt, I took them to a shop in the Toyosu wholesale building. They sampled various kinds, listened to the shopkeeper's advice, and bought several types, seeming very satisfied. As it was hot, part of the group returned to the Hotel from Toyosu. The rest went on to Tsukiji, where they bought toro and eel and also enjoyed breakfast at a café. They said they would head to the sushi experience after returning to the Hotel, and thanked me for a very enjoyable and efficient tour that also allowed them to do some shopping. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Hokoku Shrine & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Hokoku Shrine & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at accommodation
    • 10:00 Hokoku Shrine
    • 11:00 Osaka Castle
    • 13:45 Dotonbori

    What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Dotonbori The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. I guided them according to their wishes. At Hokoku Shrine, the guests earnestly prayed for the recovery of their pet dog. They were amazed by the grandeur of Osaka Castle. They explored the interior thoroughly, viewed the stone walls from the Toyotomi era, and were very interested in the differences from the Tokugawa era. As they seemed tired, we took an ice cream break partway through. After that, we quickly introduced the Hozenji and Dotonbori areas, and after the tour ended, we enjoyed takoyaki together. Also, the guests kindly told me they would love for their photos to be used for promotion, and asked me to get in touch when that happens.

    Click here for more details: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTanimachi 9-chome～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Total430JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…

  • Tokyo: Iriya Morning Glory Fair & Shibuya

    Tokyo: Iriya Morning Glory Fair & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Iriya Morning Glory Fair
    • 11:00 Tsukiji (Honganji Temple, Outer Market)
    • 13:00 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 14:30 Akihabara (Exploring Electric Town)
    • 15:45 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 17:45 Shibuya (Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing)
    • 18:00 Disband at Shibuya Station

    What's an 8-Hour Private Tokyo Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They were especially interested in Japanese anime and other pop culture, as well as football, and enjoyed shopping happily at related shops. They also seemed to love eating their way around, and thoroughly enjoyed themselves at Tsukiji. On this day the daytime temperature exceeded 35°C, making it an extremely hot day, so I included as many cool-down breaks as possible at coffee shops and similar places. Especially on an 8-hour tour like this one, I felt that taking measures against heatstroke was very important.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayIriya (Tokyo)～Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayHigashi-Ginza～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara～Harajuku180JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-Jingumae～Shibuya180JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Takeshiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Takeshiba Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Mesm Tokyo Autograph Collection
    • 9:10 Depart Takeshiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:10 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 10:30 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:10 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 12:10 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omote-sando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 13:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:50 Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 14:00 Arrive Takeshiba Station
    • 14:00 Dismissal: Takeshiba Station

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like (Asakusa, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya)? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, both visiting Japan for the first time. This was a short trip to Japan. Until yesterday they had stayed in Tokyo, mainly visiting Disneyland among other places. From this evening they were heading to Mount Fuji, staying one night before returning to Tokyo the next day and departing from Haneda Airport that evening. It was a tour under clear skies and intense heat. We went to Asakusa. As always, it was very crowded. I explained about "Senso-ji Temple and the history of how Edo became Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate and the five-story pagoda. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "What other religions do people believe in?", and "How often do people who believe in Buddhism go to temples?" We strolled slowly through the Nakamise shopping street. One of the guests bought a hat, saying it was hot. However, it took quite a long time before a final decision was made. We moved to Shinjuku Gyoen (there had been a request to see a Japanese garden). We took photos here and there within the Japanese garden. There was a comment: "In Japan there is so much greenery, so it feels calming. There isn't this where I'm from." We moved to Harajuku and went to Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "the Japanese imperial family," and "why barrels of sake and wine are displayed here." There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "When and why did Shinto originate?", and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" We went 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 also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "It's so quiet inside the subway," "Japanese people are all quiet and polite," "The city is clean and there is no litter," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" After this, I saw them off at Takeshiba Station, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTakeshiba Station～Shimbashi Station189JPY
    Section 2OtherShimbashi Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3OtherAsakusa Station～Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station252JPY
    Section 4OtherShinjuku-gyoemmae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 5OtherMeiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 6OtherShibuya Station～Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Section 7OtherShimbashi Station～Takeshiba Station189JPY
    Total1,373JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet 8:00 @ Nagoya Port Garden Pier
    • 2. Travel from Nagoya Port Garden Pier to Inuyama 8:00-9:00 … Take the subway to Kanayama Station, then transfer to the Meitetsu train to Inuyama Station
    • 3. Travel to Inuyama Castle and view the shrine at the foot of Inuyama Castle and the castle keep 9:00-10:00 … Walk from Inuyama Station to Inuyama Castle
    • 4. Travel to the castle town and view the Castle and Town Museum and the Inuyama Karakuri Museum 10:00-11:00 … Walk around and view the castle town of Inuyama
    • 5. Lunch @ Japanese restaurant "Donden" 11:00-11:45
    • 6. View the castle town, then travel to Urakuen to view the Urakuen garden and the national treasure tea room "Joan" 11:45-14:00 … Walk from the castle town to Urakuen
    • 7. Travel to Inuyama Station, return to Nagoya Port by train and subway, and disband 15:00 … Take a taxi from Urakuen to Inuyama Station, then travel to Nagoya Port by train and subway

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Nagoya to Inuyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Just before the tour day, they requested a change of itinerary from sites within Nagoya City to Inuyama, so to accommodate their wishes, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide moved the meeting time one hour earlier and extended the tour from the original 6 hours to 7 hours. On the day, it was an extremely hot day reaching 38°C, so the tour was arranged to include longer stays at air-conditioned facilities and with careful attention to staying hydrated. The guide also handed out uchiwa fans that had been brought along for the guests to use, which they took home as souvenirs. In Inuyama, which the guests had requested, [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide showed them Inuyama Castle, a National Treasure, and the Jo-an tea house, also a National Treasure, in addition to a facility in the castle town that exhibits the karakuri puppets and floats of the float festival. The guests were fascinated by the karakuri puppet demonstration and the size of the real floats. The tour proceeded on schedule and returned to Nagoya Port with time to spare, which the guests were very pleased with.

    Click here for more details: Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherNagoya Port～Kanayama (Aichi Prefecture)240JPY
    Section 2TrainKanayama (Aichi Prefecture)～Inuyama690JPY
    Section 3TrainInuyama～Kanayama (Aichi Prefecture)690JPY
    Section 4SubwayKanayama (Aichi Prefecture)～Nagoya Port240JPY
    Total1,860JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Request Booking

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Senkyoro-mae Bus & Hakone-Yumoto Bus

    Kanagawa in One Day: Senkyoro-mae Bus & Hakone-Yumoto Bus

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Recove Hakone
    • 10:03 Depart Senkyoro-mae Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • Gora Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway Cable Car)
    • 10:30 Arrive Koen-kami Station
    • Gora Gora Park
    • 11:00 Depart Koen-kami Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway Cable Car)
    • Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 11:15 Arrive Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Kurotamago-kan
    • Hakone Geomuseum
    • 12:00 Depart Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 12:15 Arrive Togendai Station
    • 12:40 Depart Togendai Station
    • (Hakone Pirate Ship)
    • 13:15 Arrive Motohakone Port
    • Motohakone Hakone Shrine
    • Lunch: Light meal / Convenience store
    • 14:35 Depart Motohakone-ko Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 13:40 Arrive Amazake-chaya Bus Stop
    • Amazake-chaya Amazake-chaya
    • Hakone Old Road
    • 14:00 Depart Amazake-chaya Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 14:30 Arrive Hakone-Yumoto Bus Stop
    • 15:30 Depart Hakone-Yumoto Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 16:00 Arrive Senkyoro-mae Bus Stop
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Senkyoro-mae Bus Stop

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Full Loop from Gora to Hakone-Yumoto The guests were a family group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. This was part of an approximately two-week trip to Japan. After arriving at Kansai Airport, they traveled through Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima before coming to Hakone. They had arrived in Hakone the previous night, and after this they planned to go to Tokyo the next day, stay one night, and then return home from Narita Airport. They mentioned, "Kansai was very hot and humid. Coming to Hakone, we can finally relax." The tour took place under perfect, almost hot, sunny weather. With a group of this size, it was difficult to keep everyone moving at the same pace, so it was a leisurely tour. The tour followed their request: "We just want to go all the way around the main spots of Hakone." We met at their accommodation, the Hotel. First, we took the Hakone Tozan Bus to Gora Station. From there, we took the Hakone Tozan Cablecar to Koen-kami Station. We strolled through the museum and garden inside Gora Park. One question was, "What is the best season to visit Hakone?" We then continued by cablecar via Sounzan to Owakudani. Unfortunately, Mount Fuji was hidden behind clouds and we could not see it. I explained the overview and history of Owakudani. Everyone tried the "black eggs," and we also visited the Geo Museum. There were questions such as, "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it ever erupted?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano?" We took the ropeway, transferring to reach Togendai. After a short wait, we boarded the "pirate ship." From the boat, we were finally able to see Mount Fuji appear, though a little blurry, and took many commemorative photos. We disembarked at Moto-Hakone Port and strolled through Hakone Shrine and the cedar avenue. We bought sandwiches at a convenience store for a light lunch. They said, "Japan has so much greenery and it feels calming. Where we live, it is hot all year round and there is only barren land with no greenery." We then transferred by bus to the Amazake Chaya, which they had requested. It was not very crowded, and they each tried "tokoroten" and "miso dengaku," followed by a short walk along the nearby mountain path. From there, we took the bus to Hakone-Yumoto, where they bought and tried soft-serve ice cream. They also commented, "Everywhere in Japan, the towns are orderly and clean. There is no litter." "Everyone is polite." "The trains are quiet and no one makes noise." They also said, "Kyoto was crowded with tourists, but it still made the strongest impression on us." I saw them off at the Sengokuro-mae bus stop, and we parted ways. Additional note: The following booking was confirmed on March 10, and finally, at 07:30 on July 1, a cancellation notice was received. Since I had reserved round-trip limited express tickets for Nikko in advance, I went to the Tobu Asakusa Station on July 3 to cancel them. I would like to request payment of my cancellation fee of 200 yen through some means. Thank you. Booking number: JGA-T90006153 Identification number: 1234293177 Scheduled date: 2025/07/04 07:30 Tour name: Nikko Full-Day Private Walking Tour with Government-Licensed Guide (Tokyo DEP.) Type: Private

    Click here for more details: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassSenkyoro-mae Bus Stop～Senkyoro-mae Bus Stop5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    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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    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 Meet at Hilton Tokyo (3 min from Nishi-Shinjuku Station on the Marunouchi Line). Help with purchasing SUICA (the version for 10-year-old children can only be bought at the Midori no Madoguchi ticket office)
    • 0840 Harajuku. Visit Meiji Shrine. Takeshita Street
    • 1030 Shibuya. Hachiko Statue. Scramble Crossing. PARCO. Shopping at Pokemon Center Shibuya
    • 1300 Asakusa. Quick lunch at Fuji Soba. Nakamise. Sensoji Temple
    • 1420 Hikifune. Since you will be going to Cafe Capyba after my tour, we will disband here. https://cspace.co.jp/

    Title: What's a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanesen, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America. According to information found online, one of the guests appeared to be a well-known medical professional. The younger members of the group were quite quick-witted. When the tour was first booked, the itinerary was quickly finalized to include Asakusa, Yanesen, Harajuku, and Shibuya, but as the trip approached, the group's preferences seemed to change. Instead of the animal café in Harajuku, they really wanted to see capybaras, so they made a reservation for after my tour hours (14:30). As a result, we ended the tour in Asakusa and I took them to Hikifune. Originally they had planned to visit Tsukiji and teamLab Planets on a different day, but in the end they had also made a reservation for this after my tour, at 18:00. I provided as much information as possible, including a subway route map, but since it was quite a demanding schedule, I suggested they take a taxi from Hikifune to teamLab Planets and back to Shinjuku afterward, and they seemed quite satisfied with that. Also, I heard that for the end of the day they had made a dinner reservation at Ninja Shinjuku in West Shinjuku. After the capybara café, since they would have some time before teamLab Planets, they mentioned they might also stop by Skytree. My portion of the tour ended at Hikifune, but with this "packed" itinerary, I was a little concerned about the stamina of one of the younger members of the group. They seemed to be heading to Nikko the next day, and after that would be traveling around Kyoto and Hiroshima.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku～Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)180JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Hikifune160JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    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.

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    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…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizudera & Monkey Park

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizudera & Monkey Park

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 HOTEL THE CELESTINE KYOTO GION
    • 09:10 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • 11:40 Bamboo path by taxi
    • 12:00 Lunch (Musubi Cafe) by walking
    • 13:20 Monkey Park by walking
    • 15:00 HOTEL THE CELESTINE KYOTO GION
    • End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama, and the Monkey Park The guests came from North America. From the moment we met, they mentioned they loved shopping, so we stopped at various shops that seemed to suit their tastes. Around Kiyomizu-dera they bought kimono-fabric goods, a lucky charm at Kiyomizu-dera, a coaster at a pottery shop, and a Daruma doll and a fox mask at a souvenir shop. They were not very interested in history or pottery. Since one of the guests wanted to buy shochu as a souvenir, we stopped at a discount liquor store on the way from Kiyomizu-dera to the bamboo grove and made the purchase. For lunch they had wanted to eat ramen, so I had checked some ramen shops around Arashiyama, but they said they did not feel like eating ramen in this heat. I suggested several options, and since some of the guests preferred a vegetarian meal, we went to a restaurant in Arashiyama that offers vegetarian options. Because of the extreme heat, we took a taxi to the entrance of the Monkey Park, and it cost only the base fare. Even in this heat, many international tourists had come to the Monkey Park. After the tour, they wanted to visit a head spa near the hotel, so I made a reservation at the shop they requested. We came down from the Monkey Park with many rest breaks, and by then it was 14:20. Since they wanted to return to the hotel before going to the head spa, we did not push on to Kinkaku-ji, returned to the hotel, and wrapped up a little after 15:00.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

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    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Osaka: Rapid-Express leaves Osaka-Namba Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Osaka: Rapid-Express leaves Osaka-Namba Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00　(Start of Tour) Hotel 11 Namba
    • 8:21　Rapid-Express (For Kintetsu-Nara) leaves Osaka-Namba Station
    • Osaka-Namba Rapid-Express For Kintetsu-Nara　[Dep] Platform 1　8 stations 680 yen
    • 8:58　Kintetsu-Nara Station
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 9:10-40 Kofukuji Buddhist Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • Museum 900 yen
    • walk 20 minutes Feeding the deer on the way
    • 10:40-11:20 Kasuga-taisha Shinto Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 11:30-40 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:00-40 lunch at Emado Chaya
    • 12:40-13:10 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:20-30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:40-14:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:20-30 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:40-15:00 Yoshikien Garden
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 15:10-40 Nara Prefectural Office Rooftop Observation Deck
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 16:00 (End of Tour) back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    What Is a Private Nara Summer Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report With a forecast of 38°C, I contacted the guests the night before so they would be well prepared, telling them, "Sunscreen won't prevent heatstroke — please be sure to bring a hat." That advice paid off, and the tour proceeded fairly smoothly. We took our time cooling down at the Emado Chaya teahouse, and toward the end we also rested and cooled off at the rooftop observation deck of the prefectural government building, so the heat fatigue was kept to a minimum. At one point I thought someone was sleeping on a bench in front of the Todaiji Museum, but shortly afterward an ambulance arrived — most likely a case of heatstroke. For the next two months or so, managing the guests' health will be the most important task. Today's guests had all prepared hats just as I had requested the night before (with some also bringing parasols). However, there are times when guests ignore my message of "Sunscreen won't prevent heatstroke — please be sure to bring a hat" and show up without one, so some tours begin by guiding them to a 100-yen shop that sells inexpensive hats.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka-Namba～Kintetsu-Nara680JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by Junichi

    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.

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    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…

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①10:00 Meet: Hiroshima Port Terminal
    • ②10:30 City Streetcar Hiroshima Port
    • ③11:00 Atomic Bomb Dome
    • ④11:30 Hondori Shopping
    • ⑤12:00 Peace Park
    • ⑥13:00 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • ⑦14:00 Lunch
    • ⑧15:00 City Streetcar Chudenmae
    • ⑨16:00 Dismiss: Hiroshima Port Terminal

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Peace Memorial Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests listened carefully to a detailed explanation that included a personal account of an atomic bombing experience passed down within my family. The guests asked how my family and I feel toward the country associated with the war. When I explained that we do not hate any particular country but rather war itself, the guests nodded deeply. We found common ground in wishing for the earliest possible ceasefire in the wars currently ongoing. The city tram takes more time than expected, so I would like to consider using a bus at least for the return trip. On the way there we could sit because we boarded at the starting station, but on the way back we had to stand all the way to the final stop.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Port/Ujina～Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 2TrainChudenmae～Hiroshima Port/Ujina240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Toshi

    I was born and grew up in Hiroshima. I used to be an equestrian and enjoyed a horse-full life at a Veterinary College in Miyazaki Prefecture. And I’ve worked for Hiroshima City Hall as a vet. The city annually holds its Peace Memorial Ceremony, inviting many delegates from around the world. Throughout my over 40-year career as a city official, I accompanied those guests during their stay in Hiroshima. So, besides my profession, I became a Peace Park Guide, a Miyajima Guide, and a licensed guide interpreter of Hiroshima Prefecture. My mother, who runs a beauty salon, is one of the atomic bomb survivors. And I started looking for ways to convey her message to future generations. A radio drama, modeled after my mother and me, was broadcast nationwide and won a grand prize in 2016. Let me tell you the history and local culture of Hiroshima.

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    May 7, 2026
    K6841CPkerryc
    Toshi The Best Tour Guide for your Japanese Trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide…

    Sep 16, 2025
    Bruno S
    Great morning with our tour guide Toshi. Very knowledgeable of the history of the island and also Hiroshima.
    Tripadvisor review:…

    Jul 6, 2025
    MICHAEL G
    Toshi is the perfect guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima requires a guide…