Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Mimaru Tokyo Asakusa Station
    • 10:10 Hotel
    • (Walk)
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple & Kaminarimon
    • Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 10:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 12:30 Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 13:15 Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 14:45 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Asakusa Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. All were visiting Japan for the first time, and the trip was to celebrate a graduation. The group had arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening and taken a taxi to their hotel. However, because the flight was delayed and customs at the airport was crowded and took a long time, they did not reach the hotel until 21:00 and were tired. For this trip, the group would be staying in Japan for eleven days. After spending time in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, then return home from Kansai Airport. They said, "Today, we would like to visit the main sights in the city and get a sense of the transportation." It was a tour under cloudy skies, in somewhat chilly weather. First, I guided them to Asakusa, the Kaminarimon Gate, and the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, then went from Asakusa Station to Tsukiji Station. (They said they would explore Asakusa on their own later at a leisurely pace.) At Tsukiji, it was as crowded as ever. I explained "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference 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's crowded, but it does seem like there are many tourists." They said they wanted to try some food. In the end, they bought and sampled strawberries and matcha soft-serve ice cream. We went to Shinjuku Sanchome. After that, we went to Shinjuku Golden Gai. I explained "the origins and history of Golden Gai." Even during the daytime, quite a few foreign tourists were strolling through Golden Gai. After that, we went around Kabukicho and Omoide Yokocho. I also explained "the history of Kabukicho" and "the difference between the east and west exits of Shinjuku." They enthusiastically photographed the Godzilla Head and the 3D cat billboard. They commented, "The atmosphere is different from other places in Tokyo." We moved on to Harajuku. Meiji Jingu was fairly crowded with tourists. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How is Buddhism different from Shinto?" We took a short break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu, and also strolled along Takeshita Street and Cat Street. They said, "With the crowds, it doesn't really suit us." We moved on to Shibuya. Looking at the Scramble Square, there were questions such as "About how many people cross at once?" and "Why did it become so famous?" Here as well, the group crossed the scramble intersection and took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as, "The city is clean and there's no litter on the ground," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" and "Everyone is quiet on the trains." I saw the group off to Asakusa Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Shinjuku-sanchome210JPY
    Section 3OtherShinjuku~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    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.

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama & Gion area

    Kyoto: Arashiyama & Gion area

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet
    • 9:45 Arashiyama
    • 13:00 Shopping and lunch in the Shijo area
    • 14:20 Gion area
    • 15:00 End at Gion bus stop

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour of Arashiyama and Gion Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Due to a typhoon, their flight had been canceled, and they mentioned that this tour might have been canceled as well. I focused the tour mainly on the Arashiyama area. I made an effort to have a conversation with each member of the group. Since they mentioned there was a shop they wanted to visit in Shijo, I took them there and additionally guided them around Gion. Everyone listened attentively to my explanations. As they were only staying in Kyoto for one day, I hope they were able to enjoy it.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUmekoji Kyoto Nishi~Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Karasuma420JPY
    Total620JPY

    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!

    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 in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:30 Shinjuku
    • 12:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Shibuya
    • 13:20 Tour ends in Shibuya

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. They had come to Japan, a long-held wish of theirs, and this was their first day in Tokyo after arriving the previous night. We first headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market, but since it was right after breakfast, they said they would like to come back again. They really enjoyed an old-fashioned café in the market, delighting in the retro atmosphere that can no longer be experienced in North America. As they wanted to see the 3D cat and the Godzilla head, we headed to Shinjuku, which was not originally on the plan, and they seemed amazed by the incredible weekend crowds. After Meiji Shrine, we finally headed to Shibuya. On only their second day in Japan, one of the guests was moved to say, "Back home, everyone comes back from Japan having fallen in love with it, and now, on the very first day, I understand why."

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Sumo Morning Practice & City Tour

    Tokyo Sumo Morning Practice & City Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 8:00 Watch sumo morning practice at Dewanoumi stable
    • 10:20 End of practice viewing
    • 11:00 Attend the goma fire ritual at Fukagawa Fudodo
    • 12:00 Disband at Monzen-Nakacho

    What Is a Private Sumo Practice and Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group who greatly enjoyed watching sumo practice, describing it as "exciting." On the train ride to the Dewanoumi sumo stable, I explained the sequence of the sumo practice and the purpose and effect of each part, so the guests were delighted, saying they "understood the practice very well." Since some of the guests had experience in wrestling, during the walk after the practice they actually tried out how sumo wrestlers grip the mawashi, push, and thrust, and shared with me the differences from wrestling, which made for a lively conversation. After watching the practice, we visited Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple, where the guests attended a goma fire ritual and observed an authentic goma fire ceremony. They fully enjoyed the unique atmosphere created by the flames of the goma fire, the chanting of sutras, and the sounds of the Japanese drums and bells.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Morishita (Tokyo)280JPY
    Section 2SubwayMorishita (Tokyo)~Monzen-Nakacho180JPY
    Total460JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya & Shinjuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Meet at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 15:40 Shibuya
    • 17:00 Walk along Cat Street to Omotesando
    • 17:30 Takeshita Street
    • 18:15 Shinjuku
    • 18:30 Dinner
    • 19:30 Kabukicho and Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 20:30 Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • 21:00 Tour ends

    What Is an Evening Private Tour of Shinjuku, Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. I guided them smoothly according to the itinerary we had agreed upon in advance. The weather was fine and conditions were comfortable. Unlike a typical tour, this one started at 3:00 in the afternoon, and since the guests wished to experience the city of Tokyo, especially its energy at night, we designed the tour around lively, vibrant spots. As the guests wanted to enjoy Japanese wagyu beef at a reasonable price for dinner, I took them to a wagyu yakiniku restaurant in Shinjuku, which they thoroughly enjoyed. In the evening I guided them through Kabukicho, Golden Gai, and Omoide Yokocho, and finally saw them off in a taxi back to their hotel, ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal~Shibuya650JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku160JPY
    Total810JPY

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
    Kim_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Experience Tokyo like a local…,
    It was a wonderful way…

    May 11, 2026
    Trenee_J
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takeshi did an amazing…
    Takeshi did an amazing job helping us plan…

    Apr 17, 2026
    Dianne_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Takeshi was our guide. He…
    Takeshi was our guide. He…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • Nanzenji Sando Kikusui 830→905 Bamboo Grove Path 1020→1040 Ryoanji Temple 1130→1145 Lunch Time 1230→1245 Kinkakuji Temple 1350→1430 Nijo Castle (end on site)

    What Is a Private Family Day Tour with a Licensed Guide in Japan Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour was carried out along their requested course, which was finalized after repeated discussions via a messaging app. The group got along wonderfully, and the weather was pleasant for a break in the rainy season. None of the sites we visited were crowded, so the group was able to stroll and explore at a leisurely pace. After the planned sightseeing spots, the guests expressed a wish to visit a particular sweets shop, so I adjusted the final destination of the itinerary accordingly and had the vehicle proceed there, offering flexible arrangements to accommodate their request.

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 2.10:45 @ Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Asakusa Shrine) + [From the vehicle] Tokyo Skytree
    • 3.11:30 @ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 4.11:50 [From the vehicle] @ Marunouchi side of Tokyo Station building
    • 5.12:00 @ Ginza Main Street (pedestrian paradise around Ginza 4-chome intersection)
    • 6.12:20 [From the vehicle] Kabukiza Theater
    • 7.12:30 @ Zojoji Temple
    • 8.12:50 @ Tokyo Tower (including Main Deck)
    • 9.13:45 @ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 10.14:20 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 11.15:30 @ Odaiba Seaside Park observation deck + Statue of Liberty
    • 12.16:00 Dismissal @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour Like for Cruise Passengers Disembarking in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We traveled by car, and they were amazed by how clean Japan is. They had already toured various parts of Japan aboard a cruise ship, with Tokyo being their disembarkation point. However, due to Typhoon No. 6, which had just struck Japan, they were unable to do their planned sightseeing in Kyoto. According to them, although they had visited shrines, this Tokyo tour was their first time visiting a Buddhist temple. At Sensoji Temple, one of the guests, who has asthma, avoided the smoke from the incense burner. When I introduced the Grant Pine (a Himalayan cedar) at Zojoji Temple, planted by General Grant, one of the guests mentioned that their own roots are connected to General Grant. They also referred to the story of when General Grant met General Lee of the Confederacy. Back in May, a guest I had guided was also a descendant of General Grant, so I was inwardly surprised. At Tokyo Tower, they wished to go up to the observation deck to look out over Tokyo. Taking in a 360-degree view from a height of 150 meters, they seemed to realize with amazement the sheer scale of the city of Tokyo. At the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, I helped photograph the guests as they strode across the intersection, which they greatly enjoyed. For lunch, we satisfied our appetites with egg sandwiches and rice balls bought along the way at a convenience store, and since we did not spend time on a sit-down restaurant lunch, we ended up with more time to spare than planned. We took a short stroll along the Ginza pedestrian promenade, and just before returning to the international cruise terminal, the guests thoroughly enjoyed the view from the observation deck at Odaiba Seaside Park. They took many photos of the Statue of Liberty, Rainbow Bridge, and more. Tomorrow, they plan to disembark and stay at a Hotel, spend another day sightseeing in Tokyo, and, before returning home, take the Shinkansen for a day trip to Kyoto, which they were unable to visit.

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Otaginenbutsuji & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in One Day: Otaginenbutsuji & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station
    • 09:50 Otaginenbutsuji
    • 10:20 Hiranoya Matcha and snacks
    • 10:40 Gioji
    • 11:00 Bamboo path
    • Lunch(Ozuru)
    • 12:40 Kinkakuji
    • 13:50 Fushimiinari
    • 14:30 Nishiki Market
    • End of the tour

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari The guest was a person visiting Japan for work, staying in Kyoto before taking an early Shinkansen to Tokyo the next morning and returning home from Narita. Although I had sent a tentative itinerary in advance, the guest expressed a wish to visit Arashiyama the day before, so we finalized the plan after meeting today. The previous day, the guest had taken part in a maiko experience tour in the Miyagawa-cho area of Gion. Today the requests were broadly for Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari, so we started at the recently popular Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, then went via Gio-ji to the bamboo grove. It was a little quieter thanks to the rain. It rained all day, and at Kinkaku-ji it came down heavily. To save time, we took a taxi to Fushimi Inari, and since the guest wanted to finish at Nishiki Market, I guided them to its entrance and concluded the tour there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Kyoto150JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total610JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: to 10:10      Nara & to 12:10      Nigatsu-do Hall

    Nara in One Day: to 10:10 Nara & to 12:10 Nigatsu-do Hall

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hotel Nara,
    • 09:30 to 10:10 Nara Park
    • 10:20 to 11:00 Todai-ji Temple    
    • 11:30 to 12:10 Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 12:30 to 13:10 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:30 Disband at Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of five visiting from North America. Despite the unfortunate rain, we carried out the tour with umbrellas and a stroller in hand. We used the bus as much as possible. The children were very well-behaved and followed along without any fuss at all. We had also planned to visit Wakakusayama, but canceled it due to the rain. After lunch at the Higashimuki shopping street, we had planned to go to Naramachi, but the guests said they wished to have lunch together and then return to their hotel, so we parted ways one hour and thirty minutes earlier than scheduled.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNara City Hall / Nara Kotsu~Todai-ji Daibutsuden・Kasuga Taisha-mae / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusTodai-ji Daibutsuden / Nara Kotsu~Kasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 3BusKasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu~Kintetsu Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total750JPY

    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…

  • Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Okayama Korakuen – 11:10 Okayama Castle – 12:20 Lunch – 13:30 Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter – 15:50 See-off to accommodation

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Okayama and Kurashiki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Under a cloudy sky, while I was waiting at the Hotel, the guests appeared about ten minutes before our appointed time. My first impression was that they were very punctual. I had known in advance that they were from Oceania, and it was a little unexpected to learn they came from that region, as in my past experience I had often welcomed guests from other areas. The guests requested that we return to the Hotel by around 5:00 in the evening, as work commitments meant staying in touch by smartphone during the trip. I paid the utmost consideration throughout the itinerary. Our first sightseeing spot was Korakuen Garden. The guest photo was taken here. When we parted around 4:00 p.m., I was asked to send the photos to the smartphone, so although they were not the best shots, I sent them along. At Korakuen we had a variety of experiences. I had heard the news that a baby red-crowned crane had been born about two weeks earlier, but upon arriving I received the sad news that it had passed away. However, another crane was in the process of hatching, and we were able to witness a heartwarming scene. On this day there was also a special exhibition at Kakumeikan, and we were able to enter and view the Noh stage and other displays. Furthermore, plums were being harvested in the plum grove within the garden, and we were able to see a rare sight. I was told they would be processed into plum wine and jam and sold at the shop within the garden. Next we went to Okayama Castle and toured the exhibits on every floor. Before heading to Kurashiki, it was time for lunch, so at the famous Azuma Sushi inside Okayama Station, the guests enjoyed Okayama's specialty barazushi and other dishes. We then took the JR line to Kurashiki and explored the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. Wishing to see the oldest wisteria trellis in Japan, boasting a history of 300 to 500 years, we climbed Tsurugatayama. After visiting Achi Shrine and descending the hill, we came upon the Morita Sake Brewery, where the guests sampled some sake. There was no time to enter the Ohara Museum of Art, but water lilies transplanted from Claude Monet's pond in France were in full bloom in the garden pond, and the guests admired them. We explored Denim Street, Ivy Square, the banks of the Kurashiki River, and others, and were able to return home safely. Throughout the tour, the guests participated eagerly and it turned out to be a satisfying day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOkayama Station Front / Chugin-mae / Uno Bus~Shiroshita (Okayama Prefecture)160JPY
    Section 2TrainShiroshita (Okayama Prefecture)~Okayama Station Front / Okaden Bus160JPY
    Section 3OtherOkayama Station~Kurashiki Station660JPY
    Total980JPY

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…