Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo
    • 8:10 Depart Shiodome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Daimon Station
    • (Toei Subway Asakusa Line)
    • 8:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 10:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 10:20 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 13:00 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Lunch: Tsukiji Sushisei
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Aoyama-itchome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shiodome Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Shiodome Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was everyone's first trip to Japan. This time it was a short trip, with three days in Tokyo followed by Kyoto, before returning home from Tokyo. The group arrived at Haneda Airport yesterday afternoon on a flight via a connecting city, then took a taxi to their Hotel. Last night they strolled around Ginza, doing some shopping at a clothing store and enjoying ramen for dinner. It was a tour under fine but hot and humid weather. We went from Shiodome Station via Daimon Station to Asakusa. As always, it was very crowded with large numbers of visitors. We started in front of the Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took a commemorative photo in front of the Kaminarimon Gate and slowly strolled along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" We moved on to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. There was a question about "When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?" I explained about "the history of Edo," "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There were questions such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political power?" We moved on to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "the torii gate," "Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." There were questions such as "What kind of teachings does Shinto have?" "When did Shinto originate?" and "How many shrines are there in Japan?" We also strolled along Takeshita Street and Cat Street. Then we went to Shibuya. We crossed the Scramble Crossing on foot and took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as "Why do so many people cross this intersection?" and "Since when has it become so crowded?" One of the guests requested "I'd like to eat sushi for lunch," so we went to a sushi restaurant. They enjoyed it very much. There were also comments and questions such as "Tokyo feels like a clean and extremely safe city," "There's no litter on the streets. Also, why aren't there any trash cans?" and "I think the Tokyo subway system is very well designed." I saw the guests off at Shiodome Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome Station~Asakusa Station220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae Station~Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya Station~Aoyama-itchome Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayAoyama-itchome Station~Shiodome Station220JPY
    Total1,183JPY

    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: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Sanjusangendo Temple

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Sanjusangendo Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet up @ Hotel Kiyomizu
    • 9:05 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:05 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:55 Nijo Castle
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:45 Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 14:30 Hotel Kiyomizu

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tour of Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They were staying in Kyoto for only two days, and since today was their main day, I planned the itinerary by selecting as many popular spots as possible. It was a very hot day from the morning, and surprisingly there were few crowds at every location, which was a positive point, but the outdoor activities left everyone a little tired due to the heat. Even so, at each place they asked many questions about history, culture, and customs, and I believe they were interested and enjoyed themselves.

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyo Ginza
    • 9:20 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:00 Tokyo National Museum
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Sushi and Tempura Mogana Okachimachi Branch
    • 13:40 Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:40 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 16:00 Dismissal at Hotel Tokyo Ginza

    What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of four. It was a very hot day, with strong sunlight at times, so I offered them the parasol I had brought along. At the start, we confirmed the itinerary. When I explained that we would not go up Tokyo Skytree because it would take quite a long time, they asked if there was an alternative, so I described the Tokyo National Museum, and they agreed to visit it instead. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, I gave a full tour. When I explained that this was the castle that served as a model for "Shogun," the guests were very interested. They were surprised to learn that the castle keep had burned down three times. At the Tokyo National Museum, we toured the second floor and then the first floor. They were interested in the swords, armor, and costumes. I had reserved a sushi and tempura restaurant in Ueno as they had requested, and they enjoyed the meal, which was well received. At Ueno Toshogu Shrine, we paid 500 yen for admission. They were amazed that such an old structure remained and by its magnificent architecture. At Shinjuku Gyoen, we mainly toured the Japanese garden area, and then returned to the hotel. I received a tip. [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.

    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…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Start at Yasue Gold Leaf Museum near the hotel
    • AM 09:00-11:00 Stroll around Higashi Chaya District, Utasu Shrine, Kinpaku Sakuda
    • Move by taxi to Kanazawa Castle Park
    • AM 11:15- PM 12:45 Visit Kanazawa Castle Park, Tsuru-no-maru Rest House, Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • Move by taxi to Omicho Market
    • PM 13:15 -14:20 Visit Omicho Market and lunch
    • Move by Flat Kanazawa Loop Bus (Guide to tomorrow's destinations)
    • PM 15:00  Tour ends at Omicho Market

    Title: What's a Private Kanazawa Day Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were the same group I had previously guided in Kyoto (JGA-T98882747), this time visiting Kanazawa with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). Because the group required a wheelchair, we traveled mainly by taxi throughout the day. At the Higashi Chaya District, the guests watched the final stage of gold leaf production and enjoyed shopping. At Utasu Shrine, I explained how to worship, and everyone enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. Since the group had already visited Kenrokuen the previous day, during our visit to Kanazawa Castle Park part of the group stayed at the Tsurunomaru Rest House while the others toured the Hishi Yagura turret, the Gojukken Nagaya storehouse, and the Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura turret. After a relaxed lunch at Omicho Market, and because there was not enough remaining tour time to visit the Nagamachi Samurai District, we hopped on a loop bus so the guests could enjoy the ride and I could point out from the bus the places they could visit on their own the following day, which brought the tour to a close.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusOmicho~Omicho100JPY
    Total100JPY

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1030 Meet at Conrad Tokyo (1 minute from Shiodome Station on the Toei Oedo Line / Yurikamome)
    • 1045 Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Tatsumi Yagura Turret, Gyoko-dori Avenue
    • 1140 Ueno Park, walk around the National Museum of Western Art and the Tokyo National Museum, visit Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 1230 Asakusa, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Nitenmon Gate
    • 1500 Odaiba, Statue of Liberty, Gundam Statue, LOVE sign
    • 1610 Return to hotel

    Can You Do a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Covering Ueno, Asakusa, and Odaiba? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, made up of people connected through family and friends. Some had arrived in Japan a couple of days earlier, and the rest had arrived the previous night. They were scheduled to depart on a cruise around Japan and Korea starting Tuesday in July. Although we had a vehicle for the day, it was an extremely hot day. At Ueno Park, I had planned to walk as far as Kiyomizu Kannon-do and the statue of Saigo Takamori, but due to the heat the guests were drawn toward shaved ice and ice cream, so we finished Ueno Park at Ueno Toshogu Shrine and adjusted the schedule to allow more time in Asakusa. After giving explanations inside Sensoji Temple, I gave the guests just under an hour of free time, and they appear to have enjoyed a meal along Kannon-dori. Everyone gathered safely in front of the main hall at the agreed time, which was a relief. Odaiba was tough because there was no shade at all, but I took the guests to the Gundam statue. The driver worked efficiently, and we were able to finish safely within the time. *Note: The night before, a request came in to be dropped off at Cat Street at the end of the tour, which was difficult to accommodate. The reason seems to be that the part of the group who had arrived in Japan a day earlier had been to Shibuya and Harajuku, and this made the rest of the guests want to go too. (They had used the subway from Shimbashi to Shibuya, but on the way back they were unsure of the route beyond Shimbashi and ended up taking a taxi.) Since Shibuya was on my way home, I was able to accompany them as far as Shibuya, guiding some of the guests there and parting ways at the Scramble Crossing.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherConrad Tokyo~Conrad Tokyo0JPY
    Total0JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Osaka: Todaiji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Osaka: Todaiji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:05 Meeting The Ritz Carlton Osaka
    • 08:40 to 09:30 Todaiji Temple
    • 09:40 to 10:00 Nigatsudo Hall
    • 10:10 to 10:40 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 11:30 Dismissal The Ritz Carlton Osaka

    What Is a Private Half-Day Nara Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's tour was scheduled for a guest visiting from North America. However, part of the group became unwell and was unable to join the tour, so one guest went ahead alone and asked to return to the hotel as early as possible. We used taxis for the round trip to the hotel as well as for all movement within Nara Park. I kept the explanations brief and focused on showing the best photo spots at each location. I encouraged them to visit Nara again in the future. The tour ended very early, at 11:30.

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Hotel Meet
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:30 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    What's a Private Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from North America around Miyajima. At the guests' request, the meeting point was a hotel on Miyajima Island, so I traveled to Miyajima by train early in the morning. On the day, when I mentioned that I am also a cycling guide, the guests expressed a wish to explore the island by bicycle. However, changing the plan on short notice without prior preparation was difficult from a safety and operational standpoint, and in particular it was not possible to accommodate the request without helmets prepared, so I politely declined for this occasion. In addition, since some of the guests were young, I guided the group to the Miyajima Public Aquarium instead of Daishoin Temple. At the aquarium the group appeared to have a wonderful time, and I feel this turned out to be a very good choice.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMiyajimaguchi Station~Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 2BusNishi-Hiroshima Station~Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Section 3BusAtomic Bomb Dome Mae~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total810JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 10:10 Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Ueno-okachimachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:45 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:45 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:00 Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 12:30 Depart Suehirocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:50 Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive at Tochomae Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Tochomae Station

    What Is a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? Asakusa, Akihabara, Imperial Palace and Shibuya — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. This time they were on a two-week trip to Japan. They had arrived in Japan a couple of days earlier and gone straight to Disneyland, then moved to a hotel in Shinjuku the previous night. They would stay in Tokyo for three more days, after which they planned to travel to Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. It was a fine day, warm enough to feel hot. Everyone in the group already had a "Welcome SUICA card." We proceeded at a relaxed pace. First we went to Asakusa. As always, there were large crowds, especially many foreign tour groups and school excursion students. We started from in front of the Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and of Edo becoming Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of the Kaminarimon Gate and the five-story pagoda. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" There was also a question about "how often do people go to temples?" At the request of some of the guests, we went to the Akihabara electric town. I explained "the history of the electric town." A Pokemon figure was purchased. There was a question about what a "maid cafe" is like. Many "Pokemon goods" were purchased. We moved to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. There was a comment, "It's a shame we can't see cherry blossoms. When is the best time to see them?" I explained "the history of Edo," "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There were questions such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?" We went to Shibuya. First we took photos at the Scramble Crossing. 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 "Tokyo has very good security," "It's amazing that there is no litter on the streets. Does nobody throw trash on the streets?" and "It was my first time riding the subway, but it was very comfortable and convenient." After this, I saw the group off at Tochomae Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station~Ueno-okachimachi Station220JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno-okachimachi Station~Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Suehirocho Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijubashimae Station~Shibuya Station209JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya Station~Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Section 7SubwayShinjuku-nishiguchi Station~Tochomae Station178JPY
    Total1,308JPY

    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
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 12:00 Asakusa
    • 13:30 Harajuku lunch
    • 14:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:45 Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 16:30 Shibuya
    • 17:00 Dismissal

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like After a Business Trip? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who took a one-day guided tour on their day off before returning home. Both enjoyed photography and took pictures of the places we visited from many different angles, enjoying the scenery of Japan. They loved the Kyushu Jangara ramen we had for lunch, saying the soup was delicious, and finished every bit. Although it was a midsummer day with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees, they were grateful to have spent a very meaningful final day in Tokyo, and we said our goodbyes at Shibuya Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Asakusa328JPY
    Section 2TrainTX Asakusa~Harajuku388JPY
    Section 3SubwayOmotesando~Shibuya178JPY
    Total894JPY

    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

    May 10, 2026
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  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.12:00 Meet up @ MIMARU TOKYO SHINJUKU WEST
    • 2.12:30 @ Tokyo Station (Marunouchi side station building, station front plaza)
    • 3.13:00 @ Imperial Palace (Imperial Palace Plaza, Main Gate, Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 4.14:00 Cafe break @ HARBS (inside Azabudai Hills)
    • 5.15:10 @ Tokyo Tower
    • 6.15:30 @ Zojoji Temple
    • 7.16:00 Disband @ Toei Asakusa Line "Daimon Station" ticket gate

    Title: What Is a Relaxed Private Family Tour of Central Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. One member of the group had previously stayed in Japan for about a week around 2007 as part of a study program. A younger member of the group was fond of manga and, through that interest, had studied Japanese on their own using an app, being able to read hiragana and katakana perfectly and even write them reasonably well. One of the guests mentioned, "Since they are studying Japanese, I'd like to give them as much chance as possible to practice it." So I spoke to the group in Japanese and also created situations where the younger guest could practice ordering in Japanese at a cafe. The travel policy the group shared was that they wanted to spend their vacation time leisurely, so rather than rushing around to many spots, they preferred a relaxed pace, and would be satisfied even if only one sightseeing spot was visited as a result. Just as the younger guest was getting worn out by Tokyo's heat, we were about to head from Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace Plaza, and they were struggling with the heat. So we rested for a while in the air-conditioned space on the first floor of the Marunouchi Building. We sat on a sofa, drank water, and then (at the suggestion of one of the guests) poured water over the head after going outside. As it happened, the frozen bottle of water I had brought was still about 80% ice, so I occasionally used it to cool the neck and underarms along the way. After viewing the Nijubashi bridge at the Imperial Palace, one of the guests suggested we go indoors and rest at a cool cafe, so we took a cafe break at Azabudai Hills, which is directly connected to Kamiyacho Station, the station for getting off to visit Tokyo Tower. It was very crowded and the ordered items took quite a while to be served, so there was a bit of a wait, but as a result, having had enough of a rest, we were able to recover the energy needed for the rest of our activities. I had thought they might want to go up to the observation deck since Tokyo Tower was a desired spot, but they chose not to go up. Next, I guided them to Zojoji Temple. Returning to Azabudai Hills, they wished to visit teamLab Borderless, which I had introduced, but we found online that the same-day tickets were sold out, so we gave up on it. Then, since one could go from the nearby Toei Daimon Station to Oshiage Station without transferring, I recommended Tokyo Skytree, which has indoor activities such as an aquarium and a planetarium, and guided them to the ticket gate facing the Toei Asakusa Line platform bound for Oshiage, where we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Chuo Line Shinjuku Station~Tokyo Station210JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Hibiya Station~Kamiyacho Station700JPY
    Total910JPY

    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
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    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
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