Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Food walking tour at Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Food walking tour at Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet at Conrad Tokyo, ride together by taxi to Toyosu Market
    • 5:20 Toyosu Market, tuna auction viewing
    • 6:40 Move by taxi to Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 7:00 Food walking tour at Tsukiji
    • 8:00 Return to Conrad Tokyo by taxi and finish

    Title: What Is an Early-Morning Private Tour of Tokyo's Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Market Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America. At their prior request, I met them at their Hotel. I waited in the upper-floor lobby of the Hotel, but they did not appear at the appointed time, so I headed down to the lower-floor lobby. It seems we had passed each other in the elevator. I learned that at this Hotel, a taxi queue typically forms from around 5:00, and that many taxis are also circulating in Ginza. We visited Toyosu to observe the tuna auction. I explained the system, the differences among the fish on display, and how the auction works. For breakfast, the guests wished to try street-food sampling, so we took a taxi to Tsukiji. First, we paid a visit to Namiyoke Shrine. As it happened, the Namiyoke Shrine grand festival was scheduled for June 13–15 a few days later, during which two lion heads and a portable shrine would parade through the neighborhood. For the street-food sampling, we enjoyed treats such as a sweet matcha crepe.

    Hello, Bonjour, Buongiorno!

    I’m Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, japanese freelance Government-licensed guide and interpreter in French and in English, speaking Italian as well. Having accompanied guests to all over Japan by now with whole 47 prefectures, all year round. 11 years and over 1500 days of experience as a professional guide since 2015, after 24 years of work at French Tourist Board in Tokyo in charge of promotion and marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Je suis Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, guide-interprète indépendant japonais, agréé par le gouvernement en langues française et anglaise, parlant également italien. Ayant accompagné des clients dans tout le Japon avec se 47 départements, toute l’année. 11 ans et plus de 1500 jours d’expérience en tant que guide professionel depuis 2015, après 24 ans de travail à l’Office de Tourisme Français à Tokyo en charge de la promotion et du marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Sono Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, un guida-interprete indipendente giappone e approvato dal governo per le lingue francese e inglese, parlo italiano anche. Avo accompagno i clienti in tutto il Giappone, con sue 47 province, tutto l’anno. 10 anni e piu di 1500 journi di esperienza come guida professionista dal 2015, dopo 24 anni di lavoro presso l’Ufficio del Turismo francese a Tokyo come responsabile della promozione e del marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Having lived mostly in Kawasaki city attached to Tokyo in the West, I have a good knowledge and profound experience of Tokyo and its surrounding areas such as Mount Fuji, Hakone and Kamakura or Nikko.
    A history lover and food lover, qualified as JSA Wine Expert, I’d like to help you choosing good restaurants and good drinks including Sake.
    Let’s go together for a delightful discovery in Japan.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Ayant vécu principalement dans la ville de Kawasaki rattachée à Tokyo à l’Ouest, j’ai une bonne connaissance et une profonde expérience de Tokyo et de ses environs comme le Mont Fuji, Hakone et Kamakura ou Nikko.
    Passionné d’histoire et de gastronomie, diplômé JSA Wine Expert, j’aimerais vous aider à choisir de bons restaurants et de bonnes boissons dont le Saké.
    Partons ensemble pour une délicieuse découverte du Japon.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Avendo vissuto principalmente nella città di Kawasaki, vicina a Tokyo, ho una buona conoscenza e una profonda esperienza di Tokyo e dei suoi dintorni, come il Monte Fuji, Hakone e Kamakura o Nikko.
    Appassionato di storia e gastronomia, laureato Wine Expert presso la JSA, vorrei aiutarvi a scegliere buoni ristoranti e buoni bevande, tra cui il sakè.
    Partiamo insieme per una deliziosa scoperta del Giappone.

    Jun 5, 2025
    Jenan_A
    Lovely experience but expensive
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    What a lovely…

  • Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel near Takayama Station 13:00
    • Takayama City sightseeing spot visits 13:00-14:30
    • Hida Takayama Town Museum 14:30
    • Takayama Showa-kan 15:20
    • Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall 16:00
    • Hotel 17:00

    I guided a group visiting Takayama, where the places they wanted to see had been listed in advance. From 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, we walked around each spot while I interpreted, covering both their list and some places I suggested. It was their first time in Japan, and none of the guests spoke Japanese, yet they were planning to rent a car and make a round trip from Tokyo to Kyoto, which surprised me. They said they would be fine because they had Google Translate, but they were amazed that there were hardly any English speakers around town or wherever they went. They had just arrived from North America the day before, so by the end they seemed quite tired. We were able to cover the main spots in Takayama thoroughly, and they were very pleased.

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Jul 18, 2025
    Lisa_M
    Nagoya is a Treasure
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Yoko gave us a wonderful tour…

    Jun 17, 2025
    Daniel_R
    Nagoya Tour from Cruise Port
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    If you are on a…

  • Nara in One Day: Guide to Kofukuji & Guide to Kasuga Taisha

    Nara in One Day: Guide to Kofukuji & Guide to Kasuga Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15: Meet at Kintetsu Nara Station
    • 9:30: Guide to Kofukuji Temple
    • 10:00: Guide to Nara Park
    • 11:00: Guide to Nandaimon Gate
    • 11:30: Guide to Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
    • 12:30: Guide to Nigatsudo Hall
    • 13:00: Guide to Mount Wakakusa
    • 14:00: Guide to Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 14:30: Lunch, disband @ Okaru

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Deer, Todaiji, and Mount Wakakusa The meeting point was suddenly changed from JR Nara Station to Kintetsu Nara Station, so I met the guests, a group visiting from the Middle East, at Kintetsu Nara Station at 9:15, fifteen minutes later than planned. I explained the day's itinerary there and began the Nara tour. I guided the group through Kofukuji Temple, but they did not seem very interested in temples. I concluded that this was likely because they had already seen plenty of shrines and temples in Kyoto. It became clear that the purpose of the guests' visit to Nara was the deer, so I kept the Kofukuji explanation brief and moved on to Nara Park, where they enjoyed feeding the deer. After they had spent enough time playing there, we headed to Todaiji Temple, but as the rainy season had just ended, the sunshine was very strong and we had to move while choosing shaded paths. I guided them through the Nandaimon Gate and then to the Great Buddha Hall, where I talked about Buddhism while explaining the Great Buddha. As the guests followed a different faith tradition, they listened to the talk about Buddhism but did not ask any particular questions, so unfortunately the explanation had to remain simple. It was the same at Nigatsudo Hall of Todaiji; they did not seem interested in the story of the Omizutori ceremony, so I decided to guide them to Mount Wakakusa. Today the fresh greenery of Wakakusa made for a wonderful scene. Some of the guests waited at the foot of the mountain, while I encouraged others to climb. The view from Mount Wakakusa was magnificent, and they seemed to enjoy it very much. Next, we moved from Mount Wakakusa to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where I gave a brief talk about Shinto, connecting it with Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Finally, we walked down the approach path from Kasuga Taisha back to the shopping street, where I introduced an okonomiyaki restaurant. As the guests said they would have lunch on their own, I concluded today's tour there. It seems the guest photo was mistakenly taken in portrait orientation. I will be careful about this in the future.

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Mikane Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Mikane Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet @ Hotel Resol Kyoto
    • Transport: Keihan Railway
    • 7:40 -8:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • Transport: Keihan Railway
    • 9:00-9:30 Yasaka Shrine
    • 9:30-10:00 Hanamikoji Street
    • Transport: Keihan Railway, Kyoto Municipal Subway
    • 10:40-11:40 Nijo Castle
    • Transport: On foot
    • 11:50-12:00 Mikane Shrine
    • Transport: On foot
    • 12:30 Disband @ Teramachi Oike

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Yasaka Shrine, and Nijo Castle The guests were a friendly and well-mannered group. There were plenty of sights on the way from the hotel to Sanjo Keihan, and they listened attentively to my explanations of the Takase River and Pontocho. At Fushimi Inari, one of the guests bowed at the torii gate at the entrance without being prompted, which impressed me, so I applauded and praised them. They were the type who wanted to try everything, and they experienced washing their hands at the temizuya, praying at the main hall, and lifting the Omokaru stone at the Senbon Torii. When I mentioned that Higashimaru Shrine at the entrance is good for academics, one of the guests happily paid a visit. On the way back, there were food stalls in front of the torii, so one of the guests enjoyed a 10-yen bread. The group also enjoyed takoyaki together. They were very impressed watching the takoyaki vendor quickly flip the takoyaki so they wouldn't burn. Then we moved on to Yasaka Shrine. Since it's like a general trading company of shrines, one of the guests happily took photos next to the Ebisu shrine, and when I explained that the water at Utsukushi Gozen Shrine is good for beauty, one of the guests happily washed their face. When I explained that the sword shrine is effective for cutting ties, one of the guests prayed to be free from injuries. Then we moved to Hanamikoji. I explained about the living quarters of geisha, and since the dances of the five hanamachi were being held at Minamiza just then, I introduced each hanamachi while looking at the posters. We passed briefly through Miyagawacho, and I showed them the bronze statue of Izumo no Okuni, then we took the Keihan train again to Sanjo, transferred to the Kyoto City Subway, and went to Nijo Castle. Normally I only guide the Ninomaru Palace and Ninomaru Garden, but since they wanted to walk the full loop and we had time, we also went around the Honmaru area. The originally proposed itinerary was supposed to end at Mikane Shrine, but since they asked where would be a good place to eat lunch, and it wasn't too far to walk, I guided them to the International Manga Museum, which the guests would likely enjoy, told them there was a cafe inside, took them to Teramachi Oike, explained that they could enjoy shopping and dining there, and said goodbye. The photo was taken just after one of the guests purchased the 10-yen bread at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Since it was still early in the morning, I took the photo here.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo Keihan~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo~Sanjo170JPY
    Section 4TrainSanjo Keihan~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total830JPY

    I am a 53-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:20 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 Imperial Palace
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Hakata Menbo Aka no Noren (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:30 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:50 Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Senso-ji The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They planned to travel to Kyoto after sightseeing in Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. They also purchased a charm from Meiji Shrine as a souvenir. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji, they were interested to hear about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as about Kaminarimon Gate. Since I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Ueno170JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Nishi-Shinjuku0JPY
    Total870JPY

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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:30 Meet at Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku 7-26-61 (Airbnb)
    • 2. 11:15 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 3. 12:45 Lunch (Nezu Matsuyoshi)
    • 4. 13:45 Nezu Shrine
    • 5. 14:15 Yanaka
    • 6. 15:00 Akihabara
    • 7. 16:00 Harajuku (Takeshita Street)
    • 8. 16:30 Disband at Meiji-jingumae Station

    Title: What's a Private Full-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and were staying in Tokyo before heading to Kyoto, on a ten-day trip around Japan in total. Rather than a hotel, the group was using a private accommodation, so I confirmed the address and met them there. On this private full-day tour, I guided them through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Nezu Shrine, Yanaka, Akihabara, and Harajuku (Takeshita Street). Some of the guests listened attentively and asked questions at each spot, while another seemed a little bored. Giving explanations that appeal to everyone in a group is certainly challenging, and I was reminded once again of the difficulty of guiding a family. It was quite a hot day for June, so I made sure everyone, including myself, stayed well hydrated to avoid heatstroke, and I gave my explanations in shady spots. We reached the scheduled end time of the tour just after finishing Takeshita Street. Since the guests planned to return to their accommodation on their own, I explained the way back and we parted at Meiji-jingumae Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku~Otemachi220JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi~Nezu178JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Akihabara167JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total774JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Century Southern Tower
    • 9:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:05 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:15 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 14:55 Dismiss at Pokemon Shop Nihonbashi

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa It was a hot day with sunny skies and occasionally strong sunshine. Since the guests did not have a transportation IC card and would be leaving Japan the next day, I had them purchase JR tickets and a 24-hour subway pass, and we proceeded with the tour. Some of the guests seemed restless, while others tired easily in the heat, so we took frequent breaks and spent extra time shopping as we went. At Meiji Shrine, we received many questions about religion. At the Imperial Palace, we received questions about the Imperial family, and at Senso-ji Temple, we received many questions about Buddhism and about Senso-ji itself. In Asakusa, we spent a lot of time on Nakamise Street, and because the weather was harsh, I discussed the plan with the guests and, at their request, we skipped the originally planned Akihabara and Shibuya. Instead, since they wanted somewhere they could buy Pokémon items, we went to the Pokémon Shop Nihonbashi, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Nihonbashi0JPY
    Total846JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima: hypocenter and the Atomic Bomb Dome & Hiroshima Castle

    Hiroshima: hypocenter and the Atomic Bomb Dome & Hiroshima Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 09:05 Move to the hypocenter and the Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 09:15 Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park, and Peace Memorial Museum
    • 10:45 Visit Hondori
    • 11:50  Stroll through Shukkeien Garden
    • 12:35 Visit Hiroshima Castle
    • 13:00 Disband at Hotel

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a lovely group visiting Japan from North America. They were on a 20-day trip covering places from Hokkaido in the north to Hiroshima in the south. It seems they had traveled all the way to Hiroshima at the request of one of the guests, and they asked many enthusiastic questions throughout the tour. To avoid overlapping with the itinerary I had shared in advance, they visited a museum of contemporary art after arriving in Hiroshima the previous day. I truly appreciated their thoughtfulness. Although the weather was rainy due to the seasonal rains, I was delighted that they listened attentively during the tour of the memorial monuments. I was glad they enjoyed not only the peace-related sites but also Hondori shopping street, Shukkeien Garden, and Hiroshima Castle.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHatchobori Station~Shukkeien-mae Station240JPY
    Total240JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:10 Depart Shiodome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 9:20 Arrive Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 10:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 13:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:40 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:40 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 15:30 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 16:00 Shiodome Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Shiodome Station

    Title: What Can You See in One Day in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a short visit of only three days, staying only in Tokyo, and they wished to see as many spots in the city as possible. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening on a direct flight and taken a taxi to their hotel. The [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Tokyo covering the city's main highlights, as the guests requested. They mentioned they were planning to attend a "sumo show" in the evening. It was a hot and humid day under fine weather. Starting from Shiodome Station, we first went to Tsukiji. I explained the history of Tokyo's fish markets since the Edo period, and the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. We first looked around Tsukiji Uogashi, and then went to the Outer Market. We bought and sampled tuna sushi, grilled crab, and strawberry daifuku. There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it looks like there are a lot of tourists." Next we went to Asakusa, which as always was crowded with large numbers of people. Starting from the front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, an overview of Buddhism, and the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon and strolled slowly 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 follow?" We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about Shinto, torii gates, 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. We then 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 are so many people crossing this intersection?" and "Since when has it become so crowded?" We moved on to Shinjuku and strolled around the Kabukicho area, as well as Omoide Yokocho and the quiet Shinjuku Golden Gai. I explained the origins of Kabukicho and the history of Omoide Yokocho. We took many commemorative photos with the Godzilla Head in the background. Seeing scattered trash and empty cans here and there, there was a comment that "it feels less like Tokyo and more like downtown in a big North American city." There were also questions and comments such as "Tokyo felt clean and extremely safe, completely different from home," "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?", and "The Tokyo subway system seems remarkably well made." I saw the guests off at Shiodome Station, ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome Station~Tsukiji Market Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Meiji-jingumae Station252JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya Station~Shinjuku-sanchome Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku Station~Shiodome Station220JPY
    Total1,215JPY

    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
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  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet up @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:40 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:15 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 12:45 Light meal @ Otemon Chaya
    • 5. 13:00 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 14:45 @ Shosha-zan Engyoji Temple (Maniden Hall, Daikodo Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Jikido Hall)
    • 7. 17:00 Dismissal @ Himeji Station North Exit

    What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The guests arrived at the meeting point earlier than scheduled, so we started the tour right away. First, I explained an overview of Himeji Castle from Castle View. Since we would be visiting Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, and Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha that day, we went to the Shinki Bus Center and purchased discount round-trip tickets for the bus and ropeway before heading to Himeji Castle. It was very hot today. As one of the guests seemed a little tired, sightseeing took more time than expected. After touring Himeji Castle, we took a short break at a tea house near Koko-en Garden, and after visiting Koko-en Garden, we headed to Engyoji Temple by bus. Although it was a hot day, there were many tourists from Asia at Engyoji Temple. Partly for this reason, the atmosphere at Engyoji Temple was not very quiet. After Engyoji Temple, we returned to Himeji Station by ropeway and bus, and the tour came to an end. The guests thanked me, though one of them appeared to be quite tired.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Koko-en Mae] Station~[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station320JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinojosho Ropeway Summit Station~Maniden Below)]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station~[Shinki Bus Himeji Station Mae] Station320JPY
    Total1,140JPY

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

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

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

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

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

    Jul 7, 2026
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    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…