Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Hotel Mitsui The Kyoto
    • 10:40 to 11:30 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 11:45 to 12:30 Todai-ji Temple
    • 12:45 to 13:00 Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 13:30 to 14:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 14:40 to 15:30 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street (udon)
    • 15:45 Dismissal Kintetsu Nara Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visitors from North America. I had received the wrong hotel name in advance, so I went there at 9:00. After the guests realized the mistake, they came by taxi, and we met at 9:30. The guests walked very quickly, which allowed us to make up for the late start. On the way back, they told me that they would return from Kyoto Station to their hotel by shuttle bus, so I only needed to put them on a train bound for Kyoto Station. I helped them board a Kintetsu express train bound for Kyoto. It was earlier than expected, but we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSubway Nijojo-mae Station~Kintetsu Nara Station1,020JPY
    Section 2BusNara Kotsu Bus Kenchomae Kofuku-ji~Todai-ji Daibutsuden250JPY
    Section 3BusNara Kotsu Bus Kasuga Taisha Honden~Kintetsu Nara Station250JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: East Garden of the Imperial palace

    Tokyo in Half a Day: East Garden of the Imperial palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting up @ Hotel
    • 9:10-10:30 East Garden of the Imperial palace
    • 10:50-11:30 Fukagawa Fudo temple
    • 11:35-11:55 Tomigaoka Hachimangu
    • 12:10-12:45 Kiyosumi Garden
    • 13:05 End of the tour @ Sushiiwa in Tsukiji

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's East Gardens, Fukagawa, and Tsukiji? A Licensed Guide's Report The forecast called for a high of 35 degrees, so I was concerned about the guests' well-being, but some of the group were used to Japan's heat, having previously lived in warm areas or in Kobe. The East Gardens were a request from the guests, so as a guide it became a tour I put a lot of energy into, sharing stories about the Tokugawa shogunate, the emperor, and old Edo. Everyone listened attentively and asked many questions. I guided them while making use of shaded spots and rest areas. At Fukagawa Fudo, we were able to see a goma fire ritual, and I was able to talk about Buddhism, while at Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine we had a lively conversation about Shinto and sumo. The Kiyosumi Garden had few visitors and shade in various spots, so the guests enjoyed it. They mentioned wanting to go to a good sushi restaurant in Tsukiji, so I took them to a sushi restaurant, and the tour ended smoothly.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHibiya~OOtemachi180JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi~Monzen Naakacho180JPY
    Section 3TrainKiyosumi Shirakawa~Tsukiji Shijo Mae220JPY
    Total580JPY

    Hi,
    Thank you for contacting the Japan Guide Association to request a licensed guide for your upcoming visit to Japan. My name is Motoko Tanaka. I’m so happy to be assigned to you.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born and raised in Tokyo, so it is nice to hear that you are excited about your visit to this wonderful city. There is much to be excited about here in Tokyo. I have really enjoyed guiding in Tokyo and the surrounding areas for more than 10 years.
    I live with my husband and a dog named Alice. She was a rescue dog and I adopted her about 4 years ago. Now she is a very precious family member. I have two daughters, the elder one has a child and the younger has a aroma shop in a town near Mr. Fuji. I sometimes visit there with Alice.
    I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to create a special day.
    Regards,
    Motoko

    Apr 25, 2026
    catvila
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Primeira vez em Tóquio
    A Motoko foi excelente para nos guiar pelos…

    Apr 22, 2026
    72breannaj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour highly recommend! And loved our guide
    We had an amazing…

    Apr 17, 2026
    denisemD3032GY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)
    Tokyo walking tour
    Our guide Motoko was so polite &…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Dennis_M
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Very nice and very…
    Very nice and very…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40 Hotel meet, take the hotel shuttle service to Gora Station. 10:18 Take the cable car to Sounzan, take the ropeway to Owakudani, take the ropeway to Togendai. 12:00 Pirate ship, arrive at Moto-Hakone at 12:45. After sightseeing at Hakone Shrine, take the bus from Moto-Hakone to the Checkpoint ruins. 14:10 Lunch at Donburi Chaya. 14:50 Shopping at Maruyama Bussan. 15:30 Bus from Hakone Port. 16:13 Take the train from Kowakidani Station to Gora Station. Request the hotel shuttle. 16:30 Confirm boarding and disband.

    What's a Private Hakone Day Tour with Mount Fuji Views Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, a very cheerful and wonderful family. Although Mount Fuji had seemed hopeless earlier, the summit became slightly visible at Owakudani, which delighted them greatly. On the pirate ship, they remarked that the scenery resembled a lake back home, and they thoroughly enjoyed the views. The Japanese food at a donburi restaurant was very well received. The mood grew even brighter and more lively over the meal. Riding that energy, everyone enjoyed the presentation at a local products shop and purchased a variety of items. Learning that one of the guests would soon have a birthday, I made a celebration board as a small gesture.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kappabashi & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Kappabashi & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Century Southern Tower
    • 10:50 Kappabashi
    • 11:30 Asakusa Kaminarimon
    • 12:40 Azumabashi Skytree photo
    • 13:40 Shibamata Taishakuten
    • 14:10 Break at Takagiya (long-established shop)
    • 15:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 16:40 Disband at Shibuya Parco

    Can You Do a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour of Kappabashi, Asakusa, Shibamata, and Meiji Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report It was a good day for guiding — cloudy with occasional sunshine, warm but without extreme heat. One member of the group was unable to come due to feeling unwell, so the tour proceeded with the rest of the guests. At Kappabashi, they bought a few chopstick rests at the first shop, and continued to browse several other shops afterward. In Asakusa, they took a full look around Sensoji Temple and enjoyed buying treats such as candied strawberries and matcha ice cream. In Shibamata, they viewed the carvings and garden of Taishakuten Temple and were pleased that there were few tourists. We took a break at a kusadango (grass rice dumpling) shop, where they happily enjoyed a dumpling set. We visited Meiji Shrine and finished at Parco in Shibuya. There was a lot of shopping time, so we ran about 40 minutes behind schedule.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Tawaramachi700JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Shibamata377JPY
    Section 3TrainShibamata~Kanamachi146JPY
    Section 4TrainKanamachi~Ayase167JPY
    Section 5TrainAyase~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 6TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya0JPY
    Total1,390JPY

    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 in Half a Day: Fukuya Department & Hypocenter

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Fukuya Department & Hypocenter

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00: Meet at Intergate Hiroshima
    • 9:05 Fukuya Department
    • 10:30 the Great Torii Gate/ Itsukushima Shrine
    • 11:40 Omote-Sando Street
    • 13:20 the Hypocenter
    • 13:30 End of the tour

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They were accompanying one of the group on a business trip and were enjoying their day off. Since we met at a hotel in the city center, we traveled by the Hiroden streetcar, and the guests were surprised at how reasonable the fare was. As they had no plans for the afternoon, I recommended a stroll through Peace Memorial Park and a visit to Shukkeien Garden. On the way, I also shared with them the reality of what happened in Hiroshima. (They had already reserved tickets for the museum for the following morning.) For the return trip, they chose the World Heritage Sea Route, and after getting off I explained the Rest House, took them to the hypocenter, and concluded the tour. The rainy season had just ended and it was a hot, midsummer-like day, and one of the guests was perspiring a great deal.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHatchobori~Hiroden Miyajimaguchi240JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima~Peace Park1,100JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet @Hotel
    • 2. 9:45 Bank of Japan Ruins, Peace Park, Museum
    • 3. 12:10 Okonomiyaki @Micchan
    • 4. 14:15 @Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple
    • 5. 17:10 World Peace Memorial Cathedral
    • 5. 17:30 Dismissal

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were quite busy during the tour, taking care of work calls along the way. Perhaps because of that, they seemed to relax and enjoy outdoor walking on Miyajima and elsewhere. Before Hiroshima they had visited Okinawa, where they experienced the heat, so they said Hiroshima felt more comfortable by comparison. At Itsukushima Shrine, they purchased many charms and amulets as souvenirs. They expressed a wish to visit the World Peace Memorial Cathedral, so I took them there at the end of the tour. They kindly shared with me that they had just written this review: https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g298561-d16913432-r1015470091-Hiroshima_Miyajima_Full_day_Private_Tour_with_Government_Licensed_Guide-Hirosh.html This full-day private tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park~Miyajima1,100JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima240JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Hi, I’m Kahori, a nationally licensed tour guide, and delighted to show people around this area. For the past almost 10 years, I have mainly guided foreign medical professionals around Hiroshima City and Miyajima, gaining a deep understanding of the effects of radiation and the support for A-bomb survivors.
    Hiroshima is a city of rivers and the sea. Along the rivers Cherry trees line, and the calm Seto Inland Sea, dotted with islands, creates a stunning landscape. Also, the sea has many islands called “art islands” which have fantastic arts relating to the art festival “Setouchi Triennale”. In addition to our two World Heritage Sites, this area is rich in attractive resources. I hope many of you will come and experience this fascinating land. Personally, I am very passionate about modern art and enjoy sports like stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on our rivers.
    I look forward to meeting you, interacting with you, and also, learning from you!

    Oct 6, 2025
    DJ C
    We visited the atomic bomb museum, Hiroshima castle, a beautiful garden, and shrines and Torrey Gate.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima /…

    Sep 23, 2025
    lorrainel669
    Awesome Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The tour was fantastic. It covered everything…

    Jul 26, 2025
    T
    Tracy_P
    Outstanding Tour of Hiroshima with Kahori…
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our tour of…

    Jun 28, 2025
    Fernando A
    We knew the best of Hiroshima in 8 hrs
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Port & Arashiyama area

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Port & Arashiyama area

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet up @ Tempozan Ferry Terminal
    • 8:06-8:25 Osaka Port → Yodoyabashi, Osaka Metro 290 yen
    • 8:37-9:33 Yodoyabashi → Kiyomizu-Gojo, Keihan 430 yen
    • 9:50- 11:30 Sightseeing in the Kiyomizu-dera & Gion area
    • 11:55-11:58 Kyoto Kawaramachi → Shijo-Omiya, Hankyu 170 yen
    • 12:13-12:37 Omiya → Arashiyama, Randen 250 yen
    • 12:40- 14:30 Sightseeing in the Arashiyama area (Bamboo Grove Path, Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge, etc.)
    • 14:44-15:55 Arashiyama → Osaka Port, 680 yen (Hankyu 390 yen, Metro 290 yen)
    • 16:10 Disband @ Tempozan Ferry Terminal

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Arashiyama The guests were a group from North America. Upon arriving in Kyoto, one of the guests felt unwell and had to return to Osaka by taxi, an unexpected situation. After that, the rest of the group toured Kiyomizu-dera, the Gion area, and the Arashiyama area. During the planning stage beforehand, I had proposed several possible courses, but in the end we came full circle back to the original plan. There was some misunderstanding around the word "Original Plan," as the course I had envisioned differed from the one the guests had in mind, and there was a moment on the way when the person who made the booking became slightly displeased. However, with the support of the other guests, I believe everyone was ultimately satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port~Yodoyabashi290JPY
    Section 2TrainYodoyabashi~Kiyomizu-Gojo430JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto Kawaramachi~Shijo-Omiya170JPY
    Section 4TrainOmiya~Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 5TrainArashiyama~Tenjimbashisuji Rokuchome390JPY
    Section 6SubwayTenjimbashisuji Rokuchome~Osaka Port290JPY
    Total1,820JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel New Otani The Main
    • 2. 10:00 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 3. 11:45 Akihabara
    • 4.12:30 Lunch at Soba Dining Rinya
    • 5. 14:00 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Adidas Shop)
    • 6. 14:45 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, Harajuku Street)
    • 7. 16:10 Shinjuku (Odakyu boarding area, Metropolitan Government Building Observation Floor)
    • 8. 17:10 Dismissal at Shinjuku Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Akihabara and Local Food The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and it was their first time in Japan, so they had been very much looking forward to the tour. Before setting out, we had about a 20-minute discussion to confirm the itinerary and their wishes, and I guided them according to their requests. It was a hot and humid day, but we were able to complete the itinerary almost as planned, and I believe the guests were satisfied. For lunch, they had initially wanted a rice bowl dish, but while walking around the restaurant floor they decided they wanted to try soba, so we had it at a soba restaurant in Akihabara. It seemed to be their first time eating soba, and they were delighted, saying it was very delicious. Toward the later part of the day, one of the guests appeared a little tired, so it might have been better to include a few more breaks along the way.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke~Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Shibuya355JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku146JPY
    Total1,034JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @Hotel Ginza Premier
    • 2. 9:10 @Cafe Paulista (Ginza 8-chome)
    • 3. 9:40 @Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 4. 11:00 @Tsukiji Market
    • 5. 11:30 @Ginza (Kabukiza Theatre, NISSAN, Mitsukoshi Underground Food Hall, Ginza 4-chome Intersection)
    • 6. 12:15 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate, Imperial Palace Plaza)
    • 7. 13:00 Lunch @"Franz Club" (inside Shin-Marunouchi Building)
    • 8. 14:20 @Tokyo Station (Marunouchi-side Station Building, Station Plaza)
    • 9. 15:15 @Shinjuku (Kabukicho Godzilla Head, Station-front 3D Billboard)
    • 10. 16:00 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Pepper Parlor)
    • 11. 17:20 Disband @Hotel Ginza Premier

    What Can You See on an 8-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from South America. Since some of the guests did not speak English, another member of the group kindly served as an interpreter between English and Portuguese. I was only able to hear their itinerary preferences when we met on the morning of the tour. They had already visited Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, and for religious reasons they preferred to avoid visiting temples and shrines if possible. It also became clear that some of the guests were interested in the Godzilla Head, while others were interested in the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue. So, although it was an 8-hour tour, we decided to skip Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine. Since the hotel that was the starting point of the tour was very close to the famous Cafe Paulista in Ginza 8-chome, I first introduced this well-known cafe. The guests, who live in South America, were delighted. We then walked to Hamarikyu Gardens, and the guests remarked that "you can see it from the hotel window, but actually strolling through it gives a completely different impression because it is so spacious." They took many photos and enjoyed a leisurely walk. We continued from Tsukiji Market, the Kabukiza Theater, and Ginza main street to the Imperial Palace, and then walked to Tokyo Station. For lunch, I guided them to the restaurant floor of the Shin-Marunouchi Building so they could choose from many options to suit their preferences. One of the guests chose German cuisine. They enjoyed hamburger steak and ravioli, and were very satisfied, saying it was delicious. After that, famous sightseeing spots such as the Godzilla Head and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing appeared one after another right before their eyes, and the guests were greatly pleased to experience them. At the Hachiko statue, some of the guests took quick photos from the side, while others waited in the long line to take commemorative photos standing next to the statue. We headed to the entrance of Shibuya Sky with faint hope of getting same-day tickets, but unfortunately they were sold out and we could not go up. Still, the guests thanked me for taking them to so many places over the 8 hours and seemed very satisfied. We took a city bus from Shibuya to Shimbashi, enjoying the cityscape along the way, and said our goodbyes at the hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Oedo Line Shiodome Station~Tsukijishijo Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Tokyo Station~Shinjuku-sanchome Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Yamanote Line Shinjuku Station~Shibuya Station170JPY
    Section 5BusToei Bus Shibuya Station-front Stop~Shimbashi Station-front Stop210JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    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 in Half a Day: Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Pick-up at the hotel
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine, Higashi Honganji Temple
    • 11:50 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Shibuya
    • 14:00 End of the tour

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Europe. One of the guests was a great fan of the Japanese language and Japanese culture, and this trip was a long-awaited dream come true. They had arrived in Tokyo the day before, and today was their first day of sightseeing in Tokyo, with plans to stay for a few more nights. We first visited the Tsukiji Outer Market. Since it was right after breakfast, they said they wanted to spot promising shops and return another day. They were especially interested to learn that a wide variety of seafood, including salmon, comes to this market from around the world. At Namiyoke Shrine and Higashi Honganji Temple, I explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto and the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and I believe the guests enjoyed it very much. One of the guests said, "The sound of the Japanese language is wonderful," and had started studying Japanese. Many questions were asked throughout the tour. At Meiji Shrine, the guests seemed to feel the mystical atmosphere of the shrine, and they were delighted to purchase an omamori charm. Finally, I guided them to Shibuya and introduced game arcades and shops for shopping. They said they wanted to stay in Shibuya and enjoy it, so we ended the tour there.

    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
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