Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome (1-6-3 Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:20 Tsukiji Market
    • 3) 11:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 4) 12:30 East Gardens
    • 5) 13:30 Asakusa <Sensoji Temple / Nakamise Shopping Street>
    • 6) 14:00 Disband @ Sensoji Temple grounds (2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)

    What Does a Private Guided Tour of Tokyo and Asakusa Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests, who came from Europe. In their advance message they said they wanted to see the main highlights, so at the meeting point I reconfirmed the itinerary and started the tour. In addition to Tokyo, the guests planned to enjoy driving tours and hiking in Nikko and Hakone, then travel by shinkansen to the Kansai region (Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara) for a four-day stay, before continuing directly to Niseko in Hokkaido for more driving tours and plenty of hiking. They seem to travel all over the world on every holiday, and being fond of hiking, they were light on their feet, which meant we were able to cover all of the planned locations. Along the way I shared recommendations for Nikko, Kamakura, and the Kansai region. After visiting Sensoji Temple, they wanted to relax at a restaurant, so I recommended Hanayashiki-dori, and we parted ways with smiles within the grounds of Sensoji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToei Subway Oedo Line Shiodome Station~Toei Subway Oedo Line Tsukiji-shijo Station180JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station600JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Otemachi Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total780JPY

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Yamanashi: Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Kawaguchiko

    Yamanashi: Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Kawaguchiko

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Mifujien
    • 10:05 By taxi to Kawaguchiko Station
    • 10:35 By Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Motosuko Resort
    • 11:15 Fuji Shibazakura Festival tour @ Fuji Motosuko Resort
    • 13:00 By Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Kawaguchiko
    • 13:45 By Fujikko-go to Oshino Hakkai
    • 14:14 @ Oshino Hakkai walk (Hannoki Museum, lunch)
    • 15:37 By Fujikko-go to Kawaguchiko Station
    • 16:12 Disband @ Kawaguchiko Station

    Title: Can You Do a Private Fuji Day Trip to See the Shibazakura Festival? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had done thorough research and had emailed me a list of places they wished to visit, so we were able to clarify our priorities before setting out and decide on the itinerary smoothly. Since they were very keen to see the Shibazakura Festival, I confirmed with them that a somewhat distant destination would be acceptable, and then took them to Fuji Motosuko Resort. They were deeply moved by the sight of the fields of shibazakura in full bloom with Mount Fuji in the background. As time allowed for only about one more stop, I guided them to Oshino Hakkai, which is difficult to visit on one's own. At the Hannoki Museum, they seemed very interested in seeing the structure of a traditional Japanese farmhouse and its exhibits. In Oshino, I treated them to the local specialty kusamochi and gave them a pair of chopsticks as a souvenir, which delighted them greatly. The weather was fine and Mount Fuji was clearly visible, so overall I believe the guests were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaguchiko Station~Fuji Motosuko Resort1,470JPY
    Section 2BusFuji Motosuko Resort~Kawaguchiko Station1,470JPY
    Section 3BusKawaguchiko Station~Oshino Hakkai620JPY
    Section 4BusOshino Hakkai~Kawaguchiko Station620JPY
    Total4,180JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

    Jul 11, 2026
    912courtneyp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great family guide
    May was a great tour guide.…

    Jun 27, 2026
    LPMarchica
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 Recommend
    We had an incredible time exploring Tokyo with our guide,…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Alisha_W
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    May was an enthusiastic…
    May was an enthusiastic and well informed guide.…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel New Otani Garden Tower
    • 2. 9:45 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3. 11:45 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 4. 12:45 Lunch at Marugoto Vegan Dining Asakusa
    • 5. 13:45 Ginza (Sony Store Ginza)
    • 6. 15:00 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 7. 16:30 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 8. 17:00 Disband at Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Jingu, Ginza, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from Europe who expressed an interest in Japanese culture and history. Based on their interests in flowers and machinery, I guided them to the Inner Garden of Meiji Jingu Shrine and the Sony Store in Ginza. When we met, they mentioned their dietary preferences, so for lunch I took them to a vegan dining restaurant in Asakusa, and they were very pleased. Although we walked quite a distance in the hot and humid weather, the guests did not seem tired, and we completed the tour as scheduled.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke~Shimbashi900JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ginza0JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya~Akasaka-mitsuke0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Shitennoji & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Osaka in One Day: Shitennoji & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30-10:00 Hotel to Kuromon Market
    • 10:20-12:00 Shitennoji
    • 12:20-15:00 Osaka Castle
    • 15:30-16:20 Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • Around 16:45 Return to hotel

    Title: What's a Family Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I enjoyed a fun tour with the group, visiting Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. I discovered that these places can be especially enjoyable when touring with the guests. The group loved animals, and while eating on a bench at Osaka Castle, we noticed pigeons and sparrows gathering around, hoping for scraps. At Shitennoji Temple and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, the guests were delighted by the turtles in the ponds. With great curiosity, they found a pump at Shitennoji Temple and drew up groundwater themselves, so I was able to explain that this temple still has an abundant supply of groundwater without having to demonstrate it myself. Since it was hot, we used an electric car on the way to and from Osaka Castle, and we took breaks to buy drinks and ice cream at a convenience store. Everything went according to plan up to Osaka Castle, but afterward we took some extra time, and by the time we returned from Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and dropped everyone off at the Hotel, it was nearly 5 o'clock. At Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, several portable shrines were on display, and it was wonderful to see people practicing how to carry them. Everyone in the group stayed energetic and enjoyed sightseeing in Osaka despite the heat.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNipponbashi~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 2SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Tennoji240JPY
    Section 4TrainTennoji Station~Sumiyoshitorii-mae240JPY
    Section 5TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba240JPY
    Section 6OtherOsaka Castle Park~Osaka Castle Park600JPY
    Total1,700JPY

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet at Miyajimaguchi Port
    • 11:50 Miyajima
    • 12:30 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 13:50 Daishoin Temple
    • 15:30 Miyajima Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima Tour of Itsukushima Shrine and Daishoin Temple Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Tour Report Date of tour: June 2025 Places visited: Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple Guests: The group Weather: Cloudy, later rain Experiences: Itsukushima Shrine — worship etiquette : Daishoin Temple — kaidan-meguri (walk through the dark underground passage) : Maple Road — strolling Details: The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since I had been informed that the meeting point would be in front of the ticket gate at Miyajimaguchi Port, and considering the Sunday crowds, I welcomed the guests holding a Carp flag as a marker. Thanks to the group's lively presence, the tour had a very cheerful and bright atmosphere throughout. In addition to explanations about religion and history, I was able to guide them in a relaxed mood the whole time, weaving in humor and anecdotes. The guests also kindly requested, "Please have lunch with us," and for the first time in a while I shared a table with the guests I was guiding. Enjoying the conversation over lunch became a heartwarming moment for me as well.

    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 One Day: Asakusa & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinjuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Meet up @Conrad
    • 10:20 Asakusa stroll
    • 11:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:15 Lunch @Kyushu Jangara Harajuku branch
    • 13:45 Meiji Shrine: Inner Garden, Main Hall
    • 14:30 Takeshita Street
    • 15:15 Shinjuku (3D cat billboard, Kabukicho – Godzilla Head, Omoide Yokocho)
    • 16:15 Disband @Conrad

    What Is a Private Meiji Shrine and Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to stay for a period of time. They were already in the lobby ten minutes before our meeting time, full of enthusiasm. Before coming to Japan, one of the guests had studied Japanese history and understood my explanations with ease, which was truly rewarding as a guide. They seemed to have studied especially the period from the arrival of Commodore Perry to the Meiji Restoration. We had planned to visit Shinjuku Gyoen, but based on reflections from the previous day, we changed our destination to the Meiji Shrine Inner Garden, which has many trees. This turned out to be an excellent choice. As two herons flew over the South Pond where water lilies were blooming, I made a play on the West Virginia in John Denver's song and said, "Almost heaven, Meiji Shrine," which delighted them. I also gave advice on how to spend their remaining four days in Tokyo, recommending Hamarikyu Gardens and Tsukiji Market, both within walking distance of the hotel, as well as Shibuya Sky, teamLab, a return visit to Shinjuku at night, and a day trip to Kamakura. By the way, I feel that Takeshita Street has become less interesting lately due to the large number of inbound visitors — I wonder what other guides think about this?

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Shimbashi~Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza Line Asakusa~Tozai Line Otemachi178JPY
    Section 3SubwayChiyoda Line Otemachi~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Harajuku~JR Shinjuku146JPY
    Section 5SubwayOedo Line Shinjuku-nishiguchi~Oedo Line Shiodome272JPY
    Total1,025JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Koko-en Garden & Egret Himeji Rooftop

    Hyogo in One Day: Koko-en Garden & Egret Himeji Rooftop

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:45 @ Mt. Shosha, Engyoji Temple
    • 14:00 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 14:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 16:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 16:45 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Shosha Ropeway Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and both preferred to take things at a slow pace, so we moved at a relaxed speed throughout the day. One of the guests had a strong interest in Japan and had studied the Japanese language quite a lot before visiting. At the first stop, the waiting area of the Mount Shosha ropeway, I introduced the autographs of the two lead actors of the film "The Last Samurai," Tom Cruise and Ken Watanabe, which are displayed there, and the guests were delighted. They also viewed Koko-en Garden and Himeji Castle with great interest. When I presented one of the guests with a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, they were very grateful. In Himeji City, today and tomorrow marked the annual "Yukata Festival," and just as the tour was ending, the city center became very crowded. (Those wearing a yukata could enter spots such as Himeji Castle for free, and enjoy special discounts at restaurants and shops.) Since the guests planned to return to Kyoto after the tour and wanted to have a light meal beforehand, we wrapped up about 15 minutes early.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHimeji Station~Mt. Shosha Ropeway1,700JPY
    Total1,700JPY

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Kyoto: Shugakuin Imperial Villa & Tofukuji Temple

    Kyoto: Shugakuin Imperial Villa & Tofukuji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:40 Meet Shugakuin Imperial Villa
    • 10:00 to 11:20 Shugakuin Imperial Villa (Guests sightsee with audio guide. I wait outside)
    • 11:45 to 12:30 Ginkakuji Temple
    • 12:45 to 13:30 Nanzenji Temple
    • 13:50 to 14:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 15:00 to 15:40 Tofukuji Temple
    • 15:40 Dismiss Tofukuji Temple

    What Is a Private Kyoto Garden and Zen Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visitors from North America who love Japanese gardens. They toured three beautiful Zen temples with gardens in the Higashiyama district, as well as an imperial palace and a detached palace known for their beautiful Japanese gardens. Due to recent continuous sunny weather, the moss was a little dry, but they still greatly enjoyed the beautiful moss. Regarding communication, no reply came back even after sending to the designated email address, and the guests were not registered on any messaging app, so all communication with the guests was handled through the venue and messages.

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:30 Meet @ Tempozan Terminal
    • 14:05-15:30 @ Osaka Castle
    • 16:20- 16:55 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 17:10-17:20 @ Harukas Garden
    • 17:45-18:00 @ Dotonbori

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like for Cruise Ship Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who arrived in Osaka by cruise ship on the morning of the tour. Despite the intense midsummer heat, they walked around energetically without any trouble, which was reassuring. They were all amazed by how hot the "takoyaki" was when they tried it along the way. Some of the guests were interested in ukiyo-e woodblock prints, and they had also booked a "sushi-making class" near Dotonbori for the next day. They were a charming group with delightful, endearing sides that differed from their first impression, and it was a pleasure to guide them.

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Akihabara & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Akihabara & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:30 Akihabara
    • 11:30 Tsukiji Market – Sushi Lunch
    • 13:30 Ginza
    • 14:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00 Disband @ Meiji Shrine Forest Cafe

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour of Akihabara, Tsukiji, Ginza, and Meiji Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since they had already visited Asakusa the previous day, we started at Akihabara. They did not seem particularly interested in anime or games, but they were surprised to see people lining up in front of shops before they opened. At Tsukiji, they enjoyed sushi at the counter, and they found Japanese beer delicious, ordering several refills. After lunch, they also enjoyed street food such as wagyu skewers and strawberry daifuku. They said they would like to return to Tsukiji again. Afterward, we stopped by Ginza and then went to Meiji Shrine. After walking around, we said goodbye at a cafe.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi~Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji~Ginza178JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza~Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Total712JPY

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…