Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Chishakuin Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Chishakuin Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:45 Hotel Meet (@HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO)
    • 7:45-8:50 Travel (Subway: Nijojo-mae → Sanjo Keihan, Keihan Railway; Keihan Sanjo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 8:50-9:40 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 9:40-10:00 Travel (Keihan Railway; Fushimi Inari → Keihan Shichijo)
    • 10:00-10:40 Visit Sanjusangendo
    • 10:50-11:30 Visit Chishakuin Temple
    • 11:30 Tour ends. We said goodbye to the guests at Chishakuin Temple.

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour of the Higashiyama Area? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Kyoto, and the previous day they had already visited Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji, so today they planned to explore the Higashiyama area. In line with the guests' requests, I took them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, Sanjusangendo, and Chishaku-in. On the evening before the tour, an email came in requesting that the tour start time be moved up. As a result, we decided to change the start time from 8:30 to 7:45. When we arrived at Fushimi Inari before 9:00, it was already crowded with many tourists (I think partly because it was the weekend). The last place I took them, Chishaku-in, had few crowds, and they were able to enjoy the garden at a leisurely pace. The guests said that the garden at Chishaku-in was their favorite of all.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNijojo-mae~Sanjo (Kyoto)220JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo (Kyoto)~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari~Keihan Shichijo180JPY
    Total640JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani Station & Tonosawa

    Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani Station & Tonosawa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Kinnotake Tonosawa
    • 9:10 Departure from Hotel
    • (MiniVan)
    • Arrival at Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 9:30 Arrival at Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Observatory
    • Owakudani Black Egg House
    • 10:30 Departure from Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 10:50 Arrival at Togendai Station
    • 11:25 Departure from Togendai Port
    • (Hakone Pirate Ship)
    • 11:50 Arrival at Hakonemachi Port
    • 11:55 Departure from Hakonemachi Port
    • (MiniVan)
    • 12:00 Hakone Checkpoint Ruins
    • Hakonemachi Hakone Checkpoint Ruins
    • Yosegi Zaiku / Maruyama Bussan
    • 12:40 Departure from Hakonemachi
    • (MiniVan)
    • 13:00 Motohakone Port Bus Stop
    • Motohakone Hakone Shrine
    • Lunch: Fukao Soba
    • Convenience Store
    • 14:00 Departure from Motohakone
    • (MiniVan)
    • Arrival at Amazake Chaya
    • Rest  Amazake Chaya
    • 14:30 Departure from Amazake Chaya
    • (MiniVan)
    • 15:00 Arrival at Tonosawa
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Kinnotake Tonosawa

    What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a 14-day trip to Japan. They stayed in Tokyo, then traveled to Hokkaido (as they wanted to visit the Sapporo Beer Garden), followed by Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, arriving in Hakone the previous night. They said that despite a typhoon, they had managed to arrive with only a slight delay. Today they would stay one more night, and the following morning they planned to travel from Odawara to Tokyo before returning home together. This trip to Japan was a celebration. They said, "We really wanted to see Mount Fuji from Hakone," and "We wanted to try soaking in an onsen." It was cloudy, so we were unable to view Mount Fuji. First, we took a minivan to Sounzan. From there we took the ropeway to Owakudani. I explained "how Hakone was formed" and "the overview and history of Owakudani." There were questions such as "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it ever erupted?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano? When did it erupt?" They purchased and tried the "black eggs," commenting, "The smell of sulfur is incredible." We then took the ropeway to Togendai and boarded the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise. I explained "the history and current state of Lake Ashi." It was a little chilly, but we went up to the top observation deck. They said, "It's a beautiful lake and feels wonderful." There was also a question, "What kinds of fish live here?" We arrived at Hakonemachi Port. By minivan, we went to the Hakone Checkpoint ruins. I explained "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the five highways of the Edo period," and "the meaning of the checkpoints." There was a question, "Is it the same as airport immigration?" After that, we visited a shop specializing in "yosegi marquetry" and watched a demonstration. They purchased a "yosegi marquetry tray" as a souvenir. By minivan, we went to Moto-Hakone and Hakone Shrine. I explained "the history of Hakone Shrine." We visited the main hall, and I explained the method of worship. At the torii gate over the lake, the line happened to be short, so after a short wait, the whole group took a commemorative photo together. We returned to Moto-Hakone Port and had lunch at a soba restaurant. They enjoyed dishes such as the "wakasagi set meal" and "curry soba." They also said, "There's nothing sold at the shop in the Hotel," so they bought a large amount of snacks and drinks at a nearby convenience store. We went to the Amazake Chaya. They sampled "amazake," saying, "It has an interesting flavor." We also strolled a little along the nearby old highway. They said, "We couldn't see Mount Fuji, but there's a beautiful lake and it's a wonderful place." They also commented, "Everywhere in Japan the towns are clean. There's no litter on the ground," and "Everyone is polite." I saw them off to the Hotel, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherSounzan~Togendai2,000JPY
    Section 2OtherTogendai Port~Hakonemachi Port1,700JPY
    Total3,700JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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

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

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

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

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Shimizu Port Hinode Wharf  On foot
    • Shin-Shimizu Station 9:00—Shizutetsu—Shin-Shizuoka 9:17— On foot—Sumpu Castle Park 9:25-10:20— On foot—Shizuoka Station (Purchase TOICA)—Bus 10:45—Hotel Lunch 11:30-13:00 —On foot— Nihondaira Ropeway 13:20— Kunozan Toshogu Shrine 13:25〜14:25—Nihondaira Ropeway 14:40—Taxi 15:00 (10 min wait)— Shimizu Port 15:30 Cruise ship

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Shizuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sunpu Castle, Kunozan Toshogu, and Nihondaira The guests seemed to have a wonderful time, and I enjoyed the day as well. They had chosen the sushi at the Nihondaira Hotel, but it turned out to be somewhat unexpected for them, so perhaps I should have explained it in more detail. It seemed they had anticipated a lunch that would take less time. I believe they enjoyed everything we visited: Sunpu Castle Park, the Momijiyama Garden and the archaeological excavation site, the garden of the Nihondaira Hotel, the Nihondaira Ropeway, and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. I heard that their trip to Kyoto had been cut due to a typhoon. They apparently travel often by cruise, so they may come to Kyoto next time. In June, it was wonderful that Mount Fuji was visible.

    I am relatively a novice guide but probably I am interested in quite a range of cultural and historical aspects of Japanese pursuits. After living in Tokyo for more than 20 years followed by seven year life in Britain, I have lived more than twenty years in Shizuoka and I now appreciate life in this mild, gentle and resourceful Shizuoka. I believe these will help me to talk about Shizuoka and Japan. My tea master is a distinguished man of learning and taste; the Kyonui (Japanese embroidery) master with whom I learn needlework is an extraordinary person. My academic field is eighteenth-century Britain. And I am involved in some projects that are supported by Shizuoka University and local entrepreneurs.

    Jun 5, 2026
    Voyage28079731367
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Mika: an excellent guide in Shimizu
    We had a…

    Sep 6, 2025
    Amee_H
    Mt Fuji
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great opportunity to see such a beautiful…

    Aug 7, 2025
    Scott_D
    Perfect Day with Expert & Generous Tour Guide in Shimizu
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Koenshimo Station & Gora Station

    Kanagawa in One Day: Koenshimo Station & Gora Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting place: Ajisai Onsen Ryokan
    • 10:45 Depart Koenshimo Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Cable Car)
    • Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 11:00 Arrive Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Observation Deck
    • Owakudani Black Egg Hall
    • 11:30 Depart Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 11:45 Arrive Togendai Station
    • 12:00 Depart Togendai Port
    • (Hakone Sightseeing Cruise)
    • 12:40 Arrive Motohakone Port
    • Motohakone Lunch: Bakery & Table
    • Hakone Shrine
    • 13:40 Depart Motohakone Port Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • Kowakudani Bus Stop
    • Kowakudani Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 14:15 Arrive Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • The Hakone Open-Air Museum The Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 16:15 Depart Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 16:30 Arrive Gora Station
    • 16:30 Disband: Gora Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Hakone from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania, who run a farm back home. Their trip to Japan lasted fourteen days. After spending time in Tokyo, they moved on to Hakone this morning. They planned to stay one night in Hakone, then travel via Odawara to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, before returning to Tokyo and flying home. They said, "We really wanted to see Mount Fuji from Hakone," and "We wanted to visit somewhere a little quieter than Tokyo." Although it was cloudy, we were able to enjoy a beautiful view of Mount Fuji. First, we took the ropeway to Owakudani. I explained "the formation of Hakone" and "an overview and history of Owakudani." There were questions such as "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it ever erupted?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano? When did it last erupt?" Everyone bought and tried the "black eggs," commenting, "The smell of sulfur is incredible." We then continued by ropeway to Togendai Port and boarded the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise. I explained "the history and current state of Lake Ashi." It was a little chilly, but we went up to the top observation deck. They remarked, "It's a beautiful lake and it feels wonderful." There were also questions such as "Can you swim in it?" "What kind of fish are there?" and "Does it freeze in winter?" We arrived at Motohakone Port and had a light lunch. After that, we walked to Hakone Shrine. I explained "the history of Hakone Shrine." We visited the main hall and I explained how to worship. The torii gate on the lake had a long line of people waiting to take photos, so we took pictures from the side. There was a question: "Why do so many people line up just to take a photo?" Next, we went to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. I explained "the origins and current state of the Open-Air Museum." Since one of the guests enjoyed art, they viewed the sculptures with great interest. At the shop, they purchased "postcards" as souvenirs. They also commented, "Everywhere in Japan, the towns are so clean. There's no litter on the ground," and "Everyone is so polite." I saw them off at Gora Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone Free Pass~Hakone Free Pass6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet up the b ginza
    • 2. 11:45 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
    • 3. 12:45 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing・Hachiko Statue)
    • 4. 13:30 Harajuku (Takeshita Street)
    • 5. 13:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 15:00 Disband Forest Terrace Meiji Shrine

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine The guests were visitors from Europe. They had arrived in Japan the day before, and after Tokyo they planned to board a 12-day cruise to travel around various parts of Japan. This was their first visit to Japan. I guided them to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck, Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine. Harajuku had not originally been part of the plan, but since we had some extra time, we added it to the route. They listened attentively to my explanations and took photos at each spot, appearing to enjoy themselves. At Meiji Shrine, since it was the season for Japanese irises, we also stopped by the Inner Garden. After the tour, they expressed a wish to have lunch in a calm setting, so I guided them to "Restaurant Yoyogi" at the relatively quiet Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Tochomae320JPY
    Section 2SubwayTochomae~Shibuya340JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Total840JPY

    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…

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Shimizu Port→Private taxi→9:30 Mount Fuji World Heritage Center→10:15 Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine→11:20 Tea tasting→13:10 Sunpu Castle→14:40 Kunozan Toshogu Shrine→16:15 Farewell at Shimizu Port

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour from Shimizu Port to Mount Fuji and Shizuoka? A Licensed Guide's Report After meeting at Shimizu Port at 8:30 in the morning, we first headed to the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre in Fujinomiya and Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine. Mount Fuji showed its face in the morning, making for reasonably fair weather. We also visited a tea house called Tokiwaen, which had not been part of the original plan, and enjoyed a tasting of matcha and green tea. After that, we headed to Sunpu Castle. At the Tatsumi Yagura turret, the guests attentively viewed the exhibits inside, showing particular interest in the roof tiles and the structure of the building. At Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, they were out of breath from the many steps, but paused at the national treasure main hall and reflected on the era of Tokugawa Ieyasu. I believe the guests were satisfied with this tour centered on Mount Fuji and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

    My name is Kazunori Honma, I live in Odawara city near Hakone facing Pacific Ocean, so I am familiar with Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. In particular, nature, history, culture and food in the region are my specialty. I know a lot of Shinto shrines, temples, and hiking trails. Plus, I love art, so I am able to guide you to a wide variety of art museums in Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. If you are an art lover, you will be able to spend a fulfilling time with me.
    I thoroughly make preparations for your interests and needs to satisfy you with all my effort in advance. I’m sure you will definitely be happy with spending a day with me.

    Jun 4, 2026
    Companion12422328239
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Great views of Mt Fuji and local tea
    We had…

    May 28, 2026
    kam_g
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    The guide was very nice…
    The guide was very…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Brandon2116
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Personalized Tokyo Experience
    Booking a private tour with Kaz was the perfect…

    Mar 29, 2026
    Stacy_A
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thanks, Kaz! We recommend this tour.
    Great experience – it was…

  • Tokyo: Otemachi/Hotel & Shibuya

    Tokyo: Otemachi/Hotel & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo
    • 10:10 Depart Otemachi/Hotel
    • (Minivan)
    • 10:50 Arrive Setagaya Ward
    • Setagaya Gotokuji Temple
    • 11:30 Depart Setagaya Ward
    • (Minivan)
    • 12:15 Arrive Nezu
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 12:45 Depart Nezu
    • (Minivan)
    • 13:00 Arrive Yanaka
    • Yanaka Yanaka Ginza
    • 13:30 Depart Yanaka
    • (Minivan)
    • 14:00 Arrive Harajuku
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 14:45 Depart Harajuku
    • (Minivan)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:30 Depart Shibuya
    • (Minivan)
    • 16:00 Arrive Otemachi
    • 16:00 Disband: Hotel Tokyo

    What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gotokuji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors coming to Japan, together with a member of the group currently studying at a university in North America. It was the first visit to Japan for all of them. They arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening and took a taxi to their hotel. This trip was a 12-day visit to Japan. They would stay in Tokyo, then travel to Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. Today, they wished to see the famous sights of Tokyo at a glance. It was a tour under clear skies, warm enough to feel hot at times. First, at the guests' request, we visited Gotokuji Temple. I explained the history of Gotokuji Temple, the origin of the maneki-neko (beckoning cat), and related topics. I also explained the history of Edo and Tokyo, and about the Edo shogunate. The guests said they both love cats, so they purchased maneki-neko figurines, wrote names on them, and dedicated them. From here, we moved east to Nezu Shrine. At Nezu Shrine, we passed through the torii gates of the Inari shrine and paid our respects. We came across a family celebrating Shichi-Go-San, and with their permission, took photographs. I explained what Shinto is and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We moved to Nippori. I explained the history and current state of the Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi areas. However, Yanaka Ginza was extremely crowded with international tourists. The guests commented, "Compared to other parts of Tokyo, this is quiet and calm; this is the kind of place we wanted to visit." We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. Once again I explained about Shinto, torii gates, Emperor Meiji, why sake barrels are displayed, why wine barrels are displayed, and related topics. There were questions such as, "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" A wedding ceremony was taking place, and we photographed the procession. We took a short break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. We also strolled along Takeshita Street. The guests were bewildered by the sheer crowds. We moved to Shibuya, which was extremely crowded. Afterward, we looked at Scramble Square and walked across the crossing. There were questions such as, "Why are so many people gathered here?", "About how many people cross at once?", and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photographs in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as, "Tokyo's streets are clean and there is no litter," "Many people are well dressed," and "There are no trash bins on the streets. Why is that?" Finally, I saw them off at the entrance of their hotel, and we parted ways.

    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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  • Kyoto: Hotel by taxi & Shinpuhkan. Travel by taxi

    Kyoto: Hotel by taxi & Shinpuhkan. Travel by taxi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Meet the guests at the hotel.
    • 8:00 Depart from Hotel by taxi
    • 9:50 Nanzen-ji Temple. Take the bus from Kiyomizu-michi to Higashiyama-Sanjo, then use the subway from Higashiyama to Keage
    • 11:20 Nijo Castle. Subway from Keage to Nijojo-mae
    • 12:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple. Travel by taxi
    • 13:30 Shinpuhkan. Travel by taxi
    • After enjoying flower ice cream at the ice cream shop Shizen, travel to the hotel by taxi.
    • 14:00 Tour ends at the hotel.

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu, Kinkaku-ji, and More The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour was originally scheduled for June 3, but it had been postponed to June 5 due to a typhoon. However, since the guests had visited Fushimi Inari on their own on June 3, they requested through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) whether the tour could be shortened and partially refunded. As this request could not be accommodated under the cancellation policy, I approached the tour with even greater care to ensure the guests' satisfaction. First thing in the morning, we used a taxi to visit Kiyomizu, which the guests greatly enjoyed, and they were delighted with the several photos taken at the photo spots. We were also able to visit a coffee shop they had requested themselves, which pleased them. After that, we used public transportation to save time and visited Nanzen-ji, Nijo Castle, and Kinkaku-ji. Since there was some time left at the end, I suggested visiting Ryoan-ji, but they seemed quite tired from all the walking, so they expressed a wish to stop by an ice cream shop and then return to the Hotel. For the final ice cream stop, we were able to visit the flower ice cream shop at Shinpuh-kan, one of the most popular spots in Kyoto, where some of the guests thoroughly enjoyed the ice cream and were very pleased. From there we returned to the Hotel and said goodbye. When I gave them an origami crane at parting, they seemed truly moved by it, and I believe it made for a wonderful memory. Overall, despite the request for a shortened tour and refund due to the guests' own circumstances, I am confident that the tour was completed with a very high level of satisfaction and no complaints.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKiyomizu-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama-Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2SubwayHigashiyama (Kyoto)~Keage220JPY
    Section 3SubwayKeage/Keihan Bus~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Total710JPY

    Hello. I have a very friendly and fun personality. I can provide you with a tour that will create unforgettable memories. Let’s explore the real Japan together!
    I am very knowledgeable about Japanese restaurants and bars, and I can also provide information on sports events, cultural experiences, shopping, and more. In addition, I can guide you on a tour of various cities throughout Japan. I can also arrange visits to amusement parks such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, historical sites such as shrines and temples, and cultural experiences such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, historical sites such as shrines and temples, and cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies and karate.

    Jul 16, 2026
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:50 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 10:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:40 Imperial Palace
    • 12:40 Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Sushi (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:50 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:40 Akihabara
    • 15:15 Disband @ Akihabara Station

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their first time in Japan. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya, as well as by the beautiful Japanese irises in the Meiji Shrine Inner Garden. 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 Temple, they were intrigued by explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, and about the Kaminarimon Gate. In Akihabara, they showed interest in the anime shops. Since they had booked a chopstick-making workshop near Akihabara starting at 4:00 p.m., we parted ways in Akihabara. As I responded exactly according to the guests' wishes, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAzabujuban~Meguro180JPY
    Section 2TrainMeguro~Shibuya200JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo~Ueno200JPY
    Section 6SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 7SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total1,310JPY

    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
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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:00 Meet up @Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
    • 2.9:45 @Meiji Shrine (including the Imperial Garden)
    • 3.11:20 @Shibuya PARCO (Pokémon Center, etc.) + Lunch (Kanazawa Maimon Sushi)
    • 4.12:45 @Shibuya (Mega Don Quijote, Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 5.13:40 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 6.14:20 From the car window @Tokyo Station Marunouchi side
    • 7.14:30 From the car window @Ginza (Ginza Main Street, 4-chome Intersection, WAKO, Kabukiza Theatre) + Tsukiji Market Monzeki Street
    • 8.14:40 @Zojoji Temple
    • 9.15:00 @Tokyo Tower
    • 10.15:15 Dismissal @Tokyo Tower Main Deck

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Tokyo Tower I guided a group visiting from Europe, for whom this was their first trip to Japan. One of the guests had a family member who had once visited Japan and always spoke of it as a wonderful place, which inspired the group's long-held wish to come. After a few days of sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to board a cruise ship and travel around various parts of Japan. At Meiji Shrine, the group was deeply moved by the Japanese irises in full bloom at the inner garden and had the chance to touch the water at the Kiyomasa Well. After paying their respects, at the request of one of the guests who always looks forward to visiting souvenir shops when traveling, I guided them to the shop within the shrine grounds, where everyone enjoyed shopping. On the day itself, I also learned that the group was interested in the Pokémon Center, so in Shibuya we first visited PARCO. To let them shop with ease, I set aside about 20 minutes of free time for them to browse the shops on the 6th floor. Meanwhile, I looked for a place where they could enjoy the sushi lunch they had requested, and found a sushi restaurant one floor up where the whole group could be seated together at a table, so I guided them there after their shopping. They ordered their favorite items à la carte, such as tuna and salmon, and enjoyed the meal very much. The whole group actively practiced using chopsticks, but when I explained that nigiri sushi may be eaten by hand, and that this is in fact considered one of the more refined ways to enjoy it, some of the guests, eager to dig in, happily ate with their hands as well. After lunch, at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, I helped photograph the whole group crossing together, which delighted them greatly. At Zojoji Temple, I explained the purification ritual at the water pavilion using a ladle, and everyone tried it while recording the moment on video. The tour was originally scheduled to end at the entrance of Tokyo Tower, but since the reception point for the Top Deck Tour, which the guests planned to join on their own, seemed a little difficult to find, I accompanied them up to the Main Deck. After introducing the 360-degree view of Tokyo from the observation deck, I said goodbye at the meeting point for the Top Deck Tour.

    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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