Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Meet
    • 8:30-9:00 Travel (chartered car; Hotel→Gojozaka)
    • 9:00-10:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple (including Yasaka Pagoda and Koshin-do) visit
    • 10:30-10:50 Travel (chartered car; Yasaka Pagoda→Sanjusangen-do)
    • 10:50-11:30 Sanjusangen-do visit
    • 11:30-11:40 Travel (chartered car; Sanjusangen-do→Restaurant/Sato)
    • 11:40-12:30 Lunch (@Sato)
    • 12:30-12:50 Travel (chartered car; Sato→Fushimi Inari)
    • 12:50-13:40 Fushimi Inari visit
    • 13:40-14:20 Travel (chartered car; Fushimi Inari→Hotel)
    • 14:20 Farewell in front of the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. It was their first time in Kyoto. During the tour, the guests asked many questions about Japanese history (such as the background of the capital's move to Tokyo, the background of the move to the Heian capital, and the history of the spread of Christianity) as well as about the buildings at the places we visited. It is rare to have guests who ask so many questions. I took the group to Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. Each of them enjoyed a different place: one liked Sanjusangendo, another liked Kiyomizu-dera, and another liked Fushimi Inari. The weather was good, the sites were not too crowded, and the roads were clear, so the tour went smoothly. On the way back, since we had a little extra time, we passed by Nintendo and the five-story pagoda before returning to the Hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHotel(The Tousand Kyoto)~Gojozaka0JPY
    Section 2OtherYasaka Pagoda~Sanjusangen-do0JPY
    Section 3OtherSanjusangen-do~Restaurant(Sato)0JPY
    Section 4OtherRestaurant(Sato)~Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine0JPY
    Section 5OtherFushimi Inari Taisha Shrine~Hotel(The Thousand Kyoto)0JPY
    Total0JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Shimogamo Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Shimogamo Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet up @ The Blossom Kyoto
    • 12:15~ Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:30~ Visit Ginkakuji Temple
    • 14:30~ Stroll around the Philosopher's Path (Visit Honen-in, Shinnyo-do, Konkaikomyoji Temple)
    • 16:00~ Visit Shimogamo Shrine
    • 17:00 Disband @ Subway Karasuma Oike Station

    What Does a Private Walking Tour of Northwest Kyoto Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. After passing through Tokyo and Hakone, they arrived in Kyoto yesterday and are staying until the middle of the month. Since they are planning a tour toward Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji tomorrow, today we chose the northwest area of Kyoto starting from Ginkaku-ji. However, because our start time was rather late, we visited the Imperial Palace first, which is usually left for the end (as the Imperial Palace has time restrictions for entry). Both of the guests were very interested in Japanese history and had a fair amount of knowledge, so throughout the tour there was a steady stream of questions one after another. Answering them was actually more demanding than explaining the temples and shrines we visited, but we were able to talk about many things, and it was a fascinating tour. That said, today was a hot summer day with strong sunshine, making it a very warm day. Overall, the guests seemed very happy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan Demachiyanagi~Sanjo170JPY
    Total170JPY

    My name is Shoji and I’m a tour guide in Kyoto, an ancient capital of Japan for more than one thousand years until the mid 19th century.
    I have been doing this work since 2019 covering not only Kyoto but also its surrounding areas like Nara , Osaka and Shiga.
    I am very much interested in Japanese history, culture and traditional arts.
    Kyoto and the Kansai region are rich with many heritage sites of historical and cultural features.
    I am sure that I can provide the guests with good insight and help them appreciate the charms of our wonderful city.

    May 23, 2026
    Amber_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great walking tour in Kyoto!
    Shoji was a great guide around Kyoto.…

    Jun 25, 2025
    Safari35155142765
    Peaceful and perfect temple guided tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Brilliant private guided tour of Kyoto…

    Jun 22, 2025
    Global136391
    Shoji Ogawa Made Kyoto Come Alive!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    If you’re ever in Kyoto, you…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Amy_R
    Wonderful Nara tour
    Viator review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Kyoto Departure)
    We had such a wonderful…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet up @Hotel Levant Tokyo
    • 2.10:40 @Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 3.12:00 @Tsukiji
    • 4.12:30 Lunch @Kobe Beef Dia Tsukiji Branch
    • 5.14:10 @Akihabara
    • 6.15:30 @Asakusa
    • 7.16:00 Disband @Hotel Levant Tokyo

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, Akihabara, and Asakusa The guests were a close-knit group visiting Japan. Some of the group are involved with music. One of the guests is studying Japanese at school. Although it was raining, they did not mind, and we first went to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. After visiting various remaining structures of Edo Castle, we found the Ninomaru Garden with its irises in full bloom, which delighted the guests very much. Afterward we went to Tsukiji Market. They mentioned they did not particularly care for seafood, but they enjoyed a wagyu beef lunch and said it was very delicious. They also tried strawberry daifuku and various other kinds of daifuku. In Akihabara we visited places such as the Radio Kaikan, and in Asakusa, since it was raining, we walked through the covered Shin-Nakamise shopping arcade and visited Senso-ji Temple. One of the guests especially loves animals and was happy to see the dog cafés and cat cafés. The group may join a tour again the next day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKinshicho~Otemachi209JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi~Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi~Akihabara178JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Kinshicho286JPY
    Total1,061JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Osaka in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Osaka in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Osaka Premiere
    • 10:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk〜Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • 11:45 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:50 Lunch at Nishio Yatsuhashi no Sato
    • 14:00 Nijo Castle
    • 15:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 17:00 Disband at Gion Tatsumi Bridge

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from North America. They love Japan, and they had come to travel around various parts of the country by rental car. They had already visited Yamaguchi and Kurashiki, and were planning to drive to Osaka, Mount Fuji, and Tokyo as well. Everywhere was relatively uncrowded today, so it was nice to be able to see things at a leisurely pace. In Arashiyama, they enjoyed shopping for souvenirs. They were also delighted that the lunch spot had a very Japanese atmosphere. Before heading to Fushimi Inari Taisha, we passed in front of the Nintendo headquarters, which they liked, and they were happy to be able to take photos there. Our time ended in Gion, where we parted ways, and they were pleased, saying it had been a wonderful memory.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Kuromon Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:00-11:30 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there
    • 11:50-12:30 Kuromon Market
    • 12:30-12:55 Doguyasuji to hotel
    • 12:55 End of the tour

    What Is a Private Osaka Castle and Dotonbori Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group of guests for a private tour that had been booked in advance. The plan was Osaka Castle and Dotonbori, but since one of the guests did not want to go inside Osaka Castle, we took photos around it and I explained the displays and photographs of historical figures inside the Miraiza building. The guests were interested in Hokoku Shrine, so we visited it. It turned out later that the group had already done sightseeing the previous days and had already been to Shitennoji Temple, Dotonbori, and Namba Yasaka Shrine, so we walked through Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji before seeing them off at their Hotel. Since we mainly walked inside the arcades, we were able to avoid the sunlight. The guests stayed energetic until the very end even though it got hot, and at Osaka Castle they chose to walk rather than take the electric car.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Nippombashi190JPY
    Total430JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Takadanobaba Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Takadanobaba Station & Ginza Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: B&b: 3-19-1 Takadanobaba
    • 8:10 Depart Takadanobaba Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • Kayabacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 8:45 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:15 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 10:15 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:25 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Seijo Ishii
    • 10:30 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 11:30 Suehirocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:00 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:20 Arrive Ginza Station
    • Ginza Ginza Mitsukoshi
    • Ginza Six and others
    • 14:00 Depart Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 14:40 Arrive Takadanobaba Station
    • 14:40 Disband: Takadanobaba Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Akihabara, and Ginza The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. It was everyone's first trip to Japan. They arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening and took a taxi to their hotel. The night before, they had strolled around the Takadanobaba area near their accommodation and enjoyed gyudon (beef bowls) at a restaurant for dinner. This was a 10-day visit, staying only in Tokyo (one of the guests planned to travel to Kyoto alone for a few days). They said, "In Japan, we want to visit as many places as possible," and added, "We want to try and enjoy as many kinds of Japanese food as we can." The tour took place in the rain. First, we went to Tsukiji. It was a market holiday, so half of the shops were closed. I explained "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." One of the guests asked, "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" We strolled leisurely, and they purchased and sampled items such as strawberry mochi, fried sweet potato, and matcha ice cream. We moved on to Asakusa. Despite the rain, there was a large crowd, including many foreign tour groups and school excursion students. We started in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and the shift from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos many times in front of Kaminarimon Gate, the five-story pagoda, and elsewhere. Everyone drew an omikuji fortune, and one of the guests was disappointed to draw "bad luck." There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" There was also a question: "Do people go to the temple every week?" On the way, we stopped at a supermarket inside Ueno Station to buy gluten-free bread. We then moved to Akihabara, where I explained the history of the district. They purchased a digital camera and character cards. We moved to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. There was a question: "It's a shame we can't see the cherry blossoms. When is the best time to see them?" I explained "the history of Edo," "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There were questions such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political power?" We then moved to Ginza and strolled through department stores and other shops. One of the guests was very interested in cars and enthusiastically visited an automaker's showroom. There were comments and questions such as "It's amazing there's no litter on the streets," "Does no one throw trash on the streets?", "It feels far cleaner and safer than cities back home," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" I saw the guests off at Takadanobaba Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTakadanobaba Station~Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno Station~Suehirocho Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwaySuehirocho Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayOtemachi Station~Ginza Station178JPY
    Section 7SubwayGinza Station~Takadanobaba Station209JPY
    Total1,339JPY

    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 in One Day: Takadanobaba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Takadanobaba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: B&b:3-19-1 Takadanobaba
    • 8:10 Depart Takadanobaba Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 8:20 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku East Exit Omoide Yokocho
    • Kabukicho
    • Golden Gai
    • 9:00 Depart Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 9:10 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 10:30 Depart Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku West Exit Metropolitan Government Observatory
    • 11:40 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 11:50 Arrive Harajuku Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Mori no Terrace Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • Omotesando
    • 13:00 Depart Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Parco
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Takadanobaba Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Takadanobaba Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. They arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening and took a taxi to their accommodation. The night before, they enjoyed conveyor-belt sushi for dinner near their accommodation in the Takadanobaba area. This time they were on a 10-day visit to Japan, staying only in Tokyo (with a separate 3-day trip to Kyoto planned for one of the group). They said, "In Japan, we want to visit as many places as possible," and also, "We want to try and enjoy a wide variety of Japanese food." Unlike the previous day, the tour took place under clear skies. First, we headed to Shinjuku. Early in the morning, we strolled around the Kabukicho area. I explained "the origins of Kabukicho" and "the history of Omoide Yokocho." We took many commemorative photos with the Godzilla Head in the background. Noticing litter and empty cans scattered here and there, one of the guests commented, "This doesn't feel like Tokyo—it's like downtown New York." We moved by subway to Shinjuku Gyoen. I explained "the history of Shinjuku Gyoen." One of the guests said, "The Japanese garden is wonderful. I'd like to build one in my own yard at home." From there, we moved to Shinjuku West Exit and went to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck. I explained "the differences between Shinjuku's East Exit and West Exit." Unfortunately, we were unable to see Mount Fuji, but the comment was, "I really understand now how vast and sprawling Tokyo is. It's similar to Los Angeles." We moved to Harajuku and went to Meiji Shrine. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." There were questions such as, "What kind of teaching is Shinto?" "When did Shinto originate?" "How many shrines are there in Japan?" and "What is the difference between Buddhism and Shinto?" We also strolled along Takeshita Street, Cat Street, and Omotesando. Then we moved to Shibuya. First, we took photos at the Scramble Crossing. There was also a question: "Why do so many people gather here?" We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue as well. The guests said, "We want to buy anime goods," so we went to the Pokemon Center inside Shibuya Parco. There were comments and questions such as, "It's amazing that there's no litter on the streets," "Doesn't anyone throw trash on the streets?" and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" I saw them off at Takadanobaba Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakadanobaba Station~Shinjuku Station146JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku-sanchome Station~Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayShinjuku-gyoenmae Station~Shinjuku Station178JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku Station~Harajuku Station146JPY
    Section 5SubwayOmotesando Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya Station~Takadanobaba Station178JPY
    Total1,004JPY

    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: Hakonemachi Port & Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Tokyo: Hakonemachi Port & Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:45 Hotel departure – Meet at <Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo>
    • Departure from hotel (vehicle)
    • 8:45 Arrive at Hakonemachi Port (vehicle)
    • *Vehicle moves to Owakudani parking lot
    • Guests stroll around the area (ticket booth opens at 9:10)
    • 9:30 Pirate Ship departs Hakonemachi
    • 10:05 Pirate Ship arrives at Togendai
    • 10:30 Ropeway departs Togendai
    • 10:40 Ropeway arrives at Owakudani
    • Stroll around Owakudani
    • 11:30 Enter Owakudani Nature Research Path
    • 12:20 Departure from Owakudani parking lot (vehicle)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Restaurant Loire (520 Kowakudani, Hakonemachi, 0460-82-4720)
    • Lunch
    • 13:15 Departure from Restaurant Loire (vehicle)
    • View the exterior of the Hakone Open-Air Museum from the vehicle
    • 13:25 Departure from Hakone Open-Air Museum (vehicle)
    • 15:15 Arrive at hotel (Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo) (vehicle)

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and the Open-Air Museum Although Mount Fuji was not visible, this was a first visit to Japan for the guests, and the tour was highly satisfying — they were delighted by the lush greenery and beautiful nature seen from the Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise and the ropeway, as well as by being able to experience volcanic activity firsthand. By the time we reached the final stop, the "Hakone Open-Air Museum," the guests had already enjoyed Hakone so thoroughly that they were content just to see it from the outside. For the sightseeing cruise, I lined up first at the ticket counter on my own so that the guests could sit in the front row of the special cabin and feel like a navigator. From prior communication with the guests, I understood that some of them were of school age, so we decided to combine the enjoyment of nature's beauty and grandeur with an educational element, and I made an early advance reservation for the Owakudani Nature Study Trail. The guests also kindly agreed to the promotional use of their group photos. When we returned to the Hotel, the guests told me they would write a review, but perhaps because this tour was not booked through Tripadvisor, there was no mention of reviews in the tour summary, and the tour introduction web page had no "Write a Review" section. As a result, I was unable to provide guidance on how to write a review. How should I handle this situation?

    I have inherited the spirit of Samurai, the soul of Japan.
    I am not usually bringing Samurai Sword, nor wearing Samurai Jacket, but always holding Samurai Spirit.
    Therefore, I devote myself to the guest, and my ultimate goal is to entertain the guest.
    My name is Hiroshi Morita, but I guarantee I am worth being called “HERO”.
    Born and raised in Tokyo, I am well versed in all of Tokyo’s famous sights, from popular tourist spots to beautiful, little-known gems. I have a qualification of Certified Domestic Travel Service Supervisor, which allows me to customize tours to meet your specific needs.
    I can also cover scenic beauty areas of great nature with a few hours of transportation, like Nikko, Mt.Fuji and its surrounding lakes, and Hakone.
    My strong point is knowledge about Japanese history and topography. I can add something more to the cultural assets and scenic beauty in Japan.
    I am an amateur singer with a piano, and I have a YouTube channel.
    Please check my channel by reading this QR code to get to know me before the tour.
    I am also a Certified Member Analyst of the Securities Analyst Association in Japan, so I can cover a wide range of topics.
    I will do my best to make the tour enjoyable.

    Jul 9, 2026
    David_Y
    Great Experience. Highly recommended!!!!!!!!!!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    the guide customized the tour to our…

    May 12, 2026
    B696UVstevew
    An Excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An excellent day in Tokyo visiting many…

    May 6, 2026
    KRISTIN_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiroshi (Hero) was…
    Hiroshi (Hero) was absolutely incredible, he gave us a…

    May 3, 2026
    Joyce_G
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Fun and informative walking tour!
    Hiroshi was wonderful. He was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:50 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo by HULIC
    • 2. 09:55 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:15 Visit @ East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 4. 11:25 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:50 Visit @ Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 6. 12:15 Lunch @ Sushizanmai Asakusa Kaminarimon
    • 7. 12:50 Visit @ Sensoji Temple
    • 8. 13:45 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:15 Visit @ Nezu Shrine
    • 10. 15:00 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 15:30 Visit @ Takeshita Street
    • 12. 15:50 Disband @ Jingumae Intersection

    What Is a Private Tokyo Subway Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Asakusa to Harajuku The guests were a group visiting from North America. On this occasion, we traveled entirely by subway. So that the guests could continue shopping after the tour ended, I decided to save Takeshita Street for the end. Having heard that their dinner the previous night had been tempura, I took them to a sushi restaurant for lunch. As they live in North America, it seemed they ate seafood quite frequently. The guests all enjoyed shopping, and since each had different tastes, I was a little worried it might take a long time, but at Nakamise Street I set a meeting time and place and let them explore freely, which I think helped shorten the time nicely. After showing them Takeshita Street, I guided them as far as the Harakado area near the Jingumae intersection before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHibiya Station~Otemachi Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa Station~Ueno-hirokoji Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassYushima Station~Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassNezu Station~Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet 10:30 @ Nagoya Port Kinjo Pier
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and tour the area around Honmaru Palace and the castle tower 10:30-12:30 … For transportation to Nagoya Castle, take a taxi to Tsukijiguchi, then use the subway from there
    • 3. Lunch @ Yabaton Kinshachi Yokocho branch 12:30-13:15
    • 4. Move to Tokugawaen and tour Tokugawaen and the Tokugawa Art Museum 13:15-14:40 … Move to Tokugawaen by taxi
    • 5. Move to Oasis 21 and tour the Oasis 21 shopping area 14:40-15:10 … Move to Oasis 21 by taxi
    • 6. Move to Osu and tour the Osu shopping street and Osu Kannon 15:10-15:50 … Move to Osu by subway
    • 7. Return to Nagoya Port Kinjo Pier and disband 16:30 … For transportation to Nagoya Port Kinjo Pier, take the subway to Tsukijiguchi, then use a taxi from there

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Nagoya Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Although it was the rainy season, the day turned out pleasant with breaks of sunshine, and the guests enjoyed each of the sites. They were especially interested in the lavish decorations of the Honmaru Palace at Nagoya Castle and in the photography exhibition at the Nishinomaru Okuragojo Treasure House, which displayed photographs taken by Tokugawa Yoshikatsu, the last lord of the castle in the Edo period. The guests were also very fond of the colorful Japanese irises in full bloom at Tokugawaen Garden. As there was time to spare, we stopped by the Osu Shopping District on the way back, and the guests fully enjoyed the private one-day guided tour of Nagoya.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukijiguchi Station~Nagoya Castle Station270JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakae Station~Kamimaezu Station210JPY
    Section 3SubwayOsu Kannon Station~Tsukijiguchi Station270JPY
    Total750JPY

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…