Category: Uncategorized

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet up @ Himeji Station North Exit
    • 2. 11:10 @ Castle View
    • 3. 11:40 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 14:35 Lunch @ Ekisoba Otemae Branch
    • 5. 15:10 Disband @ In front of Himeji Station Shinkansen Transfer Gate

    Can You Take a Private Guided Tour of Himeji Castle? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's tour was arranged for a group of guests visiting Japan from North America, who were divided into two separate groups of five and six, each running as a different tour. I was in charge of the group of the guests. The tour was scheduled to start at 11:30, but while I was on the train heading to Himeji Station, the guests contacted me to say they had already arrived at Himeji Station. The meeting point had also changed, but we managed to meet up and started the tour at 11:00. After explaining an overview of Himeji Castle at Castle View, we headed to Himeji Castle and toured the Sannomaru, the Hishi Gate, the Nishinomaru Long Corridor and Hyakken Corridor, the Shogun-zaka slope, the Main Keep, and so on. Since everyone was very enthusiastic, sightseeing at Himeji Castle took more time than expected. After leaving the Main Keep, the guests contacted the other group and changed the tour plan (deciding not to visit Koko-en Garden) in order to meet the other group. They said that after handing the other group the Shinkansen tickets to return to Osaka, our group would eat "eki-soba" (station soba) and then return to Himeji Station. For this reason, we met the other group on Otemae-dori, ate eki-soba, and returned to Himeji Station. However, there was a bit of a commotion here. In fact, the day before the tour, the guests had asked me, "What time does the tour end? What time train should we reserve?" I replied, "The tour ends around 15:30, so please reserve a train departing after 16:00." The guests responded that they had reserved a train departing at 15:59. In reality, however, they had purchased a Shinkansen ticket departing at 13:59 (which had already left long before). A missed ticket cannot be changed to a new reserved seat. For this reason, I took the guests to the Shinkansen transfer gate and they returned home in the non-reserved seats. It was a tour with many twists and turns, but the guests were delighted with it.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Norio

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:45 @ Egret Himeji
    • 12:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 14:00 @ Light meal at the station soba shop
    • 14:45 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    Can You Do a Private Half-Day Himeji Castle Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from abroad. The person who had originally acted as the main contact was on a separate tour in the area, and it seemed that very little of the itinerary had been communicated from this contact. Since the guests left the plan up to the guide, we started the tour and I took them to the rooftop of "Egret Himeji" near Himeji Castle, where they appeared very pleased with the magnificent full view of the castle. At Himeji Castle, which we visited next, one of the guests was not feeling well and waited outside the gate, so five of us went in for the visit. The guests took many photographs and enjoyed themselves greatly. After visiting Himeji Castle, they said they would prefer a light breakfast rather than going around to more spots, so I guided them to Himeji's specialty "ekisoba," which they enjoyed. They then said they wanted soft-serve ice cream, so I took them to a popular shop near the castle. Out of consideration for the guest who was unwell, they decided to return to Osaka and I guided them to JR Himeji Station, where it turned out the Shinkansen they had reserved had already departed more than 30 minutes earlier. I informed them that they could use non-reserved seats, and we parted ways. It again seemed that the details of the itinerary had not been well conveyed from the main contact. I presented a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, which was well received.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    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

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    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    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…

  • Okayama in Half a Day: Okayama Ekimae Sta & Kurashiki-Bikanchiku

    Okayama in Half a Day: Okayama Ekimae Sta & Kurashiki-Bikanchiku

    Okayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Hotel Okayama [Meet]
    • on foot
    • 12:40 Okayama Ekimae Sta.
    • by Tramway
    • 12:45 Shiroshita Sta.
    • on foot
    • 13:00~14:15 Korakuen Garden
    • 14:20 Korakuen Garden Main Gate
    • by taxi
    • 14:30 JR Okayama Station
    • 14:49 JR Okayama Station
    • by train
    • 15:05 JR Kurashiki Station
    • on foot
    • 15:15~16:30 Kurashiki-Bikanchiku
    • on foot
    • 16:40 JR Kurashiki Station
    • 16:49 JR Kurashiki Station
    • by train
    • 16:57 JR Okayama Station
    • 17:00 JR Okayama Station [Say goodbye]

    What's a Private Day Tour of Okayama and Kurashiki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Originally I had proposed an itinerary of Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden, and Kibitsu Shrine, but after meeting them they requested to skip the castle and the shrine and instead wanted to see Korakuen Garden and Kurashiki, so I adjusted accordingly. They had a warm and friendly rapport, and it was a pleasure to guide them. One of the guests had extensive professional experience in the travel industry, yet was very easygoing and did not make me feel any pressure at all. The other was studying environmental engineering, and was a serious and pleasant person. Since we were in Okayama, I told them the story of Momotaro while strolling through Kurashiki, and they listened with great interest. Their stay in Japan ran from late May into early June, covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara (including Yoshino), Okayama, and Hiroshima. The weather was fine, and I believe they enjoyed a relaxed and pleasant day.

    Click here for more details: Okayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOkayama Ekimae～Shiroshita120JPY
    Section 2TrainOkayama～Kurashiki330JPY
    Section 3TrainKurashiki～Okayama330JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Kaji

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Request Booking

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM8:30 Meet at Hotel
    • AM9:10 Osaka Castle Park
    • AM11:20 Shinsekai
    • PM12:10 Doguyasuji
    • PM13:00 Dotonbori　Disband

    What Is a Private Osaka Shopping and Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a cheerful group visiting from South America. Before coming to Japan, they had traveled through several destinations in Asia, with Japan as the final stop of their trip. In Osaka, rather than sightseeing, they were more interested in the city's atmosphere, food, and shopping. Since they wanted to buy tableware, I took them to Doguyasuji. They visited three shops and bought around twenty plates in total (perhaps impulse purchases since the prices were low). They mentioned they had bought so many souvenirs that they would need to purchase another suitcase. Because they spent a lot of time shopping and their luggage had increased, we skipped Kuromon Market, which had been on the plan. However, since they said they wanted to eat sushi, I took them to a popular conveyor-belt sushi restaurant near Dotonbori, where we said goodbye.

    Click here for more details: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Osakajokoen-mae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Ebisucho240JPY
    Section 3SubwayDobutsuen-mae～Namba190JPY
    Total610JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Onomichi Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Onomichi Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Onomichi Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel Cycle U2
    • 9:00 Visit "Onomichi Grandma and Hotel" via Shin-Onomichi Station
    • 11:00 Lunch at Onomichi Roman Coffee Mitsunari Branch
    • 13:00 Travel to Setoda for Kosanji Temple and Miraishin no Oka (Hill of Hope)
    • 14:30 Travel to Fukuyama and participate in a talk event at Ichi Setouchi
    • 15:00-17:00

    What Is a Custom Private Concierge Tour of Onomichi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This time the request was not sightseeing-focused. The guest wished to visit places in Onomichi related to community-based welfare activities, connected to work the guest is involved with abroad in North America. Fortunately, I knew several acquaintances and locations engaged in similar new initiatives — community-oriented welfare activities that are open to the local area rather than being closed "facilities." I compiled a list and shared it by email, and was able to connect the guest with exactly the right places and key people. As a result, the guest was very pleased! (A high review has been posted on the relevant tour page on the booking platform.) https://www.getyourguide.jp/onomichi-l151178/onomichi-full-day-private-trip-t393540/ This time, going beyond the role of a "sightseeing guide" who simply shows tourist spots, I took on the roles of a concierge who listens to the guest's goals and plans accordingly, a coordinator who arranges appointments with the relevant parties, and an interpreter who supports communication on the day. It was a very fulfilling day for me as well, and I felt happy to be able to do this kind of work! It might even be worth creating custom plans as products — an Onomichi version, a Fukuyama version, or a combined Bingo-area version covering both… haha.

    Click here for more details: Onomichi Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Mami

    Hi, this is Mami! I am a qualified regional interpreter guide for Hiroshima Prefecture. I love guiding guests in Onomichi, a town with many Japanese heritage shrines and temples. Strolling through town is a lot of fun, as many of the renovated shops and restaurants each has its own character and design!
    The breath-taking view from Mt. Takami, is a picture-perfect scene, encompassing the many islands surrounded by the tranquility of the Seto Inland Sea. The highest mountain in Mukaishima surely is a must-see spot! Many attractive outdoor activities await, including cycling along the Shimanami Kaido, sea kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding. For a more relaxing experience, Zen meditation is offered at the temples in Onomichi-city.

    According to your interest, I will prepare a special itinerary for you!

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2025
    TheBrowns1000
    Hurry book this tour and request marvelous Mami Mukai for an amazing day!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour…

    Apr 20, 2025
    Passport548066
    Sehr guter Tag in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mami war eine super…

    Apr 10, 2025
    K
    K6047IAjenniferv
    Incredible
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mami was amazing! She meet us at…

    Apr 4, 2025
    Hansu24
    An Extraordinary Experience of Onomichi
    Tripadvisor review: Onomichi Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I spent 2 days…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet up Mecure Kyoto Station
    • 10:10 to 11:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:00 to 11:30 Shopping at Kiyomizu-michi
    • 13:00 to 13:30 Lunch at Shinkyogoku-dori (Vegetarian Ramen)
    • 13;45 to 14:15 Gion
    • 15:00 to 15:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:30 Dismissal Kinkaku-ji Temple

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Asia. They asked many detailed and in-depth questions about Buddhism, which kept me on my toes. Some of the guests were very interested in Kyoto souvenirs, and along Kiyomizu-zaka they bought many small items such as folding fans, chopsticks, dolls, and hair ornaments, which took up quite a lot of time. As a result, although we had planned to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove after Kinkaku-ji, we ran out of time and ended the tour at Kinkaku-ji.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShichijo-Horikawa～Gojozaka230JPY
    Section 2BusKiyomizu-michi～Shijo-Keihan230JPY
    Section 3BusShijo-Kawaramachi～Gion230JPY
    Section 4BusShijo-Keihan～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    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 !!

    Request Booking

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Hotel Tokyu (directly connected to Shibuya Station on the Inokashira Line) meet up; buy SUICA at Shibuya Station
    • 1045 Harajuku; visit Meiji Shrine; Takeshita Street
    • 1250 Imperial Palace Outer Garden; Tatsumi Yagura turret; Gyoko-dori Avenue; Marunouchi; Marunouchi Building pine pilings; Tokyo Station
    • 1410 Akihabara
    • 1450 Asakusa; lunch at Fuji Soba; Nakamise; Senso-ji Temple; Asakusa Shrine
    • 1615 disband at Nitenmon Gate

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Focused on Learning Public Transport? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests had visited Japan several times before, while others were visiting for the first time. They had arrived at Haneda the previous night and had already crossed the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days and then travel to Kyoto. The request was to use this single day to become comfortable with using public transportation. After arriving at the Hotel, the group struggled because the SUICA app would not work. The problem seemed to be that they were trying to link every card to a single credit card. Since a child SUICA had to be purchased anyway, we decided that the others who could otherwise use the app would also purchase physical SUICA cards. This cost us about 20 minutes. At the SUICA gate at Shibuya Station, everyone tapped in one right after another, so some of the cards did not register an entry record. At the next station, Meiji-jingumae, some were rejected, and we had to return to the JR window to settle it. This cost another 20 minutes. At Tokyo Station, one smartphone app only had the Shibuya entry record, so the settlement took additional time. In the end, I explained that they should tap the SUICA calmly and avoid double-tapping, and not force their way through until they confirmed the green light and the sound. At Suehirocho Station, everyone was finally able to enter without trouble, and we were also able to exit smoothly at Asakusa. This was the first time I had ever had such a difficult experience up to this point. With the group's needs, timing for restrooms and snacks was also quite tricky, so we ended up having a late lunch at a soba shop in Asakusa, but it seemed they were satisfied with it. Since they wanted to do various shopping along Nakamise, we decided to part ways at Nitenmon.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae209JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Akihabara146JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho～Asakusa178JPY
    Total679JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Yurikamome Toyosu Station ticket gate
    • 2. 09:30 @ Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • 3. 11:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:30 @ Tokyo Tower
    • 5. 13:15 Disband @ Tokyo Tower 3F

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were first-time visitors to Japan from North America. Some of the guests had arrived earlier, visited a major expo in the Kansai region and Himeji Castle, then moved to Tokyo, where another member of the group joined the day before. After this tour, the group planned to visit Kyoto. Since the guests were interested in history, we met at Toyosu Station on the Yurikamome Line and first visited Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. We slowly made our way toward the main hall while enjoying the five-story pagoda and buying ningyo-yaki along Nakamise Street, and offered our respects at the main hall. On the way back, when Tokyo Skytree came into view, the guests asked me to confirm what it was. Next, we moved to Meiji Shrine. When I explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, and how Shinto recognizes countless deities (yaoyorozu no kami), the guests listened with great interest. We purified ourselves at the water pavilion, proceeded to the main hall, and after I explained the etiquette for visiting a shrine, we offered our respects and took commemorative photos on the grounds. We then moved to Tokyo Tower, where the guests chose to visit the Main Deck. Due to the rainy weather, Skytree and Mount Fuji could not be seen, but we were able to view Rainbow Bridge. The guests also looked with interest at Zojoji Temple visible below. Moving from M2 to M1, they looked down through the reinforced-glass Skywalk Window and seemed to enjoy the thrill. After descending to the third floor by elevator, I offered to accompany them partway on the return trip, but the guests wanted to spend a little more time at Tokyo Tower, and since the tour time had already passed, we ended the tour and parted ways. Although it was unfortunately rainy, the guests appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed their first sightseeing experience in Tokyo.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToyosu～Asakusa286JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Akabanebashi286JPY
    Total824JPY

    Tour Report by Tetsuo

    I love traveling and know how travelers feel. I would like to welcome you to Japan and help you discover good things of Japan, including its history, traditions, culture, and food. Please let me know if there are any places you would like to visit or experiences you would like to have. Having lived in the U.S., Germany, and the U.K. myself, I believe I can explain the differences between Japan and the West. I would like to help make your stay in Japan an impressive and memorable one.
    I am in my late 50s and have traveled extensively in Japan and abroad. I would like to support your travel by making the most of these experiences.

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    Jul 25, 2026
    dic963
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fabulous Tour Fabulous guide
    We had the most amazing day /…

    Apr 6, 2026
    BackPacker436627
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Worth the money
    Being able to customize our tour (both in advance…

    Mar 31, 2025
    schlettam
    Touring Tokyo with Tetsuo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Tetsuo, was fantastic ! Very amiable,…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & museum

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 8:10　By taxi to Hiroshima Station
    • 8:25　Arrive at Hiroshima Station
    • 8:30　By JR to Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 9:00　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 9:10　By ferry to Miyajima
    • 9:20　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 　　　　Shrine, Daishoin, Omotesando
    • 12:10　Finish sightseeing in Miyajima and head to Miyajimaguchi
    • 12:20　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi
    • 12:30　Lunch at Chinchikurin
    • 13:00　Finish lunch
    • 13:20　By JR to Nishi-Hiroshima Station
    • 13:28　Arrive at Nishi-Hiroshima Station
    • 13:35　By bus to the museum
    • 14:00　Arrive at the museum
    • 　Museum, monument tour
    • 16:00　Finish monument tour
    • 16:10　Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had the pleasure of guiding a group visiting from North America. One of the guests' family runs a Thai restaurant in North America, and this guest also helps out at the restaurant. The guests were devoted Buddhists, and at the Henjokutsu Cave of Daisho-in Temple they carefully paid their respects to each and every Buddhist statue, which left a deep impression on me. Along Omotesando, they happily enjoyed freshly baked, piping-hot momiji manju. For lunch they enjoyed okonomiyaki, and we had a lively conversation about Japanese food. The guests were also great lovers of Japan, and mentioned that they had given their pets Japanese-style names, "Matcha" and "Nori." At the museum, when I explained that American nuclear tests had been conducted in the desert region and that at the time some hotels in the area used the distant mushroom clouds as a selling point, they nodded and said, "We know about that." The tour ended a little after 4:00 p.m., but afterward the guests expressed a wish to visit Hiroshima Castle, so I guided them partway there before we parted.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima～Museum240JPY
    Total990JPY

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    Sep 25, 2025
    pedropM3071GD
    Amazing day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing experience to…

    Jul 25, 2025
    ourtravelingt
    Great personalized tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour was fabulous and our…

    Jul 13, 2025
    katherinepE2305IO
    Hiroshima Tour 4hr Walking
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an amazing guide. He…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Preston_H
    Great tour guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an incredible guide who…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet at Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi
    • 2. 9:00 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 3. 9:45 Shinjuku (Golden Gai, Godzilla Head, 3D Billboard, Omoide Yokocho)
    • 4. 11:00 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 5. 12:15 Lunch (Kyushu Jangara Harajuku Branch)
    • 6. 13:15 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Guitar Shop, Pokemon Center)
    • 7. 14:30 Disband at Shibuya

    Title: What's a Private Full-Day Tour of Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. For one of them it was a second visit to Japan, the first having been about a decade earlier, while for the other it was a first visit to Japan. They had arrived the previous day and were staying in Japan for about a week, with plans to visit Kyoto in addition to Tokyo. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 8:00, but since Shinjuku Gyoen, the first site to visit, opens at 9:00, we adjusted the start time to 8:30 during the itinerary planning stage. I guided them through Shinjuku Gyoen, Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya, visiting both traditional and modern spots. Listening to my explanations and taking photos along the way, the guests enjoyed each of these points. Since they had requested ramen for lunch, we went to a ramen shop in Harajuku. As one of the guests was fond of the guitar, we also stopped by guitar shops in Harajuku and Shibuya. As they preferred to return to their accommodation on their own, I explained how to get back to their hotel from Shibuya Station on the Ginza Line, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyobashi～Shinjuku-gyoemmae209JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku～Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya178JPY
    Total565JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    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!

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    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…