Category: Uncategorized

  • Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo by Car

    Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel – 10:45 Mount Fuji 5th Station – 12:00 Mount Fuji World Heritage Center – 13:00 Lunch – 13:50 Lake Kawaguchi Shore – 14:20 Ide Brewery – 17:20 Hotel Dismissal

    What's a Private Day Trip to Mount Fuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe on a tour of about one week. Although the tour details from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) listed the group as adults, some of the guests were younger. Blessed with clear weather, we headed to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji, where we were overwhelmed by the cloudless view of the summit and lingered there for quite a while. At the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre, the group learned about the culture and history of Mount Fuji, and then we made our way to the Kachi Kachi Yama Ropeway, only to find a long line with an hour's wait. After a lunch of hoto noodles and a sake tasting at a long-established sake brewery, we headed back. We were fortunate to have good weather all day, and the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Meet (@Hotel)
    • 10:00-10:30 Travel (on foot: Hotel → Kiyomizu / Chawan-zaka)
    • 10:30-11:20 Kiyomizu-dera visit
    • 11:20-11:30 Travel (taxi; Gojo-zaka → Yasaka Shrine)
    • 11:30-11:50 Break (rest at a cafe)
    • 11:50-12:10 Yasaka Shrine visit
    • 12:10-12:30 Travel (taxi; Yasaka Shrine → Restaurant Sato, near Sanjusangendo)
    • 12:30-13:10 Lunch ( @Restaurant Sato)
    • 13:20-14:10 Sanjusangendo visit
    • 14:10-14:40 Travel (taxi; Sanjusangendo → Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 14:40-15:10 Fushimi Inari visit
    • 15:10-15:30 Travel (taxi; Fushimi Inari Taisha → Hotel)
    • 15:30 Farewell in front of the hotel  
    • (Since travel after Kiyomizu-dera was switched to taxi at the customer's request, with the customer's consent, the tour ended slightly earlier than planned.)

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting Kyoto from Europe. I guided them to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangendo, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Originally, the tour was planned around travel by train, but due to the extreme heat (I believe the temperature rose to around 40 degrees), one of the guests began to feel unwell at Kiyomizu-dera and waited on the temple's wooden stage together with another member of the group partway through. I took the remaining guest to the inner sanctuary, then we all returned to Gojozaka and moved by taxi to Yasaka Shrine. As a precaution, we rested at a cafe in front of Yasaka Shrine. At Yasaka Shrine, some of the guests waited in the shade while I guided another guest through the shrine grounds. After that, we moved by taxi to a restaurant, and following lunch we all visited Sanjusangendo. At Fushimi Inari as well, I made sure not to overexert the guest and had some of the group wait in the shade while I guided another member around the grounds. The guest was able to eat at the restaurant, so it seemed things were fine. They mentioned that tomorrow they plan to try a ninja experience and a tea ceremony experience, which are indoor activities, so I felt relieved.

    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 !

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Kyoto: DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto: DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama & Kinkaku-ji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Higashiyama
    • 12:20-13:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14;00-15:00 Lunch (Kura Sushi near Kinkaku-ji)
    • 15:00-15:30 Kinkaku-ji
    • 15:50-15:10 Tenryu-ji Temple, Bamboo Grove Path
    • Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 18:00 Hotel (viewing Hanamikoji Street from the car)

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kinkakuji, and Arashiyama The tour started at 12:00, beginning at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where the guests visited the Omokaru-ishi (heavy-light stone) and the Negari-no-Matsu pine. They very much enjoyed passing underneath the roots of the pine. Since the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle is closed every Tuesday in July and August, we did not enter Nijo Castle. Instead, the driver took us to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, where everyone, together with the driver, kindly treated us to a meal. After that, we visited Kinkakuji, passed through Tenryuji, and went to the Bamboo Grove Path. On the way back, they bought souvenirs for their family at a specialty chopstick shop. As we had some time, we walked to the Togetsukyo Bridge, but everyone became tired, so the driver came to pick us up, which was a great help. The chopsticks had names engraved on them, and although the guests had requested the engraving in Japanese, it came out in English, which was a slight disappointment. Even so, they were happy to take them home. At Hanamikoji they were delighted to encounter maiko and geiko. The tour was scheduled to end in Gion, but due to the extreme heat, the guests returned directly to the hotel, ending the tour.

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Hyogo: Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden & Ikuta Shrine

    Hyogo: Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden & Ikuta Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meeting point: Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:00 Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 12:30 Lunch: Kobe Harborland (Mosaic)
    • 14:20 Nankinmachi and Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street
    • 14:50 Ikuta Shrine
    • 15:30 Dismissal: Kobe Port Terminal

    What's a Private Kobe Day Tour by Cruise Ship Passengers Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a family group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. After meeting at the Kobe Port Terminal, we visited Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, Kobe Harborland, Nankinmachi (Chinatown), Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street, and Ikuta Shrine, before ending the tour back at the Port Terminal. The original plan (at the guests' request) had also included a visit to the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, but since none of the guests drink sake, the visit to the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum was canceled, which was a little surprising. The guests did a lot of shopping at the Motomachi Shopping Street. After visiting Ikuta Shrine, they wished to shop more, but since they preferred not to extend the tour time, we headed straight back to the Port Terminal. It was another hot day, but at the Nunobiki Herb Gardens we made use of umbrellas provided by the garden to avoid the heat. Overall, the tour went smoothly and the guests seemed very pleased.

    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!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    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…

  • Osaka: Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka: Osaka Castle & Umeda Sky Building

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @Here Osaka Namba
    • 9:35-11:00@Osaka Castle
    • 11:35-12:25@Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:50-13:05@Kuromon Market
    • 13:45-14:30@Shinsekai
    • 14:40-14:50@Harukas Garden
    • 15:15-15:50@Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 16:35-16:50@Umeda Sky Building
    • 16:50 Disband@Umeda Sky Building

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They requested to enjoy as many sightseeing spots and unusual foods as possible, so we used the subway to cover many of Osaka's highlights while avoiding the strong sunshine. Initially the plan was to end the tour at Dotonbori, but since the guests were tired, we parted ways at the Umeda Sky Building. After cooling down, they decided to continue on their own. Since the Mantou Festival was being held at Dotonbori, the 2025 lanterns would be lit from 7:00, so I believe they were able to enjoy it. At Osaka Castle, it was heartwarming to see some of the guests recording the loud cicadas on their smartphones, saying they had never heard such large cicadas before.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba (Subway)~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka~Nipponbashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Section 4SubwayNipponbashi (Osaka)~Ebisucho190JPY
    Section 5SubwayDobutsuen-mae~Tennoji190JPY
    Section 6TrainTennoji Ekimae~Sumiyoshitorii-mae240JPY
    Section 7TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Section 8SubwayNamba (Subway)~Umeda (Subway)240JPY
    Total1,720JPY

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

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Kyoto: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Mimaru Suites Kyoto Central
    • 9:40-10:25 @ Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 10:40-11:30 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 11:40-12:30 @ Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 12:40-13:30 Lunch @ Saganoya
    • 14:00-14:40 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Mimaru Suites Kyoto Central

    What Is a Private Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji Day Tour in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first visit to Japan, and after touring Tokyo and Hakone, they arrived in Kyoto the previous day. They mentioned that the day before they had joined a tour around the Gion district. This tour focused mainly on strolling around the Arashiyama area. At Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, the guests each took photos in front of the many rakan statues and enjoyed themselves. In the bamboo grove, we also stopped at Nonomiya Shrine, where I explained its connection to the Imperial family and the blessings associated with it. At Tenryu-ji, I had planned to first walk through the buildings and then guide them around the garden, but because of the heat they said they had seen enough, so we skipped the garden. For lunch, they said they wanted to eat katsudon, so I took them to "Saganoya" near JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. After lunch, we briefly stopped at the Togetsukyo Bridge for photos and then headed to Kinkaku-ji. Since we were running slightly behind schedule and to avoid the outdoor heat, I gave most of my explanations inside the car and made an effort to keep our time at each site as short as possible. Afterward, I took the guests back to their Hotel, and the tour ended.

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @ONSEN RYOKAN YUEN SHINJUKU
    • 2. 9:30 @Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 10:20 @Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 4. 11:00 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Pepper Parlor)
    • 5. 11:40 @Ginza (4-chome Crossing, NISSAN Showroom, Kyukyodo)
    • 6. 12:20 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 7. 12:40 Lunch @Suju Dining (inside Shin-Marunouchi Building)
    • 8. 13:40 @Tokyo Station
    • 9. 14:00 @Nihonbashi Takashimaya (Underground Food Hall)
    • 10. 14:30 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 11. 15:20 Disband @Asakusa Line (Ueno-hirokoji Station)

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Ginza, and the Imperial Palace The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, and it was also their first trip to a country in Asia. After spending time in Tokyo, they planned to visit Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Osaka. Before this tour began, they had already gone on their own to Ueno Park to see the lotus flowers blooming in the early morning at Shinobazu Pond. During a brief stop in Ginza before visiting the Imperial Palace, I casually introduced Kyukyodo, and one of the guests showed interest, purchasing three sheets of washi paper with cherry blossom and traditional geometric patterns (about 4,500 yen). They enjoy making handmade crafts, and they seemed very satisfied to have found something they liked. When we visited Meiji Shrine and I mentioned Shinto-style weddings, they asked questions such as "How much does a ceremony cost?" as if imagining holding their own ceremony, though I could not tell how serious they were. It was clear that they were genuinely intrigued. For lunch, one of the guests could not eat fish, but the guests wanted to go somewhere I would recommend. So, to let them experience typical Japanese food, we went to a restaurant inside the Shin-Marunouchi Building. Both of them had a wagyu beef set meal. They were delighted and said it was very delicious. Afterward, since one of the guests felt a slight headache, I looked for a nearby drugstore to buy some pain relief, and the closest one was a pharmacy in the basement of the adjacent Marunouchi Building, whose name amused everyone. After consulting the pharmacist, they purchased an over-the-counter medicine and took it right away, and the headache soon disappeared, so we were able to continue the tour without any issue. In the end, we parted ways on the Ginza Line. The guests very politely and warmly expressed their gratitude, saying they had been able to see many different parts of Tokyo, and got off at Ueno-hirokoji Station to transfer.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station~Meiji-jingumae Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station~Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station~Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihombashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Ueno-hirokoji Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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!

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Kanagawa: Yumoto to Hakone Open-Air Museum & Rest at a teahouse

    Kanagawa: Yumoto to Hakone Open-Air Museum & Rest at a teahouse

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:10 Meet up, depart from hotel
    • 8:25–9:00 From Yumoto to Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 9:00-10:15. Stroll around the Open-Air Museum
    • 10:20-12:00 By bus to Hakone-en
    • 12:00-13:10. Komagatake Ropeway sightseeing (guide on standby)
    • 13:20-13:35. Lake Ashi cruise
    • 13:45-14:20 Stroll along the old Tokaido
    • 14:30-15:30. Stroll along the old Hakone Tokaido
    • 15:30-16:00 Rest at a teahouse
    • 16:10-16:40. By bus to Hakone-Yumoto, disband

    Can You Do a Private Hakone Day Tour with the Old Tokaido Trail and Komagatake Ropeway? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had also gone hiking in Kamakura recently. Today they requested to ride the Komagatake Ropeway in Hakone and to walk along the old Tokaido road in Hakone. Since this differed from the usual Hakone Tozan Railway ticket tour, I was unsure how to connect the itinerary. Fortunately, they said it was fine to skip Owakudani, so the guests went up to Komagatake on their own while I waited. They had also taken the sightseeing boat and gotten off at the Hakone Checkpoint, where they walked along the Tokaido and ended up doing an actual hike.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusOnsenba-iriguchi / Hakone Tozan Bus~Kowakidani Station / Hakone Tozan Bus580JPY
    Section 2BusKowakidani~Hakone-en940JPY
    Section 3BusAmazake-chaya / Hakone Tozan Bus~Hakone-Yumoto710JPY
    Total2,230JPY

    Thank you for your entry in this tour. Nice to meet you in this mail.
    Your tour guide Kappa is my nickname. Kappa is a traditional, imaginary creature who came into being in Japan over 300 years ago. She is good at swimming, like me, for I like swimming. I would like to make our tour operated smoothly as Kappa does when she swims in the river or pond. It is my pleasure to introduce many aspects in our tour, especially cooking, for it is my hobby and I went to the professional cooking and SAKE school, respectively. If you have any questions or requests about Japanese cooking, of course our tour, I am very delighted to answer to you anytime!

    Jul 30, 2025
    Michael_R
    Customized Hakone tour
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kappa-san, modified the typical Hakone tour…

    May 18, 2025
    Leigh_M
    Kappa, our guide met us…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa, our guide met us at the…

    May 4, 2025
    panderhigs
    Kappa A+ Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa was an amazing guide who created a thorough…

    May 4, 2025
    O9621SBscottp
    Kappa is a wonderful tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I were treated…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Senso-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:55 Meet up @ Hotel Groove Shinjuku
    • 10:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:40 Imperial Palace
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Aoyuzu Tora (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:40 Senso-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Disband @ Shinjuku Station

    What Is a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Senso-ji The guests were a group from North America, and most of them were visiting Japan for the first time. They planned to travel to Osaka after sightseeing in Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, they appeared to be impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. They also purchased omamori charms as souvenirs. 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, they were also very interested in the explanations about the difference between temples and shrines and about Kaminarimon Gate. I accommodated the guests' wishes as requested, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Ueno170JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 6TrainUeno~Shinjuku210JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 10:00 Imperial Palace Outer Garden – 11:30 Tokyo Tower 13:45 Lunch – 14:45 Tsukiji Outer Market – 15:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    Can You Do a Private Taxi Day Tour of Tokyo in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had chosen a Tokyo tour for the final day of their two-week trip. They had visited Japan several times before. Due to the intense summer heat and humidity, a tour using public transportation was not suitable, so we took a taxi from the hotel toward Sakuradamon Gate at the Imperial Palace. The guests, who enjoy photography, eagerly took many photos around Sakuradamon Gate and Nijubashi Bridge. We then took a taxi to Tokyo Tower. Upon arriving, one of the guests realized that a credit card and driver's license had been left behind in the taxi. I contacted the taxi company, and the items were safely recovered, which was a great relief. Despite the moment of anxiety, the guests were able to enjoy their last day in Japan.

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…