Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Grand Hyatt Tokyo
    • 11:00 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 13:05 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:55 Lunch @ Inataya Palace Building branch
    • 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:55 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 16:10 Disband at Shibuya PARCO

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya It was a hot day. The [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide kept an eye on heat exhaustion throughout the tour, but there did not seem to be any particular problems. Since the guests did not have IC cards, we started after having them purchase a one-day subway pass. In Asakusa, the group stopped by many shops and seemed to enjoy it. The group did not do much shopping. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace it was hot, so after a brief explanation we had lunch at the Palace Building, which was well received. By this point we were running quite behind schedule, and since the guests also had evening plans, we skipped the planned visit to Takeshita Street. We proceeded to Meiji Shrine and the Shibuya Crossing, and finished at Parco as planned. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Takebashi210JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total810JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour

    Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet the guest at the hotel → 9:10 Move to Sensoji Temple → 9:10-10:10 Explore Sensoji Temple → 10:10-10:30 Move to Tsukiji → 10:30-12:00 Explore Tsukiji and enjoy a sushi lunch → 12:00-12:20 Move to Akabanebashi → 12:20-13:00 Explore Tokyo Tower and disband

    What Does a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Tokyo Tower Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They had visited Japan several times before for travel. We first visited Senso-ji Temple. Perhaps because of the heat, many shops had their shutters down and there were only about half as many people as usual. Despite the heat, everyone enjoyed themselves. Next, we moved to Tsukiji and strolled through the outer market. They laughed, noting that every shop seemed to charge high prices aimed at foreign visitors. The sushi restaurant I usually take guests to was closed, so I took them to a conveyor-belt sushi place instead, which they were delighted with. Finally, I took them to Tokyo Tower, where they enjoyed the panoramic view of Tokyo, and I believe they were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji290JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Market~Akabanebashi180JPY
    Total470JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Oct 14, 2025
    Randi R
    Amazing tour of Tokyo with Yuji
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuji was an amazing guide.…

    Sep 30, 2025
    K6530TRangelor
    Great tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuji was excellent. He was very punctual and…

    Sep 19, 2025
    belindaf2022
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day with being shown the key…

    Sep 8, 2025
    S8908ADcarolinab
    Family friendly guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with our 6 hour…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.11: 30 Meet up @ Osaka Port Tempozan Terminal
    • 2.13:10 @Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 3.14:00 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 4.15:10 @Gion Shirakawa
    • 5.15 : 30 @ Hanamikoji
    • 6.16: 00 @Kiyomizu-michi (Shopping)
    • 7. 17:40 @Kiyomizu-dera Temple Gate (Family Photo)
    • 8.19: 15 Disband @Osaka Port Tempozan Terminal

    Title: What's a Private Cruise Shore Excursion from Osaka Port to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report When I arrived at the Osaka Port terminal, I saw that the cruise ship had docked at Osaka Port just before 11:00, and the guests were disembarking one after another. Since this tour was originally scheduled to start at 11:30, and I had let the guests know in advance that I would arrive at Osaka Port by 11:30, I notified them around 11:00 that I had already arrived at Osaka Port. The guests got ready and came down at 11:30, so we started the tour at 11:30. As soon as the car departed, the conversation turned to the itinerary, and the guests said, "We have already seen plenty of temples, so we would like to cut one of Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, or Kiyomizu-dera, and spend more time in Gion and the Higashiyama district." So we decided to remove the visit to Ginkaku-ji, which resulted in the itinerary above. It began to rain around Gion, but the driver had prepared umbrellas, which we borrowed. We did not stop for a lunch break, but instead visited a convenience store where the guests bought some light snacks. At Kiyomizu-zaka, we got out of the car and walked along Kiyomizu-michi. Along the way, the guests looked into various shops, and at a shop near the temple gate they saw tin sake cups, ochoko, and tea canisters, which they liked and purchased in large quantity. After that, we headed toward the gate of Kiyomizu-dera. I thought they would go in and visit, but they did not go in for the visit and only took photos at the gate. We walked back down Kiyomizu-zaka, and the guests bought ceramic tanuki figures and a ceramic teapot. They were very satisfied to be able to do the shopping they had hoped for, and we returned to Osaka Port.

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Nikko Day Trip from Tokyo by Private Car

    Nikko Day Trip from Tokyo by Private Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.830 Hotel meet
    • 2.950 Sano SA
    • 3.1050 Shinkyo at Nikko
    • 4.1110 Tosho-gu
    • 5.1145 Futarasan Jinja
    • 6.1200 Taiyu-In
    • 7.1315 Chuzenji-ko
    • 8.1315-1400 Lunch
    • 9.1415 Kegon Fall
    • 10.1515 Nikko Sugi Namiki
    • 11.1630 Hanyu SA
    • 12.1745 Don Quijote Shimbashi to buy Suitscase
    • 13.1820 Finish at Hotel

    What Is a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met at the Hotel as scheduled. Since there was a chance of rain in Nikko, we borrowed umbrellas at the Hotel before departing. We took a break at Sano SA along the way, where I gave a brief overview of Nikko and explained the origins of Toshogu Shrine. We arrived at the Shinkyo Bridge in Nikko almost on schedule. After taking photos, we headed to Toshogu Shrine. It was raining heavily, and there were many elementary school students on a field trip. We viewed the Three Wise Monkeys and the Sleeping Cat before proceeding to the main hall. After that, we received an explanation of the "crying dragon" at Yakushido Hall. We then passed through Futarasan Shrine and visited Taiyuin. Afterward, we tried to have lunch, but a large group of schoolchildren had come in, so we headed to Lake Chuzenji instead. The Akechidaira Ropeway was suspended due to the heavy rain. Thanks to that, there was no traffic congestion on the Irohazaka slope. After lunch at Lake Chuzenji, we went to Kegon Falls. The water volume was high, and the guests were impressed not only by the falls but also by the warning signs around them. We then saw part of the Nikko cedar avenue, took a short break at Hanyu SA, and, having overheard a conversation about needing to buy a suitcase, I suggested a discount store in Shinbashi. Upon arrival, they quickly found something suitable and made a purchase. After that, I saw them off at the Hotel, and the tour ended as scheduled. Everyone was very pleased. They said that the rain actually made the experience enjoyable and that the buildings were truly magnificent.

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide, Kazuyasu Hakata, modified some of the tour,…

    Oct 9, 2025
    zglus
    6 Hr walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazuyas brought us all around Tokyo and was…

    Sep 26, 2025
    JulieD4351
    We saw the fish market, many shrines, the busy walkway, and much more!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 13:00-13:45 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:14-15:00 Nijo Castle
    • 15:30-16:15 Ninna-ji Temple
    • 16:30-17:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 18:00-18:25 Gion
    • 18;30-20:40 Gion Hayakawa

    What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, and Kinkakuji Since we met on time, the tour proceeded almost entirely as planned. The guests were a group visiting from North America. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, unusually, no one was lined up at the Omokaru-ishi (heavy-light stone), so I had them try it. We also visited the Neagari-no-Matsu pine, and they were delighted by the idea that it brings rising fortunes, such as stock prices going up. They also experienced passing through the Chinowa ring of reeds. At Nijo Castle, the guests took an interest in the shogun and were able to see the Japanese garden. At Ninna-ji, there were no cars in the parking lot and no other visitors, and just as the guests were pleased about that, we found the south garden was under repair and could not be viewed. At Kinkakuji as well, there were unusually few visitors, so we moved through smoothly and left right at 5:00. Thanks to the driver's kindness, we were also taken to Gion Shirakawa, where we were able to take photos.

    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle Museum & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle Museum & Kuromon Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at Tanimachi 4-chome Exit
    • 14:00 Osaka Castle Museum
    • 14:40 Hokoku Shrine
    • 15:40 Osaka Castle
    • 16:10 Sushi Lunch
    • 17:30 Kuromon Market
    • 17:55 Tour ends at Sakaisuji-Hommachi Station platform

    What Is a Private Osaka Castle and Kuromon Market Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since I had heard they were fond of history, I guided them to the Osaka Castle Museum. They were surprised to learn that Osaka had once served as the capital. At Hokoku Shrine, they enjoyed experiencing the ring-passing ritual. Osaka Castle was magnificent in scale, and they seemed truly overwhelmed by it. Although we did not go inside, they appeared to have enjoyed it thoroughly. Afterward, I had planned to guide them to Namba Yasaka Shrine, but as they were feeling a bit worn out from the summer heat, they instead enjoyed sampling food at Kuromon Market, including sushi, takoyaki, daifuku, and cucumber sticks. Since they said it would be fine to end the tour there, I accompanied them to the platform at Sakaisujihonmachi Station and concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTanimachi 4-chome~Nippombashi190JPY
    Section 2OtherNippombashi (Osaka)~Sakaisuji-Hommachi190JPY
    Total380JPY

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

  • Nara in One Day: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Nara in One Day: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:45 to 10:15 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 10:15 to 10:45 Nara Park
    • 10:45 to 11:30 Todai-ji Temple
    • 11:45 to 12:00 Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 12:15 to 12:45 Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    What Is a Private Nara Park Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Recently this has become a daily topic of conversation with guests, but Japan is hotter than the forecasts had suggested. The guests requested to finish the tour early. After strolling through Nara Park, we had lunch at the Higashimuki shopping street, and I had planned to visit the Heijo Palace ruins, but in accordance with their request, we parted ways early. They said they would be satisfied simply seeing the popular spots in Nara Park.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu Nara~Kasuga Taisha Main Shrine/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusKasuga Taisha Main Shrine/Nara Kotsu~Nara250JPY
    Total500JPY

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet @ Meiji Shrine First Torii
    • 9:21 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:15 Takeshita Street ~ Ura-Hara ~ Omotesando
    • 11:00 Break @ Anniversaire Cafe Omotesando
    • 12:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 12:45 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:30 Dismiss @ Tsuburano Shinjuku Gyoen Branch

    Title: What's a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shinjuku Gyoen The guests were visitors from Oceania on their first trip to Japan. They were interested in history, architecture, and gardens, and expressed a wish to view the Shibuya Scramble Crossing from a Starbucks, so I planned the itinerary above accordingly. To make the most of this 4-hour tour, I changed the meeting point to Meiji Shrine, the first planned destination. Thanks to this, we were able to complete the full itinerary. The orientation that is usually done at the hotel was instead held on a bench near the main hall of Meiji Shrine. Along the Ura-Harajuku and Omotesando areas, they were captivated by the design of casual boutique buildings as well as structures housing brands such as BOSS, Prada, and Miu Miu. Since it was hot, we took a break at a café, and during that time I offered advice on how to spend their remaining seven days in Tokyo and Kyoto. Shinjuku Gyoen was, as expected, quite quiet. Having arrived in Japan the previous evening from a place where winter was just beginning, I imagine the heat was quite challenging for them, but they did wonderfully throughout the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOmotesando Station / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Shinjuku170JPY
    Total350JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Tsukiji

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 9:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:20 Takeshita Street & Omotesando
    • 11:30 Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple)
    • 12:45 Tsukiji
    • 13:10 Disband @ Sushi Restaurant @ Tsukiji

    What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, visiting Japan for the first time on a long trip. Everyone was very interested in Japanese food and culture, and they had studied a great deal beforehand. Since it was a 4-hour tour, we were quite busy, but we managed to visit Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa, and Tsukiji Market. The guests had only arrived the day before, and although it was very hot, they bought a parasol in Asakusa and walked around happily. After a quick look around Tsukiji, I took them to a sushi restaurant and said goodbye there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Yoyogi180JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayOmotesando~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji290JPY
    Total880JPY

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

    Sep 29, 2026
    Darrin_T
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  • Tokyo: Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station & Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station

    Tokyo: Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station & Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Belle Ville Kagurazaqka
    • 9:40 Depart Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Ueno-Okachimachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Ueno Station Midori-no-Madoguchi Ticket Office
    • 10:10 Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:20 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:15 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:45 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:45 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:45 Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya Lunch: Hibiya Chanter
    • 14:45 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Meiji-Jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 16:00 Meiji-Jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:15 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:50 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 17:45 Depart Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line9
    • 18:00 Arrive Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station
    • 18:00 Disband: Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family group visiting Japan from North America. It was their first time in Japan. They arrived at Haneda the previous evening and took a taxi to their accommodation. They spent the previous night strolling around the neighborhood. This trip was a 12-day stay in Japan. After spending several days in Tokyo, they planned to visit Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, and then return home from Kansai Airport. The guests originally came from Asia and had relocated to North America some years earlier. One of the guests was a complete vegetarian. They also mentioned, "None of us eat beef or pork under any circumstances." They expressed a wish to "visit as many sightseeing spots as possible." We had some rain in the morning, but afterward it was cloudy and extremely hot and humid throughout the tour. Since they said, "The airport counter was crowded so we couldn't buy tickets — we'd like to buy a 3-day subway pass first," we headed to the ticket window at Ueno Station. After that, we went to Asakusa. As usual, it was crowded with large numbers of people. We started from in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history 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 in front of Kaminarimon and the five-story pagoda, and strolled slowly along Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are Japan's major religions?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" We went to Tsukiji Outer Market. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Outer Market." Although it was a closed day, it was quite crowded. We went into the outer market. One of the guests was a big fan of sushi, so we purchased and sampled "tuna sushi," "grilled eel," and "Kobe beef skewers." There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyoites come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it looks like there are a lot of tourists." We moved to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. 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 political power?" From here, we moved to Hibiya Chanter for lunch at a vegetarian restaurant and a short break. We moved to Harajuku, first to Meiji Shrine. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," "about the Japanese Imperial family," and "why barrels of sake and wine are displayed." There were questions such as "What are Japan's main religions?", "When and why did Shinto arise?", and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" After this, we strolled along Takeshita Street. They were surprised by how many people there were, and were delighted by the various pet cafes. We went to Shibuya. First, from the entrance to the Keio Inokashira Line platform, we looked down on Scramble Square and took photos, then actually crossed the scramble crossing. There was a question: "Why do so many people gather here?" After taking photos in front of the Hachiko statue, we strolled along Center Street. We returned to Shinjuku and went to Kabukicho. I explained "the origins and history of Shinjuku" and "the difference between the east and west sides of the station." We walked around and explored "Shinjuku Golden Gai" (where several groups of foreign travelers were strolling), the Godzilla Head, and Omoide Yokocho. They said, "The whole area feels different from other neighborhoods" and "We'd like to come back again at night." They seemed to love the underground shopping area of the department store we passed through, saying, "We'll come back again tomorrow." There were comments and questions such as "There's no trash on the streets — it's so clean. Does no one litter?", "It's very quiet inside the subway," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" There was also a question: "It's said a major earthquake will occur in Japan this month — is that true?" I saw them off at Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherUshigome-Kagurazaka Station~Ueno-Okachimachi178JPY
    Section 2OtherUeno-Okachimachi~Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 3OtherUeno Station / Taito City, Tokyo~Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 4OtherAsakusa Station~Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 5OtherTsukiji Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 6OtherNijubashimae Station~Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 7OtherHibiya Station~Meiji-Jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 8OtherMeiji-Jingumae Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 9OtherShibuya Station~Shinjuku-sanchome Station178JPY
    Section 10OtherShinjuku-Nishiguchi Station~Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station178JPY
    Total1,811JPY

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

    Jul 21, 2026
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