Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: TSUKIJI Outer Market & TOKYO STATION

    Tokyo in Half a Day: TSUKIJI Outer Market & TOKYO STATION

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:45 1 TSUKIJI Outer Market
    • 10:45 2 TOKYO TOWER
    • 11:15 3 ZOJOJI TEMPLE
    • 12:00 4 TOKYO STATION
    • 12:50 see off at Marubiru

    Title: What's a 3-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who requested a private guide to sightsee in Tokyo over three days while traveling in Asia. As we shared a common professional background, our conversations were lively. We enjoyed exchanging views on housing conditions from the perspective of the economy and borrowing interest rates, touching on topics such as recent U.S. tariffs and Federal Reserve interest rate policy. Even though it was after breakfast, the guest happily enjoyed a small dish and a beer at Saito Suisan in Tsukiji, and was quite pleased. Also, an unexpected moment came after visiting Tokyo Tower, when the guest wished to visit the souvenir shop on the third floor and purchased a magnet as a souvenir. Since the guest wished to have sushi for lunch, I took them to Numazu Uogashi in the Marunouchi Building, a place I always recommend, and then took my leave.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku~Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji~Kamiyacho→Hibiya→Otemachi0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spear time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 GRAND NIKKO TOKYO DAIBA (directly connected to Yurikamome Daiba Station) meet up Assist with purchasing Shinkansen tickets to Kyoto for the day after tomorrow at Shimbashi Station
    • 1040 Tokyo Tower Photo taking only (described later) Zojoji Temple
    • 1145 Asakusa Nakamise Sensoji Temple Asakusa Shrine
    • 1330 Akihabara Shopping at Akiba Cultures Zone
    • 1440 Pokemon Center DX
    • 1515 See you off to Shimbashi Station and disband

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour Including Asakusa and Akihabara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before yesterday. Yesterday, with a different guide, they visited Tokyo Skytree, the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Meiji Shrine, and the Shibuya Crossing. However, Tokyo Skytree was extremely crowded, and they reportedly spent two of their six hours there. Tomorrow they plan to visit Tokyo Disneyland, and the day after they will head to Kyoto. After returning to Tokyo from Kyoto, they plan to visit TeamLab Borderless and other spots. Today's course had been arranged in advance, but since they had already been to Tokyo Skytree the day before, they were satisfied with just taking photos of Tokyo Tower and skipped the main deck. At Zojoji Temple, the Sangedatsumon gate was under repair and covered with scaffolding, so it could not be seen. With explanations of the Sentai Kosodate Jizo statues and the main hall, the guests seemed reasonably satisfied. When they had visited Tokyo Skytree the day before, they had passed through Asakusa, so I was concerned they might want to skip it as well and was considering alternatives, but it turned out they had not gone inside the Nakamise shopping street. Today was the start of the Sanja Festival, so the lanterns had been folded up and many food stalls were set up. They purchased ukiyo-e postcards and other items. Since the advance communication had emphasized "anime" above all, I guided them to the Akiba Cultures Zone, which is a bit niche. Each of the guests bought figures. The Pokemon Center was less crowded than expected, and although we had a little time to spare, we parted ways at Shimbashi Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba~Shimbashi325JPY
    Section 2Free PassShimbashi – Ginza~Kamiyacho900JPY
    Section 3Free PassDaimon~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 5Free PassSuehirocho~Nihonbashi0JPY
    Section 6Free PassNihonbashi~Shimbashi0JPY
    Total1,225JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Kanagawa: 55 @Pirate Ship

    Kanagawa: 55 @Pirate Ship

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.8:30 Meet up @Hotel
    • 2.9:00 @Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 3.10:30 @Gora Park
    • 4.11:30 @Owakudani
    • 5.12:30 Lunch @Togendai Lake View Restaurant
    • 6:13:55 @Pirate Ship
    • 7.15:00 @Peace Torii Gate (Hakone Shrine)
    • 7.16:30 Disband @Hotel

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Because of the pirate ship schedule, we moved the meeting time earlier and started the tour at 8:30. First, at the guests' request, we visited the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The guests love nature and flowers very much, and coming from North America, they mentioned that in their home area it does not rain in summer and the mountains turn brown, so they found the greenery of Japan beautiful. At Gora Park, they compared the flowers with those in their own garden and took photos of the beautiful blooms. At Owakudani, they ate the black eggs and laughed, asking whether it really extends your life by seven years. We had lunch at a restaurant in Togendai. The view was lovely, though the food was just so-so. It was a little sunny in the morning, but as the forecast predicted, clouds gradually rolled in, and unfortunately we were not able to see Mount Fuji. After the pirate ship, we walked to the Peace Torii Gate, took photos, and returned to the Hotel by bus. I have not done many Hakone tours, but I really felt that the weather greatly affects the satisfaction of the tour. I would like to come up with more ways to ensure guests enjoy themselves even on cloudy days.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMiyanoshita Station~Hakone Open-Air Museum5,000JPY
    Section 2Free PassHakone Open-Air Museum~Koen-kami0JPY
    Section 3Free PassKoen-shimo~Owakudani0JPY
    Section 4Free PassOwakudani~Togendai0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTogendai~Moto-Hakone0JPY
    Section 6Free PassMoto-Hakone~In front of the hotel0JPY
    Total5,000JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Kappabashi: Purchase your favorite plate

    Tokyo: Kappabashi: Purchase your favorite plate

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet up with the guests at the hotel
    • 7:25 Toyosu Market tour, sushi breakfast
    • 9:10 Tsukiji: Tsukiji Uogashi, strolling around the outer market
    • 10:20 Asakusa: Sensoji Temple, strolling around Nakamise
    • 11:00 Kappabashi: Purchase your favorite plate
    • 11:20 Kappabashi, return to the hotel by taxi

    Solo Private Tour of Toyosu Market, Tsukiji, and Kappabashi in Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided one of the guests on a private tour. We started the morning at Toyosu Market, where we viewed the tuna auction from the visitors' observation deck. Afterwards, the guest enjoyed breakfast at a sushi restaurant, and I also showed them several shops inside the intermediate wholesale market building. The guest showed strong interest in the fresh seafood and specialty food ingredients. Next, we moved to Tsukiji, where we first saw the tuna after it had been broken down at Tsukiji Uogashi, then walked around the outer market. The guest became interested in some pottery seen in the outer market and expressed a wish to see other similar shops. So after guiding them to Sensoji Temple, we headed to Kappabashi Kitchen Town, where the guest took their time enjoying shopping, focusing mainly on pottery and cooking utensils.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of Shijomae Station~Tsukiji 6-chome210JPY
    Section 2TrainHigashi-Ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Total430JPY

    As a passionate traveler, I’ve explored many countries and always enjoyed meeting people from different backgrounds, discovering new cultures, and sharing meaningful moments.

    In recent years, I’ve come to appreciate my own culture more.

    Having lived in Tokyo for over 20 years, I’m still fascinated by how the city constantly changes, blending fresh energy with deep-rooted traditions. From its vibrant streets to quiet temples, from seasonal flavors to historical crafts, there’s always something that inspires me here.

    I would love to share the beauty and depth of Japan with you.

    Let’s make lasting memories together.

    — Mina

    May 16, 2025
    M
    Mariauxy_C
    Beautiful morning at the fish markets
    Viator review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mina was an excellent…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 9:40 ~ Shinjuku Gyoen 10:20 ~ Asakusa 12:00 ~ Skytree 13:30 ~ Dismissal 13:45

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Asakusa, and Skytree The guests were visitors from Europe on their first trip to Japan, which they had been very much looking forward to. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days and then travel around Hakone, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki. One of the guests mentioned that they had read a little about Japan before coming. Shinjuku Gyoen was about a 20-minute walk away. Along the way, I talked about Japanese history, and the guests listened with great interest to topics such as the balance of power between the Emperor and the Shogun. At the garden, I explained the relationship between the feudal lords and the Shogun, the history of land reclamation and water supply, the role of Shinjuku Gyoen, and its transformation from the Meiji era to the present day. The guests showed great interest and asked many questions. In Asakusa, when I spoke about religion in Japan, the guests remarked that it was quite different from their own background. They were understandably surprised by the manji symbol, but looked relieved once I explained its origins. As it was just before a festival, there were no portable shrines at the station, but the storehouse within the temple grounds was open, so we were able to see the mikoshi. Festival music could be heard, and when I told them that this melody gets Japanese people excited, they laughed. They already knew about the structure of the five-story pagoda and the Skytree from their reading. Afterward, I saw them to the Skytree ticket counter, where we parted ways. I wrote down and explained their return train, transfers, and the exit closest to their accommodation, which they were very pleased to receive.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Oshiage180JPY
    Total440JPY

    Hello, I’m Hizuru.
    I have a passion for sharing my knowledge and love for Japan with visitors from all over the world.
    After teaching English and Japanese to Elementary school and Junior high school students for about 15
    years, I got the National License of Guide and Interpreter in 2014 which allowed me to officially guide
    tourists around Japan.
    I have guided many tourists around Tokyo and its vicinities, helping them to discover the hidden gems of the
    city and learn about its rich history and traditions.
    Whether you’re interested in visiting historical landmarks, trying delicious Japanese cuisine, or experiencing
    the vibrant pop culture scene, I can tailor a tour suit your interests.
    My experience as a teacher greatly helped me in this role as I was able to efficiently communicate and engage
    with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
    I am dedicated to providing an unforgettable and insightful experience for all my guests.
    I look forward to welcoming you to in and around Tokyo and sharing the wonders of Japan with you.

    Oct 14, 2025
    vanessajK6787GS
    Great day out and about in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hizuru was an absolute delight.…

    May 23, 2025
    Inspire25413313092
    Tokyo walking tour 2025
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sally did a great job putting together a…

    May 3, 2025
    davidfZ3537PI
    Great tour with Hizuru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great private tour with Hizuru! Prior to the…

    Apr 17, 2025
    Sharon_F
    Sampling of everything in one day!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great sampling of lots of different…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 9:00 Hotel tour start
    • Transfer by taxi to Higashi Chaya District
    • AM 9:15-AM 10:30 Higashi Chaya District, Utasu Shrine, Shima tour, Gold Leaf Sakuda
    • Transfer by taxi to Kenrokuen
    • AM 10:45- 11:15 Kenrokuen tour
    • AM 11:15-11:45 Kanazawa Castle Park tour
    • Transfer by taxi to Omicho Market
    • PM 12:00-13:00 Omicho Market lunch
    • Transfer by bus to Korinbo
    • PM 13:15-14:20 Kanazawa Castle Park, Gyokusen'in, Hishi Yagura, Gojikken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura tour
    • Transfer by taxi to electronics retail store
    • PM 15:15 Tour ends at Kanazawa Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle, and Omicho Market The tour began by proceeding while checking on the condition of the guests. To reduce the physical burden, we decided to use taxis for transportation, but partway through Kenrokuen Garden, part of the group found it difficult to continue, so they waited on a bench while the rest of the group toured Kanazawa Castle, entering from the Ishikawa Gate and viewing the interior of the Kahoku Gate. Afterward, the group enjoyed a fresh seafood rice bowl for lunch at Omicho Market. Since one of the guests wished to rest at the hotel, I arranged a taxi to take them back. The tour continued for the rest of the group, and we visited the Gyokusen'in area again, followed by the Hishi Yagura turret, the Gojukken Nagaya, and the Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura turret at Kanazawa Castle. On the way, there was a request to purchase a shaver, so we went to an electronics retailer to make the purchase, and the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMusashigatsuji~Korinbo210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Kevin's Place Annex
    • 9:25 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:09 Bamboo Grove ~ Kameyama Park ~ Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 12:45 Nishiki Market + Lunch
    • 14:05 Gion Shinbashi ~ Hanamikoji Street
    • 15:00 Disband @ Kevin's Place Annex

    Can You Do a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. In the morning, I picked them up at their accommodation, which was in a slightly inconvenient location, and we departed on time. Since this was their final day, they had chosen only free sightseeing spots. They seemed to prefer places that looked good and felt unique, rather than focusing on Japanese history or culture in depth. During their stay in Kyoto, they did little sightseeing within the city itself, having instead visited USJ, the Expo, and Himeji Castle. However, the Gion area, which we visited last, drew more of their interest, and they listened attentively to my explanations and asked many questions.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTofukuji~Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama~Shijo-Omiya250JPY
    Section 4TrainOmiya~Kyoto-Kawaramachi170JPY
    Section 5BusShijo-Takakura~Shijo-Keihan-mae230JPY
    Section 6TrainGion-Shijo~Tofukuji170JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Daiba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: GRAND NIKKO TOKYO DAIBA
    • 9:40 Depart Daiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Asakusa Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • 10:20 Arrive Tokyo Skytree Station
    • Tokyo Skytree
    • 11:30 Depart Tokyo Skytree Station
    • (Tobu Skytree Line)
    • Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • Lunch: Dean & Deluca
    • 13:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Omotesando
    • 15:00 Depart Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Arrive Daiba Station
    • 16:30 Dismissal: Daiba Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Skytree, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Body: The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening on a direct flight, then took a taxi to their hotel. For this visit to Japan, they planned to spend some time in Tokyo, then travel to Kyoto and Hiroshima (as a day trip from Kyoto) before returning to Tokyo and heading home. The interest in this trip to Japan came in part from a keen enthusiasm for Japanese culture and studies. It was a warm, somewhat hot day under cloudy skies. Following their request, we first went to the Skytree. There were many students on school trips, so it took a little while to get in. Unfortunately we could not see Mount Fuji, but they remarked, "We can really understand now how vast and sprawling a city Tokyo is." They were interested in the market on the lower floors and observed it carefully. We then moved to the Imperial Palace. We strolled through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. They said, "It's a shame we couldn't see the cherry blossoms." I explained about "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 "Are there no more samurai?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political power?" As they wanted a light lunch, we had sandwiches at a shop in the underground area of Otemachi. We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." There were also questions such as "What kind of teachings does Shinto have?", "When and why did Shinto originate?", and "How does Buddhism differ from Shinto?" We then went to Shibuya. First we walked across the scramble crossing, and afterward took photos looking down from the entrance to a railway platform. There was a question: "Why do so many people gather here?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "It's amazing there's no litter on the streets," "Does no one drop trash?", "Back home we travel everywhere by car. This was the first time riding a subway, and it felt very comfortable and convenient, though it takes some getting used to," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" As they said, "Finding our way back to the hotel seems confusing—we might get lost," I saw them off at Daiba Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba Station~Shimbashi Station325JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa Station~Tokyo Skytree Station157JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo Skytree Line Station~Asakusa Station157JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijubashimae Station~Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 7SubwayOmotesando Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 8SubwayShibuya Station~Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Section 9OtherShimbashi Station~Daiba Station325JPY
    Total1,916JPY

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

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
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    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
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    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

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    This is a great tour, and our…

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  • Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:21 Meet up @ Shin-Osaka Station
    • 14:05-15:20 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 14:15-14:45 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 14:45 Disband @ Umeda Sky Building

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour from Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were staying at a hotel in Kyoto and, early on the morning of the tour, traveled by Shinkansen to Himeji to visit Himeji Castle before coming to Osaka, where we met on the platform at Shin-Osaka Station. The original plan was to visit Osaka Castle, the Umeda Sky Building, and Dotonbori, then have dinner near Hozenji before returning to Kyoto. However, due to travel fatigue combined with having walked since early morning, the guests wished to skip Dotonbori and take a relaxed break at the Umeda Sky Building, so the tour ended partway through. They apologized profusely for ending the tour early due to their own circumstances, which made me feel rather humbled myself.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2TrainOsakajokoen~Osaka180JPY
    Total420JPY

    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!

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
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  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine & Great Buddha

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine & Great Buddha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:18 Meet at Kamakura Station
    • 9:40-10:20 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 10:20-11:00 Travel, visit Hokokuji Temple
    • 11:00-11:40 Travel, visit Hasedera Temple
    • 11:40-12:15 Great Buddha sightseeing
    • 12:15-12:30 Guide to lunch restaurant, dismissal

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Kamakura Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had visited Senso-ji Temple the previous day and mentioned they would be going to Meiji Shrine in two days' time. Since they already had a fair amount of knowledge about Japan, I focused on helping them enjoy the fresh greenery while explaining that Kamakura was a town of the samurai and served as a model for them up until the Edo period. Covering four locations in four hours was a concern, since Kamakura has poorer transport access compared to Tokyo, so I conducted the tour incorporating taxis where needed. I believe this actually worked well. On the day, I learned that one of the guests had a particular dietary preference, so I recommended a restaurant they could visit after the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKamakura Station~Jomyoji220JPY
    Total220JPY

    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
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    May 18, 2025
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    Kappa, our guide met us…
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    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…