Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:10 Purchase Suica card at Shinjuku Station New South Exit
    • 9:50 Asakusa, Senso-ji Temple
    • 11:40 Lunch at Sushizanmai in Tsukiji Market
    • 13:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:00 Escort to Shinjuku Station and disband

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and the Imperial Palace The guests were visiting from Oceania. First, I helped them activate their Japan Rail Pass and purchase Suica cards at the JR East Travel Service Center at the Shinsouth Gate of Shinjuku Station. It was not crowded and the staff member's explanation was very clear, which was great. The Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa and the grounds of Sensoji Temple were extremely crowded, perhaps because of the Sanja Festival starting the next day. It was even difficult to pass through. Since the guests preferred a relaxed pace, I recommended buying some water, and we took a break on a bench in the western grounds. As they wanted to experience conveyor-belt sushi at Tsukiji, we had lunch at a sushi restaurant. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the fresh green foliage was beautiful and the guests enjoyed strolling. As one of the guests works in carpentry, they were interested in the architectural styles of the Hyakunin-bansho guardhouse and the Fujimi-tamon defense house. We had planned to walk to the Nijubashi Bridge, but the guests wished to return to their hotel as they were tired, so I saw them off at Shinjuku Station and ended the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Asakusa360JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Tsukiji290JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji～Otemachi180JPY
    Total830JPY

    Tour Report by YUMI

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

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    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ginza Station & Toranomon Hills Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Ginza Station & Toranomon Hills Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel Toranomon Hills
    • 10:10 Depart Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:50 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:00 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Arrive Hibiya Station
    • 　 Hibiya Lunch: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya / Tsukiji Sushisei Hibiya Chanter Store
    • 14:00 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:20 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 15:20 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:40 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 16:30 Arrive Toranomon Hills Station
    • 16:30 Dismissal: Toranomon Hills Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan. They had arrived at Haneda Airport on a direct flight the previous evening and taken a taxi to their hotel. They were on a short trip to Japan, spending three days in Tokyo, then traveling to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima (a day trip from Kyoto), before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They were interested in Japanese culture and history, and also said they wanted to try and enjoy a variety of Japanese foods. The tour took place under clear skies, with weather warm enough to feel almost hot. First, we headed to Asakusa. As always, it was extremely crowded. Starting from the front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained about 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 Gate and the five-story pagoda. They purchased a safe-childbirth charm as a gift. There were questions such as how many Buddhists there are in Japan, what other religions people believe in besides Buddhism, and whether everyone goes to a temple every week. We moved on to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. There was a question about when the cherry blossoms are best to see. 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 also questions such as why the emperor and the samurai shogunate existed in parallel, and whether the current emperor of Japan holds any political power. Since the guests wanted to have sushi for lunch, we went to a sushi restaurant in the Hibiya and Tsukiji area. We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about Shinto, the torii gate, Emperor Meiji, and why wine barrels are displayed there. There were also questions about what kind of teaching Shinto is, and when and why Shinto originated. Then we went to Shibuya. First, we walked across the scramble crossing, then took photos looking down from the entrance to a train platform. There was a question about why so many people gather there. We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue and strolled through Center Street. There were comments and questions such as how strange it was that there was no litter on the streets, how completely different it is from where they come from where streets are full of trash, whether people really never litter, how comfortable and convenient the subway was on their first ride, how well-developed the public transportation network is, and why there are no trash cans on the streets. Since the guests found it difficult to figure out how to get back to their hotel, I saw them off at Toranomon Hills Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToranomon Hills Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae Station～Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayHibiya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya Station～Toranomon Hills Station178JPY
    Total1,067JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    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.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:27 Meet up Hiroshima Station
    • 2. 11:45 Travel Hiroshima Station→Hiroshima Castle
    • 3. 12:00 Stay Hiroshima Castle, Gokoku Shrine
    • 4. 13:40 Stay Lunch SOKO CAFE, Hassho
    • 5. 14:40 Travel Hiroshima Castle→Peace Park
    • 7. 15:10 Stay Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum
    • 8. 17:10 Travel Peace Park→Hiroshima Station
    • 9. 17:35 Disband Hiroshima Station

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Asia, and the tour had been arranged by a member of the group's family. From the pre-tour emails, I could sense a strong wish for the guests to have a wonderful time in Hiroshima, and I found myself sharing that same feeling even before we met. Perhaps that is why, when we met, it did not feel like a first meeting at all. One of the guests seemed to enjoy walking, while the other preferred a slower pace. At Hiroshima Castle, one of the guests had initially planned to wait outside, but was able to come up to the second floor with us and take a photo wearing a samurai helmet, which was a lovely moment. One of the guests, who enjoyed taking photographs, had been taking many pictures from the moment we met. Their manner was so much like that of a photographer that when I mentioned this, the guests laughed together. The Peace Memorial Park was clearly a place the guests absolutely wanted to visit, and they listened very attentively to the explanations. I kept the pace comfortable, adding breaks and a lunch stop, and the guests were very grateful that they were able to see everything they had hoped to see. I saw them off at Hiroshima Station with a little time to spare, ending the tour. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHiroshima Station Shinkansen Platform～Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Platform150JPY
    Section 2BusHiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit～Hiroshima Castle240JPY
    Section 3BusPeace Park Front～Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit240JPY
    Total630JPY

    Tour Report by Namitsu

    Hello, my name is Namitsu Katayama. I’m from Hiroshima. It would be my pleasure to show you around Hiroshima, the place which I love so much.
    Hiroshima is beautiful, interesting and fun! I would be happy if you could enjoy our tour, and I hope that it will make you want to visit Hiroshima again in the future. I hope you will like our local food and Hiroshima specialties, too.
    I look forward to talking with you. I would be delighted if I could help you deepen your understanding of Japan and come to love it even more.
    I love travelling and enjoy both domestic and international travel. I would like to make use of my experience to be able to respond flexibly to your requests. If you have any questions or requests, please feel free to contact me.

    Request Booking

    May 30, 2026
    wheatbreadmartin
    Tripadvisor review: Onomichi Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the beaten path with a great guide!
    Our guide, Namitsu, was…

    Apr 10, 2026
    165bozenam
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A fascinating and highly recommended tour.
    We had a…

    Jul 28, 2025
    Reggie_R
    This tour was a great way…
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This tour was…

    Apr 1, 2025
    ruthl654
    Great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Namitsu was a wonderful guide. She was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　　　　Hotel THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA Lobby
    • 10:40～11:30　Meiji Shrine Sightseeing → Omotesando
    • 12:10～13:30　Nezu Shrine → Snake Path → Yanaka
    • 13:30～14:15 Lunch
    • 14:15～14:30 Yanaka Ginza → Nippori
    • 14:55～16:00 Asakusa Sightseeing (Asakusa Shrine → Sensoji Temple → Nakamise)
    • 16:00 　Tour ends at Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Yanesen The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of them had been to Japan once before, about seven years ago, while it was the first visit to Japan for the other. A member of the group's family had worked in Japan for about a year and a half, so there was a strong interest in Japan, and the guests were eager to learn various Japanese words and phrases. The itinerary had been arranged with the other guest in mind. Meiji Shrine and Asakusa were being visited for the second time, but since there were things that had not been explained on the previous occasion, and it was a first visit to the Yanesen area (Yanaka, Nezu, Sendagi), we also held a birthday celebration there. Since the guests planned to go to Hakone the next day, I was asked for advice about reserving the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku and how to purchase the Hakone Free Pass. While consulting the Odakyu Information Center, I helped reserve the Romancecar online. Because the paper Free Pass could not be issued with English support for their very early departure the next morning, I managed to issue it for them using a convenience store ticketing machine, which delighted them. The above ticketing was carried out at our final stop in Asakusa. After giving an overall explanation and covering Asakusa Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, and the Hozomon Gate, the guests decided to explore Nakamise Street at their own leisurely pace, so we moved to a convenience store, where I managed to issue the ticket using a machine that only had Japanese-language support. Finally, we enjoyed the view from the 8th floor of the Information Center (which even the previous visitor had not been to before) and ended the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUchisaiwaicho～Meiji-jingumae286JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nezu209JPY
    Section 3BusNippori Station East Exit～Nitenmon-mae210JPY
    Total705JPY

    Tour Report by HIDE

    About HIDE

    Hello, my name is Hideki (HIDE), a licensed tour guide based in Tokyo.
    I spent more than 40 years working in the airline industry, including 12 years living and working overseas.
    During that time, I had extensive opportunities to interact with people from Europe, the United States, and Asia. These experiences strengthened my appreciation for cultural exchange and shaped the warm, attentive hospitality I now bring to my tours.

    My goal is to help visitors enjoy Japan in a relaxed and meaningful way—through not only sightseeing, but also friendly communication, small discoveries, and genuine local experiences. I want guests to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of the culture and a lasting fondness for the country.

    I mainly guide private tours (FIT) in Tokyo, introducing both iconic highlights and hidden local spots that are often missed by first-time visitors. Tours to Kamakura, Hakone, and Nikko can also be arranged upon request.

    Guests often tell me that touring with me feels like traveling with a knowledgeable local friend—something I consider the greatest compliment. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing an enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable time together.

    Languages: English, Indonesian
    Max group size: Up to 4 people
    Contact:
    📱 +81-80-5118-2800 (WhatsApp available)
    📧 morikin57@yahoo.co.jp

    Request Booking

    Apr 6, 2026
    Mercedes_G
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great guide in Tokyo
    Wonderful tour with friendly…

    May 30, 2025
    Paradise22352245597
    Great! Hide was the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I did this with my brother on…

    May 15, 2025
    TrishaK454
    Personalized tour with a very lovely guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hide was a delightful guide.…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Imelda_B
    Grateful
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hide was amazing tour guide. He organised our itinerary very well.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hyatt Regency Tokyo & Harajuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Hyatt Regency Tokyo & Harajuku

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:30 Hyatt Regency Tokyo
    • 13:40 Hotel
    • 14:15 Rikugien Garden
    • 15:30 Nezu Shrine
    • 16:30 Yanaka walk
    • 17:45 Harajuku walk
    • 19:30 Disband at Omotesando

    What's a Private Afternoon Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Rikugien, Yanaka, and Harajuku The guests were visitors from North America who were looking forward to Tokyo as a highlight of their trip through East Asia. Throughout the tour they asked many questions, showing a strong interest in the places we visited and in Japanese culture and history. Because of hotel check-in in the morning, the tour started at 13:30. At Rikugien Garden, they enjoyed the wonderful scenery and a matcha set at Fukiage Chaya teahouse. At Nezu Shrine, they fully experienced Shinto and shrine culture in the quiet atmosphere, and then relaxed while watching the carp and turtles in the pond below Otome Inari. It was a fulfilling time. Walking through Yanaka, I think they were able to savor the charm of an old downtown neighborhood, quite the opposite of the business district of Shinjuku. After buying their favorite bread at a bakery in Yanaka Ginza to satisfy a light hunger, we headed to Harajuku. I guided them through Takeshita Street, Cat Street, and Omotesando, and along the way they stopped at shops and each did some shopping. As they walked around, they were also able to spot a place for the two of them to have dinner, and the tour concluded as we parted ways in Omotesando.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Komagome178JPY
    Section 2BusKamifujimae～Nezu Shrine Entrance210JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori～Harajuku208JPY
    Total596JPY

    Tour Report by MASA

    Welcome guests!

    I am Masa Abe, though everyone calls me MASA. For over 40 years, I worked as an in-house lawyer for one of the most renowned Japanese companies in the world. During my tenure, I spent eight and a half years in New York, where I had the pleasure of studying, working, and making friends with wonderful people. I truly enjoyed living and traveling in the U.S.

    After retiring from the company in 2023, I pursued a new path and soon qualified as a National Government Licensed Guide-Interpreter. As your guide, I am excited to offer professional and heartfelt services to you, my new friends from abroad.

    Best wishes, MASA

    Request Booking

    May 21, 2025
    CraigMaplewood
    Informative and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masa brought his strong historical knowledge and easy…

    May 15, 2025
    luc_arY4023MB
    A memorable Tokyo tour with Masa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I had a great time on…

    May 8, 2025
    Catherine_R
    Great Tour to take on Day 1
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of Tokyo including…

    Apr 25, 2025
    TomQ188
    A wonderful day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a wonderful…

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　09:00　Meet in front of Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • ②　09:05　Itinerary explanation・Explanation about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　09:30　Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • ④　12:00　Heiseiin (Arashiyama)
    • ⑤　12:20　Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • ⑥　13:30　Tenryu-ji Garden
    • ⑦　15:00　Nijo Castle
    • ⑧　16;20　Tenju-an
    • ⑨　16:45　Stroll through Nanzen-ji Sanmon・Aqueduct
    • ⑩　17:00　Disband in front of Nanzen-ji

    Can You Do a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and this was their first time in Japan and in Kyoto. They were remarkably energetic people who talked a lot, asked a lot of questions, took a lot of photos, and were constantly on the move. Wherever we went, they were quite bold about taking photos, spending more time and being more enthusiastic than most, but they explained that they were not there simply to take pictures and be done — they had come to "understand" everything, including the historical significance and roots of each spot. In the end, they skipped lunch and spent the entire day running around each site taking photos, but at the same time they listened intently to what I said and asked question after question until they were fully satisfied. They were trying to take in the various stories they had heard from various people in various places during their travels around Japan, understand them in their own way, and connect them into a single complete picture. This was true whether it concerned history, religion, or culture, so I repeated the same stories many times in different places. Toward the end, they said, "Now I really get it, it all finally connects!" For my part, I talked continuously for eight hours without lunch and was completely exhausted, but I felt a great sense of fulfillment.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Request Booking

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①9:00 Meet at the hotel, procedure for purchasing Suica at Shinjuku Station
    • ②9:40-9:50 Akihabara
    • ③10:15-10:50 Senso-ji Temple
    • ④10:55-11:55 Sumida River Cruise (to Odaiba by water bus)
    • ⑤11:55-12:20 Odaiba
    • ⑥13:00-14:30 Meiji Shrine, lunch
    • ⑦14:30-15:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street → Disband at the Jingumae intersection. After this, the 4 guests plan to tour Omotesando and Shibuya and return to the hotel.

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and a Sumida River Cruise The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time, having arrived the previous night. Since they left the itinerary up to me, I built the tour around Asakusa and Meiji Shrine, and added Akihabara, a Sumida River cruise, Odaiba, and Harajuku's Takeshita Street so that everyone could enjoy the day. We were blessed with good weather, making it a comfortable tour, and everyone was very pleased. In particular, they enjoyed the water bus, spending an hour on the deck feeling the refreshing breeze while taking in the scenery of Odaiba and other sights. As they also planned to visit Kyoto during their stay in Japan, I offered some recommended spots for them to see.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Akihabara180JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo Teleport～Harajuku520JPY
    Total910JPY

    Tour Report by SAM

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Request Booking

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:40 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2. 09:50 Transfer: Train
    • 3. 10:30 Stay @ Yamashita Park
    • 4. 11:20 Stay @ Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
    • 5. 12:35 Lunch @ LA COCORICO
    • 6. 13:30 Transfer: Walk
    • 7. 13:50 Stay @ Yokohama Landmark Tower
    • 8. 14:40 Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Yokohama's Minato Mirai Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived at the hotel lobby early, so we were able to get off to a smooth start. Most of the requested spots were around the Minato Mirai area, and since the farthest among them was Yamashita Park, we decided to take the train only for that stretch and then walk gradually northward toward Landmark Tower. I suggested visiting the Red Brick Warehouse, and this turned out to be the highlight of the tour. I had heard that the guests were fond of crafts, and after browsing through the shops on the second floor of Building No. 2, they ended up spending over an hour shopping. We also had lunch inside the Red Brick Warehouse. It took some time to be served, but I think it made for a nice break. After that, on the way to Landmark Tower, I pointed out the location of the Cup Noodles Museum, and after the guests enjoyed the view from Landmark Tower, I saw them back to the hotel and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMinatomirai Station～Motomachi-Chukagai Station200JPY
    Total200JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:40 Meet at the hotel (guest 10 minutes late)　8:08 Fushimi Inari　9:15 Toji Temple　10:15 Short break　11:00 Nijo Castle　12:00 Lunch (Oyakodon)　13:10 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 14:25 Arrive at Kitaojibashi (along Kamo Kaido)　14:45 Viewing the Aoi Festival procession　15:25 Tour ends after the procession passes by

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like During the Aoi Matsuri? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from Europe. Although their first language was not English, both could understand it, and communication was easy since they spoke English clearly and carefully. Both were very cooperative and trusted my tour plan, which made guiding them enjoyable. Since they had already visited the Higashiyama area, which we had been discussing until the day before, on their own, we decided to go to Kinkaku-ji Temple instead. Because today was the Aoi Matsuri, at the end of the tour we went to Kitaoji Bridge along the Kamo River to watch the procession. It had been 24 years since I last saw the Aoi Matsuri myself, and it was a delight. For about 30 minutes, under fine weather, the guests watched the procession of participants dressed in traditional Japanese costumes with great interest. The photo was taken at To-ji Temple. This private one-day tour of Kyoto was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto～Toji180JPY
    Section 5SubwayKujo～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijojo-mae～Nishioji Oike220JPY
    Section 7BusNishioji Oike～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 8OtherKinkakuji～Kitaojibashi0JPY
    Total1,410JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Nagano in Half a Day: Nagano Station & Kagami-ike Pond

    Nagano in Half a Day: Nagano Station & Kagami-ike Pond

    Nagano Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at hotel
    • 11:10 Nagano Station
    • 11:20 Zenkoji Daimon
    • 11:25 Zenkoji Temple
    • 11:50 Ojuzu Choudai (blessing ceremony)
    • 12:00 Buddhist service viewing
    • 12:20 Board taxi
    • 13:00 Togakushi Okusha Entrance
    • 13:20 Okusha approach cedar avenue
    • 13:50 Board taxi
    • 14:00 Kagami-ike Pond
    • 15:00 Disband at hotel

    What Is a Private Nagano Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Zenkoji Temple and Togakushi The guest was a visitor from Oceania. At Zenkoji Temple, the guest enjoyed a special experience, receiving the Ojuzu Choudai blessing and observing a ceremony led by the head priest, and was very satisfied. As the guest expressed a fondness for forests, we took a taxi to the cedar-lined path leading to the Okusha inner shrine of Togakushi. The Togakushi mountain range was clearly visible, and with gentle winds it was a perfect day for a stroll. On the way back, we also stopped by Kagami-ike Pond, where the guest fully enjoyed the beginning of the fresh greenery and the mountain scenery. While some snow still remained, there were also places where cherry blossoms were in bloom, and the guest happily captured many of these views in photographs.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNagano Station～Zenkoji Daimon190JPY
    Total190JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Nice to meet you. My name is Emi F., and I am a licensed guide interpreter specializing in English. I was born and have lived and worked in Nagano, where I am especially knowledgeable about the northern, eastern, and central regions of the prefecture. After retiring early from a career in teaching, I began working as a guide interpreter in 2021. Since then, I have had the pleasure of guiding many visitors to some of my favorite places, including Nagano, Matsushiro, Togakushi, Matsumoto, Azumino, Yamanouchi, Obuse, Nozawa-onsen, Suzaka, and Karuizawa, among others. I have a deep appreciation for the diverse foods harvested in Nagano and am committed to providing a flexible and enjoyable experience for my guests. Additionally, upon request, I can also guide you in Kanazawa, Nagoya, Nara, and Kyoto. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you and to share a memorable and enjoyable tour together.

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    Mar 21, 2026
    Cengiz_S
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Recommend this tour without any hesitation!
    We’re really enjoyed this…

    Apr 3, 2025
    R
    Robert_C
    Emi was a great guide who…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Emi was a…

    Jun 8, 2024
    James_M
    Beautiful afternoon with a private tour of Nagano!
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…