Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Otemon Gate, East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 2. 10:30 Asakusa
    • 3. 11:45 Lunch (Nippori Kawamura)
    • 4. 12:45 Yanaka
    • 5. 13:15 Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 14:00 Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 7. 15:00 Disband at Iidabashi Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Japanese Gardens The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived in Japan separately, and after spending a few days in Tokyo, they planned to visit Hakone, Osaka, Kyoto, and other destinations. On this private one-day tour, I guided the guests through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, Yanaka, Nezu Shrine, and Koishikawa Korakuen. I had a preliminary meeting with a travel agency representative, and since the guests wished to visit as many places as possible efficiently, we arranged to meet at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the first destination, rather than at their hotel. I sent a map of the Imperial Palace to the representative and designated Otemon Gate as the meeting point. Since I had not been in contact with the guests directly before the day of the tour, I was a little concerned about whether we would actually be able to meet, but we met almost on time. They told me they had come from their hotel by taxi. At their request, we focused mainly on traditional sites, and the guests asked many enthusiastic questions at each location. They seemed to enjoy Japanese gardens, and the Ninomaru Garden in the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Koishikawa Korakuen appeared to be their particular favorites. As they wished to return to their hotel on their own, I explained how to get back from Iidabashi Station, the nearest station to Koishikawa Korakuen, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemon Gate~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Ueno178JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Nippori146JPY
    Section 4SubwayTodaimae~Korakuen178JPY
    Total680JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Sep 29, 2026
    S77OGjoyh
    Excellent Guided walking tour of temple, shrine and outdoor food market Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day…

    Sep 16, 2026
    Kerry_M
    10/10 tour with Haruhiko Yokota
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We toured Tokyo with Haruhiko Yokota…

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Namba - Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka in Half a Day: Namba – Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:30~10:10 Namba – Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 10:30~12:15 Tennoji – Abeno Harukas 16F Garden Observatory, Tennoji Park, Keitakuen Garden, Shinsekai
    • 12:30~13:45 Kuromon Market, Sennichimae, Hozenji Yokocho, Dotonbori, disband at Ebisubashi

    What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Namba, Tennoji, and Dotonbori The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America and arrived in Osaka the previous day. They were looking forward to visiting the Kansai Expo over two days starting the next day. We first went to Namba Yasaka Shrine, where they prayed for a safe trip and good health. They were impressed by the large lion-head stage. At Tennoji, they enjoyed the view of Osaka from the Abeno Harukas building and were amazed by the dense cluster of buildings. They enjoyed viewing Abeno Harukas from Tennoji Park, and at Shinsekai they enjoyed seeing Billiken and the lively street stalls, taking a short break with some ice cream. It was quite hot and humid, and they seemed a little tired, but we strolled from Kuromon Market to Sennichimae and Dotonbori, ending the tour at Ebisu Bridge.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda~Namba240JPY
    Section 2SubwayNamba~Tennoji240JPY
    Section 3SubwayEbisucho~Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total670JPY

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:00 Hanare' Miyagawasuji・Meeting Point
    • ② 09:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ③ 11:15 Nijo Castle
    • ④ 12:45 Lunch Break (around Kitano Hakubaicho)
    • ⑤ 14:15 Daisen-in Temple
    • ⑥ 15:30 Dismissal in front of Daitoku-ji Temple

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour by Car Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan and in Kyoto, and they left the entire plan to me, saying they were mainly interested in temples and castles, so I designed the itinerary. Since some of the guests would find it difficult to climb slopes or mountain paths for long periods in the intense summer heat, I avoided places with long climbs such as Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari, and the bamboo grove for this itinerary. While I was deep in conversation with some of the guests about the history and culture of the places we visited, others kept talking to me about all sorts of things, which was truly delightful — chatting about a Pikachu, or about a mountain bike, and jumping into the conversation. It felt like talking with my own grandchildren, and it made me very happy, though I also had to keep explaining things to the other guests, so it was a busy but joyful day. Their stories jumped from one topic to the next with no background or context, so it required a lot of imagination and was quite challenging. I am very grateful to the driver, who provided a comfortable drive in the intense heat, including a child seat, and also gave me helpful advice along the way. Thank you again.

    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

    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…

  • Yamanashi: Arakurayama Sengen & Tourist Base Kawaguchiko for tea time

    Yamanashi: Arakurayama Sengen & Tourist Base Kawaguchiko for tea time

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:40 Take the hotel bus to Kawaguchiko Station
    • 09:59 Take the Fujikyu to Shimoyoshida Station
    • 10:25 @Arakurayama Sengen Park (Chureito Pagoda)
    • 11:50 Take the Fujikyu from Shimoyoshida Station to Kawaguchiko Station
    • 12:05 Join the tour to Fujiyama Twin Terrace
    • 13:50 Take the bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Kawaguchiko Town Hall
    • 14:00~15:00 Lunch @Kozaku Kawaguchiko Branch
    • 15:10 Take the bus from Town Hall to Kawaguchiko Station
    • 15:25 @Tourist Base Kawaguchiko for tea time
    • 16:00 Disband @Kawaguchiko Station

    What's a Private Fuji Kawaguchiko Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Chureito Pagoda, Fujiyama Twin Terrace, and Houtou Lunch The guests were visiting from Oceania. Their English accent was easy to understand, and we were able to communicate very well. Since they had expressed in a prior email that they wanted to visit Fujiyama Twin Terrace, I booked the tour in advance and set out early for sightseeing at Chureito Pagoda to match the tour's departure time. At the Twin Terrace, they were moved by the magnificent view of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji. (There were a few clouds, though…) For lunch, I guided them to the local specialty houtou at a well-known restaurant, and they were delighted, saying it was the most delicious thing they had eaten in Japan. As a souvenir, I gave them a pair of matching chopsticks, which they were also very happy to receive. They were heading from Mishima to Kyoto by Shinkansen the next day, so I explained what time to leave the hotel, which bus to take, how to transfer at Mishima Station, and how to buy an ekiben station bento, and they were very grateful for this as well. As reflected in the high review they left, I believe they were very satisfied. It was a lot of fun to guide them, and I feel we became good friends! They were great to spend the day with.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKawaguchiko Station~Shimoyoshida Station310JPY
    Section 2TrainShimoyoshida Station~Kawaguchiko Station310JPY
    Section 3BusKawaguchiko Station~Town Hall180JPY
    Section 4BusTown Hall~Kawaguchiko Station180JPY
    Total980JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    Introduction to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide ‘May’ had emailed us several times…

    Aug 31, 2026
    Charlene_E
    You get to experience…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    You get to experience moving…

    Aug 31, 2026
    labrinir2016
    Excellent- best in class.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We booked a private tour…

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome (1-6-3 Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:20 Tsukiji Market
    • 3) 11:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 4) 12:30 East Gardens
    • 5) 13:30 Asakusa <Sensoji Temple / Nakamise Shopping Street>
    • 6) 14:00 Disband @ Sensoji Temple grounds (2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo)

    What Does a Private Guided Tour of Tokyo and Asakusa Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests, who came from Europe. In their advance message they said they wanted to see the main highlights, so at the meeting point I reconfirmed the itinerary and started the tour. In addition to Tokyo, the guests planned to enjoy driving tours and hiking in Nikko and Hakone, then travel by shinkansen to the Kansai region (Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara) for a four-day stay, before continuing directly to Niseko in Hokkaido for more driving tours and plenty of hiking. They seem to travel all over the world on every holiday, and being fond of hiking, they were light on their feet, which meant we were able to cover all of the planned locations. Along the way I shared recommendations for Nikko, Kamakura, and the Kansai region. After visiting Sensoji Temple, they wanted to relax at a restaurant, so I recommended Hanayashiki-dori, and we parted ways with smiles within the grounds of Sensoji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToei Subway Oedo Line Shiodome Station~Toei Subway Oedo Line Tsukiji-shijo Station180JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station600JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Otemachi Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total780JPY

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Yamanashi: Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Kawaguchiko

    Yamanashi: Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Kawaguchiko

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Mifujien
    • 10:05 By taxi to Kawaguchiko Station
    • 10:35 By Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Motosuko Resort
    • 11:15 Fuji Shibazakura Festival tour @ Fuji Motosuko Resort
    • 13:00 By Fuji Shibazakura Liner to Kawaguchiko
    • 13:45 By Fujikko-go to Oshino Hakkai
    • 14:14 @ Oshino Hakkai walk (Hannoki Museum, lunch)
    • 15:37 By Fujikko-go to Kawaguchiko Station
    • 16:12 Disband @ Kawaguchiko Station

    Title: Can You Do a Private Fuji Day Trip to See the Shibazakura Festival? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had done thorough research and had emailed me a list of places they wished to visit, so we were able to clarify our priorities before setting out and decide on the itinerary smoothly. Since they were very keen to see the Shibazakura Festival, I confirmed with them that a somewhat distant destination would be acceptable, and then took them to Fuji Motosuko Resort. They were deeply moved by the sight of the fields of shibazakura in full bloom with Mount Fuji in the background. As time allowed for only about one more stop, I guided them to Oshino Hakkai, which is difficult to visit on one's own. At the Hannoki Museum, they seemed very interested in seeing the structure of a traditional Japanese farmhouse and its exhibits. In Oshino, I treated them to the local specialty kusamochi and gave them a pair of chopsticks as a souvenir, which delighted them greatly. The weather was fine and Mount Fuji was clearly visible, so overall I believe the guests were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaguchiko Station~Fuji Motosuko Resort1,470JPY
    Section 2BusFuji Motosuko Resort~Kawaguchiko Station1,470JPY
    Section 3BusKawaguchiko Station~Oshino Hakkai620JPY
    Section 4BusOshino Hakkai~Kawaguchiko Station620JPY
    Total4,180JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    Introduction to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide ‘May’ had emailed us several times…

    Aug 31, 2026
    Charlene_E
    You get to experience…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    You get to experience moving…

    Aug 31, 2026
    labrinir2016
    Excellent- best in class.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We booked a private tour…

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel New Otani Garden Tower
    • 2. 9:45 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3. 11:45 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 4. 12:45 Lunch at Marugoto Vegan Dining Asakusa
    • 5. 13:45 Ginza (Sony Store Ginza)
    • 6. 15:00 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 7. 16:30 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 8. 17:00 Disband at Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Jingu, Ginza, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from Europe who expressed an interest in Japanese culture and history. Based on their interests in flowers and machinery, I guided them to the Inner Garden of Meiji Jingu Shrine and the Sony Store in Ginza. When we met, they mentioned their dietary preferences, so for lunch I took them to a vegan dining restaurant in Asakusa, and they were very pleased. Although we walked quite a distance in the hot and humid weather, the guests did not seem tired, and we completed the tour as scheduled.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke~Shimbashi900JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ginza0JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya~Akasaka-mitsuke0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Osaka in One Day: Shitennoji & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Osaka in One Day: Shitennoji & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30-10:00 Hotel to Kuromon Market
    • 10:20-12:00 Shitennoji
    • 12:20-15:00 Osaka Castle
    • 15:30-16:20 Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • Around 16:45 Return to hotel

    Title: What's a Family Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I enjoyed a fun tour with the group, visiting Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. I discovered that these places can be especially enjoyable when touring with the guests. The group loved animals, and while eating on a bench at Osaka Castle, we noticed pigeons and sparrows gathering around, hoping for scraps. At Shitennoji Temple and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, the guests were delighted by the turtles in the ponds. With great curiosity, they found a pump at Shitennoji Temple and drew up groundwater themselves, so I was able to explain that this temple still has an abundant supply of groundwater without having to demonstrate it myself. Since it was hot, we used an electric car on the way to and from Osaka Castle, and we took breaks to buy drinks and ice cream at a convenience store. Everything went according to plan up to Osaka Castle, but afterward we took some extra time, and by the time we returned from Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and dropped everyone off at the Hotel, it was nearly 5 o'clock. At Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, several portable shrines were on display, and it was wonderful to see people practicing how to carry them. Everyone in the group stayed energetic and enjoyed sightseeing in Osaka despite the heat.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNipponbashi~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 2SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Tennoji240JPY
    Section 4TrainTennoji Station~Sumiyoshitorii-mae240JPY
    Section 5TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba240JPY
    Section 6OtherOsaka Castle Park~Osaka Castle Park600JPY
    Total1,700JPY

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet at Miyajimaguchi Port
    • 11:50 Miyajima
    • 12:30 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 13:50 Daishoin Temple
    • 15:30 Miyajima Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima Tour of Itsukushima Shrine and Daishoin Temple Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Tour Report Date of tour: June 2025 Places visited: Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple Guests: The group Weather: Cloudy, later rain Experiences: Itsukushima Shrine — worship etiquette : Daishoin Temple — kaidan-meguri (walk through the dark underground passage) : Maple Road — strolling Details: The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since I had been informed that the meeting point would be in front of the ticket gate at Miyajimaguchi Port, and considering the Sunday crowds, I welcomed the guests holding a Carp flag as a marker. Thanks to the group's lively presence, the tour had a very cheerful and bright atmosphere throughout. In addition to explanations about religion and history, I was able to guide them in a relaxed mood the whole time, weaving in humor and anecdotes. The guests also kindly requested, "Please have lunch with us," and for the first time in a while I shared a table with the guests I was guiding. Enjoying the conversation over lunch became a heartwarming moment for me as well.

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shinjuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Meet up @Conrad
    • 10:20 Asakusa stroll
    • 11:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:15 Lunch @Kyushu Jangara Harajuku branch
    • 13:45 Meiji Shrine: Inner Garden, Main Hall
    • 14:30 Takeshita Street
    • 15:15 Shinjuku (3D cat billboard, Kabukicho – Godzilla Head, Omoide Yokocho)
    • 16:15 Disband @Conrad

    What Is a Private Meiji Shrine and Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to stay for a period of time. They were already in the lobby ten minutes before our meeting time, full of enthusiasm. Before coming to Japan, one of the guests had studied Japanese history and understood my explanations with ease, which was truly rewarding as a guide. They seemed to have studied especially the period from the arrival of Commodore Perry to the Meiji Restoration. We had planned to visit Shinjuku Gyoen, but based on reflections from the previous day, we changed our destination to the Meiji Shrine Inner Garden, which has many trees. This turned out to be an excellent choice. As two herons flew over the South Pond where water lilies were blooming, I made a play on the West Virginia in John Denver's song and said, "Almost heaven, Meiji Shrine," which delighted them. I also gave advice on how to spend their remaining four days in Tokyo, recommending Hamarikyu Gardens and Tsukiji Market, both within walking distance of the hotel, as well as Shibuya Sky, teamLab, a return visit to Shinjuku at night, and a day trip to Kamakura. By the way, I feel that Takeshita Street has become less interesting lately due to the large number of inbound visitors — I wonder what other guides think about this?

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Shimbashi~Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza Line Asakusa~Tozai Line Otemachi178JPY
    Section 3SubwayChiyoda Line Otemachi~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Harajuku~JR Shinjuku146JPY
    Section 5SubwayOedo Line Shinjuku-nishiguchi~Oedo Line Shiodome272JPY
    Total1,025JPY

    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…