Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @ Hotel Vischio Kyoto
    • 9:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:34 Bamboo Grove ~ Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 13:02 Nishiki Market + Lunch
    • 14:57 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 16:31 Disband @ Hotel Vischio Kyoto

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip in Kyoto with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Nishiki Market The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. They were very cheerful, and one of the guests kept talking throughout the tour, both while traveling and at the sightseeing spots. Since one of the guests had trouble walking, I adjusted the itinerary to a slower pace and avoided stairs as much as possible. They seemed truly impressed by the endless rows of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha and the dynamic bamboo grove in Arashiyama. At Nishiki Market, based on their request, I gave them a little over an hour of free time, during which they enjoyed seafood and sake and said they would love to come back. When we parted at the hotel, they told me they would love to meet again.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama~Shijo-Omiya250JPY
    Section 4TrainOmiya~Kyoto-Kawaramachi170JPY
    Section 5SubwayShijo~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 6BusKitaoji Bus Terminal~Kinkaku-ji-michi460JPY
    Section 7SubwayKitaoji~Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,790JPY

    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: Suidobashi Station & Shinkyo bus

    Tokyo: Suidobashi Station & Shinkyo bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel Niwa Tokyo
    • 8:10 Depart Suidobashi Station
    • (JR Sobu Line)
    • Akihabara Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 8:45 Arrive Kita-Senju
    • 9:13 Depart Kita-Senju Station
    • (Tobu Limited Express Spacia X No. 3)
    • 10:50 Arrive Tobu-Nikko Station
    • 11:00 Depart Tobu-Nikko Station bus stop
    • (Tobu Bus)
    • 11:20 Arrive Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park bus stop
    • Nikko Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa
    • 12:26 Depart Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park bus stop
    • (Tobu Bus)
    • 12:50 Arrive Nishi-Sando Entrance bus stop
    • Nikko Nikko Futarasan Shrine
    • Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    • Rinnoji Temple
    • Shinkyo Bridge
    • Break: Asaya
    • 14:30 Depart Shinkyo bus stop
    • (Tobu Bus)
    • 14:45 Arrive Tobu-Nikko Station bus stop
    • 14:57 Depart Tobu-Nikko Station
    • (Kegon No. 38)
    • 16:45 Arrive Kita-Senju Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Akihabara Station
    • (JR Sobu Line)
    • 17:15 Arrive Suidobashi Station
    • 17:15 Disband: Suidobashi Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors who came to Japan from North America, and it was their first visit to Japan. They arrived at Narita Airport a week earlier and took a taxi to their accommodation. They were staying in Japan for about two weeks. Up until the previous day, they had explored various areas within Tokyo, and from the following day they planned to visit Kyoto, Nara, Kinosaki, and Osaka before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. Since photography was a hobby, they mentioned they wanted to take photos in many different places. The tour took place under humid weather with a mix of sunshine and clouds. We traveled from Kita-Senju to Nikko via the Tobu Railway Nikko Line. On the train, I explained the origins of Nikko, about Tokugawa Ieyasu, and about the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration. The guests had already read up on the materials in advance and seemed quite knowledgeable about Japanese history. I also explained the history of the Nikko Kanaya Hotel. Because photography was their hobby, they expressed a wish to focus on the important spots and to spend a relaxed amount of time at each one. First, we took a bus from Tobu Nikko Station to the Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa. There were not many tourists, so it was quiet. The guests seemed interested in the facilities within the villa and took photos in various places. They said they now had a good understanding of what the residence of a noble Japanese person of old times was like. We moved to central Nikko by bus. First, we visited Nikko Futarasan Shrine. They remarked that the row of cedar trees was wonderful, adding that where they live it is always dry. We strolled leisurely through the grounds. From here, we walked to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Despite it being a weekday, it was very crowded with group visitors from overseas and groups of Japanese schoolchildren and students. We went around the Yomeimon Gate, the main hall, and the crying dragon in order. They seemed particularly fond of the "Three Monkeys" and the "Sleeping Cat," and spent a lot of time photographing them. At Rinnoji Temple, they admired the cherry tree in front of the main hall and the Japanese garden, taking their time to photograph them. We walked to the Shinkyo Bridge. For some reason there were not many tourists here, so they could take photos leisurely in various spots. After this, we took a short break at a facility, then took a bus to Tobu Nikko Station. They commented that Nikko was cooler than Tokyo, and that Toshogu was completely different from the Japanese shrines they had seen so far — quite lavish, with many decorations, and very interesting. On the way back, the guests mostly napped on the train. I saw them off from Kita-Senju Station, via Akihabara Station, to Suidobashi Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSuidobashi Station~Akihabara Station146JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara Station~Kita-Senju Station209JPY
    Section 3TrainKita-Senju Station~Tobu-Nikko Station3,140JPY
    Section 4BusTobu bus stop~Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park bus stop350JPY
    Section 5BusTamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park bus stop~Nishi-Sando bus stop150JPY
    Section 6BusNishi-Sando Entrance bus stop~Tobu-Nikko Station bus stop220JPY
    Section 7TrainTobu-Nikko Station~Kita-Senju Station2,850JPY
    Section 8SubwayKita-Senju Station~Akihabara Station209JPY
    Section 9TrainAkihabara Station~Suidobashi Station146JPY
    Total7,420JPY

    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
    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 11:10 Depart Tokyo Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:00 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 14:20 Arrive Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 15:30 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 15:45 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 16:45 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 17:30 Dispersal: Shibuya Station, Shonan-Shinjuku Line platform

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time. The main purpose of their visit to Japan was a 12-day cruise around Japan departing from Yokohama Port the next day, and the trip was timed with a summer holiday. After arriving at Haneda Airport two days before, they took a taxi to a hotel in Yokohama. The day before, they had strolled around the city of Yokohama. They expressed a wish to "visit as many spots as possible." It was a tour under hot and humid weather. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide met the group at the station hotel by Tokyo Station and first headed to Asakusa. As always, there were large crowds, with many foreign tour groups and school excursion students. We started from in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Senso-ji 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 a commemorative photo in front of Kaminarimon Gate and strolled slowly through the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" There was also a question about "Do people go to the temple every week?" We moved to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. There was a question, "When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?" I explained about "the history of Edo," "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji period," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There were questions such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political authority?" We moved to Shinjuku Gyoen. As the guests mentioned they "love Japanese gardens," we strolled slowly. They seemed to be fond of the carp in the pond. We moved to Harajuku and headed to Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "the torii gate," "Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." There were questions such as "What kind of teaching is Shinto?", "When did Shinto originate?", "How many shrines are there in Japan?", and "What is the difference between Buddhism and Shinto?" We also strolled along Takeshita Street and Cat Street. There was a comment, "We have a dog at home, and we wanted to try visiting a cat cafe." We went to Shibuya. We walked across the scramble crossing and took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions and comments such as "Why are there no trash cans in the streets?" and "I think the Tokyo subway is very well made." We saw them off at the Shonan-Shinjuku Line platform at Shibuya Station and parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo Station~Ueno Station167JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno Station~Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae Station~Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae Station~Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Total1,057JPY

    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
    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Ginza Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @Hyatt Regency
    • 9:20 Tochomae Station
    • 9:55 Otemon/East Gardens
    • 10:55 Otemachi Station
    • 11:20 Asakusa Station
    • 12:15 Lunch @Sushi Edomaru
    • 13:30 Asakusa Station
    • 14:00 Ginza Station
    • 15:00 Disband @Ginza 6-chome

    What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like with a Licensed Guide? Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa, and Ginza Shopping Report The guests were friends visiting Japan for a trip. One of the guests was familiar with Japan, while another was visiting Japan for the first time, so we toured the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Asakusa. As the guests enjoyed shopping, I searched for stores based on their requests and we visited vintage brand shops in Ginza. Originally, Ginza had been planned right after the East Gardens, but the guests asked to make it the final stop, so I quickly rearranged the order, reconsidered the restaurant as well, and we were able to visit all the planned places within the allotted time. Along the way, I introduced a Japanese-made parasol, which the guests were delighted to purchase, and I also took them to a Hakata shop to find "umegae mochi," a treat they had bought long ago and could not forget, which they were happy to buy. The guests seemed very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station~Otemachi Station320JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi Station~Asakusa Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Ginza Station210JPY
    Total710JPY

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 09:00 Miyajima
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 16:00 Disband in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome

    Tour Report Date: June 2025 Destinations: Miyajima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Guests: The group Weather: Sunny Experiences: Itsukushima Shrine – worship etiquette : Daisho-in Temple – kaidan-meguri (underground passage) : Maple Road – stroll : Peace Memorial Park – silent prayer of remembrance Details: Today I guided a Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park tour for the same group I had guided on an Onomichi tour the previous day. The guests were very cheerful, and they were especially fond of jokes, so the tour proceeded in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere throughout. I asked them to keep quiet on the train, but the enjoyable conversation continued and it became a little lively. In Miyajima, I guided them to Itsukushima Shrine and Daisho-in Temple. At Daisho-in, there were questions about the Jizo statues wearing baby bibs and red caps, so I explained the cultural background of mizuko kuyo (memorial services for unborn children), the formerly high infant mortality rate, and Japanese views on life and death. The guests listened very attentively and showed deep interest in the religious and cultural background. For lunch, from among several options I had presented in advance, they chose okonomiyaki. In an air-conditioned restaurant, they enjoyed hot, freshly made okonomiyaki and seemed very satisfied. In the afternoon, we visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum, and it became a time to quietly reflect on war and peace.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station~Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station~Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Total990JPY

    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
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo: Shimbashi Station- -Shijomae & Toyosu Market

    Tokyo: Shimbashi Station- -Shijomae & Toyosu Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Hotel
    • 7:30 Shimbashi Station-(Yurikamome Line)-Shijomae (Toyosu Market)
    • 8:00-9:30 Toyosu Market
    • 9:30 Toyosu Market-(Buss)-Tukiji 6th block
    • 10:00-11:00 Tsukiji Fish Market including Tsukiji Honganji Temple and Namiyoke Inari Shrine

    title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Honganji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the group visiting from North America on a private Tokyo tour. I handed them a two-page guide summarizing the day's schedule and brief descriptions of the places we would visit, and they were very pleased with it. They seemed satisfied with the views from the Yurikamome line. At Toyosu Market, I used the displayed panels to explain the history of Japanese fish markets, and they listened attentively. On the retail floor, they purchased knives and aprons. At Tsukiji Honganji, they showed interest in the Indian-style architecture, which is a little different from a traditional Japanese temple. I suggested we meditate, and we spent a few minutes inside the main hall. I believe it allowed them to feel calm despite the heat.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi~Shijomae388JPY
    Section 2BusToyosu Market~Tsukiji 6th block210JPY
    Total598JPY

    My name is Keiji Iwasaki. I am male holding the certification of National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. The members of my family are a wife , two daughters both of whom are married and four grandchildren. I have been a researcher in the field of pharmaceuticals, foods, and cosmetics. I have experience in working in the United States for 3 years when I was thirties and have Ph.D. degree from Kyoto University in biochemistry.
    My interests are Japanese culture including Kabuki along with Japanese nature including climbing mountains such as Mt. Takao in the suburb of Tokyo and strolling Japanese traditional gardens. I also love Japanese cuisines such as Sushi and Tempura especially with beer or Japanese sake.
    Let us enjoy Japanese culture, nature, and cuisines with me during your stay in Japan.

    May 14, 2026
    wibblephil
    Great tailored tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide for Tokyo was Keiji Iwasaki and he…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Travelalerter
    Wonderful Guided Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I had a wonderful tour with…

    Mar 28, 2026
    A
    Adventure66869898889
    Good day in Tokyo.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great day with Keiji.…

    Jun 19, 2025
    C
    Cydney_A
    Great overview of the markets
    Viator review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great walking…

  • Kyoto: Nara Park

    Kyoto: Nara Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel pickup (Kyoto)
    • 12:00 Depart from hotel
    • 13:30 Arrive at Nara Park
    • 15:00 Depart from Nara
    • 16:00 Gion-Shijo ~ Shijo
    • 18:30 Farewell at a restaurant in Shijo

    What Is a Private Osaka/Kyoto to Nara Day Trip Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The day turned out to be one with many major changes to the schedule. First, the tour start time was pushed back by one hour to 11:00 (agreed upon with the representative of the guests on the morning of the tour). Since the guests had arrived in Japan the previous day, it seemed they wanted to take it easy in the morning. Also, after coming down to the lobby, they had breakfast, so we did not depart from the Hotel until after 12:00. After that, at the guests' request, in Nara we visited only Nara Park and then returned straight to Kyoto. In Kyoto, they went to Kyoto Takashimaya, received a massage, and visited a vegetarian restaurant, among other things. In the end, they declined the invitation to dine at a restaurant, and we parted ways at the restaurant. Although in Nara I was only able to guide them to Nara Park, I believe the guests thoroughly enjoyed the deer of Nara.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Kintetsu Nara760JPY
    Section 2BusKintetsu Nara Station~In front of Todaiji Great Buddha Hall250JPY
    Section 3BusIn front of Todaiji Great Buddha Hall~Kintetsu Nara Station250JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nara~Gion-Shijo960JPY
    Total2,220JPY

    I am Yoshi, a Nara Local Government Licensed Guide Interpreter and also, a National Government Licensed Interepreter.
    Let’s go out! The Kansai region was the center of Japan for a long time. It was from the 4th century to 19th century. Thus the Kansai region is rich in scenic and historic interest. Why don’t we see, feel, and find so many attractions in Nara Kyoto and Osaka. I was born and raised in Nara. Also I have been to Osaka and Kyoto for working, shopping and dining. I can show you not only major tourist spots but also shops and delicious food that only locals know. I am looking forward to sharing wonderful moments with you!

    May 29, 2025
    Dana_K
    Get ready to climb and explore
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    There is a lot of climbing…

    Aug 16, 2024
    Dylan_N
    Yoshi was a great tour guide
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 9, 2024
    Tour39164063770
    Tolle Stadtführung mit erfahrenem Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Auf unserem Trip durch Japan hatten wir…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 The Chapter Kyoto, a Hotel Meet up
    • 9:00~10:00 Nijo Castle
    • 10:45~11:25 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00~13:10 Tenryu-ji, Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 14:00~14:30 Fushimi Inari   Disband

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America. In Kyoto, the temperature reached a scorching high of 37 degrees, so we started the tour after making sure to prepare and stay hydrated to avoid dehydration. At Nijo Castle, the guests were deeply impressed by everything, including the decorations of the Karamon Gate, the majestic appearance of the Ninomaru Palace, and inside, the fusuma paintings and the carvings of the transoms. They also watched the student groups with great interest. Since one of the guests had a slight cold, we stopped by a pharmacy and a convenience store during our taxi ride to pick up medicine and light snacks, and continued on while resting. The guests were impressed by all the different scenery, such as Kinkaku-ji, Tenryu-ji, and the bamboo grove. They looked a little tired from the intense heat, but were encouraged to keep going all the way to the final stop at Fushimi Inari. We ended the tour at Fushimi Inari, and the guests returned to their Hotel by taxi.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2TrainHankyu Arashiyama~Karasuma Shijo240JPY
    Section 3SubwayKarasuma Shijo~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto~Fushimi Inari150JPY
    Total830JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM 12:20 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by train to Tsukiji
    • PM 12:50-13:30 Strolling around Tsukiji Market
    • Travel by train to Asakusa
    • PM 14:15 -15-15 Visit Sensoji Temple
    • Travel by train to Meiji Jingumae
    • PM 16:00- 16:40 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • Travel by train to Shibuya
    • PM 17:00-17:20 Visit Hachiko and the Scramble Crossing
    • Travel by train to Shiodome
    • PM 18:00 Tour ends at the hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya On the day of the tour, the guests informed me via a messaging app that the meeting hotel was not the one originally noted but a different one nearby. Since the two were right next to each other, we were able to meet without any trouble. As there were no specific requests for places to visit made in advance, we toured Tsukiji, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed eel, wagyu beef, and croquettes. In Asakusa as well, they enjoyed Japanese sweets and matcha. However, as it was extremely hot, with the guests' agreement we ended the tour a little early after seeing them off at their hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Tsukiji Market178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa286JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Meiji Shrine252JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya146JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya~Shiodome286JPY
    Total1,148JPY

    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!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Photo in front of Hachiko & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Photo in front of Hachiko & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet in front of Shibuya vacation rental
    • 8:50 Photo in front of Hachiko
    • 9:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:10 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 12:30 Akihabara
    • 13:10 Ginza
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:50 Disband at Takeshita Street

    What Does a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report It was a bit hazy, but the weather was fine and it was a very hot day. I encouraged the guests to stay hydrated, lent a parasol, and offered a cooling towel, doing my best to prevent heatstroke. Since the guests had arrived in Shibuya at night before and had not seen the Scramble Crossing or the statue of Hachiko, I guided them there first. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the guests showed interest in the model of the castle keep and the Japanese garden. They bought snacks at the convenience store in the basement of the Palace Building. In Asakusa we stopped by various shops, but they did not do any shopping. In Akihabara they bought character T-shirts and other items. In Ginza I guided them to Ginza Six, but as they have a fear of heights, we kept the rooftop visit brief and headed to Meiji Jingu Shrine. Meiji Jingu Shrine was cool and seemed to be a favorite. I guided them to the entrance of Takeshita Street, took a photo, and the tour ended. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara~Ginza0JPY
    Section 5TrainGinza~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total700JPY

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

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
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    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

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

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
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    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
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    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…