Category: Uncategorized

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Nagoya Port Cruise Ship Norwegian gathering (9:20) → Subway → Nagoya Castle sightseeing (10:00 – 11:20) → Taxi → Atsuta Shrine sightseeing (11:40-12:10) → Taxi →
    • Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology sightseeing (12:30 – 13:10) → To Nagoya Port by Nagoya Sightseeing Bus Me-guru/Subway (13:45)

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Nagoya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although the rain limited outdoor sightseeing, I believe it turned into a busy yet fulfilling tour by adding the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology on the spot as a third route, in addition to the classic Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. This time, having prepared folding umbrellas for the guests helped them avoid much of the discomfort of the rain, and they were very grateful. The plan had been decided in advance as a standard itinerary of Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine, but during the tour I sensed that some of the guests were more interested in industry and tools than in history and culture, so I added the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology at the end, which allowed everyone to be satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoya Port～Nagoya Castle270JPY
    Section 2BusToyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology～Nagoya Station210JPY
    Section 3SubwayNagoya～Nagoya Port270JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Hiroshi

    Welcome to Japan! I’m your friendly guide based in Nagoya.

    Hello! My name is Hiroshi, and I’m a nationally licensed English-speaking guide based in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture.
    I studied and worked in the United States for six years, so I speak fluent and natural English. More importantly, I understand Western culture and what international guests look for in a great travel experience.

    I have lived in Nagoya and the surrounding area for over 20 years, so I know this region inside and out. My specialties are Nagoya city and the Nakasendo trail, including the historic post towns of Tsumago-juku and Magome-juku in the beautiful Kiso Valley. I’m passionate about local history, culture, and traditions—and I love sharing these stories in a fun and engaging way.

    Guests often tell me they appreciate my warm smile, positive attitude, and personalized approach. I always take time to understand your interests and needs so I can tailor each tour and make it truly memorable.
    Whether you’re interested in samurai history, local food, scenic nature, or off-the-beaten-path spots, I’ll make sure you experience the real charm of Japan with comfort and joy.

    Let’s explore together—I can’t wait to show you around!

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    Jul 21, 2026
    ellennyg_rdr2022
    Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome & Tsumago in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Would recommend!
    Great experience! Very professional guide named Hiroshi.…

    Jun 17, 2026
    mayo773
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Highly recommended!
    Hiroshi was personable and knowledgeable. His anecdotes added…

    Apr 15, 2026
    Brad_T
    Wonderful day on the trail!
    Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had wonderful day…

    Sep 24, 2025
    Paula S
    A great walk with Hiroshi
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiroshi was a…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting at Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu　10:40 Hakone Checkpoint (including Onshi Park and museum)　12:00 Hakone Shrine (Torii of Peace)　15:00 Lunch and friendly chat　16:00 Disperse at the dining hall

    What Is a Private Rainy-Day Hakone Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They had rented a car in Tokyo the previous day and drove themselves during the tour. At the Hakone Checkpoint area, we first took our time enjoying the scenery at Onshi Park. Unfortunately it was rainy and Mount Fuji was not visible, but the guests were very satisfied with the natural scenery. They carefully viewed the exhibits at both the Checkpoint Museum and the Checkpoint itself. At Hakone Shrine, we lined up for the first time to take photos at the Peace Torii Gate, waiting about 20 minutes for our turn. By then it was already past 14:00, and we searched for a place to have lunch, but most restaurants had already closed. We finally reached a soba restaurant near Gora and enjoyed the meal. In addition to the main soba dish, they ordered several à la carte items and some drinks, and we enjoyed the food and conversation to our hearts' content for over an hour. The guests were sociable and talkative throughout, creating a warm and pleasant atmosphere. It turned out to be a very unusual route for a Hakone tour, but I believe it was a very elegant day for the guests. It was a special day for me as well.

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

    Tour Report by Shinji

    Before I started the guiding job in 2022, I had worked for private companies and been engaged in overseas business, which led me to be stationed in various English-speaking countries. Taking advantage of such experiences and also wishing to reciprocate the kindness extended to me during my career, I have decided to help visitors to Japan enjoy their stay and obtained a national guide license.
    I am very honored and pleased to assist guests from overseas and enjoy seeing them having a great time visiting interesting spots in Japan and learning about the country. I look forward to serving more new guests and seeing them smile at the end of my private tours.

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    Jun 8, 2025
    T1516LOmarkg
    Tokyo tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
    LaToya_S
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…

    Feb 27, 2025
    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly!…

    Feb 17, 2025
    Trip29223434750
    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    For those not wanting to…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Arashiyama area

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Arashiyama area

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30: Meet at the hotel
    • 11:30: Tour of Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:00: Tour of Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 14:30: Lunch @ Ichiryu Ramen
    • 15:00: Tour of the Arashiyama area (Bamboo Grove, Kameyama Park, Hozu River)
    • 16:45: Disband @ Kyoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ryoanji, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari Today's guests were visitors from the Middle East. Some of the guests had visited Kyoto once before with family and had many fond memories, so they had returned to explore Japan again. They had a strong interest in Japan and asked many questions, making it a very enjoyable day. Our conversation ranged across Zen Buddhism, traditional Japanese culture, and the relationship between Buddhism and Shinto. At Ryoanji Temple, I offered my own explanation of the philosophical aspects of Zen Buddhism and their connection to quantum physics, and by asking questions about their own faith, I was also able to learn a great deal from them. We had lunch in Arashiyama, then walked from the Hozugawa River through Kameyama Park to the bamboo grove, visited Nonomiya Shrine, and finally made our way to Kyoto Station. Since the guests wished to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, I provided them with train information for Inari Station, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Sanjo Station～Kinkakuji-michi Station230JPY
    Section 2TrainRyoan-ji Station～Arashiyama Station250JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama Station～Kyoto Station240JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Toshi

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

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    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Harajuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Harajuku

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku > Purchase 24-hour subway pass
    • 12:50 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 14:20 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 14:55 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:40 Harajuku (At the entrance of Takeshita Street, they said it was too crowded so we turned back)
    • 16:15 Dismiss at Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The weather was fine, and the tour proceeded pleasantly. We met at a hotel in Nishi-Shinjuku, purchased 24-hour passes at the station, and set off. In Asakusa, the guests took many photos and enjoyed themselves. We had not planned to visit Shibuya, but since they said they very much wanted to see "the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world," we decided to stop by Shibuya on short notice. Perhaps because it was a holiday, it was extremely crowded, and the guests were surprised by the number of people. At Meiji Shrine, perhaps because it was an auspicious holiday and the season was pleasant, there were as many as four weddings taking place during the time we were watching, which delighted the guests greatly. We went as far as the entrance of Takeshita Street, but the guests were surprised by the crowds and, saying that such a crowded place was better skipped, we moved on. We arrived at the hotel slightly over the scheduled time, but overall the guests were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNishi-Shinjuku～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae～Nishi-Shinjuku0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    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.

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

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

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

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

  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:25 Meet up @Hotel Sapporo
    • 2. 9:35 Former Hokkaido Government Office Building
    • 3. 10:00 Hokkaido University Botanical Garden
    • 4. 11:40 Sapporo Clock Tower
    • 5. 12:25. Lunch @Aburiya Bisse
    • 6. 13:15. Nijo Market
    • 7. 13:30 Tanukikoji
    • 8. 14:05 Maruyama Park
    • 9. 15:25 Disband @Hotel Sapporo

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Hokkaido University Botanical Garden The guests were visitors from North America. Through email correspondence beforehand, they had requested a tour centered on places where they could enjoy history, culture, and nature, so I added the Hokkaido University Botanical Garden and arranged for them to also see the museum located within the grounds. The guests were remarkably energetic and, although at a somewhat gentle pace, walked the entire route of this tour, which involved covering quite a long distance on foot. Since Hokkaido was their first destination after arriving in Japan from North America, they understandably took a taxi back to the hotel at the end. It was a tour that left me impressed by the guests, who were able to enjoy a walking tour of well over 15,000 steps despite jet lag.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori Park Station～Maruyama Koen Station210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

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    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

    Sep 2, 2025
    roxannerW1499FK
    Great experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful city tour with Tom in…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Station & Kamiyacho Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Station & Kamiyacho Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting place: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 11:10 Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 13:00 Depart Asakusa
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:20 Arrive at Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 14:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Cafe Terrace Meiji Shrine
    • 15:40 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive at Kamiyacho Station
    • Kamiyacho Tokyo Tower
    • 17:00 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 17:30 Arrive at Shinjuku Station
    • 17:30 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Originally a larger group had planned to come, but some were unable to make the trip, so only part of the group traveled to Japan. The night before, they arrived at Narita and took the Narita Express to Shinjuku. This time they were staying for about a week, planning to spend part of it in Tokyo and part in Kyoto. Today's request was: "We want to visit as many of Tokyo's major spots as possible. We'd love to eat fresh seafood at Tsukiji." It was a tour under clear skies. However, being a holiday period, everywhere was extremely crowded. First we went to Asakusa. It was very crowded starting from the front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate and the five-story pagoda. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "What religions do people believe in besides Buddhism?", and "Do people go to temples every week?" They purchased "business prosperity" and "traffic safety" charms for the group members who could not come. We moved to Tsukiji. As always, it was extremely crowded with many people. We first visited "Tsukiji Uogashi," and then the outer market. I explained about "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." They said, "Where we live, we can't eat fresh fish. We'd really love to try many kinds." They bought and sampled "tuna sushi," "grilled whole squid," "grilled king crab," "grilled beef skewers," and a "tuna burger," one after another. There were also questions like "Why are there so many people here?" and "Do all Tokyoites come here to buy fish?" We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the Meiji Restoration," and "why wine barrels are displayed here." There was also a question: "When did Shinto originate?" From here, we moved to Kamiyacho and went to Tokyo Tower. Unfortunately Mount Fuji could not be seen. They said, "Now we really understand how vast and spread out Tokyo is." They commented, "The streets are clean with no litter," and "Where we live, there are hardly any subways or trains. We always travel by car. We envy Tokyo." I saw them off at Shinjuku Station, and 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 1SubwayShinjuku Station～Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Depart Kamiyacho Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayKamiyacho Station～Shinjuku Station209JPY
    Total1,057JPY

    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…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Koko-en Garden & Egret Himeji

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Koko-en Garden & Egret Himeji

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:45 @ Mount Shosha, Engyoji Temple
    • 12:00 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 12:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 14:30 @ Egret Himeji
    • 15:00 Disband @ Himeji Station Underground Food Court

    Title: What Is a Private Guided Tour of Himeji and Mount Shosha Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were visitors from North America who are great admirers of Japan and understood a fair amount of Japanese. Today was the last day of a long holiday period and unfortunately it was rainy, but as a result each spot was quiet and we were able to move around smoothly. The bus on the way back from the Mount Shosha Ropeway station was practically reserved just for us. The guests listened very attentively to my explanations and asked many questions. At each spot they collected goshuin stamps and commemorative stamps. On the way back we stopped at a popular shop selling handmade "maneki-neko" (beckoning cats), where they purchased souvenirs. Since they planned to sightsee around the Kobe area on their own the following day, I sent an email introducing spots I recommend as well as several restaurants for the "Kobe beef" they wished to try. I also presented a handmade drawstring pouch, which was very well received. Finally, in the underground food court at Himeji Station, I introduced shops serving the "akashiyaki" (octopus dumplings eaten dipped in broth) and "kushikatsu" they had requested, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherJR Himeji Station～Shoshazan Ropeway Station1,700JPY
    Total1,700JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up at the lobby of the Hotel in Yokohama Minato Mirai. Withdraw Japanese yen at a convenience store. Via Minato Mirai Station ~ Shibuya Station ~ Aoyama 1-chome ~
    • 10:25 Tochomae. Observation deck on the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. 11:00 Walk from the Metropolitan Government Building to visit Shinjuku West Exit Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, and Golden Gai. 12:30 Shinjuku Station ~ Harajuku Station. 12:40 Worship at Meiji Shrine.
    • Lunch of ramen at Harajuku Jangara. Visit Harajuku Takeshita Street. Harajuku Station ~ Shibuya Station. Hachiko, scramble crossing. 15:40 Shibuya Station ~ 16:11 Asakusa Station. Commemorative photo at Sumida Park with the Skytree and Asahi Beer Building in the background. Worship at Kaminarimon, Nakamise, and Sensoji Temple. Purchase matcha and 2 sets of tea ceremony utensils at a tea shop in Asakusa. 17:20 Asakusa Station ~ 16:11 Ginza. Nissan Gallery, purchase writing instruments at Itoya. 19:05 Ginza ~ taxi 19:13 Shimbashi. Shimbashi ~ Yokohama Station. 19:45 Disband at the taxi stand at the West Exit of Yokohama Station. 2 hours and 45 minutes of extension provided as a service.

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sightseeing and Shopping The guests were visiting from North America and are professors of computer technology in Europe. They were highly intellectual, and we discussed a wide range of topics, including the secrets of Japanese longevity, ways of living, the relationship between school education and social discipline, political issues, the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, and the origin of the word "kamikaze." I gave them an easy-to-understand summary of Japanese history, which they were pleased with. As a souvenir, I presented them with a Mount Fuji glass in a paulownia wood box. To help them experience many sides of Tokyo, I extended the tour and guided them through areas usually off the beaten path as well as modern districts. Along the way, we shared skewered strawberries and matcha ice cream together, and they said it was the most delicious they had ever had. They purchased their favorite matcha, a full set of tea ceremony utensils, and matcha cake. In Harajuku, they also bought a hat. In Shibuya, they mentioned having seen the film "Hachi," so we lined up to take photos, and I explained the story of Hachiko. In Ginza, they enjoyed shopping for writing instruments and notebooks at a stationery store. Everyone in the group talked warmly together and we all enjoyed the day. For their independent sightseeing in Kamakura the next day, I wrote down the destinations and transportation on a note and handed it to them. It became a long day of sightseeing and shopping, but I believe they thoroughly enjoyed it. One of the guests mentioned having stayed in Osaka for work years ago and attending a conference in Kobe. This time it was a short stay in Japan, visiting only Tokyo and Kamakura.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMinato Mirai Station～Shibuya Station510JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Aoyama 1-chome180JPY
    Section 3TrainAoyama 1-chome～Tochomae220JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 7TrainAsakusa～Ginza210JPY
    Section 8TrainShimbashi～Yokohama490JPY
    Total2,170JPY

    Tour Report by Akey

    Hello, new friends! I’m Akio Yasui. I was born in Kyoto City and graduated from Doshisha University in Kyoto and moved to Tokyo for working. I used to work for international companies as a marketing advertising specialist. I have been to fourty five different countries until now and been to all prefectures in Japan.
    I have deep knowledge of both traditional and modern culture of Japan based on my experience in Kyoto, Tokyo and their surrounding areas such as Kamakura, Nikko, Nara, Osaka. I can design exclusive and the optinum itineray for you and guide you not only to ordinary tour courses but also casual or hidden locations. My task is making you enjoy Japan and like our culture and people. Let me guide you any where you want to visit and enjoy Japan together.

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    Mar 30, 2026
    851murraya
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Good time in Hakone
    Akey did a great job setting the…

    Oct 11, 2025
    S
    Stephen_M
    Incredible day in Hakone
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr Akey showed me an amazing…

    May 4, 2025
    AliS7090
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Akito, our private tour leader, was a fabulous…

    Mar 30, 2025
    Mark_B
    You can tailor make this…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    You can tailor make this to anything…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet at 10:00 @ Nagoya Port Cruise Ship Terminal
    • 2. Travel to Nagoya Castle and tour the Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle tower
    • 3. Travel to the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and tour the Textile Machinery Pavilion and the Automobile Pavilion
    • 4. Travel to Nagoya Port via Oasis 21
    • 5. Return to Nagoya Port Station (subway) and disband at 14:10

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Nagoya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle and the Toyota Museum The guests were a group visiting from North America. In our email exchanges before the tour, the guests had expressed a wish to visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology in case of rain, and since it did rain on the day of the tour, we arranged an itinerary covering Nagoya Castle, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, and Oasis 21. At Nagoya Castle there were many visitors arriving from cruise ships, and there was about a 20-minute wait to enter Honmaru Palace, but the guests enjoyed browsing the shops during the wait, which allowed us to keep the tour moving smoothly. At the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, the guests took their time exploring the Textile Machinery Pavilion and the Automobile Pavilion, and although we only stopped briefly in the Oasis 21 area on the way back, I believe the guests thoroughly enjoyed the day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoya Port Station～Nagoya Castle Station270JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakae Station～Nagoya Port Station270JPY
    Total540JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

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    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyo Station & Nakano Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyo Station & Nakano Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at The Bloom Hibiya
    • 10:20 Tokyo Station
    • 11:15 Harajuku Station
    • 12:30 Nakano Station
    • 14:00 Ochanomizu Station, disband

    What Can You Do on a Private Tokyo Day Tour with a Licensed Guide? A JGA Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had come to Japan many times before, but this was their first time sightseeing and their first time riding the train. Their request was help preparing to take the bullet train to Kyoto (purchasing tickets and confirming the route to the Shinkansen platform), as well as assistance with their hobby of visiting vintage shops. Since the vintage shops are located in Harajuku and Nakano, we traveled by JR. On the way from Tokyo to Harajuku, I showed them how to ride the monorail at Hamamatsucho Station. In Harajuku we looked at a small-animal cafe on Takeshita Street, in Nakano we peeked into a pet shop in the shopping arcade, and we enjoyed these little detours while making our way around the vintage shops they wanted to visit. Since it was getting close to 2:00 p.m. without having eaten, I guided them to "Kanda Yabu Soba" for a late lunch, which they were very pleased with.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Tokyo150JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo Station～Harajuku Station210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku Station～Nakano Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainNakano Station～Ochanomizu Station230JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Maddie

    Hello!
    I’m Maddie, an English-speaking tour guide.
    As a guide, I have been attending bus tours, Tokyo walk-around tours, and also, sumo wrestling tournaments tours.
    I have lived in Tokyo for nearly 30 years and have enjoyed walking around this city, full of wonder, mixture of nature and artificial structures. I am happy to share my experience with you.
    My hobbies are reading books including Manga, watching films including Anime. I like to watch various sorts of sports. I like to visit museums. And I am a tea ceremony practitioner, so I am quite familiar with green tea (matcha) and Japanese sweets.
    I am looking forward to seeing you!

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    Jun 4, 2026
    vadk2026
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo2026
    We had an excellent 6-hour walking tour around Tokyo with Maddie.…

    May 30, 2026
    Heather_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfect intro to Japan!
    We had a 4 hour private tour on…

    May 29, 2026
    jasonbO4660LV
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Afternoon in west Tokyo
    Maddie was an excellent, knowledgeable guide who maintained…

    May 8, 2026
    sebastianzO2366GR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great
    We had a good time walking with Maddie through Tokio. She…