Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:50 Shibuya Crossing
    • 12:40 Asakusa Lunch @ Gonpachi Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:50 Ginza (Mitsukoshi, Matsukiyo)
    • 15:40 Disband @ Ginza

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The weather forecast had predicted heavy rain, and many schools and train services were closed or suspended, so I was worried, but the rain was not as heavy as expected, and the trains in the city center were not delayed too much. Although the tour was scheduled to start at 9:00, we moved it to a 10:00 start to avoid the crowded time. At Meiji Shrine there was almost no rain, so we were able to take our time and take photos. For lunch, at the request of the guests, we had soba noodles at a restaurant. The guests who enjoy sushi had a seafood rice bowl. We had also planned to visit a store in Ginza, but since the guests said they were a little tired, I saw them into a taxi at the Ginza crossing and said goodbye. Although I had worried about the heavy rain, it was a very enjoyable tour. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine located in a large forested area in the heart of Tokyo. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine was completed in 1920 and is surrounded by an evergreen forest of around 100,000 trees donated from across Japan. Its peaceful grounds and towering torii gates offer a striking contrast to the busy city, making it one of the most visited shrines in the country.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Ginza210JPY
    Total840JPY

    Tour Report by Rumi

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    Darrin_T
    Tokyo Tour with Rumi
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Local tour guide Rumi took…

    Sep 29, 2026
    anettesoegaardn
    Rumi Hosoya is a very good tour-guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide was Rumi…

    Sep 25, 2026
    Frances_K
    Rumi was a wonderful…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Rumi was a wonderful guide that provided…

    Sep 19, 2026
    K6328IFcarolinel
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had a great day
    Rumi was very…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kappabashi

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kappabashi

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel
    • 9:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 9:50 Harajuku Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 10:40 Imperial Palace, Kusunoki Masashige Statue, Nijubashi Bridge, Sakuradamon Gate
    • 11:40 Lunch @ T's Tantan
    • 12:40 Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Grave of the Shogitai
    • 13:30 Kappabashi
    • 14:00 Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Culture and Tourism Center
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Asakusa Station

    Title: What Does a First-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was a first-day tour in Japan for guests visiting from Europe, who would continue to Kyoto and Osaka after Tokyo. Heavy rain was forecast for the early morning, so I was concerned, but I was relieved that there were no train delays. Since the guests did not have any cash at first, they withdrew Japanese yen at a convenience store on Takeshita Street. In the latter half of the tour, the rain grew stronger, so we walked a little faster, and with the extra time we visited the covered Kappabashi area, which the guests had planned to see on a later day. They listened carefully to the explanations at each location and were very pleasant to guide. As the guests followed a plant-based diet, we went to a ramen shop inside Ueno Station that I had researched in advance, where they also enjoyed a matcha latte and were very pleased. They mentioned that they eat rice and tofu every day. They drew an omikuji fortune at Meiji Shrine and received a charm at Kiyomizu Kannon-do. After the tour, since they had a reservation for Skytree, I guided them to the Tobu Line platform and the tour concluded. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine, a major Shinto shrine set within a large forested area in the heart of Tokyo. Dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine is known for its tranquil atmosphere, towering torii gates, and tree-lined approaches, making it a popular place for visitors to experience traditional Japanese customs such as drawing omikuji fortunes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwaySakuradamon～Ueno380JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Total930JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Osaka: Higashimuki Shopping Street & Kofuku-ji Temple

    Osaka: Higashimuki Shopping Street & Kofuku-ji Temple

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ InterContinental Osaka
    • 9:00-10:00 Travel
    • 10:00-12:00 Sightseeing at Todai-ji Temple & Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 12:15-13:30 Lunch @ Ryozanpaku
    • 13:30-13:45 Stroll through Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 14:00-14:50 Sightseeing at Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 15:00-15:30 Stroll around Ukimido Pavilion & Yugayama Garden
    • 15:30-16:30 Travel
    • 16:30 Dismissal @ InterContinental Osaka

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Europe to Nara. Since the weather forecast predicted rain in the afternoon, we visited Todai-ji Temple first, had lunch in Naramachi, and saved Kofuku-ji Temple, where the sightseeing focuses mainly on the buildings, for last. As it was their first time in Japan, I gave them a broad overview of Japanese history from the Nara period to the present, as well as an introduction to Buddhism and Shinto, during the journey there. The restaurant where we had lunch was well received for its food, atmosphere, and service. At the end, we stopped by Ukimido and Yugayama Garden, which one of the guests had seen on social media and wanted to visit, before heading back. A notable stop on the tour was Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Todai-ji is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant Buddhist temples, founded in the 8th century during the Nara period. Its Great Buddha Hall houses a colossal bronze statue of the Buddha and is renowned as one of the largest wooden structures in the world. The temple grounds are surrounded by Nara Park, where freely roaming deer are considered messengers of the gods, making it a memorable place to learn about both Japanese history and Buddhist culture.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by AndyMurao

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

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    Sep 20, 2026
    Bobby_B
    A great Kyoto guide.
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Andy was very nice and…

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ginza Ginza Six & Omotesando Onitsuka Tiger and more

    Tokyo in One Day: Ginza Ginza Six & Omotesando Onitsuka Tiger and more

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel lobby
    • 10:30 Ginza Ginza Six
    • 11:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 12:00 Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 13:30 Harajuku Lunch
    • 14:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:30 Omotesando Onitsuka Tiger and more
    • 16:00 Hibiya Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Park View Garden
    • 16:30 Hibiya Dismissal

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ginza, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine Body: The guest visited Japan from another part of Asia, having wanted to experience the country and taking time off to travel here. As it was raining on the day of the tour, we first stopped at Ginza Six to purchase a rain jacket. We then moved on to Shibuya to experience the famous Scramble Crossing. Since the guest was traveling solo, I helped take photos of them crossing the intersection, which they were very happy about. Next, we went to Meiji Shrine. The shrine buildings, wet with rain, looked mystical, and the guest took many photographs. At the main hall, we also encountered a family holding a traditional shrine visit for a child, as well as a couple holding a Shinto wedding ceremony. Afterward, in Harajuku, we came across a local portable shrine procession, and the guest was delighted with all the great photo opportunities. For lunch, the guest wanted to experience an everyday Japanese meal, so I took them to a casual set-meal restaurant, where they ordered a mixed fry set. They were satisfied with the balance of price and taste. After that, we explored Takeshita Street and enjoyed shopping along Omotesando. Finally, we moved to Hibiya, near the guest's accommodation. We viewed the Imperial Palace from a distance, and I shared helpful information for sightseeing on the following days before we parted ways. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine. Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine in central Tokyo dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a lush forest of over 100,000 trees donated from across Japan. It is one of the most visited shrines in the country and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city, where visitors can experience traditional Shinto rituals and ceremonies.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayOmotesando～Hibiya180JPY
    Total550JPY

    Tour Report by Morio

    Make the most of your time in Tokyo with a smooth and enjoyable tour.
    I am Morio, a government licensed tour guide. I have been working in Marunouchi, the heart of Tokyo’s business district, for over 15 years.
    I have also supported international events such as the Tokyo Marathon and have experience organizing international conferences.
    Based on these experiences, I can respond flexibly to various situations and design efficient, stress-free itineraries tailored to your interests.
    I am very familiar with central Tokyo areas such as the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station, as well as transportation systems and local routes.
    I offer airport transfers, half-day and full-day tours, and dining assistance.
    I especially enjoy guiding guests through central areas like Marunouchi, Ginza, and Nihonbashi, as well as local neighborhoods such as Ochanomizu, Kanda, Ueno, and Yanesen for a more relaxed and authentic experience.
    I look forward to helping you have a memorable and enjoyable stay in Japan!

    Request Booking

    Apr 15, 2026
    760shivangs
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An Exceptional Tokyo Experience
    I had an outstanding experience on the Tokyo…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Chokoku-no-Mori Station & Moto-Hakone Port

    Kanagawa in One Day: Chokoku-no-Mori Station & Moto-Hakone Port

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting place: Gora Kadan
    • 10:40 Hotel
    • (On foot)
    • 10:46 Depart Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • Gora Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Cable Car)
    • Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 11:20 Arrive Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Observation Deck
    • Owakudani Black Egg Hall
    • 12:15 Depart Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 12:30 Arrive Togendai Station
    • 12:40 Depart Togendai Port
    • (Hakone Sightseeing Cruise)
    • 13:20 Arrive Moto-Hakone Port
    • Moto-Hakone Lunch: Bakery & Table
    • Hakone Shrine
    • 14:38 Depart Moto-Hakone Port Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • Kowakudani Station Bus Stop
    • Depart Kowakudani Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 15:15 Arrive Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • Chokoku-no-Mori
    • 16:31 Depart Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • Arrive Gora Station
    • 16:30 Disband: Gora Station

    Private Hakone Day Tour Report: What Can a Licensed Guide Show You in Owakudani and the Open-Air Museum? The guests were visitors from North America, on their first trip to Japan. This was a fast-paced trip of about two weeks, partly to scout destinations. They arrived at Haneda Airport several days ago. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they went to Mount Fuji, climbed it, and arrived in Hakone the previous evening. They said, "This was the first time we slept on tatami and futon. It was nice to be able to sleep well." Later this evening, they planned to leave Hakone for Kyoto, then continue on to Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima before returning to Tokyo and flying home. They commented, "Tokyo was fun, but there were too many people," and "Climbing Mount Fuji was truly exhausting, but we were blessed with good weather and could watch the sunrise. We were really lucky." In the morning, although it was cloudy, we were able to see Mount Fuji through the gaps in the clouds. However, in the afternoon it rained, which made things quite challenging. From the Hotel, we walked to Chokoku-no-Mori Station, then continued via Gora Station and Sounzan to Gora. From here, we took the cable car and ropeway to Owakudani. I explained "the formation of Hakone," "its history as a hot spring and summer retreat," and "an overview and history of Owakudani." There were questions such as "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it ever erupted?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano? When did it erupt?" They purchased and tasted the "black eggs" and said, "The smell of sulfur is incredible." We then took the ropeway to Togendai Port and boarded the Hakone Pirate Ship. I explained "the history and current state of Lake Ashi." Although it was a little chilly, we went up to the top observation deck. There were also questions such as "Can you swim in it?" "What kind of fish are there?" and "Does it freeze in winter?" We arrived at Motohakone Port. At their request for lunch, we went to a bakery and cafe. After that, we walked to Hakone Shrine. They then wanted to inspect the Open-Air Museum, so we took a bus and the Hakone Tozan Railway to get there. I explained "the origins and current state of the Open-Air Museum." One of the guests mentioned being fond of Picasso, and they viewed the sculptures with great interest and took many photographs. They also wanted to try the "foot bath." At the shop, they bought a handkerchief as a souvenir. They commented, "Japan is clean everywhere. There's no litter on the streets," "There are no trash cans," and "The trains are quiet." They also remarked, "In Tokyo, we stayed at a hotel in Shinjuku Kabukicho, but it was quite noisy and the atmosphere wasn't good. I felt it's not a place I'd recommend, especially for travelers with children." I saw them off at Gora Station and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone Free Pass～Hakone Free Pass6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Nagasaki in One Day: Matsugae International Terminal

    Nagasaki in One Day: Matsugae International Terminal

    Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Matsugae International Terminal → 10:00 Megane Bridge → 10:50 Inasayama Observatory → 12:40 Coco Walk Shopping Center (lunch) → 13:30 Peace Park → 14:00 Hypocenter Park → 14:20 Atomic Bomb Museum → 15:30 Matsugae International Terminal

    タイトル欄： What's a Private Day Tour of Nagasaki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 本文欄： The guests were a group from North America who appeared to be enjoying the tour. At Meganebashi Bridge, they listened with great interest to the story of how the bridge was built. The next stop had been planned as the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture, but at the request of the guests we changed it to the Inasayama Observatory, as they preferred spending time outdoors and being active. At the observatory, they enjoyed the panoramic views. For lunch, I guided them to a food court in a shopping center, where each person could choose their preferred dish. Since there were certain ingredients they could not eat, I judged that letting them freely choose at a food court would be better than taking them to a specific restaurant. Afterward, I guided them to Peace Park, the Hypocenter Park, and the Atomic Bomb Museum, where they viewed the exhibits on the damage caused by the atomic bomb very attentively. A notable stop on the tour was the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. The museum preserves and displays artifacts, photographs, and records documenting the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in 1945. Its exhibits convey the human impact of the bombing and serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace, making it one of the most significant sites for visitors seeking to understand this part of history.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherOura Cathedral～Megane Bridge150JPY
    Section 2OtherCity Hall (Nagasaki Prefecture)～Nagasaki Station110JPY
    Section 3OtherMorimachi～Peace Park150JPY
    Section 4OtherPeace Park～Oura Coast Street150JPY
    Total560JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Hello, I’m Hiroshi Kuribayashi, but you can just call me Hiro. I’m thrilled to be your guide around my hometown, Sasebo City, and the neighboring areas, such as Nagasaki, Omura, Hirado, Arita, Imari, and more. I love showing guests around these beautiful places, including their nature, history, food, and more.

    Before I ventured into guiding, I worked as a businessman, handling international business affairs with various countries such as the U.S.A., U.K., Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Egypt, and more. Drawing from my business background, I offer interpretation services for business meetings and translation services for engineering and contractual documents. If there’s something specific you’d like assistance with, feel free to let me know.

    Request Booking

    Jun 15, 2026
    GGuy_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent guide with good knowledge
    Excellent guide with good knowledge…

    Mar 4, 2026
    S943KUrobertb
    The best of Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our tour guide Hiro, was just…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Ian_M
    Walking with Hiro
    Viator review: Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our Guide, Hiro, was very knowledgeable and engaging. We…

    Sep 3, 2025
    BdaVisitor
    Nagasaki Full Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had a lovely day exploring…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Keitakuen Garden & Shinsekai area

    Osaka in Half a Day: Keitakuen Garden & Shinsekai area

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Osaka Port Station exit
    • 9:25 Dotonbori, Namba area
    • 11:45 Keitakuen Garden
    • 12:15 Cafe break
    • 12:45 Shinsekai area
    • 12:55 Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: I guided guests who were visiting Japan again from Europe. They had also toured Osaka the previous year. We had planned to meet on the subway platform, but I received a message that they were waiting at the exit, so I hurried out through the ticket gate. One of the guests works in garden design, and they greatly enjoyed Keitakuen Garden. They seemed to have some questions about how the lawn was maintained, so I asked the person in charge of the garden and interpreted the conversation for them. Since we had some extra time in the itinerary, we took a break at a cafe, but I reflected afterward that it might have been better to also guide them to Shitenno-ji Temple. A notable stop on the tour was Keitakuen Garden. Keitakuen is a Japanese garden located in Tennoji Park in Osaka, designed in the traditional style with a central pond surrounded by walking paths. It was completed in the early twentieth century and is known for its carefully arranged landscape, seasonal plantings, and scenic views that change as visitors stroll around the pond. The garden offers a quiet and refined atmosphere in the heart of the city, making it a popular spot for those interested in Japanese garden design and landscaping.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Namba (subway)290JPY
    Section 2SubwayNamba (subway)～Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
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    Jul 27, 2026
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    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Guide (Kogure) arrives at the hotel
    • 11:00 Meet the guests in the hotel lobby
    • 11:05 Depart the hotel, walk to Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • 11:10 Arrive at Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • 11:13 Depart Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station, head to Akasaka-mitsuke Station on the Marunouchi Subway Line
    • 11:20 Depart Akasaka-mitsuke Station, head to Asakusa Station on the Ginza Subway Line
    • 11:45 Arrive at Asakusa Station, walk to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 11:50–11:55 Guide the 8F observation deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 11:55–12:50 Guide Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street
    • *Guide the Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Street, Hozomon Gate, Five-story Pagoda, Owaraji (giant sandals), omikuji (fortunes), incense burner, purification fountain, main hall, and Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:50–13:30 Lunch in Asakusa (udon, tempura)
    • 13:43 Depart Asakusa Station, head to Shibuya Station on the Ginza Subway Line
    • 14:16 Arrive at Shibuya Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line
    • 14:26 Depart Shibuya Station, head to Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line
    • 14:28 Arrive at Harajuku Station, walk to Meiji Shrine
    • 14:35–15:15 Guide Meiji Shrine
    • *Guide the First Torii Gate, sake barrels, Second Torii Gate, waka poetry, purification fountain, the couple's trees, ema (votive tablets), main hall, etc.
    • 15:15 Depart Meiji Shrine, walk to Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:20–15:55 Guide Harajuku Takeshita Street (including a tea break)
    • 16:03 Depart Harajuku Station, head to Shibuya Station on the JR Yamanote Line
    • 16:05 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • 16:10–16:55 Guide Shibuya Hachiko, the Scramble Crossing, the Shibuya Station 2F observation area, and Miyashita Park
    • 17:00 Say goodbye to the guests and part ways at Shibuya Miyashita Park

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests, visiting Japan for the first time from Europe, enjoyed today's tour despite the long journey and heavy rain from the morning. At Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, they took many photos. They also drew omikuji fortunes for the first time in their lives and had a lot of fun with it. Because certain meats were not an option for them for religious reasons, they happily enjoyed a warm bowl of udon with ginger in Asakusa. At Meiji Shrine, even in the rain, they took many photos of the sake barrels and the torii gates. They perfectly mastered the difference between temples and shrines, the respective ways of worship, and how to pass through a torii gate. At Takeshita Street in Harajuku they took photos as well, and were surprised to see so many people out and about on a rainy Sunday. In Shibuya, they took many photos at the Hachiko statue and the scramble crossing. They will be doing three days of Tokyo sightseeing starting tomorrow, so in addition to the places they had already booked themselves (such as an art museum and their accommodation), I shared other sightseeing spots and how to get to them. We were able to have an enjoyable conversation, including personal topics, about the cultural and climate differences between Japan and their home region, as well as food culture. After Tokyo, they plan to visit Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka, and Okinawa. I had been worried about the rain, but even while getting thoroughly soaked, they seemed to greatly enjoy this first day of their tour in Japan. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and it is surrounded by a vast forest of around 100,000 trees donated from all over Japan. Visitors pass through large wooden torii gates on the approach to the main shrine buildings, and the rows of sake barrels and wine barrels along the path are a well-known sight that reflects offerings made to the shrine.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Total840JPY

    Tour Report by Nobby

    Hello and how do you do?
    My name is Nobuo Kokure, and please call me Nobby for short, if you want.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born in Hayama, a beach resort area, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. And I’m now living in Saginuma, Kawasaki city.
    When I was a university student, I had the opportunities of doing a home stay with a family In U.S.A., Australia, and England, as a youth exchange student.
    After graduation from the university, I started working at American Life Insurance Company, Japan (Alico, Japan), which is a group member company of AIG, now MetLife Insurance Company. I could have a chance to visit the head office and the field offices of U.S.A., Wilmington in Delaware, New York, Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale in Florida, Los Angeles, while I was working for Alico, Japan (Now, MetLife Insurance company).
    I had been working for MetLife Insurance Company for about 38 years, in total.
    After retiring from the life insurance company, I started working as a tour guide, because I wanted to become a tour guide to introduce culture, history, and manners and customs of Japan in English. It’s so different between my previous job and the guide business, but I like guide business a lot.
    I can meet so many people from all over the world and the guide business has been thriving after the pandemic.
    I have implemented the tour over 240 times, introduced Japan to more than 4900 tourists from 54 countries.

    Not only Tokyo, but I have experienced touring around Nikko, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji & Hakone area, Takayama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima, etc. which are all very famous as a tourist spot in Japan.
    If you go on a tour in Tokyo, you must see and visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple which is the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo with histories and Nakamise Shopping Street where you can buy the souvenirs and try to taste Japanese sweets, such as doll cake which is the sponge cake in various shapes filled with red bean paste and Japanese powdered tea ice cream. Another my recommendation in Tokyo to visit is Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya. Meiji Shrine is one of the biggest shrines in Japan with quiet and peaceful atmosphere and magnificent site.
    Harajuku and Shibuya are both fun to visit for shopping and experience the Shibuya Crossing.
    I usually propose my tentative itinerary and ask if my plan is all right with the customer or not. My hobby is traveling around Japan and foreign countries and going to the gym for exercise.
    I would like to work as a guide as long as possible if I’m in good health and my legs are strong, because I love this job.
    I put my importance on the mind of OMOTENASHI which means sincere hospitality, though safety during the tour takes precedence, number one priority, before anything else.

    I’m very looking forward to seeing you and touring with you in Japan soon.
    Thank you!

    Best regards,

    Nobuo Kokure (Nobby)

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    jeffbM3390PI
    Nuobo was awesome as our Tokyo tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Jeff…

    Sep 25, 2026
    skipcooney
    Customized private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Nobby was very flexible…

    Sep 22, 2026
    duncans746
    Great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Nobuo was fantastic, very knowledgeable and shaped…

    Sep 13, 2026
    Culture25230012656
    Very knowledgeable
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  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Engakuji Temple & Great Buddha of Kotokuin

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Engakuji Temple & Great Buddha of Kotokuin

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at the hotel in Ofuna
    • 12:30 Engakuji Temple
    • 13:30 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 14:15 Hokokuji Temple
    • 14:45 Great Buddha of Kotokuin
    • 15:30 Disband at Ofuna Station

    What's a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Kamakura Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Before this day they had enjoyed sightseeing in Sapporo and Tokyo, and had taken lodging in Ofuna to come and explore Kamakura. Unfortunately, the weather brought a heavy rain warning, but the garden of the abbot's quarters at Engaku-ji Temple, along with the dry landscape garden and bamboo grove beside the approach to Hokoku-ji Temple, were gently dampened by the rain, presenting a quiet beauty that moved everyone. Walking straight along Wakamiya-oji, we headed toward Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and after descending once from the main hall, I had them look at the main avenue leading from the sea up to the shrine and the surrounding town, so they could understand the layout and origins of Kamakura. They were delighted by how wonderfully the scale of the Great Buddha blended with the surrounding atmosphere. A notable stop on the tour was the Great Buddha of Kamakura. Located at Kotoku-in Temple, this monumental bronze statue of Amida Buddha stands over 11 meters tall and dates back to the 13th century. Originally housed within a temple hall, the structure was washed away by storms and tsunami centuries ago, and the Great Buddha has sat in the open air ever since, which adds to the serene and striking impression it leaves on visitors.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOfuna～Kita-Kamakura160JPY
    Section 2TrainKita-Kamakura～Kamakura160JPY
    Section 3BusHachimangu / Keikyu Bus～Jomyoji / Keikyu Bus240JPY
    Section 4BusJomyoji / Keikyu Bus～Kamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus240JPY
    Section 5TrainKamakura～Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 6TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)～Ofuna400JPY
    Total1,400JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
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    Sep 24, 2026
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    All the temples and…
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  • Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 900 Meet @ Hotel and move to Kawagoe
    • 1000 Arrived Kawagoe Station
    • 1030 Kitain Temple
    • 1200 Kawagoe castel
    • 1230 Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
    • 1320 Ichibangai Street
    • 1350 Take a lunch at Unakko
    • 1420 Taisho roman Street and back to Shinjuku
    • 1500 Shinjuku

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kawagoe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was traveling alone, visiting Japan for the fourth time. The guest loves Japan and had already visited many famous tourist spots, so this time chose Kawagoe out of a fondness for historic towns. Since the guest was staying in the Higashi-Shinjuku area, we traveled smoothly to Kawagoe thanks to the through-service between the Fukutoshin Line and the Tobu Line, and headed to Kitain Temple. The guest was very impressed by this temple, which retains structures relocated from Edo Castle. At the Five Hundred Rakan, the guest was delighted to find the rakan statue matching their own zodiac sign. Before visiting Hikawa Shrine, we stopped by Kawagoe Castle and viewed the only surviving main keep structure (honmaru) in eastern Japan. At Hikawa Shrine, the guest looked with great interest at the Edo-style carvings on the main hall. Along Ichibangai Street, the guest enjoyed the townscape from the Edo period. We saw the guest off at the hotel, bringing the tour to a close. A notable stop on the tour was Kitain Temple in Kawagoe. Kitain Temple is a historic Buddhist temple famous for housing buildings relocated from Edo Castle, offering a rare glimpse of original Edo-era architecture. It is also renowned for its Five Hundred Rakan statues, a collection of stone figures each with a unique expression, making it one of the most memorable cultural sites in the Kawagoe area.

    Click here for more details: Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku～Wakoshi260JPY
    Section 2TrainWakoshi～Kawagoe330JPY
    Section 3BusKawagoe Station／Tobu Bus～Kitain Temple／Eagle Bus220JPY
    Section 4BusKitain Temple／Eagle Bus～Hikawa Shrine-mae／Eagle Bus220JPY
    Section 5BusRenkeiji Temple／Tobu Bus～Kawagoe Station／Tobu Bus230JPY
    Total1,260JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    A lot of foreigners are visiting Japan, but I would like them to think, “I am glad that I learned about Japanese culture and enjoyed it. I want to come again.” I want you to have a fun experience as well as to guide you to the standard sightseeing courses. I’m always trying to be able to guide like that. And I’m also looking for an Instagramable point that will be your memory. After graduating from university, I have been in Sapporo for 16 years, Osaka for 4 years, Sendai for 2 years, and Tokyo for a total of 12 years. But now, I’m mainly guiding in the Tokyo area due to living here. I especially love Ueno, Asakusa, and Kawagoe. They are cities where you feel the history and are full of people’s kindness. Please feel free to contact me, I want to meet you. Let’s have a fun day and envoy together!

    Request Booking

    Sep 19, 2026
    Christine_G
    Must do
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    Sep 10, 2026
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    1 day private tour of Tokyo.
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    We had a…

    Sep 5, 2026
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    Private walking tour
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    Masa was a fantastic tour guide. I had…

    Aug 23, 2026
    Jun_S
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome Tokyo tour with Masa
    My inclination is that:…