Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Nezu Shrine & Guide ends

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Nezu Shrine & Guide ends

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20　Meet at the hotel
    • 10:30　Nezu Shrine
    • 10:50　Sanrio Nishi-Ginza Store
    • 13:00　Unicorn Gundam viewing
    • 13:30　Lunch
    • 14:00　Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation)
    • 14:15　Guide ends

    Private Tokyo Walking Tour Report: What Can a Licensed Guide Show You at Nezu Shrine, Odaiba, and Sanrio? The guests were visitors from North America staying in Tokyo for a few days before continuing on a cruise around Japan and other parts of Asia. As a small gift, I presented the guests with a pair of omamori charms. At Nezu Shrine, I explained the basics of Shinto, and after visiting the main hall, the guests enjoyed the highlight of passing through the rows of torii gates, which they were very happy about. Since one of the guests is a big fan of Hello Kitty, we also visited a character goods shop, where they enjoyed shopping. As the guests were well versed in digital and mechanical topics, we went to see the life-sized Unicorn Gundam in Odaiba, and they told me, "There's a show starting at 13:00," so we enjoyed the show together. At the Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation), the guests experienced various booths featuring robots and cutting-edge technology. I departed partway through.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Nezu210JPY
    Section 2SubwayNezu～Hibiya180JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza～Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 4TrainShimbashi～Odaiba330JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Request Booking

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Purchase Shinkansen tickets & Shinjuku West Exit

    Tokyo in One Day: Purchase Shinkansen tickets & Shinjuku West Exit

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel, head to Shinjuku Station
    • 10:20 Purchase Shinkansen tickets
    • 10:40 Look for an ATM at Shinjuku East Exit to withdraw cash
    • 11:00 Cafe
    • 11:30 Bic Camera, Uniqlo, DAISO
    • 12:30 Buy a bento at the Shinjuku Isetan department store food hall, take the Metro to Shinjuku-gyoemmae
    • 13:20 Picnic at Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 14:30 Head to Shinjuku West Exit
    • 15:00 Cafe
    • 16:00 End of tour

    Title: What's a Local-Style Private Day in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, one of whom had been to Japan before for travel, while the other was visiting for the first time. They wanted to experience how local people really spend their days, so they preferred not to visit typical tourist spots. Because of this, I suggested places like a discount variety store, a 100-yen shop, and a picnic in advance, and with their agreement, and thanks to the clear weather, we went ahead with the plan. First, they mentioned that they had booked a hotel in Kyoto for the day after next but had not yet reserved a bullet train ticket. I explained that they needed to buy one quickly, as tickets could sell out, so we purchased it right away. They also wanted to buy an IC card, but since they had no Japanese yen at all, they could not buy a Suica. We tried to withdraw Japanese yen from an ATM using a credit card, but it did not work no matter how many times we tried (likely because it was a card issued overseas). We also tried to exchange the only 50 pounds they had at a currency exchange machine, but it was too creased to be accepted. The banks were closed for the holidays as well. However, when they bought a drink at a convenience store near Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station, we found a Japan Post Bank ATM that accepted international cards, and they were finally able to withdraw cash. At the department store food floor, they said, "There's so much, I can't choose!" and bought a salmon bento. We had a picnic at Shinjuku Gyoen and enjoyed the Japanese garden, and afterwards we went to a coffee shop right in front of the hotel, but there was a wait of six groups, so instead they enjoyed matcha milk, matcha cheesecake, and Mont Blanc at another café. The guests were very satisfied, saying that they had truly experienced a Japanese day off.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku～Shinjuku-gyoemmae178JPY
    Total178JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi, I’m Sam.
    I am happy to welcome you all to Japan.

    Since I was a child, my parents welcomed many international students into our home and I had many opportunities to interact with them. My mother is a translator, and I have always seen her guiding foreigners around Japan, so it was natural for me to start doing the same.

    I am good at guiding people to popular places such as Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, as well as photogenic spots in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Since I was a child, I’ve watched anime like Pokémon and played Nintendo games, and I still buy around 100 manga comic books a month. I love shopping in Akihabara! I currently live in Urayasu City, Chiba, so close that I can see fireworks from Disneyland from my house every night.

    Please feel free to ask me anything!

    Request Booking

    Jul 10, 2026
    Brooke_J
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo History Modernized!
    This tour was a wonderful experience.…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Catherine_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    We had a wonderful time with Sam, who took our…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Elena_Q
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun visit to Tokyo!
    Wonderful customized tour of Tokyo with Sam. She…

    May 12, 2026
    Leonard B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience with a very knowledgeable friendly guide.
    We had an…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Omotesando Part 2

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Omotesando Part 2

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 9:40 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Omotesando Part 1
    • 13:15 Lunch @ Heiroku Sushi
    • 13:45 Omotesando Part 2
    • 14:15 Disband @ Nezu Museum

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, and Omotesando The guests were visitors from North America. After Tokyo, they were planning about ten days of hiking in Nagano, Takayama, Kyoto, and other areas (which I found enviable). The weather was excellent, so the guests were deeply impressed by Shinjuku Gyoen. Although Shinjuku Gyoen has less historical value compared to Koishikawa Korakuen or Hamarikyu, it never fails to impress international visitors. Before their arrival I had explained that for anyone familiar with Times Square, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing would not necessarily produce a "WOW," and they came to understand that this was indeed the case. We managed to arrive in time for the "Spring Grand Festival" ceremony at Meiji Shrine, but the start was delayed by more than twenty minutes with no explanation given for the reason. It was ironic that the myth of Japanese punctuality was disproven at a shrine. Because of the large crowds and the time lost at Meiji Shrine, we skipped Takeshita Street and headed from Omotesando to the Nezu Museum. One of the guests had a strong interest in "Japan's economic decline" and asked many questions about its causes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMarunouchi Line Tokyo～Marunouchi Line Shinjuku-gyoemmae209JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Sendagaya～JR Shibuya167JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Shibuya～JR Harajuku146JPY
    Total522JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Request Booking

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Hilton Kyoto & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path

    Kyoto in One Day: Hilton Kyoto & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hilton Kyoto
    • (Keihan Raiway)
    • 11:00-11:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • (Taxi)
    • 11:45-12:15 Sanjusangendo
    • (Keihan Railway & Subway)
    • 12:45-13:20 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • (Taxi)
    • 13:30-14:20 Lunch (Soba Tatsuichi)
    • 14:30-15:00 Nijo Castle
    • (Subway & Keifuku Railway)
    • 15:45-16:15 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 16:30 Dismissal at Keifuku Arashiyama Station

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and the Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting from Europe. The planned itinerary was: Hotel → Fushimi Inari Taisha → Sanjusangendo → a walk through Gion → lunch (a soba restaurant) → Nijo Castle → the Bamboo Grove Path in Arashiyama → dispersing at the Randen Arashiyama Station. However, since they had visited Gion the previous day, we substituted the Kyoto Imperial Palace on the day. At the sightseeing spots, they tended to view the scenery quietly, rarely taking photos or asking questions, but they listened carefully to the guide's explanations. I believe what they enjoyed most were Sanjusangendo and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. At Sanjusangendo, they quietly whispered "Wow," walking at their own pace and pausing to admire the Buddhist statues. Although they were guests who did not take many photos, when it came to the Shishinden hall at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, they carefully photographed it, choosing the best spot and angle without compromise. For lunch, they requested soba, so I guided them to a soba restaurant, where they enjoyed a tempura zaru set meal and more. During the meal or along the way, our conversation turned to career paths, workplace culture, and railway congestion. Apparently, even after the pandemic there was a movement to return to the office, but many people resist it. As they also asked about the situation in Japan, I shared a story that at a certain company I know of, when they surveyed their employees, the most common answer was a wish to come into the office three times a week. I also explained the Japanese employment customs of seniority-based systems and lifetime employment, along with their pros and cons, and they seemed to reflect on it thoroughly. When I asked their impression of the railway congestion in the metropolitan area, they answered, "It's certainly bad, but it's more comfortable than the London Underground, which has no air conditioning."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainShichijo～Sanjo170JPY
    Section 3SubwaySanjo Keihan～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae～Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 5TrainRanden Tenjingawa～Arashiyama250JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Masaki

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Request Booking

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 12:00　Meet up @Hotel Monterey Ginza
    • 2. 12:30　@Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 3. 13:00　@Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Marunouchi Side Station Building, Yaesu Exit)
    • 4. 13:30　@Nihonbashi Takashimaya (Food Floor)
    • 5. 14:00　@Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 6. 15:45　@Meiji Shrine
    • 7. 17:00　@The National Art Center, Tokyo
    • 8. 17:30　@Tokyo Midtown Roppongi
    • 9. 18:00　Dismissal @Suju Dining (inside Tokyo Midtown Roppongi)

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time as tourists. One of the guests, currently residing in Oceania, had previously visited areas such as Chiba for work. Another guest was traveling from Oceania and often passed through Asia when traveling to Europe, having visited places such as Korea along the way, but had never been to Japan before, so this time they chose Japan as their destination. In addition to Tokyo, they planned to visit Mount Fuji, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Kinosaki Onsen (which they chose because there are hot springs that allow guests with tattoos). At our meeting point, we confirmed that rain was forecast, but since the guests said it was no problem, we began the tour. Around the time we finished visiting the Imperial Palace, it began to drizzle a little. At Tokyo Station, we handled the procedures for obtaining the reserved Shinkansen tickets. I also showed them the Shinkansen ticket gates at the Yaesu exit, which seemed to reassure them. After that, before boarding the Ginza Line at Nihonbashi Station heading toward Asakusa, I guided them through the Takashimaya food floor. Although they said they did not need to have lunch, they decided they would like to try gyoza and daigakuimo as a snack, and enjoyed them while sitting on an indoor bench. At Asakusa (Sensoji Temple), they experienced the purification fountain and offered prayers, though at first they were not interested in drawing omikuji fortunes. However, one of the guests later felt like trying it and did so. The result was a Bad Fortune, but they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The upper part of Tokyo Skytree was hidden by clouds. The rain gradually grew stronger, but hoping it would ease up while we traveled, we boarded the subway. When we got off at Meiji-jingumae Station, the rain was quite heavy. I gave as much of my explanation as possible inside the station, but after finishing the shrine visit and before heading to the next destination, Shibuya, I checked with the guests, who replied, "A little rain is fine, but once it gets this heavy, we would prefer a place to escape from it." So we skipped Harajuku's Takeshita Street and took the subway to Roppongi instead of Shibuya. After that, we visited the National Art Center and Tokyo Midtown Roppongi, and when we stepped outside to head toward Roppongi Hills, not only the rain but also the wind had become quite strong. The umbrella the guests had bought at a convenience store kept turning inside out, so we gave up on continuing. We returned once more to Tokyo Midtown Roppongi, and finally, I introduced them to Suju Restaurant, one of my recommended dining spots, where they enjoyed dinner, 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 1Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station～Sakuradamon Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihonbashi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Hibiya Line Roppongi Station0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at the hotel Karaku, travel by Izuhakone Kotsu car to Sounzan, take the ropeway to Owakudani, take the ropeway to Togendai, 10:10 pirate ship, 10:50 Motohakone Port, stop by the shore of Lake Ashi, join the car here, then Taikanzan, 12:00 arrive at Hakone Checkpoint ruins, shopping at Maruyama Bussan, 12:30 lunch at Donburi Chaya, 13:00 Old Tokaido cedar avenue, 13:30 Yama no Hotel, after strolling the azalea garden depart at 14:10, 14:30 arrive at the hotel, dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report On the final leg of an 18-day trip to Japan, the guests were greeted in Hakone by a magnificent view of Mount Fuji. Since some of the guests who had visited in October had not been able to see it, they immediately sent a photo of Mount Fuji to others. The guests were already familiar with Japanese puzzle boxes, and after a presentation at a local shop, they made many purchases. They also took a photo with the presenter. One of the guests was a fan of the film "Shogun" and had a strong interest in Japanese history. They were very interested in the old cedar-lined avenue of the former Tokaido road and took many photos. As the azalea garden at a hillside hotel had just come into bloom, we made an impromptu stop there; although the blossoms were only about 30 to 40 percent open, it made for an excellent spot for a stroll, and the guests enjoyed it.

    Click here for more details: Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara～Odawara5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Request Booking

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:45 Hotel Meet (@Hotel)
    • 7:45-8:40 Travel (Keihan Railway; Keihan-Sanjo → Gion-Shijo, Hankyu Railway; Kawaramachi-Shijo → Arashiyama)
    • 8:40-10:00 Arashiyama walk (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Temple garden visit [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakkaen], bamboo grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Kimono Forest)
    • 10:00-10:50 Travel (Keifuku Railway; Arashiyama → Kitano-Hakubaicho, City Bus; Kitano-Hakubaicho → Kinkaku-ji-michi)
    • 10:50-11:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple visit
    • 11:40-12:10 Travel (by taxi; Kinkaku-ji → Nijo Castle)
    • 12:10-13:00 Nijo Castle visit
    • ※At the customer's request to end the tour at 13:00, after visiting Nijo Castle at 13:00, we parted ways at Nijo Castle
    • 　(The customer returned to the hotel by taxi)

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They already had rich knowledge of Buddhism and temples. I took them to Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle. Because the tour started early in the morning, we were able to largely avoid the crowds at Arashiyama. Within the group, opinions varied: some particularly enjoyed the grand Nijo Castle, some the Kinkaku-ji, some the bamboo grove, and some the Ninomaru Garden at Nijo Castle. Unfortunately, one of the guests was not feeling well, so at the guests' request we ended the tour a little earlier than planned. During breaks in the tour, I took the opportunity to ask about the revitalization of the Japanese economy. The view shared was that Japan needs to accept more broadly people from abroad who have different ways of thinking from Japanese people. Perhaps a second opening of the country (the first being the Meiji Restoration) may be needed.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan-Sanjo～Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Section 2TrainKawaramachi-Shijo～Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 5OtherKinkaku-ji～Nijo Castle0JPY
    Total890JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Request Booking

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07：50　 Meet up @ Hotel 21
    • 08：15　Senso-ji Temple
    • 09：20　Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko
    • 09：40　Meiji Shrine
    • 10：30　Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11：50　Imperial Palace
    • 12：45　Lunch @ Yakiniku Toraji Marunouchi Building Branch
    • 14：00　Dismissal @ Hotel 21

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour with a Car? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they were planning to go on a cruise tour. At Senso-ji Temple, they listened with great interest to explanations about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as the history of Senso-ji. At Meiji Shrine, they appeared deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was so different from Shibuya. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they enjoyed strolling through the beautiful Japanese garden. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Edo Shogunate, and the Meiji Restoration. Today's tour was a tour with a vehicle and had a tight schedule, but perhaps because it was during a holiday period, the roads in the city were relatively empty, allowing us to move around smoothly. I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Request Booking

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

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

    Kyoto in One Day: Ginkaku-ji & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
    • 9:50 Ginkaku-ji
    • 10:15 Philosopher's Path
    • 10:55 Nanzen-ji ~ Keage Incline
    • 11:50 Nijo Castle
    • 12:45 Lunch
    • 13:45 Disband @ Nishiki Market

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. As they had apparently overexerted themselves the previous day, a message came in asking to change the start time to 9:00, so I accommodated this by skipping lunch. At Ginkaku-ji, the Philosopher's Path, and Nanzen-ji, the fresh green foliage was beautiful, and the guests seemed to enjoy the calm atmosphere. At Nijo Castle, they took an interest in the historical background while also being impressed by the beauty of the garden. Afterwards, at their request, I took them to Nishiki Market, but since they wished to explore freely at their own pace, we parted ways there as planned.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Sanjo～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeage～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo220JPY
    Total710JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    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!

    Request Booking

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:50 Meet up@The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
    • 2. 09:55 Move∶Subway
    • 3. 10:25 Stay@Imperial Palace East Gardens, Marunouchi
    • 4. 11:55 Move∶Subway
    • 5. 12:40 Lunch@Aoi Marushin
    • 6. 13:30 Stay@Asakusa
    • 7. 14:10 Move∶Subway
    • 8. 14:40 Disband@Ginza 4-chome Intersection

    # What Can You See on a Private Tokyo History Tour of the East Gardens, Asakusa, and Ginza? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors to Japan, and I had wondered about the pronunciation of their name and where they were originally from, but it turned out they had relocated to North America from Europe. I did not ask for details, but they appeared to be part of the same group. Since I had heard that they were interested in historical spots, I guided them mainly around the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Asakusa. After strolling through the East Gardens, we also stopped by Tokyo Station, where I explained the Shinkansen platforms as well. As they were also interested in shopping streets, after showing them around Asakusa I took them to Ginza, where we parted at the Ginza 4-chome intersection. Considering the convenience of their return to their accommodation, we mainly used the Ginza Line, which passes through Akasaka-mitsuke. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke Station～Otemachi Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTokyo Station～Asakusa Station210JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Ginza Station210JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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