Category: Uncategorized

  • 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!

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    Sep 19, 2026
    Christine_G
    Must do
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Masa was amazing and was on time…

    Sep 10, 2026
    gillh648
    1 day private tour of Tokyo.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 5, 2026
    candicebZ7085NH
    Private walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    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:…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00　Meet at hotel
    • 8:05　Since three of us didn't have umbrellas, we went to a nearby convenience store to buy umbrellas
    • 8:50　Tsukiji (Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine, Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple)
    • 10:45　Harajuku I am donut?
    • 10:55　Meiji Shrine
    • 12:40　Asakusa (Azuma Bridge, underground shopping street, Sensoji Temple, West Approach, Nakamise)
    • 14:15　Disband at Gonpachi

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America who had already enjoyed a Shinjuku tour, a sumo show, the Pokemon Center in Shibuya, and Madame Tussauds in Odaiba. Today it unfortunately rained, so we strolled on wet ground, but the guests hardly seemed to mind. While walking from the hotel to the station, one of the guests told me, "I like this pace, but the others walk slowly," and when we turned around, indeed some of the group were farther behind. So throughout the day, while chatting as we walked, I kept an eye on the walking speed and made sure to keep the rest of the group in sight. On the Oedo Line, one of the guests became interested in an advertisement (spotting the words "I am donut?" among the job listings), so before heading to Meiji Shrine we visited the always-crowded I am donut? Harajuku branch. "Oh, good idea!" they said, taking a commemorative photo with a smile. In Harajuku, when I mentioned, "There are many animal cafes here," and introduced a cat cafe on the fourth floor near the station, one of the guests rather strongly asked, "It's raining, so let's go in here," but we proceeded to Meiji Shrine as planned. At Meiji Shrine, rather than talk about the shrine itself, the conversation somehow turned lively around tuition fees, and eventually even to the question, "What's the connection with Meiji chocolate?" (Maybe next time I'll bring some Meiji chocolate.) On the Ginza Line heading to our final destination, Asakusa, since they planned to go to Akihabara after the tour, I handed one of the guests a map and exit guide for Akihabara Station along with information on shops related to Pokemon and retro games that they had requested. One of the guests had been playing Pokemon GO the whole time and was looking forward to Akihabara. In Asakusa, we went from Azumabashi through the underground arcade and Shin-Nakamise Street, avoiding the rain a little, then through some back streets while I introduced a few shops, and made our way to the main hall. Since they hadn't had lunch, I thought a little something for their stomachs would be good, so they tried the melon bread from Kagetsudo on the west approach and the square meat burger from Kadomatsu. Both were well received, but when I asked, "Which one would you like to eat again?" the answer was, "The square meat burger, for sure — I wanted a second one." Finally, we saw Nakamise and Kaminarimon, and I took them to Gonpachi for lunch, where 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 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku～Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Asakusa260JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Danda

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

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    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel
    • 10:50 -11:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:00-13:40 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 14:20-15:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji
    • 15:40-16:30 Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Arashiyama The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since I had received information that they were interested in photography, I wanted to take them to many photo spots, so at Fushimi Inari Taisha I guided them to the Omokaru-ishi stones and the Negai-no-Matsu pine. They also showed interest in souvenirs and did some shopping, and then we headed to Kiyomizu-dera. I explained the stage and the Thousand-Armed Kannon statue in the main hall and we took photos. Since rain was forecast, I decided to save Nishiki Market for last and we headed to the Bamboo Grove Path in Arashiyama. They were very pleased with the bamboo grove and took many photos. At Tenryu-ji, not many flowers were in bloom, but when I explained that the garden remains in its original form, they became interested, and we went to peek at the dragon painting on the ceiling. In the end it was hard to see well, and we all had a good laugh. Since we had time to spare, we decided to see Nishiki Market before returning to the Hotel, but they wanted to stay a bit longer at Nishiki Market and then walk on their own to Pontocho and Gion, so I had the driver head back. I explained how to get from Nishiki Market to Gion, and that concluded the tour. A notable stop on the tour was Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples, founded in the 8th century and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its large wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering sweeping views over the city and the surrounding hillsides, especially striking during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The temple's main hall enshrines a statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon, and the site takes its name from the pure waters of the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors traditionally drink for health, longevity, and success.

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

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:15 Meet @ Hotel Lobby
    • 2. 10:20 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:50 Stay @ East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 4. 12:10 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 12:40 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 13:30 Travel: Train
    • 7. 13:40 Stay @ Shinjuku
    • 8. 14:10 Lunch @ Aen
    • 9. 14:45 Disband @ Shinjuku-sanchome

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Shinjuku The guests were a group visiting Japan. They arrived early at the meeting point, and since it was close to the station, we were able to start smoothly. Although we stayed a little longer at the first stop, the East Gardens, the travel time between each spot was short, so the tour proceeded smoothly all the way to the end. In Shinjuku, even after guiding them around the Kabukicho area, including Omoide Yokocho and Shinjuku Golden Gai, we still had time to spare, so I took them to a Japanese restaurant I often use, where we had lunch together and parted ways at the end of the meal. A notable stop on the tour was the Imperial Palace East Gardens. These gardens are part of the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace and are open to the public free of charge. They occupy the former site of Edo Castle, and visitors can still see remnants of the castle, including massive stone walls and the foundation of the former main keep. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with seasonal flowers and trees that offer a peaceful contrast to the surrounding modern cityscape of central Tokyo.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku160JPY
    Total580JPY

    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.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at hotel 12:35 Lunch (Japanese food) 13:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 14:40 Yasaka Pagoda 15:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple 16:00 Higashiyama area (Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji, Yasaka Shrine) 17:30 Kujo Depot (picking up the smartphone the guest lost) 17:45 Fushimi Inari 18:45 See off to the subway platform at Kyoto Station, then end of tour

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Higashiyama and Fushimi Inari Body: The guest visited Japan from North America for work, spending the beginning of the week at a printing company in Shiga Prefecture and planning to sightsee in Kyoto and Hiroshima over the weekend before returning home. The guest tended to be more comfortable speaking Spanish. After finishing work today, the guest moved to a hotel in Kyoto. Up to this point, most of the work had been in Osaka, and accommodation had often been near Shin-Osaka. It had rained all week, but today was cloudy from the morning with occasional sunshine. Thanks to this, the temperature was low and there was a slight breeze, making it a comfortable tour. After finishing the Higashiyama area at Yasaka Shrine, the plan was to take the city bus to Tofuku-ji, transfer to the JR line, and go to Fushimi Inari. Just after getting off the bus at the Tofuku-ji stop, the guest realized that a smartphone and charger had been left on the bus seat. I called the bus depot, believed to be the "Kujo Depot," and asked them to check the bus for the lost items. As a result, the smartphone and other items were found, and we went together to the Kujo Depot office to pick them up. The guest was very happy to have them found. Since we were running short on time, we took a taxi from the Kujo Depot to Fushimi Inari. The photo was taken at Kiyomizu-dera Temple. A notable stop on the tour was Fushimi Inari Taisha. Fushimi Inari is one of Kyoto's most iconic shrines, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form winding paths up the sacred Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity, the shrine attracts many visitors who walk through the tunnels of torii gates donated by individuals and businesses. Along the way, visitors can also see numerous fox statues, which are believed to be messengers of Inari.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijo～Higashiyama (Kyoto Prefecture)260JPY
    Section 5BusHigashiyama-Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station) / Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6BusGion / Kyoto City Bus～Tofukuji / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 7OtherTofukuji～Kujo Shako-mae230JPY
    Section 8TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total1,760JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 900 Meet @Hotel
    • 910 Kabukicho
    • 920 Golden-gai
    • 940-1100 Meiji Shrine
    • 1100-1210 Harajuku/Omotesando
    • 1210-1215 Move to Shibuya
    • 1215-1300 Shibuya and tour end here

    Title: What Does a Private Walking Tour of Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting from Oceania. Although the booking was originally for more than one person, part of the group chose to rest at the hotel, so I guided only one guest. The Hotel was located near the Ogado area of Shinjuku West Exit, and the guest wanted to see Kabukicho before heading to Meiji Shrine. We first explored "Omoide Yokocho," the "3D Cat," the "Godzilla Head," and "Golden Gai," and then headed to Meiji Shrine. It was a rainy morning, so there were few people, and the guest was very satisfied. Since we had plenty of time, we also stopped by the Inner Garden and the museum. In Harajuku, we walked along Takeshita Street, Ura-Harajuku, and Omotesando, and then took the subway to Shibuya. In Shibuya, I guided the guest around "Hikarie," "Miyashita Park," and "PARCO." A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine. Meiji Shrine is one of Tokyo's most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Completed in 1920, it is surrounded by a vast forest of around 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, creating a peaceful natural sanctuary in the heart of the city. Visitors often pass through the shrine's large wooden torii gates and can experience traditional rituals, seasonal ceremonies, and the quiet atmosphere that contrasts with the busy streets of nearby Harajuku and Shinjuku.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku-sanchome～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOmotesando～Shibuya180JPY
    Total360JPY

    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
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Masa was amazing and was on time…

    Sep 10, 2026
    gillh648
    1 day private tour of Tokyo.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 5, 2026
    candicebZ7085NH
    Private walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    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:…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji & Toshogu Shrine

    Tochigi in One Day: Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji & Toshogu Shrine

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 　　　 Meet the guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • Move to Lake Chuzenji by bus
    • 10:30~11:10　Sightseeing at Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji
    • Move to Shinkyo Bridge by bus
    • 12:00~13:00 Lunch
    • 13:10~15:00 Toshogu Shrine sightseeing
    • 15:00　　　　Dismiss on-site

    What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Nikko Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kegon Falls and Toshogu Shrine The guests were looking forward to three things on this tour: visiting Kegon Falls, exploring Toshogu Shrine, and enjoying Japanese cuisine. In addition to Toshogu Shrine, they also hoped to see Kanmangafuchi Abyss in the World Heritage area. Since this would not be possible within a 6-hour tour, I set the basic 6-hour plan to cover the itinerary up to Toshogu Shrine. On the day, everything proceeded as planned, with sightseeing at Kegon Falls in the Chuzenji area and lunch at a Japanese-style restaurant. The guests said it was truly worth making the extra effort to visit Kegon Falls, and they seemed very satisfied. They also enjoyed a yuba (tofu skin) dish at the Japanese-style restaurant, and were greatly pleased, including with the atmosphere of the restaurant. In the afternoon, we took our time enjoying Toshogu Shrine, the highlight of Nikko, and parted ways on site at 15:00. The guests were delighted to have visited both Kegon Falls, the highlight of the Lake Chuzenji area, and Toshogu Shrine, the highlight of the World Heritage area, all in a single day. I believe it became an unforgettable day for the guests. A notable stop on the tour was Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. Toshogu Shrine is a lavishly decorated Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan during the Edo period. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the shrine is renowned for its ornate carvings, including the famous "See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" three wise monkeys and the sleeping cat. Set amid towering cedar trees, the shrine complex represents some of the finest examples of Japanese craftsmanship and architecture from the 17th century.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station～Chuzenji Onsen2,300JPY
    Section 2Free PassChuzenji Onsen～Shinkyo Bridge0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShinkyo Bridge～Tobu Nikko Station0JPY
    Total2,300JPY

    Tour Report by Taka

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Request Booking

    Sep 5, 2026
    Adventure06097262461
    Wonderful day in Nikko
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was a truly…

    Aug 30, 2026
    inbyten
    A perfect day in Nikko with Taka
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Taka crafted…

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Fish Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Fish Market & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:10 Meeting Up
    • 9:30-11:10 Tsukiji Fish Market
    • 11:40-12:10 Omotesando Street and Takeshita Street
    • 12:10-12:50 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 13:10 Shibuya

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Right after the assignment on August, I sent an email but received no reply. I also sent messages via a messaging app on several occasions, and although they were marked as read, there was no response. With that situation, I headed to the Hotel. In the end, although the guests were a little late, they showed up safely (they mentioned it was because they had gotten a new phone). At Tsukiji, the guests showed interest in many things, eating and shopping, and although we ran well over the planned time, they enjoyed it very much. They were quite familiar with Japan through social media, so there were many questions, and they listened attentively to the guiding as well. They liked the forest of Meiji Shrine, wrote an ema wooden plaque, and also purchased a goshuin stamp book. Since we had gone over the finishing time, I took them to the Shibuya crossing and ended the tour there. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine. Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a vast forest of over 100,000 trees donated from all over Japan, offering a peaceful retreat within the busy city. Visitors can experience traditional customs such as writing wishes on ema wooden plaques and collecting goshuin, the official seal stamps of the shrine.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae Station / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Total550JPY

    Tour Report by Motoko

    Hi,
    Thank you for contacting the Japan Guide Association to request a licensed guide for your upcoming visit to Japan. My name is Motoko Tanaka. I’m so happy to be assigned to you.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born and raised in Tokyo, so it is nice to hear that you are excited about your visit to this wonderful city. There is much to be excited about here in Tokyo. I have really enjoyed guiding in Tokyo and the surrounding areas for more than 10 years.
    I live with my husband and a dog named Alice. She was a rescue dog and I adopted her about 4 years ago. Now she is a very precious family member. I have two daughters, the elder one has a child and the younger has a aroma shop in a town near Mr. Fuji. I sometimes visit there with Alice.
    I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to create a special day.
    Regards,
    Motoko

    Request Booking

    Sep 21, 2026
    Keith_S
    Wonderful Experience
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    Apr 25, 2026
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    Primeira vez em Tóquio
    A Motoko foi excelente para nos guiar pelos…

    Apr 22, 2026
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  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Shimizu Port→Train→11:10 Shizuoka World Heritage Center→12:10 Lunch→13:00 Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine→14:20 Fujinomiya Station→Shimizu Station→16:00 Say goodbye at UNIQLO near Shimizu Port

    タイトル What's a Private Fuji-Area Day Tour from Shimizu Port Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 本文 After meeting at Shimizu Port, we took the train to the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre in Shizuoka. The weather was cloudy with occasional rain, but the silhouette of Mount Fuji appeared beautifully and clearly, which delighted the guests. They took many photos enthusiastically. For lunch, we enjoyed yakisoba, a local specialty of Fujinomiya. At Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine, the guests showed interest in the guardian lion-dog statues and the yabusame (horseback archery) statue, and they bought an ema votive tablet as a souvenir, revealing their fondness for Japan. As it happened, they watched with great interest as a couple who had held their wedding ceremony that day took commemorative photos in the shrine grounds, fully enjoying the atmosphere of Japan. Finally, we said goodbye at a Uniqlo near Shimizu Port, bringing the Mount Fuji area tour to a successful close. A notable stop on the tour was Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine. Officially known as Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, it is regarded as the head shrine of some 1,300 Sengen shrines across Japan and has long been a center of worship connected to Mount Fuji. The shrine grounds are known for their spring-fed pond of clear water originating from Mount Fuji, as well as traditional events and ceremonies that reflect centuries of local faith and culture.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShimizu Station～Fujinomiya Station590JPY
    Section 2OtherFujinomiya Station～Shimizu Station590JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

    My name is Kazunori Honma, I live in Odawara city near Hakone facing Pacific Ocean, so I am familiar with Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. In particular, nature, history, culture and food in the region are my specialty. I know a lot of Shinto shrines, temples, and hiking trails. Plus, I love art, so I am able to guide you to a wide variety of art museums in Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. If you are an art lover, you will be able to spend a fulfilling time with me.
    I thoroughly make preparations for your interests and needs to satisfy you with all my effort in advance. I’m sure you will definitely be happy with spending a day with me.

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    scottrE3713WR
    Great Mt. Fuji experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kaz was amazing! Great communication before…

    Aug 27, 2026
    H694KFjoannet
    Great Day in Shimizu
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    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 4, 2026
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  • Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 06:30 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by foot to Kyoto Station
    • Travel by train to Inari
    • AM 07:00-8:10 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • Travel by train to Shichijo
    • AM 08:30-09:30 Tour of Sanjusangendo
    • Travel by train and subway to Keage
    • AM 10:10-10:30 Guided tour of Nanzenji Sanmon Gate and Hojo, tour ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Since this day was the final day of their long trip in Japan, the tour started early in the morning. It began under unfortunate rain, but aside from some fairly heavy rain at Fushimi Inari, the weather held up, which was a great help. Although there was no time to go to Sagano, the guests enjoyed the bamboo grove at Fushimi Inari and were very pleased. Because it was early morning with no tour groups around, they were deeply moved by the solemn Buddhist statues in the tranquil silence of Sanjusangen-do, feeling it was a fitting place to conclude their trip to Japan. At Nanzen-ji, as we ran over time, I introduced the Sanmon gate and the Hojo, and then guided them along the Philosopher's Path, which they had said they wanted to visit after the tour, before the tour came to an end. A notable stop on the tour was Fushimi Inari Shrine. Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form winding paths up the sacred Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity, it is one of the most iconic shrines in Kyoto and attracts visitors from all over the world.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo180JPY
    Section 3TrainShichijo～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)180JPY
    Section 4SubwaySanjo Keihan～Keage220JPY
    Total730JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
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