Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Kiyosumi Garden

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Kiyosumi Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet the guests at the hotel
    • 13:20 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 13:40 Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Five-Story Pagoda, Main Hall
    • 14:30 West approach, break at a café
    • 15:40 Kiyosumi Garden
    • 16:50 Stroll through Kuramae and Sumida River Terrace
    • 17:00 Tour ends at the guests' hotel

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Asakusa and Kiyosumi Garden Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were senior visitors from Oceania. We began at their accommodation in Asakusa, where I gave an overview of Japanese history, explained the difference between shrines and temples, and described the origins of Senso-ji Temple. We then went up to the rooftop terrace of the culture and tourism center, where I explained the surrounding buildings. Walking from Kaminarimon Gate through the Nakamise shopping street, the guests enjoyed sampling Japanese sweets and watching an artisan bake ningyo-yaki cakes. After praying at the main hall, we passed through the west approach and took a break at a cafe. As there was still time, I suggested a visit to Kiyosumi Garden, and with their agreement we traveled there by subway. Strolling through Kiyosumi Garden, the guests were delighted by the beautiful scenery and the quiet atmosphere, and we took our time with frequent rests along the way. We then traveled by subway to Kuramae and walked along the Sumida River Terrace toward Komagata Bridge while viewing the Skytree on the opposite bank. I saw the guests back to their accommodation, bringing the tour to a close. A notable stop on the tour was Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in the 7th century, and is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The approach to the temple passes through the iconic Kaminarimon Gate with its massive red lantern, leading to the lively Nakamise shopping street that has served visitors for centuries.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Kiyosumi-shirakawa290JPY
    Section 2SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa~Kuramae180JPY
    Total470JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Sep 29, 2026
    532yeldarbs
    Insights to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We were fortunate to have had…

    Sep 28, 2026
    G3219WFjoshp
    A great day with Shigeru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is a fantastic…

    Sep 28, 2026
    E8957WUnathanb
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shingeru was great and very…

    Sep 23, 2026
    scottmR2068WG
    Tokyo walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent time being…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kiyosumi Garden

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kiyosumi Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet guests at the hotel
    • 8:40 Shibuya Station area, Hachiko statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 9:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:00 Takeshita Street
    • 10:20 Break at a café
    • 11:30 Kiyosumi Garden
    • 12:40 Asakusa, lunch, Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:00 Tour ends

    What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Meiji Shrine, Kiyosumi Garden, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had arrived in Japan the day before, but showed no signs of fatigue and walked a great deal throughout the tour. We started by taking commemorative photos at the Hachiko statue in front of Shibuya Station, and after walking across the scramble crossing, we moved on to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I gave an overview of Japanese history at the gate, explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism, and described the origins of Meiji Shrine. We then proceeded along the approach with explanations at various points and offered prayers at the main hall. There happened to be wedding processions taking place, and the guests were delighted to see two of them. On Takeshita Street, they were amazed by things such as the animal cafes, and then we took a break at a cafe in the Ura-Harajuku area. We traveled by subway to Kiyosumi Garden, where they took photos in various spots and enjoyed a leisurely stroll. Next we moved on to Kuramae, walking along the promenade beside the Sumida River while I explained the origins of Senso-ji Temple and the surrounding buildings as we headed toward Asakusa. For lunch, they enjoyed sashimi and grilled fish at a seafood izakaya in Asakusa, and everyone finished their meals with high praise. Finally, we passed through the Kaminarimon Gate of Senso-ji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street, offered prayers at the main hall, and then concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Kiyosumi-shirakawa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa~Kuramae180JPY
    Total760JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Sep 29, 2026
    532yeldarbs
    Insights to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We were fortunate to have had…

    Sep 28, 2026
    G3219WFjoshp
    A great day with Shigeru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is a fantastic…

    Sep 28, 2026
    E8957WUnathanb
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shingeru was great and very…

    Sep 23, 2026
    scottmR2068WG
    Tokyo walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent time being…

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Port 9:00-Shimizu Station-Fujinomiya Station-Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre 11:30-Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine-Yokocho (lunch)-Aeon Town-14:00-Fujinomiya Station-Shimizu Station-Port 15:00

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour from Shimizu Port to Mount Fuji's Fujinomiya Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the group visiting from North America at the port and we headed toward the World Heritage Centre in Fujinomiya and Sengen Shrine. The weather was wonderful and Mount Fuji was clearly visible. Since they wanted to experience a train ride, we boarded a train from Shimizu Station. Along the way at Fuji Station, we received special permission from a station staff member to visit a bakery located just outside the ticket gate, where we stocked up on food. After that, all the way until we reached Fujinomiya Station, we enjoyed views of Mount Fuji from the train windows, looking left and right. From the rooftop of the World Heritage Centre, we were lucky to see the very top of Mount Fuji peeking out above the clouds. We carefully took in the exhibits on the volcanic eruptions of Mount Fuji, the videos, and the touch-panel explanations of the cultural and artistic aspects of Mount Fuji before heading to Sengen Shrine. They listened attentively to explanations about the shrine purification ritual, worship, yabusame horseback archery, the placed stones, omikuji fortunes, ema votive plaques, and Wakutama Pond. Afterwards, we had a light meal in the old-town street, and by chance we sat next to a Japanese person who was from Shimizu and another who works as a foreign-language assistant, and we enjoyed a lively and pleasant conversation. After that, they wanted to shop where local people go, so we stopped by a nearby AEON mall, then returned to the port along the same route we had come, and said goodbye with smiles.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)~Fujinomiya590JPY
    Section 2TrainFujinomiya~Shimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)590JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 07:45 Meet @ Hotel Lobby
    • 2. 07:45 Travel: Train
    • 3. 08:05 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 09:00 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 09:30 Stay @ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 6. 11:00 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 11:30 Stay @ Senso-ji Temple
    • 8. 12:10 Disband @ Tokyo Metro Asakusa Station

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and Senso-ji The guests were a young group from North America. When I arrived at the hotel, they were already waiting in the lobby and already had Suica cards, so we were able to start very smoothly. I guided them to Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and Senso-ji, in that order. It is usually difficult to cover three places in a standard four-hour tour, but thanks to the head start at the beginning, we were actually able to spend more time at the East Gardens. The guests were interested in the Nakajima Tea House located within Hamarikyu Gardens, so I explained how to get there while we were in Asakusa, and then we parted ways. A notable stop on the tour was Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in the 7th century, and it is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Visitors approach the main hall through the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and the lively Nakamise shopping street, which is lined with traditional shops selling snacks and souvenirs. It remains one of the most popular and atmospheric sightseeing destinations in the city.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Total550JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamamatsucho - Tokyo Station & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamamatsucho – Tokyo Station & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Hotel
    • 10:15 Hamamatsucho – Tokyo Station
    • 12:00 Imperial Palace
    • 12:50 Asakusa
    • 13:37 End

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and this was a return trip to Japan. They shared various observations during the tour, such as noting that bamboo growing in a garden can be an invasive species, and wondering why the streets were so clean despite the lack of trash bins—then realizing the reason. They mentioned having previously enjoyed cycling tours in Kyoto and Hiroshima before arriving here, and that they would be departing soon. They also commented on everyday topics, including how fast-food options are not always the healthiest even when there is more variety, how cicadas can sound noisy, and how people here are very orderly about following traffic signals. There was also a lighthearted conversation about how Japanese toilets have many buttons that can be confusing, so clear directions are helpful. Another topic that came up was online scams and how those less familiar with technology can be targeted. At 13:37, the guests expressed a wish to stay a little longer and continue exploring on their own. I recommended a good place for lunch nearby and said goodbye. A notable stop on the tour was Kyoto, which the guests mentioned visiting earlier in their trip. Kyoto served as the capital of Japan for over a thousand years and is renowned for its numerous temples, shrines, and traditional wooden townhouses. It is one of Japan's most celebrated destinations for experiencing classical Japanese culture, historic gardens, and seasonal beauty, and cycling is a popular way to explore its many landmarks.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHamamatsucho~Tokyo200JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Total380JPY

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Sep 27, 2026
    Jan_v
    City tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very kind and knowledgeable guide. Taylor made…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Yolanda_S
    Tokyo walking tour with Hideaki
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Hideaki was our guide today and…

    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
    CJW324
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Guided Tour & Tablet Guided Origami Experience
    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo
    • 10:10 Depart Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Ueno-okachimachi
    • Ueno-hirokoji
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:50 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:20 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 13:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:00 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 15:10 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:20 Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Tochomae Station
    • 16:00 Disband: Tochomae Station

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Shibuya from a Licensed Guide The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a vacation trip of about twelve days, during which they planned to visit Tokyo as well as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, before returning to Tokyo and then flying home. The previous day they had arrived at Haneda Airport on a direct flight and taken a taxi to their accommodation. They mentioned that the previous evening they had strolled around Shinjuku and Kabukicho. The tour took place under clear skies, in weather that was almost hot. First, we went to Asakusa. We took commemorative photos at the Kaminarimon Gate and various other spots, and slowly strolled along the Nakamise shopping street, which was crowded with tourists. There were questions such as "What is Buddhism?", "What is the difference between Buddhism and Shinto?", "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" Next, we went to Tsukiji, which was also very crowded. I explained the "history of the fish market since the Edo period," the "difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market," and the "characteristics of Tsukiji Market." There was also a question: "Do all the people of Tokyo come here to buy fish?" After that, we walked around and the guests purchased and sampled "tuna sashimi" and "grilled Kobe beef skewers." We then moved to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained topics such as "the history of Japan from the Edo to the Meiji period," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history and current status of the Imperial family," "World War II and the air raids on Tokyo," and "how the stone walls were built." There were questions such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political power?", "Who will be the next Emperor?", "Can a woman become Emperor?", and "Is it not possible to see the Imperial Palace directly?" There was also a question: "How were the stones for the walls transported?" Next, we went to Meiji Shrine. I again explained topics such as "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?", and "Why did Shinto arise in Japan?" As the guests seemed a little tired, we took a rest at the Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. We then moved to Shibuya. From in front of the Keio Line platform, we looked out over the Scramble Crossing, and then actually crossed it. We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "The streets are clean and there is no litter," "There are no trash cans in the streets. Why is that?", and "The subway is complex but very well made." From Shibuya, I escorted them via Shinjuku to Tochomae Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Train都庁前~上野御徒町220JPY
    Section 2Train上野広小路~浅草180JPY
    Section 3Train浅草~築地210JPY
    Section 4Other築地~大手町(東京都)180JPY
    Section 5Train大手町(東京都)~明治神宮前210JPY
    Section 6Train明治神宮前~渋谷180JPY
    Section 7Train渋谷~新宿200JPY
    Section 8Train新宿西口~都庁前180JPY
    Total1,560JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto: Gio-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Gio-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at guest's accommodation
    • 9:35 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove walk ~ Tenryu-ji Garden
    • 10:00 Gio-ji Temple
    • 11:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:55 Lunch at Gontaro Kinkaku-ji branch
    • 13:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14:30 Gion Hanamikoji Street ~ Gion Tatsumi Bridge
    • 15:00 Disband at guest's accommodation

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Today's guests were a group visiting from Asia. As it was peak season, the Arashiyama district was extremely crowded. Next, we went to Gio-ji Temple, famous for its beautiful moss. Although it was busy with large groups, the moss garden was very lovely. We then visited Kinkaku-ji, and although it was relatively crowded, we were able to look around at a leisurely pace. The lunch spot was also busier than usual. After that, we went to Fushimi Inari Taisha, and here too our timing was good, allowing us to explore slowly, which the guests were pleased about. Since the guests were not interested in browsing for souvenirs, we had a little extra time, so we were also able to stop by Hanamikoji Street in Gion and Tatsumi Bridge. I believe they enjoyed themselves. A notable stop on the tour was Fushimi Inari Taisha. Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto's most iconic shrines, dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity. It is especially famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form winding pathways up the sacred Mount Inari. The shrine has a long history dating back over a thousand years and attracts visitors from all over the world who come to walk through its tunnels of torii gates and enjoy the scenic trails.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet at Toyosu Market
    • 05:10-05:30 Beforehand, explanation of related information such as tuna fishing methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Observe the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What's a Private Tokyo Tuna Auction and Sushi Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were seniors visiting Japan from Europe. They were very curious about the tuna auction, and from the very start of the tour they asked many questions, so we began in a wonderfully warm atmosphere. Both were amazed at how smoothly and quickly the tuna auction proceeded. They were delighted by the dynamic way the auctioneers competed with one another as the bidding went on. At the request of one of the guests, I guided the group to a sushi restaurant after the auction, although one of the guests was actually not fond of raw fish. Encouraged with the sentiment that it was a special memory of visiting Japan, the guest tried sweet shrimp and tuna sushi and was very satisfied, saying, "It's delicious, completely different from what I had imagined." When a photo of the guest eating sushi was sent to family back in Europe, a reply came saying how hard it was to believe that the sushi had been eaten. A notable stop on the tour was the tuna auction at the Tokyo fish market. The tuna auction is one of the most iconic early-morning experiences in Tokyo, where frozen and fresh tuna are rapidly sold to licensed buyers through a lively bidding process. Visitors can observe the skilled auctioneers and the fast-paced calls that have long been a symbol of Japan's deep connection to seafood and culinary tradition.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market/Toei Bus~Tsukiji 6-chome/Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    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!

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hakata Cruise Terminal 9:00 – 9:20 Atago Shrine 9:50 – 10:00 Fukuoka Tower 10:40 – 10:55 Fukuoka Fish Market (Lunch) 11:45 – 12:25 Nanzoin Temple 13:00 – 13:40 Kushida Shrine/Kawabata Shopping Arcade 14:35 – 15:00 Hakata Cruise Terminal

    What's a Private Day Tour of Fukuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group of guests from Europe was very lively and friendly toward me. They were fascinated by their first visit to Japan and asked many questions not only about sightseeing spots but also about society in general, including taxes, pensions, the imperial family, relations with other countries, sports, and Western companies that have expanded into Fukuoka. They also listened earnestly about the Mongol invasions and the impact of foreign wars on Fukuoka, especially the origin of the "kamikaze" (divine wind). They were amazed by the size of the Yamakasa floats. At a restaurant inside the market, they enjoyed local fish and beer. A notable stop on the tour was the Yamakasa floats of Fukuoka. The Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a famous festival held in Fukuoka each July, and its towering, elaborately decorated floats are a symbol of the city's culture and craftsmanship. The festival has a history spanning centuries and is well known for the thrilling races in which teams carry the heavy floats through the streets, making it one of the most celebrated traditional events in the region.

    Experienced guide in Tokyo, Kanto, Kansai, Chugoku and Kyushu as lived in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kyoto, Shiga, Wakayama, Yamaguchi, Fukuoka and Kumamoto. Can introduce local favorite restaurants and shops in these areas. Flexible and tailored itinerary is available with car transport transportation. Can escort outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. Can provide private tours at Sake breweries in Fukuoka and Saga area with personal networks. Respect and adapt to diverse cultures and religions as worked with colleagues around the world for 38 years.

    Sep 19, 2026
    Romy_B
    Kagoshima guided tour with driver
    Viator review: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    Everyone in our group agreed this…

    Sep 2, 2026
    Lee_T
    A wonderful day in Port
    Viator review: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful private tour…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Kim_K
    Viator review: Kagoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Beautiful, insightful and memorable!
    We definitely had a beautiful, insightful and memorable…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:30 Tour starts from the cruise terminal
    • Travel to Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Shrine
    • AM10:00-11:00 Visit Kenrokuen Garden, some guests visit Seisonkaku
    • AM 11:00-11:50 Kanazawa Castle Park, visit inside Kahokumon Gate
    • Travel to restaurant Suju
    • PM 12:00-13:00 Lunch
    • Travel to Higashi Chaya District
    • PM 13:15-14:00 Stroll and shopping from Utasu Shrine to Higashi Chaya District
    • Travel to Oyama Shrine
    • PM 14:20-15:00 From Oyama Shrine to Gyokusen-in, some guests enjoy matcha at Gyokusen-an
    • Travel to the cruise terminal, Tour ends PM 15:30

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kenrokuen and Kanazawa Castle The guests were longtime friends visiting from Oceania. Their requested destinations included Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park. Since some members of the group had considerable difficulty walking, I made arrangements to minimize the burden of walking as much as possible. At Kenrokuen Garden, we entered from the Kanazawa Shrine side, and I arranged for some members to rest on benches along the way while guiding the other members to additional points of interest. For Kanazawa Castle Park, some of the guests waited on a bench while I guided the other members inside the buildings. I believe they enjoyed lunch, the Higashi Chaya District, and a matcha experience, taking breaks inside the van along the way. A notable stop on the tour was Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa. Kenrokuen is considered one of the three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan, alongside Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama. Originally developed by the Maeda clan over nearly two centuries, the garden features winding paths, ponds, streams, and teahouses that showcase the beauty of each season. Its name means "Garden of the Six Sublimities," referring to the six attributes considered essential to a perfect garden: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water features, and panoramic views.

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

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

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

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

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