Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo, then itinerary briefing
    • 10:00 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:55 Harajuku, from Ura-Harajuku to Takeshita Street
    • 13:25 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:45 Dismissal @Harajuku

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine The weather was fair, and the tour proceeded smoothly. The guests had expressed a wish beforehand to visit places other than those seen the previous day, so in the morning we planned the following route: Hotel > Shinjuku Gyoen > Takeshita Street in Harajuku > Meiji Shrine > Shibuya > Hotel. At Shinjuku Gyoen, the guests enjoyed the late-blooming cherry blossoms and took a good look at the tropical plants in the greenhouse, which they found delightful. Upon arriving in Harajuku, the guests immediately expressed a wish to visit the Onitsuka Tiger store, so I guided them to the main store in Ura-Harajuku, where they purchased shoes. Some of the guests took a liking to several shops in Ura-Harajuku and shopped enthusiastically, buying two clothing items. At Meiji Shrine, I answered various questions and talked about history and religion. There was a wedding ceremony taking place, which the guests watched with interest. After leaving Meiji Shrine, the guests wished to have a meal, but every restaurant was full, and they said, "We'll look for a place on our own from here, so that's fine." Although it was before the scheduled end time, the tour concluded there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIidabashi～Sendagaya167JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku-sanchome～Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Total345JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet in front of the hotel
    • 12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:30 Shinjuku Center Street
    • 14:20 Imperial Palace・Nijubashi Bridge
    • 15:20 Ginza
    • 16:20 Asakusa・Sensoji Temple
    • 18:00 Shibuya walk
    • 18:30 Shibuya　Tour ends

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Tokyo the previous night and planned to spend a few days in the city before continuing on to Kyoto. To help them enjoy their sightseeing in Tokyo over the following days, I focused on taking them to the major landmarks so they could use them as a reference for the rest of their trip. First, I guided the group to Meiji Shrine, where I explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the proper way to worship, so they could keep it in mind for the rest of their journey. We happened to see a traditional wedding ceremony being held within the shrine grounds, which they found very moving. Next, we headed to Shinjuku, where they enjoyed seeing the Godzilla statue they had wanted to visit and the 3D cat advertisement, before making our way to the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge. Here I explained the relationship between the Imperial Family and Japanese culture, and then we moved on to Ginza 4-chome so they could get a sense of what Ginza is like for a return visit later. Finally, we visited Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple, where they enjoyed the unique atmosphere and the street food stall culture. At the end, we returned to Shibuya, where I helped arrange their Shinkansen tickets to Kyoto and recommended a delicious ramen shop in Shibuya before concluding the tour.

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

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

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    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 ANA Crowne Plaza Okayamaー9:30 Okayama Korakuenー10:20 Okayama Castleー11:20 Lunchー12:20 Shopping at the shopping streetー13:20 Kurashiki Stationー13:40 Ohara Museum of Artー14:10 Kurashiki Ivy Squareー14:20 Kurashiki Story Houseー14:35 Achi Shrineー15:30 Okayama Station

    What's a Private One-Day Tour of Okayama and Kurashiki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. I learned that they were involved in producing Japanese sake, which greatly surprised me, and this made me reflect on how essential it is to be able to talk about sake in English. Our sightseeing started at Okayama Korakuen Garden, where we were able to take our time exploring, and the beauty of the garden seemed to leave a strong impression. Next we visited Okayama Castle, where they seemed to make many cultural discoveries as well. After that, they wished to have lunch, and although I was unsure where to take them, I guided them to "Okabe," a restaurant I had recommended before that specializes in tofu and yuba cuisine. They were delighted, saying it was "very delicious and healthy." Some of the guests enjoyed shopping and looked for clothing and other items. We then moved on to Kurashiki for a busy round of sightseeing, visiting the Ohara Museum of Art, Kurashiki Ivy Square, and the Kurashiki Monogatarikan, and finally climbing up to Achi Shrine, slightly out of breath, to admire Japan's oldest wisteria, which had reached its perfect season. We then returned to Okayama, and after the tour ended, as a small gesture of goodwill, they enjoyed sake and beer from the famous Miyashita Sake Brewery in Okayama. They were a warm and gentle group, and I too was able to spend a very fulfilling time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOkayama Station Front～Shiroshita240JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Okayama～JR Kurashiki660JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

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    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden & Sosha Shrine

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden & Sosha Shrine

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meet at 13:00 @ Himeji Castle Otemon Gate
    • 13:15 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 14:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 15:45 @ Egret Himeji
    • 16:00 @ Sosha Shrine
    • 16:45 Dismiss @ Himeji Underground Mall

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and everything went smoothly. The guests used a rental car from their arrival in Tokyo and planned to use the vehicle all the way back to Tokyo on their return journey as well. It was clear that all of them had a great interest in Japan, and I received many questions. At Sangokubori in Himeji Castle, they were delighted to be able to see the white herons that are the origin of Himeji Castle's alternate name, "White Heron Castle." They also purchased many souvenirs. They seemed very satisfied with the full view of Himeji Castle from the rooftop of Egret Himeji. At the "Sosha" shrine, which was our final stop, they experienced worship and drew omikuji fortune slips. (One of the guests drew "bad luck," so when I explained that this meant they were currently in a low period and things could only rise from here, they readily accepted this.) One of the guests also had a stamp recorded in a "goshuincho" stamp book. I also presented handmade drawstring pouches made by my sister, which were very well received. (I had assumed some of the group would appreciate them and had only brought two, so we decided the two recipients by drawing lots.) As some of the guests were a little hungry and wanted to eat, I introduced a few restaurants, and we parted ways with about 15 minutes remaining.

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

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 　　 Hotel Meet (@Mimaru Suites Kyoto Central)
    • 10:00-10:50 Travel (Subway; Karasuma Oike→Shijo Karasuma, Hankyu Line; Shijo Karasuma→Arashiyama)
    • 10:50-12:10 Arashiyama walk/visit (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Garden [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakka-en], Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine)
    • 12:10-13:00 Lunch (CefeDining Sera)
    • 13:00-13:40 Travel (Keifuku Line; Arashiyama→Ryoan-ji)
    • 13:40-14:30 Ryoan-ji visit
    • 14:30-14:50 Travel (City Bus; Ryoan-ji-mae→Kinkaku-ji-michi)
    • 14:50-15:30 Kinkaku-ji visit
    • 15:30-16:00 Travel (City Bus; Kinkaku-ji-michi→Kitaoji Bus Terminal, Subway; Kitaoji→Karasuma Oike)
    • 16:00 Farewell at the hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour Covering Arashiyama, Ryoan-ji, and Kinkaku-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Except for one of them, it was their first time visiting Japan. In Arashiyama, in addition to the usual Tenryu-ji garden and the bamboo grove, I also took them to Nonomiya Shrine. After lunch in Arashiyama, I guided them to Ryoan-ji and Kinkaku-ji. At Ryoan-ji, I took time to explain the rock garden, and at Kinkaku-ji, I had them focus on the historical and cultural contrast between the lavish Golden Pavilion and the simple Sekkatei teahouse. Some of the guests found Ryoan-ji their favorite, some preferred Kinkaku-ji, and one favored the bamboo grove. The tour proceeded very smoothly, and I was able to see them back to their hotel within the scheduled time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Shijo Karasuma220JPY
    Section 2TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama～Ryoan-ji250JPY
    Section 4BusRyoan-ji-mae～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi～Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji～Karasuma Oike260JPY
    Total1,430JPY

    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 !

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    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shinsekai & tour finished

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shinsekai & tour finished

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 pick you up at the lobby of your hotel (Swissotel Nankai Osaka)
    • (take subway)
    • 11:20 Shinsekai (Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Street)
    • 　　　　(take subway)
    • 12:10 Kuromon Market
    • 13:10 Doguyasuji
    • 13:50 Namba Yasaka shrine
    • 14:30 Dotonbori Street
    • 15:00 The tour finished.

    What's a Private Food-Focused Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour of Osaka focused on local food and sightseeing. The guests had arrived at Kansai International Airport two days earlier. The previous day they had visited EXPO 2025, and they mentioned being surprised by how crowded it was. At Doguyasuji, the guests showed particular interest in a shop selling food samples. We had lunch at Kuromon Market, where the guests enjoyed shrimp, abalone, and sea urchin. At Namba Yasaka Shrine, the guests purchased an ema votive plaque and made a wish. Since the guests wanted to try Osaka's local food, I introduced them to Kushikatsu Daruma and the okonomiyaki restaurant Chibo in Dotonbori. The tour concluded in Dotonbori, where I introduced a restaurant specializing in meat dishes such as Kobe beef.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba～Dobutsuenmae190JPY
    Section 2SubwayEbisucho～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total380JPY

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @ Conrad
    • 10:10 Asakusa (Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple ~ Hoppy Street)
    • 11:30 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 12:45 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 14:00 Shinjuku Station
    • 14:15 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 15:15 Takeshita Street
    • 16:00 Disband @ Conrad

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They were in Japan for a cruise in April, spending one day sightseeing in Tokyo before returning home the next day. At the Hotel, I confirmed the itinerary we had agreed on in advance. Since they had not received a systematic explanation of Japanese history during the cruise, I explained it using a timeline before setting off. They had visited Kenrokuen, and since no garden surpasses it, at Koishikawa Korakuen I explained the Tokugawa shogunate, the daimyo system, and the Three Houses (Gosanke), helping them understand the historical significance of Korakuen. Even after the cherry blossoms had fallen, the garden grounds were lively with picnickers, and the guests enjoyed the atmosphere. Since they mentioned wanting to see Shinjuku Station, the busiest railway station in the world by passenger numbers, we headed from Shinjuku Station toward Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, while taking photos by the pair of camphor trees, a wedding procession happened to pass by, which delighted them. As a comparison with Meiji Shrine, though it was not on the schedule, I took them to Takeshita Street. During the tour, it turned out that one of the guests worked in a related industry, and along the way we had a lively conversation sharing criticisms of electric vehicles.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Shimbashi～Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa Line Asakusa～JR Suidobashi324JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Suidobashi～JR Sendagaya167JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Shinjuku～JR Harajuku146JPY
    Section 5SubwayChiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae～Ginza Line Shimbashi178JPY
    Total1,035JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Apa Pride Kokkaigijidomae & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Apa Pride Kokkaigijidomae & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:15 Apa Pride Kokkaigijidomae
    • 9:00 Fukagawafudodo fire ritual
    • 9:45 Tsukishima walking
    • 10:30 Ginza
    • 11:30 Asakusa (Sensoji, Nakamise, Sumida River, Don Quixote)
    • 12:30 End the tour in front of Gonpachi Azumabashi

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour of Asakusa, Fukagawa, and Tsukishima? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan. I was able to show them places that are best explored with a guide, such as Fukagawa Fudo and Tsukishima, which they were very happy about. Covering both the quiet old downtown areas and the lively Asakusa district was well received. When I heard they also wanted to try a boat ride, I made reservations for the water bus and a restaurant as soon as we arrived in Asakusa, and then we strolled around the Senso-ji Temple area. That said, the crowds in Asakusa were extraordinary, so much so that I worried whether guests from far away could truly enjoy it. At the end, I explained how to take the water bus and recommended taking a taxi from Hamarikyu, and we parted ways in front of the restaurant near Azumabashi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno～Monzen-Nakacho178JPY
    Section 2SubwayMonzen-Nakacho～Tsukishima178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukishima～Ginza-itchome178JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza～Asakusa209JPY
    Total743JPY

    Tour Report by Hiromi

    Hello. My name is Hiromi Murata. Sometimes called Minnie.
    I work as an interpreter guide in Tokyo, Nikko, Nagasaki, etc.
    I was born in Nagasaki, graduated from a university in Tokyo, and had overseas experience due to my husband’s work.
    In the United States, I lived in Connecticut and California for a total of 10 years.
    Especifically, in California, I completed a course on teaching English as a second language at UCI Extension.
    My motto is to be a fun guide.
    I’m interested in art, architecture, gardens, etc.
    I also like Japanese culture and have experience in tea ceremony, kendo, calligraphy, and flower arrangements.
    Japan is a country with beautiful nature and history. The town is clean and full of delicious food.
    I would like to help guests create fun memories in Japan.
    Sincerely,
    Hiromi

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    Jul 28, 2026
    Valerie_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of beautiful Nagasaki
    Honestly, I had no idea…

    Jun 14, 2026
    lozzaj81
    Excellent way to get your bearings after arriving
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiromi was exceptionally responsive…

    Apr 23, 2026
    pbh2015
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Beautiful port day in Nagasaki
    Arriving in Nagasaki on a…

    Mar 3, 2026
    Robert_Q
    More than WW2, Nagasaki has been leading changes in Japan for 500 years
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 博物館の正面玄関前で集合
    • 2. 12:00 広島城
    • 3. 13:20 博物館
    • 4. 14:20 平和記念公園と原爆ドーム、広島国立追悼平和祈念館、
    • その他の記念碑
    • 5. 14:25 原爆ドーム前で解散

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hiroshima Castle and the Peace Memorial Because it was raining, the guests used a taxi both to and from Hiroshima Castle. At Hiroshima Castle, I spoke in detail about the history of the castle, the Meiji Restoration, the subsequent history of Japan's wars, the Pacific War, and the atomic bombing. The guests listened while sharing what they knew from their own experiences, and the conversation was so lively that it never ran dry. While waiting to buy tickets at the memorial hall, we discussed earthquakes and nuclear power issues in Japan. At the museum, the guests took a deep interest in the individual stories of people who suffered from atomic bomb-related illnesses and asked me about my own connections, so I shared the story of relatives who had experienced the bombing. The guests expressed a strong interest in the feelings of those who suffered from the atomic bomb, out of a wish to prevent war in the future. In the morning it rained, so we were unable to take photos at Hiroshima Castle.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

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    Apr 13, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with Yoshi
    Yoshi was truly one of the…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Liesbet N
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Boeiende reis door geschiedenis
    Een boeiende rondleiding van Yoshiko…

    Oct 26, 2025
    COYS100
    Great Hiroshima experience
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    A great tour with a very informed…

    Jun 25, 2025
    O1135UVraymondp
    Highly recommended to everyone to this tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Joshi is…

  • Nara in One Day: Guide to Ukimido & JR Nara Station

    Nara in One Day: Guide to Ukimido & JR Nara Station

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00: Meet at the hotel
    • 9:30: Guide to Ukimido
    • 10:00: Stroll around Nara Park　
    • 10:30: Guide to Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 11:00: Guide to Todaiji Nandaimon Gate
    • 11:30: Guide to the Great Buddha Hall
    • 12:30: Lunch @ Azekuraya
    • 13:30: Guide to Isuien Garden
    • 14:00: Hotel
    • 14:30: JR Nara Station
    • 15:00: Disband @ JR Nara Station

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests on time at the Hotel. The guests were visitors from North America. Nara sightseeing involves a lot of walking over long distances, so I was a little concerned, but they kept up with me and walked well throughout. Even so, I was told that one of them works as a guide back home. While enjoying the beautiful and quiet natural scenery of Ukimido, we moved on to Kasuga Taisha, where I explained Shinto and its relationship with the deer in Nara Park. At that point I was asked about the relationship between Shinto and Buddhism among Japanese people, and I explained that "one is born as Shinto and ends life as a Buddhist when passing away," which they found convincing. We then walked from Kasuga Taisha to Todaiji, where I explained the teachings of Buddhism and the meaning of the Buddhist statues. When lunchtime came, we had lunch at a restaurant near Nigatsudo. Finally, I guided them around Isuien Garden. During the tour, the guests asked me to help purchase limited express tickets since they were returning to Tokyo that day. As a result, we first went back to retrieve the luggage they had left at the Hotel, then moved to JR Nara Station and purchased the limited express tickets at the "Midori no Madoguchi" ticket counter. Having successfully purchased the tickets, I saw them onto the train bound for Kyoto and we parted ways.

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

    Tour Report by Toshi

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

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

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

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

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