Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shintakashima Station & Yokohama Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shintakashima Station & Yokohama Station

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hilton Yokohama
    • 9:26 Depart Shintakashima Station
    • (Minatomirai Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (JR Ueno-Tokyo Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:26 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:45 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Tokyo National Museum
    • 13:00 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:50 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 16:50 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line)
    • 17:28 Yokohama Station
    • (Minatomirai Line)
    • 17:30 Shintakashima Station
    • 17:30 Dismissal: Shintakashima Station

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like from Yokohama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. This was their first visit to Japan. They arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening on a connecting flight and took a taxi to their hotel. In the evening, they took a stroll around the town near their hotel. The main purpose of this visit to Japan was a cruise ship voyage around Japan departing from Yokohama Port the following day. They planned to fly home from Asia at the end of their trip. The guests were recovering from illness and requested a "slow-paced walking" tour. Even under cloudy skies, the tour was not affected by rain. We transferred by train from Yokohama and first headed to Asakusa. Although it was a weekend, it was crowded, and the guests, perhaps unaccustomed to it, seemed a little overwhelmed. We started from the front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." Even early in the morning it was crowded, with many groups of tourists and school excursion students. We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate and the five-story pagoda. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?", "How many Christians are there?", and "We follow Judaism ourselves—are there synagogues in Japan?" We moved to the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno. The guests share an interest in "the history of countries around the world" and always make a point of visiting the museums of the countries they visit. Incidentally, they said the museums that impressed them the most so far were "those in Rome, Italy, and in Tibet." They took photos in many places, and gazed particularly intently at the Buddhist statues and hanging scrolls. We moved to the Imperial Palace. We strolled through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I explained "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There were questions such as "Are there no more samurai?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?" We moved to Harajuku, first heading to Meiji Shrine. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," and "why barrels of sake and wine are displayed here." There were questions such as "When and why did Shinto originate?" and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" We came across a wedding procession and took photos many times. We went to Shibuya. First, we took photos looking down at Scramble Square from the entrance to the Keio Inokashira Line platform, then actually crossed the intersection. There was also a question, "Why do so many people gather here?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "There's no litter on the streets—it's so clean," "The subway is so quiet inside," and "Why are there no trash bins on the streets?" Finally, I saw the guests off at Shin-takashima Station, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShintakashima Station～Yokohama Station193JPY
    Section 2TrainYokohama Station～Ueno Station571JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno Station～Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijubashimae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 7SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 8TrainShibuya Station～Yokohama Station406JPY
    Section 9SubwayYokohama Station～Shintakashima Station193JPY
    Total2,284JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

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    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Omotesando and Nike Shop

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Omotesando and Nike Shop

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @Conrad
    • 10:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple ~ Okuyama Omairimachi ~ Asakusa Sumo Stable)
    • 11:45 Nezu Shrine
    • 13:15 Lunch @Gonpachi NORI TEMAKI
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:30 Omotesando and Nike Shop
    • 16:00 Disband @Conrad

    What Is a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa and Yanaka The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a memorial trip to celebrate a milestone in the family, and they had arrived the day before and planned to spend several nights in Tokyo, followed by a couple of nights in Kyoto and Osaka, and then a further stretch of time back in Tokyo. Since I had heard that one of the guests had some difficulty walking, I planned a relaxed itinerary and limited the Yanesen area to Nezu Shrine only. In Asakusa, I introduced a sumo stable and the Samurai Ninja Museum. Unlike Senso-ji Temple or Meiji Shrine, Nezu Shrine was not damaged in the war and remains original, which the guests were pleased about. (Every time I visit Nezu Shrine, there seem to be more red-eared slider turtles.) Over lunch, I advised them on how to spend their time after returning from Kyoto: considering their walking situation, I recommended teamLab Borderless, and for Mount Fuji I recommended the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) Mt. Fuji tour. As they are still involved in business, they were interested in the causes of Japan's "lost 30 years" and in the national character.

    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 2SubwayChiyoda Line Nezu～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3SubwayChiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae～Ginza Line Shimbashi178JPY
    Total607JPY

    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, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, 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

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    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…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:454 Hotel meet 8:56 At Gora Station by bus via Kowakien to Moto-Hakone 10:00 Visit Hakone Shrine and Narukawa Art Museum 12:00 From Moto-Hakone by bus to Hakone Checkpoint Ruins
    • Lunch and Maruyama Bussan 13:00 From the checkpoint by bus to Moto-Hakone 13:25 Pirate ship 13:50 Togendai Hakone Ropeway Visit Owakudani 14:46 From Sounzan by cable car Get off at Gora Station Accompany to near the hotel and disband at 15:00

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a friendly group traveling together. Since one of the guests was studying at an art university, they requested a visit to the Narukawa Art Museum, where they thoroughly enjoyed contemporary Japanese paintings. They showed a strong interest in Japan's nature and culture. As one of the guests was also studying Japanese, we had many enjoyable conversations over lunch about Shinto and Buddhism in Japan, our lifestyle, and the differences between kanji and hiragana. They were also very interested in the yosegi marquetry at Maruyama Bussan from an arts-and-crafts perspective, listened intently to the presentation, and purchased items such as a magic box. Hakone Shrine, the pirate ship cruise, and the ropeway were all wonderful places to experience Hakone and the nature and culture of Japan, and the guests enjoyed them greatly, although unfortunately Mount Fuji was not visible. Note on early conclusion: At the end of Owakudani, I asked whether they would like to head to the hotel next. The guests asked whether it would be a taxi from Gora Station, and I replied that it was very close by and that I would accompany them. I walked with them from the station, and once we reached a point near the signboard of the accommodation, they said they knew the way from there and wished to end, so we parted with a handshake, and they kindly even gave me a tip. It is true that the time was somewhat early, at 3:00, but we visited the guests' three original requested destinations — the Narukawa Art Museum, Hakone Shrine, and the sightseeing cruise — and in addition visited the yosegi marquetry at Maruyama Bussan (where they also did some shopping), the ropeway, and Owakudani. I believe one reason we were able to proceed ahead of schedule was that all transportation, such as buses, could be used that day with no waiting time. As the tour concluded early, I leave any decision regarding a reduction to your discretion.

    Click here for more details: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdawara Station～Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

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

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    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

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

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

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:05 Meet at Kyoto Station　7:15 Board JR train to Nara　8:21 Arrive at JR Nara Station　8:40 Nara Park　9:00 Todaiji Temple　10:00 Isuien Garden　11:10 Lunch (Sushi)　12:25 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:15 Nakatanidou (Mochi pounding)　13:35 Naramachi Nigiwai no Ie　14:37 Board JR train to Kyoto　15:25 Arrive at Kyoto Station, escort to subway and end of tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto and Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan together as a group to celebrate a milestone. One of the guests had been to Tokyo before, but it was their first time visiting Kyoto and Nara. Because one of the guests followed a gluten-free diet, deciding on a lunch spot was challenging. I had planned to visit a sushi restaurant that offered gluten-free soy sauce, but unfortunately it was closed. The internet listed it as open, but for some reason it was closed. This kind of thing has been happening a lot recently. Depending on the day of the week, it may be necessary to confirm by phone the day before. Fortunately, when we went into a sushi restaurant I had visited before, they had a gluten-free menu and gluten-free soy sauce, which was a great help. The guests seemed to enjoy the sushi very much, which was wonderful. We also stopped by Nakatanidou to watch the mochi pounding, and as a result we missed the return train we had planned to take and had to take the next one, so we finished about 30 minutes later than scheduled. Since we arrived in Nara early in the morning, there were still few people around, which made for a relaxed sightseeing experience. The photo was taken at Isuien Garden.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nara720JPY
    Section 2Free PassJR Nara Station～JR Nara Station600JPY
    Section 3TrainNara～Kyoto720JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Sounzan Station & Hakone Shrine

    Kanagawa in One Day: Sounzan Station & Hakone Shrine

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Hakone
    • 11:15 Sounzan Station
    • Board the ropeway
    • 11:30 Explore Owakudani, buy black eggs and souvenirs
    • 12:50 Owakudani Station
    • Board the ropeway
    • 13:20 Arrive at Togendai Station
    • 13:55 Board the pirate ship
    • 14:40 Arrive at Motohakone Port
    • 15:00 Lunch "Fukio Soba"
    • 16:00 Hakone Shrine
    • 16:38 Board the bus from Motohakone Port
    • 17:00 Disband at Gora Station

    What Is a Full-Day Private Hakone Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were driven from the Hotel to Sounzan by car, which was very close and took only about five minutes. At Sounzan there was a long line for the ropeway, and we waited about 20 minutes. At Owakudani, Mount Fuji was unfortunately not visible, but the bottom of the valley could be seen, and the guests were surprised by the unusual scenery. After that, they enjoyed eating the black eggs and buying souvenirs. There was also about a 20-minute wait at Owakudani. When Lake Ashi came into view from the ropeway, the guests cheered and took many photos. For the pirate ship on Lake Ashi, they chose first class and relaxed comfortably on board. We arrived at Moto-Hakone Port around 3:00, so we hurried into a soba restaurant and had lunch. Since it closes at 3:30, I was glad we made it in time. It usually has a long line, but at that time of day it was fairly empty. We were shown to a tatami room, and the guests were delighted, seeing it as part of the cultural experience. They enjoyed the soba, oyakodon, and katsudon and said they were delicious, which was a relief. At Hakone Shrine, they paid their respects politely, following the proper Shinto etiquette. It was evening with few people, so they were able to enjoy the quiet atmosphere. As they had already been to Kyoto, they understood and respected Japanese culture and customs very well. On the way back, there was a special bus running from Moto-Hakone Port to Gora, so we could go directly to the station. After arriving in Gora, since the guests planned to go to Gora Brewery for a meal, I arranged with the Hotel to have them picked up at 7:30 pm when they would finish, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShin-Yurigaoka～Hakone-Yumoto5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by YUMI

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

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    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30-11:30 Osaka Castle
    • 11:50-14:00 Shitennoji Temple（lunch）
    • 14:00-15:30 Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
    • 15:30-16:00 Go back to the hotel（End of the tour）

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Shitennoji, and the Museum of Housing and Living The guests were traveling together to mark a special occasion. We visited Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, and the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, which took slightly longer than planned, so they decided to walk around Dotonbori on their own the next day. They walked at a fast pace, but I think it took time because they looked at everything carefully and took many photos. At Shitennoji Temple, they also paid the entrance fee to go inside, and some of the guests climbed up to the five-story pagoda, which took a while, but they seemed to enjoy themselves and bought protective charms as souvenirs. At the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, they could experience what felt like traveling back in time to the Edo period, and it was impressive to see the development of the modern Osaka cityscape and the first Tsutenkaku Tower.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Tenjinbashisuji 6-chome240JPY
    Section 4SubwayTenjinbashisuji 6-chome～Namba240JPY
    Total910JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

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    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Sankeien Garden & Yamashita Park

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Sankeien Garden & Yamashita Park

    Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Sankeien Garden
    • 11:20 Marine Tower
    • 12:00 Yamashita Park
    • 12:20 Dismissal @ In front of Hotel New Grand

    What Is a Private Half-Day Tour of Yokohama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America on a private tour of Yokohama. The day before, they contacted me and we moved the start time 30 minutes earlier so they could make their ship check-in, but the roads from central Tokyo were congested and we ended up starting 30 minutes late. While waiting at Sankeien Garden, I received a message that the lockers at Osanbashi Pier were full. When I asked at Sankeien, I was told that luggage could be kept at the lockers or the reception, so they were going to bring their bags, but shortly afterward they contacted me again to say another locker had been found. Sankeien Garden has wonderful scenery, and the group was very pleased to see the beautiful garden views and the old buildings. Although it was cloudy, the harbor view from Marine Tower was also beautiful, and since they could see scenery different from Tokyo, they were very satisfied. At Yamashita Park, many roses in the rose garden were still in bloom, so they took a lot of photos. Since the ship check-in had to be done between 12:30 and 1:00, we had to skip the planned visits to Chinatown and the Red Brick Warehouse, and the tour ended when I put them in a taxi in front of the New Grand. It turned out to be a short tour, but everyone was in great spirits and gave me words of thanks, which was a relief.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHonmoku～Yamashita Wharf Entrance220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet up @ Hotel 88 Shinsaibashi
    • 09:15 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 10:45 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 12:00 @ Dotonbori
    • 12:30 Dismissal @ Dotonbori

    What Is a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha, and Dotonbori The guest was a visitor from Oceania. The guest moved smoothly from place to place throughout the tour. This time, the guest did not seem particularly interested in the individual sights. Rather, the guest's main purpose appeared to be "taking as many photos as possible of the spots and the cityscape." It was a little disappointing that the guest did not show much interest in the guide's explanations. However, at "Miraiza," located next to Osaka Castle, the guest purchased a large amount of souvenirs to bring home. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, the guest took time to visit the shrine and to search carefully for the popular "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles. At the final stop in Dotonbori as well, the guest seemed completely absorbed in taking photographs. As the guest expressed a wish to eat "okonomiyaki," I guided them to a restaurant I recommended, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba～Morinomiya240JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Shin-Imamiya180JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Imamiya～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba240JPY
    Total900JPY

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    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…

  • Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ ANA Holiday Inn Sendai (Meet at 8:45 to depart to catch the train) ~ 8:56 Board the Senseki Line from Sendai Station
    • 9:29 Arrive at Higashi-Shiogama Station ~ 9:45 @ Shiogama Seafood Wholesale Market (Travel on foot) ~ 10:30 @ Shiogama Fish Market (Travel on foot)
    • 11:01 Board the Senseki Line from Higashi-Shiogama Station ~ 11:09 Arrive at Matsushimakaigan Station
    • 11:20 @ Oshima Island ~ 11:50 @ Godaido
    • 12:10 Lunch @ Chuka Soba Uchimi
    • 12:50 @ Fukuura Bridge & Fukuura Island ~ 13:40 @ Zuiganji Temple Approach & Entsuin Temple Approach
    • 14:11 Board the Senseki Line from Matsushimakaigan Station (Arrive at Sendai Station: 14:49)
    • 14:30 Disband inside the train at the guest's suggestion

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Shiogama Fish Market and Matsushima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting this area for the first time. Beforehand, the guest requested to skip temples and shrines as much as possible, preferring an outdoor-focused experience, and expressed a wish to see the Shiogama Fish Market. Since the market closes by midday for those who want to visit, we decided to go there first thing. The guest mentioned enjoying visiting local markets on other trips as well. The guest also owns a boat and catches fish such as bluefin tuna personally, so they are quite serious about it. The guest watched the tuna being filleted at the market with great interest, taking photos along the way. I explained that much of the tuna at the Shiogama market is shipped to the metropolitan area. The guest also sampled freshly landed bigeye tuna, and listened attentively to explanations about unusual marine products and the tsunami damage. Since we had plenty of time before heading to Matsushima, I also guided the guest to the auction market, a five-minute walk away. The auction is held there every morning at 8:00, so it had already finished by the time we arrived, but we climbed the observation deck and viewed the auction floor through the glass. In Matsushima, it was mainly a walking tour. The guest walked so fast that I got tired keeping up. I explained the main sights such as Oshima, Godaido, and Fukuurajima, taking a natural walking-trail approach. The guest already knew the basics about oyster farming from an oyster cruise tour, so I was able to point out oyster larvae occasionally visible from the sea. For lunch, the guest left the choice to me. Since the guest did not seem to prefer expensive options, I asked, "How about a ramen shop popular with locals?" It is tucked away in a spot not many tourists visit, but it is a place recommended by a taxi driver. It seemed to be the guest's first time having ramen, but they ordered a stir-fried vegetable set and seemed to enjoy it as an inexpensive and delicious meal. After lunch at Fukuurajima, we walked along a small rocky area and a beach path leading from beside a rest pavilion, which was a bit of an adventure. On the way back, we headed to the station while talking about the earthquake damage along the approach to Zuiganji Temple. For the return, at the guest's suggestion that it would be troublesome to go all the way to Sendai and come back, we parted ways there.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSendai Station～Higashi-Shiogama Station330JPY
    Section 2TrainHigashi-Shiogama Station～Matsushimakaigan Station189JPY
    Section 3TrainMatsushimakaigan Station～Tagajo Station242JPY
    Total761JPY

    Tour Report by Riko

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Nagoya Port – Nagoya Castle (10:20-11:30) – Atsuta Shrine (11:50-13:00)

    What Is a Private Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met right on time at 9:30. The guest had previously worked in the administrative office of a school where I once studied abroad, and after our email exchanges said, "I really wanted to meet you!" The Honmaru Palace at Nagoya Castle was very well received, and we compared it while talking about castles in Europe. The guest had no interest in shopping but was very interested in Japanese history, and listened with fascination to explanations such as the difference between samurai and the emperor. Since the guest was interested in the Japanese tea ceremony, we visited a tea room, drank matcha, and I taught the etiquette. The guest recorded a video to keep. Afterward, at Atsuta Shrine, I talked about the Three Sacred Treasures. Since the guest had visited Meiji Shrine, the understanding came quickly. The guest made many jokes, and it was very enjoyable for me as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherNakajima～Nakajima870JPY
    Total870JPY

    Tour Report by Sammy

    Hey there, I’m Masami Maeda, and I’m all about guiding you through some incredible adventures! Teaching English at high school was cool and all, but I craved something more exciting. That’s when I discovered my love for guiding.
    Traveling is my jam. I’ve spent years soaking up the vibes in the US and the UK. In fact, I even did a stint at Warwick University, where I got totally hooked on Drama and Theatre Education. It was like stepping into a whole new world!
    When I’m not busy showing folks around, you’ll find me doing all sorts of things. Ballet classes? Yep, I’m there. And I’m a huge fan of Japanese rakugo – both watching and performing. It’s a blast!
    My style of guiding? Think of it as a mix of storytelling and cultural immersion. I want you to feel like you’re really part of the places we visit, not just an onlooker. Let’s dive deep into the heart of each destination and uncover the hidden gems together.
    So, if you’re up for an adventure filled with laughter, learning, and maybe a few surprises along the way, then I’m your guide! Let’s make some unforgettable memories together!

    Request Booking

    Oct 2, 2025
    Phong_N
    Great time in Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We were lucky to have Sammy…

    Nov 25, 2024
    155arlenen
    Excellent Tour – Very Professional
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was an excellent guide,…

    Nov 12, 2024
    CHERYL_D
    Fun day trip around Nagoya City
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was very knowledgable…

    Apr 3, 2024
    dianefik
    A great tour guide in Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was our tour…