Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:40 Meet @ Double Tree By Hilton Kyoto Station
    • 2. 10:15 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 3.11:45 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 4.11:55 @ Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 5.12:40 Lunch @ "Yamazaki"
    • 6: 13:45 @ Nijo Castle
    • 7.14 : 55 @ Gion Shirakawa → Hanamikoji
    • 8 .15:30 Disband @ Double Tree By Hilton Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had known each other since early childhood, having been friends for many years. The itinerary started from the hotel, and we arranged the details by exchanging messages through a messaging app. It was only through a message on the morning of the tour that I first learned they would be coming from Tokyo that day. I immediately shared this information with the driver as well. I arrived at the hotel 30 minutes before the meeting time, but to my surprise, the guests had arrived at the hotel even earlier. I had wondered whether it might have been better to meet at the station, but there was no need to worry. The guests planned to stay at this hotel tonight and travel to Osaka the next day. Since they were able to leave their luggage at the hotel, meeting at the hotel turned out to be the best choice. Because the guests gathered early, we started the tour ahead of schedule. For lunch, the guests wanted to have sushi, which was difficult to arrange around the Arashiyama area, so the driver kindly guided us to a good place located on the way to Takao. As a result, the guests were very satisfied with both the sightseeing and the meal.

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Meet at Courtyard by Hotel (5 min from Ginza Station on Ginza Line) Kabukiza Theater Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 1100 Imperial Palace Outer Garden Tokyo Station Marunouchi Gyoko-dori Avenue Tatsumi Yagura Turret Otemon Gate
    • 1215 Asakusa Kannon-dori Street Lunch at "Towada" Nakamise Sensoji Temple Asakusa Shrine
    • 1515 Meiji Shrine Explanation of historical background at the First Torii Gate Takeshita Street
    • 1600 Shibuya Hachiko Statue Scramble Crossing
    • 1615 Guide to the Ginza Line boarding area and disband

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors on a Layover? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan for the first time the day before. They were stopping over to adjust to the time difference on their way to a vacation in Asia, and were scheduled to continue on a midday flight the next day, connecting through another Asian city. The guests mentioned they had a large family back home, so their shopping list was quite extensive. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, one of the guests preferred meat and was not drawn to the seafood, while another thoroughly enjoyed a large raw oyster. The whole group savored the white strawberries together. One of the guests was also looking for the Japanese whisky "Hibiki," so while in Asakusa I searched and found a shop called "Sakaemon" just off the Nakamise shopping street. The price range went from vintage bottles worth hundreds of thousands of yen to more affordable ones around 20,000 yen. In the end, the guests purchased two bottles for 50,000 yen. Since they only had this one day, I extended the shopping time on the Nakamise street by 30 minutes. Similarly, to secure shopping time on Takeshita Street, we gave up on visiting the main hall of Meiji Shrine and concluded with an explanation at the first torii gate. When we said goodbye in Shibuya, the guests mentioned they would go shopping in Ginza afterward.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji~Hibiya~Nijubashimae178JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi~Nihonbashi~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Omotesando~Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya146JPY
    Total754JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Oshiage Station & Starbucks Roastery

    Tokyo in One Day: Oshiage Station & Starbucks Roastery

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at the hotel, board the train
    • 9:30 Oshiage Station
    • 10:00 Skytree, Solamachi
    • 11:30 Board the train
    • 12:00 Tsukiji, lunch
    • 14:00 Board the train
    • 14:30 Meguro Station
    • 14:45 Starbucks Roastery
    • 15:20 Board the train
    • 16:00 Arrive at the hotel

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Skytree, Tsukiji, and Starbucks Reserve Roastery The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since one of the guests had experience working at a travel agency, we had planned the itinerary together in advance, but when I met the guests in person on the day, their preferences turned out to be a little different, so I made some last-minute changes to part of the plan. First, we went up to the Tembo Galleria of Tokyo Skytree using tickets they had purchased in advance. They enjoyed the height. They interacted with students on a school trip, taking photos together and quizzing them about where they were from. Next, I had planned for us to go to Tsukiji and eat sushi, but they said, "Is sushi raw fish? We can't eat that," so we went to a tempura rice bowl restaurant instead. It turned out they could enjoy it since it was cooked, and they said the sauce was exquisite. After that, we went to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, which they enjoyed, saying it was like a theme park of coffee. Since they were going on a cruise trip starting Sunday, and it was raining, I also helped them reserve a taxi in advance. They were extremely satisfied, and they even asked me whether there was a site where they could leave a review of this tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIshikawacho~Shimbashi571JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Oshiage220JPY
    Section 3SubwayNingyocho~Tsukiji97JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Naka-Meguro209JPY
    Section 5TrainNaka-Meguro~Motomachi-Chukagai Station533JPY
    Total1,630JPY

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

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

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

    Please feel free to ask me anything!

    Sep 26, 2026
    Carl_W
    Tokyo city tour custom
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sam was very knowledgeable and…

    Sep 7, 2026
    782alessandrof
    Sam was amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    It was a very rainy day…

    Aug 24, 2026
    596vincentz
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Sam was an star tour guide for us
    our Guide Sam was…

    Aug 10, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Tokyo
    We are so happy that…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:55 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 10:05 Fushimi Inari
    • 11:45 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:25 Short break (bakery shop)
    • 13:15 Kinkaku-ji
    • 15:00 Sanjusangendo
    • 16:20 Guide to Gion, tour ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and Sanjusangendo The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Before their trip, one of the guests had studied Japanese at university about ten years earlier and could still read hiragana, though kanji remained difficult. That experience proved useful during today's tour. At Sanjusangendo, where the explanations of the Buddhist statues are provided in both Japanese and English, we went around viewing each one while talking together. It was also a good opportunity for me to refresh my own knowledge. After the visit, the guests agreed that Sanjusangendo was the most impressive and worthwhile part of the day. The tour began at 10:00, and Fushimi Inari was extremely crowded and difficult to walk through. It might have been a good idea to suggest starting an hour earlier. The photo was taken at Fushimi Inari, where the guests were writing on a fox-shaped ema plaque.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Enmachi180JPY
    Section 4Free PassEnmachi~Kinkakuji-michi1,100JPY
    Section 5Free PassKinkakuji-michi~Nishioji-Oike0JPY
    Section 6Free PassNishioji-Oike~Higashiyama0JPY
    Section 7Free PassHigashiyama-Sanjo~Sanjusangendo-mae0JPY
    Section 8Free PassSanjusangendo-mae~Gion0JPY
    Total1,670JPY

    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.

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel at 9:00, Meiji Shrine 9:40-10:40. Tsukiji 11:10-13:00 (Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market, sushi lunch), 13:20-14:10 Yanaka Ginza / Yanaka Cemetery, 14:30-15:00 Sensoji Temple

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa When I met the guests at the hotel, they mentioned they wanted to visit the Skytree after the tour, so I quickly changed our route and headed to Meiji Shrine. The group was visiting from Europe and said they travel every year. They had come to Tokyo on their way back from North America, and remarked that the sushi at Tsukiji was one-quarter of the price they had paid abroad, while the taste was several times better. At Tsukiji, they purchased low-salt pickled plums and authentic Shizuoka wasabi in a tube. In Asakusa, they enjoyed ningyo-yaki cakes. When one of the guests asked, "In Japan, don't Shinto and Buddhism compete with each other?" I explained that although there have been changes over time, Japanese people tend to be accepting of many things, and in modern times they conveniently hold weddings at shrines and funerals at temples. The guest responded, "That is a good thing. In other countries, conflicts arise between religions."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayDaimon~Meiji-jingumae286JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori Station~Ueno146JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno~Asakusa178JPY
    Total820JPY

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since 2024.
    I grew up in Osaka and studied in Kyoto,
    I have been working for the lvestock division of the national organization of agricultural cooperatives.
    Japan depends on imports for most of its livestock feed ingredients.
    I visited 10 countries on business and stayed in New Orleans working for a subsidiary company for 3 years.
    I visited 10 other countries with my wife for sightseeing.
    I also started writing Haiku, Japanese traditional poem, after retiring.
    One of my favorite is ” Bundled up, you are like a Matryoshka.”
    Looking forward to see you!

    Sep 24, 2026
    benoitlJ9021HN
    Perfect guide tour in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was very nice…

    Sep 19, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Great tour with Lance from Japan Guide Agency!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Lance our tour…

    Sep 10, 2026
    Silver_F
    amazing 8-hour walking tour with Lance!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was our…

    Jul 4, 2026
    317roxaneh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great time in Tokyo!
    We had a great day with Lance! He…

  • Gifu: Tsumago-juku

    Gifu: Tsumago-juku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:56 Meet up @ Nakatsugawa Station
    • 10:45 Board bus (Nakatsugawa Station → Magome)
    • 11:10 Arrive at Magome & start trekking
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Ichikokutochi Tateba Chaya
    • 14:30 Arrive at Tsumago-juku
    • 15:30 Board bus (Tsumago-juku → Nagiso Station)
    • 16:00 Disband @ Nagiso Station

    What Is a Private Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Magome to Tsumago Route The guests were visitors from Europe. They were very interested in Japanese history and culture, so I focused my explanations on samurai, which they greatly enjoyed. For lunch, I had reserved takeout in advance at a restaurant. Since it was especially crowded that day, reserving ahead turned out to be the right choice. At the Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse, the guests enjoyed Japanese tea and the atmosphere of the tatami room, and took many photos. After arriving at Tsumago-juku, they enjoyed some local ice cream, then traveled to Nagiso Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNakatsugawa~Magome800JPY
    Section 2BusTsumago-juku~Nagiso300JPY
    Section 3TrainNagiso~Nakatsugawa660JPY
    Total1,760JPY

    Welcome to Japan! My name is Ryota Tsuchiya, and I am honored to be your guide during your journey in Japan.

    With a deep passion for Japanese culture, history, and craftsmanship, I specialize in creating immersive travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing. My tours are designed to introduce you to the true essence of Japan—through hands-on experiences, engaging storytelling, and personal connections with local artisans and experts.

    I have lived and studied abroad, gaining a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange. This background allows me to bridge the gap between Japan and international visitors, making history and traditions more accessible and enjoyable for you.

    Based in Nagoya, I offer exclusive tours across central Japan, including Aichi, Gifu, Mie, and Shiga. Whether you are interested in exploring historic castles, learning traditional calligraphy, visiting artisan workshops, or experiencing local festivals, I guide each tour to match your interests and curiosity.

    My goal is to ensure that your journey is not only memorable but also meaningful. I want you to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of its culture and a collection of unforgettable experiences.

    Let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together. I look forward to sharing the wonders of Japan with you!

    Jul 14, 2025
    wuschaefer
    A wonderful hike with stunning views
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Jul 11, 2025
    cindydZ5063DM
    Amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was very knowledgeable, gracious and friendly. My day…

    Jul 8, 2025
    Amanda_P
    Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    The tour was amazing!!! Yoshi contacted us right away…

    Jul 4, 2025
    844roryb
    Nakasendo day hike
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing walk along an ancient route…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kabukicho

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Kabukicho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:50 Tsukiji
    • 12:30 Fukagawa Fudodo
    • 14:00 Lunch at Shirakawa
    • 14:40 Kiyosumi Garden
    • 15:50 Kabukicho
    • 16:10 Disband at Hotel

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, Fukagawa Fudodo, and Kiyosumi Garden I guided a group visiting from Oceania, and they were very easygoing and friendly, which made them a pleasure to be with. At Meiji Shrine, our first stop, we were able to see a wedding procession, and since I learned that the guests preferred a calm, traditional atmosphere and were interested in large taiko drums, I changed the plan to add Fukagawa Fudodo after Tsukiji and ultimately skipped Asakusa. At Tsukiji, just as we arrived in front of the altar at Tsukiji Hongwanji, one of the guests turned pale, saying their phone had gone missing. Since they had at least had it when passing through the ticket gate with Mobile Suica, we went back to Tsukiji Station and asked the station staff (while I was thinking about when to contact [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/)), and then one of the guests said with a smile, "Found it — it was in my bag." I was truly relieved. If it had really been lost, sightseeing that day would have been out of the question, so I was very glad. After that, at Tsukiji Market, since the shops there cater to tourists, we simply walked around without eating anything in particular and headed to Fukagawa Fudodo. As usual, I had them purchase a goma prayer stick and take a commemorative photo, then we took seats in the center to watch the goma fire ritual and experience the blessing. The guests were moved by this traditional Japanese ceremony, and while they were startled by the first strike of the large taiko drum, they also often peered in to watch it being played. I was glad I changed the plan to bring them here. In the end, one of the guests told me, "Today's tour was full of the gardens and traditional atmosphere I love, and I really enjoyed it." Since one of the guests followed a gluten-free diet, I took them to my usual sushi restaurant in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, and since they said they preferred this kind of local place, they enjoyed the sushi with salt (without miso soup). After that, we went to Kiyosumi Garden, the main destination of the day, and throughout the walk they kept saying, "There's nothing like this scenery back home, it's wonderful." I tried to take a photo together here, but somehow the conversation turned to host clubs partway through, and we missed the chance. As a result, before returning to the hotel, I ended up taking them to see the host club signs in Kabukicho, and the guests were extremely curious and peppered me with questions about host clubs. Finally, when I asked which of the four places from the day they liked best, they said, "No, it was six places. The sushi restaurant and the host club sign, ha ha," and they were still talking excitedly, so I think the host clubs must have made quite an impression. Hotel staff took a photo for us, and we parted ways. It was less a pleasant day than a truly fascinating one, and the guests were very happy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji209JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji~Monzen-nakacho178JPY
    Section 4SubwayMonzen-nakacho~Kiyosumi-shirakawa178JPY
    Section 5SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa~Shinjuku-nishiguchi272JPY
    Total983JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka: Daimon & Kongobuji Temple

    Osaka: Daimon & Kongobuji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport Meet up
    • 9:15 Daimon
    • 9:30 Danjo Garan
    • 10:25 Okunoin
    • 12:50 Lunch Hanabishi
    • 13:55 Kongobuji Temple
    • 16:05 Hotel Disband

    What Is a Private Tour of Koyasan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided guests visiting from North America who had been to Japan before. The guests enjoyed the nature of Koyasan to the fullest and seemed to truly appreciate its spiritual atmosphere, taking photographs here and there along the way. Since the guests preferred vegetarian meals, the originally requested restaurant used fish-based broth and was not suitable, so I took them to another restaurant instead. They said everything was very delicious. On the drive back, I answered many questions about the rest of their trip. The weather was fine, and we returned to Osaka without any traffic congestion, which was a relief.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayFukaebashi~Tengachaya290JPY
    Section 2TrainTengachaya~Kansai Airport970JPY
    Total1,260JPY

    Hello. My name is Momoyo Kanagawa. I’ve been a certified interpreter guide for 7 years. I have experience guiding not only in the Kansai
    area such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, but also in the Tokyo area. I have a passion for sharing the rich history and culture of Japan.
    Japan is a beautiful country with diverse culture and nature. If you come to Japan, you might be able to experience things like:
    Sight: You can see the scenery of cherry blossom petals dancing in the wind, or the majestic figure of Mt. Fuji.
    Hearing: You can hear the sound of traditional instruments such as Japanese drums and shakuhachi, or the lively atmosphere of festivals and fireworks.
    Touch: You can relax in a hot spring, or try on Japanese costumes such as kimono and yukata.
    Taste: You can taste famous Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, ramen, or Japanese drinks such as matcha and sake.
    Smell: You can smell the fragrance of incense and flowers, or feel the unique air of temples and shrines.
    These are just some of the charms of Japan. There are still many things to discover in Japan. Please use your five senses and feel the wonder of Japan.
    I’m excited to be able to explore Japan together with you and make your visit memorable! I will escort you with the best hospitality.

    안녕하세요. 간사이에서 가이드를 하고 있는 카나가와 모모요라고 합니다.
    오사카·교토·나라·고베를 중심으로 역사와 문화, 미의식, 그리고 일본인의 정신성까지를 차분하고 깊이 있게 전하며 오래 기억에 남는 간사이 여행을 안내합니다.

    단순한 명소 방문이 아닌, 봄의 벚꽃, 여름의 신록, 가을의 단풍, 겨울의 고요함 등 일본 사계절 자연의 아름다움을 온전히 느낄 수 있는 여행을 중요하게 생각합니다.
    또한 일식을 비롯한 일본의 식문화와 지역의 제철 식재료, 신뢰할 수 있는 고급 레스토랑과 명점 소개를 통해 미각으로도 일본을 깊이 경험하는 시간을 제안합니다.

    커플 여행부터 가족 여행까지, 어르신부터 어린이까지 다양한 연령대와 상황에 맞춘 무리 없는 일정 구성이 가능합니다. 한일 양국의 문화적 공통점과 차이를 세심하게 고려하여, 편안하고 신뢰할 수 있는 가이딩을 제공하고자 합니다.

    최고의 호스피탈리티로 고객님의 여행 추억 속에 오래 남을 소중한 한 페이지를 장식하는 동반자가 되겠습니다.

    Sep 13, 2025
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Guide through Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo in One Day: Guide through Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Rokku
    •    Guide through Sensoji Temple to Asakusa Station
    • 9:50 Take the subway from Asakusa to Tsukiji
    • 10:10 Guide through Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:10 Take a taxi to Tokyo Tower and guide through Tokyo Tower
    • 12:00 Take a taxi to the Imperial Palace
    •    After seeing Nijubashi Bridge, walk to Tokyo Station
    • 1:00 Lunch underground at Tokyo Station
    • 1:30 Take the Yamanote Line to Ueno
    •    Guide through Ueno Park, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Shinobazu Pond, etc.
    • 2:45 Explain how to return to Asakusa and disband

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Kyoto's Temples and Shrines? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were cheerful visitors from North America. In our email exchange beforehand, they had expressed a wish to see each location briefly and visit as many places as possible, so I narrowed down the route and, by using a taxi twice, we were able to cover five locations. The taxi dispatches and train transfers went smoothly, and we were able to follow the planned course as scheduled, so the guests seemed satisfied. They took a strong interest in the temples and shrines and took many photographs. For lunch, to save time, I chose a fast-food soba restaurant, and they seemed to enjoy that as well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Ueno178JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno~Tsukiji31JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Ueno167JPY
    Total376JPY

    Welcome to Japan! My name is Yumi and I’ll be your guide as we explore the beauty, history, and hidden gems of this incredible country. As a fully bilingual guide, I’m here to make your journey smooth and immersive, bridging cultures through language and storytelling.

    I have a deep passion for Japanese history, traditional arts, and culture—including ikebana (flower arranging) and calligraphy—so I love sharing the rich heritage that makes Japan so unique. Whether it’s famous landmarks or off-the-beaten-path treasures, I’ll take you to the most fascinating places, giving you an authentic and unforgettable experience.

    Let’s embark on this adventure together and discover the true essence of Japan!

    Jun 5, 2025
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  • Tokyo in Half a Day: for Asakusa & Tsukiji

    Tokyo in Half a Day: for Asakusa & Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    •   Walk to the Imperial Palace Outer Garden
    • 11:00 Depart for Asakusa
    • 12:30 Arrive at Asakusa
    • 13:10 Depart Asakusa
    • 13:40 Arrive at Tsukiji
    • 14:05 Say goodbye at Tsukiji

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Tsukiji The guests were visitors from North America. As planned, I met them at their hotel and we discussed the itinerary. It had already been decided during our prior communication that we would visit the Imperial Palace Outer Garden and Asakusa, but for the third stop they said they would prefer Tsukiji. Since many shops begin to close in the late afternoon, I suggested visiting in the order of the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, and then Asakusa, but they said that was fine and preferred to finish at Tsukiji so they could then explore nearby Ginza. They seemed interested in Japanese history and the Imperial family, and listened attentively to the explanations I gave at the Outer Garden. On the day of the tour, the East Gardens were closed, but since they wanted to visit on their own the following morning, we walked from Nijubashi Bridge toward Otemon Station so I could show them the location, and then headed to the subway. They were surprised by the crowds in Asakusa, but were captivated by viewing the Buddhist statues and the architecture at Sensoji Temple. At Tsukiji they did a little bit of eating while walking around, and although the time was short, they enjoyed it very much. Since they wanted to head straight to Ginza, we walked out to Harumi-dori, where I saw them off.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji209JPY
    Total387JPY

    Hello.
    Thank you for choosing Japan as your travel destination.

    I am Michi.
    It has been over 40 years since I was born and raised in Tokyo.
    And I live with my husband and two children.

    I love history,Japanese gardens,cooking,traveling,and more recently,camping.

    I have been working as a National Licensed Guide since 2016.
    Because of my husband’s job,I lived in Western part of Japan from 2012 to 2017 and spent nearly two years working as a guide in Kyoto.

    Afterward,I moved back to Tokyo,my hometown,and continued my work.

    I am truly passionate about my work as a tour guide and am very proud of it.
    Also,I am flexible and happy to adjust to your needs.

    I am looking forward to sharing lots of wonderful discoveries with you.

    Michi

    Sep 21, 2025
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    Michi-san is the best!
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    Highly recommend this private tour and Michi as your guide!
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    We had the absolute…
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