Category: Uncategorized

  • Nagasaki: Mount Nabekanmuri & Sushi Saigetsu

    Nagasaki: Mount Nabekanmuri & Sushi Saigetsu

    Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Depart from Matsugae Cruise Terminal
    • 9:50 Arrive at Mount Nabekanmuri
    • 10:10 Depart from Mount Nabekanmuri
    • 10:30 Arrive at Glover Garden
    • 11:20 Depart from Glover Garden, via Oura Cathedral
    • 11:45 Arrive at Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 12:45 Depart from Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 12:50 Arrive at Peace Park
    • 13:00 Depart from Peace Park
    • 13:15 Arrive at Sushi Saigetsu (lunch)
    • 14:00 Depart from Sushi Saigetsu
    • 14:10 Arrive at Dejima, end of minibus ride
    • 14:50 Depart from Dejima, walk to Chinatown
    • 15:00 Arrive at Chinatown, end of tour

    What Does a Private One-Day Nagasaki Cruise Port Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Because the guests came out of the cruise terminal later than scheduled, the tour began at 9:30. First, I took the guests to the observation deck of Mount Nabekanmuri, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city of Nagasaki, and explained an overview of the city. Next, I guided the guests to Glover Garden, where they learned about the contributions of Mr. Glover to the modernization of Meiji-era Japan. After Glover Garden, I explained the episode of the "Discovery of the Hidden Christians" in front of Oura Cathedral, and then we headed by car to the Atomic Bomb Museum. After visiting the Atomic Bomb Museum, we drove to Peace Park. After Peace Park, in accordance with the guests' wish to have Japanese food, we had lunch at a sushi restaurant where I had made a reservation, and then drove to Dejima. Upon arriving at Dejima, the car (a small bus) service ended. At Dejima, the guests visited three sites — the miniature Dejima, the archaeological museum, and the Captain's Room — and afterward I guided them on about a 10-minute walk to Chinatown, where the tour ended in front of the Chinatown gate. Starting with an observation deck offering a sweeping view of the city, followed by Glover Garden, the atomic bomb related sites, a delicious Japanese lunch, and Dejima, I believe the guests were satisfied with the tour.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello, my name is Junichi Matsumoto.
    I will be your guide on this occasion. With warm hospitality, I will do my best to help you fully enjoy and appreciate the charm of Japan.

    Before becoming a guide, I worked for the Kumamoto Prefectural Government and retired in March 2023. From 2003 to 2005, I was stationed in Montana, USA, which has a sister-state relationship with Kumamoto. During that time, I actively interacted with the local community together with my family, which gave me valuable cross-cultural experiences.

    I am an easygoing person who quickly builds a friendly relationship with international guests. With a sincere smile and attentive care, I always strive to provide tours that are warm, enjoyable, and memorable. It would be my great pleasure to help you make unforgettable memories during your stay in Japan.

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    Sep 19, 2026
    F5041JSmathiasl
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Despite the awful weather I had a…

    Sep 12, 2026
    adrianhP6285OW
    True tour of Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent customised tour which made…

    Jul 24, 2026
    mariopV3953VG
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour by an amazing guide
    Junichi, our guide,…

    Jun 16, 2026
    andreabL155TS
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagaski day tour
    Junichi was a great tour guide. He met us…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shimbashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shimbashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Guide (Kogure) arrives at the hotel lobby
    • 10:00 Meet the guests at the hotel lobby
    • 10:10 After a briefing with the guests, depart the hotel
    • 10:18 Arrive at Shimbashi Station
    • 10:23 Depart Shimbashi Station on the Ginza Line subway heading to Asakusa Station
    • 10:42 Arrive at Asakusa Station, walk to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 10:45–10:55 Guide the 8F observation deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 10:55–11:45 Guide Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street
    • *Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Street, Hozomon Gate, Five-story Pagoda, omikuji fortune, incense burner, purification fountain, main hall, Asakusa Shrine, etc.
    • 11:50–12:20 Lunch in Asakusa (soba, tempura)
    • 12:27 Depart Asakusa Station, head to Shibuya Station on the Ginza Line subway
    • 13:01 Arrive at Shibuya Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line
    • 13:09 Depart Shibuya Station, head to Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line
    • 13:11 Arrive at Harajuku Station, walk to Meiji Shrine
    • 13:15 Arrive at Meiji Shrine
    • 13:15–13:50 Guide Meiji Shrine
    • *First Torii Gate, sake barrels, Second Torii Gate, waka poems, purification fountain, main hall, married couple trees, ema votive tablets, etc.
    • 14:00–14:20 Guide Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 14:20–14:55 Guide Omotesando
    • 15:00 Depart Harajuku Station, head to Shibuya Station on the JR Yamanote Line
    • 15:02 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • 15:05–15:40 Guide Hachiko, the Scramble Crossing, and Miyashita Park
    • 15:45 Depart Shibuya Station, head to Shimbashi Station on the Ginza Line subway
    • 15:58 Arrive at Shimbashi Station, walk to the hotel
    • 16:05 Arrive at the hotel lobby, say goodbye to the guests and end the tour

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for a First-Time Visitor? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from South America, having arrived the previous day, and thoroughly enjoyed today's tour. The guest had recently started a travel company and was on this trip as a scouting visit. Due to a mechanical problem, the planned connecting flight had been cancelled, so it took about 28 hours to reach Haneda Airport from South America. Everything in Japan — the sights, the food, the transportation — was new and fresh to the guest, who took many photos and videos at each location. The guest also browsed for and bought souvenirs for family along Nakamise Street and Takeshita Street in Harajuku. The guest learned about the differences between temples and shrines, how to worship at each, and how to pass through a torii gate. At Senso-ji Temple, the guest drew an omikuji fortune (unfortunately a bad-luck one), enjoying a new experience. The guest planned to stay four nights in Tokyo and then head to Hakone, Kyoto, and Osaka, so I suggested sightseeing spots in Tokyo and how to get to them for the remaining three days. The soba noodles eaten at lunch in Asakusa were a first-time experience, and the guest enjoyed them very much. Being a great coffee lover, the guest happily savored coffee at a café inside the Tokyu Plaza in Omotesando. Although the guest was from South America, they spoke fluent English, and we had a lively conversation about the cultural differences between their home region and Japan, as well as about geography, food, and sports.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya～Shimbashi180JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Nobby

    Hello and how do you do?
    My name is Nobuo Kokure, and please call me Nobby for short, if you want.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born in Hayama, a beach resort area, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. And I’m now living in Saginuma, Kawasaki city.
    When I was a university student, I had the opportunities of doing a home stay with a family In U.S.A., Australia, and England, as a youth exchange student.
    After graduation from the university, I started working at American Life Insurance Company, Japan (Alico, Japan), which is a group member company of AIG, now MetLife Insurance Company. I could have a chance to visit the head office and the field offices of U.S.A., Wilmington in Delaware, New York, Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale in Florida, Los Angeles, while I was working for Alico, Japan (Now, MetLife Insurance company).
    I had been working for MetLife Insurance Company for about 38 years, in total.
    After retiring from the life insurance company, I started working as a tour guide, because I wanted to become a tour guide to introduce culture, history, and manners and customs of Japan in English. It’s so different between my previous job and the guide business, but I like guide business a lot.
    I can meet so many people from all over the world and the guide business has been thriving after the pandemic.
    I have implemented the tour over 240 times, introduced Japan to more than 4900 tourists from 54 countries.

    Not only Tokyo, but I have experienced touring around Nikko, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji & Hakone area, Takayama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima, etc. which are all very famous as a tourist spot in Japan.
    If you go on a tour in Tokyo, you must see and visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple which is the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo with histories and Nakamise Shopping Street where you can buy the souvenirs and try to taste Japanese sweets, such as doll cake which is the sponge cake in various shapes filled with red bean paste and Japanese powdered tea ice cream. Another my recommendation in Tokyo to visit is Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya. Meiji Shrine is one of the biggest shrines in Japan with quiet and peaceful atmosphere and magnificent site.
    Harajuku and Shibuya are both fun to visit for shopping and experience the Shibuya Crossing.
    I usually propose my tentative itinerary and ask if my plan is all right with the customer or not. My hobby is traveling around Japan and foreign countries and going to the gym for exercise.
    I would like to work as a guide as long as possible if I’m in good health and my legs are strong, because I love this job.
    I put my importance on the mind of OMOTENASHI which means sincere hospitality, though safety during the tour takes precedence, number one priority, before anything else.

    I’m very looking forward to seeing you and touring with you in Japan soon.
    Thank you!

    Best regards,

    Nobuo Kokure (Nobby)

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    jeffbM3390PI
    Nuobo was awesome as our Tokyo tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Jeff…

    Sep 25, 2026
    skipcooney
    Customized private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Nobby was very flexible…

    Sep 22, 2026
    duncans746
    Great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Nobuo was fantastic, very knowledgeable and shaped…

    Sep 13, 2026
    Culture25230012656
    Very knowledgeable
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    I enjoy every step of the tour.…

  • Tokyo: Shinjuku Godzilla & Omotesando Harakado Omokado

    Tokyo: Shinjuku Godzilla & Omotesando Harakado Omokado

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at hotel
    • 9:20 Shinjuku Godzilla
    • 10:00 Harajuku KAWAII MONSTER LAND
    • 11:30 ANAKUMA CAFE
    • 12:20 Omotesando Harakado Omokado
    • 13:00 Disband @ near the hotel

    What Can You See on a Private 8-Hour Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was one person visiting from Europe, and it was a very unique tour. After visiting Shanghai, they stayed only in Tokyo in Japan. It was scheduled as an 8-hour tour, but since they decided to attend a K-Pop concert this afternoon, we shortened the tour time and visited the places they wanted to see. First, we took a taxi to Shinjuku to photograph Godzilla, and they took photos and videos from ground level and from the 8th floor. After that, we went to KAWAII MONSTER LAND on Takeshita Street, where they watched a show, took photos with the monsters, and played games, immersing themselves in the kawaii world. Next, at the equally unique ANAKUMA CAFE, they had coffee while talking with a bear's paw. Then we walked to Omotesando to photograph Harakado, which appears in a video by their favorite artist. When we arrived, however, the building they were looking for turned out to be Omokado rather than Harakado. A Yosakoi festival happened to be taking place in Omotesando, so they were able to watch the dancing from the roadside, which delighted them. Finally, we returned to the Hotel by subway, confirmed the meeting for the next day, and ended the tour. The guest had a clear idea of what they wanted to do, so my role was to support that. The guest was very talkative and mentioned that they always hire a local guide when traveling.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya180JPY
    Total180JPY

    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Assist guests at Tobu Nikko

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Assist guests at Tobu Nikko

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 　　　 Meet the guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • Move to Shinkyo Bridge by taxi
    • 11:15~11:20　Sightseeing at Shinkyo Bridge
    • 11:30~12:30 Lunch
    • 12:30~14:30 Sightseeing at Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:30~15:10　Sightseeing at Rinnoji Temple
    • Move to Tobu Nikko Station by taxi
    • 15:30~16:00　Assist guests at Tobu Nikko Station　　　　
    • 16:00　　　　 Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Half-Day Nikko World Heritage Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests wished to enjoy Nikko's World Heritage sites within a short window from 11:00 to 16:00. There was also a request to have yuba (tofu skin) cuisine for lunch. Since their return train was booked for 15:53, I arranged the following three measures: 1. Purchasing the Toshogu admission tickets in advance 2. Using a taxi 3. Making a restaurant reservation When I proposed this plan and itinerary, the guests were very pleased and gave their approval in a single email exchange. On the day, following the itinerary we had discussed in advance, the guests enjoyed Nikko with a route covering Shinkyo Bridge, a yuba set meal at a lovely restaurant, Toshogu Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple. The guests were interested in the history and culture of Nikko, and expressed a particular wish to learn about Tokugawa Ieyasu. They also hoped that explanations would be given carefully so that everyone in the group could follow along. For this reason, I made a conscious effort to explain slowly and in an accessible way for the whole group. Regarding Tokugawa Ieyasu, I thought the connection between Toshogu Shrine and the well-received drama about the shogun from the previous year might spark their interest, so I began the story from there and proceeded in order. At the treasure hall of Rinnoji Temple, portraits of all fifteen generations of the Tokugawa shoguns are displayed, and there I gave a brief explanation of Japanese swords. Everything seemed to capture their interest, and I believe the guests were very delighted. I think this Nikko tour became an unforgettable memory for the guests.

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

    Tour Report by Taka

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Move to Kanazawa Station by the hotel shuttle bus
    • Move　Bus　Hashibacho
    • AM 10:45- 11:30 Higashi Chaya District, Utasu Shrine tour
    • Move　Bus　Kenrokuen-shita
    • AM 11:50- PM 12:30 Kenrokuen Garden tour
    • PM 12:30- 13:30 Kanazawa Castle Park tour
    • Move　On foot　Nagamachi Samurai District　
    • PM 13 :50-14:00 Nagamachi Samurai District area, Takada Family Residence and Ashigaru Museum tour
    • PM 14:00 Tour ends

    What's a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were on their first trip to Japan, visiting from Europe. Rain had been forecast from the morning, but fortunately it held off, and the guests stayed dry as we carried out the tour along the planned route as scheduled. In this 4-hour private tour of Kanazawa, the itinerary typically fills up right around whether or not we can visit a few of the samurai residences in the Nagamachi samurai district before time runs out. Toward the end of the tour, I explained how to take the bus back to Kanazawa Station, suggested places for lunch, and introduced the Oktoberfest event currently being held in Kanazawa before the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Hashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:40 Stroll and brunch at Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:00 View from Tokyo Skytree and shopping at Solamachi
    • 15:30 Visit Senso-ji Temple and shopping
    • 16:30 Stroll from the Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge to Sakuradamon Gate
    • 16:50 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 18:00 Disband at the hotel

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip in Tokyo Covering Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They were a bright, lively group, and lots of loud, cheerful conversation began the moment they got in the car, making for a very spirited tour. Beforehand I had heard that different members of the group had different food preferences — some enjoyed seafood, some preferred meat, and some kept a vegetarian diet — so at the Tsukiji Outer Market I made sure each of them could enjoy something they liked: seafood, wagyu BBQ, and rice cakes (grilled rice cakes on skewers, strawberry daifuku, and so on). One of the guests had said they did not like the smell of fish, but after one bite of bluefin tuna sushi at Kurogin, they were amazed and said "unbelievable," adding, "I love Japanese sushi, but I'll still pass on the sushi back home." It happened to be the day of the annual samba carnival in Asakusa, so it was a rather noisy environment. After praying, the guests bought charms for family members back home and said, "I love this solemn atmosphere." After the visit, I took them to "Shanari Shirt," a shop on the second floor above a T-shirt store on Kannon-dori. This shop upcycles old kimono into cool shirts, and all of them happily bought shirts in designs they liked. At the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine, the light rain had stopped, and the guests enjoyed strolling in the pleasant, cool, fresh air after the rain.

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

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00　Meet with guests at the hotel lobby
    • 09:40　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:50　Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:30　Stroll around Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
    • 12:30　Tour ends at Nene-no-Michi

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. Perhaps because it was a hot day, there were relatively few tourists, so the guests were able to try the Omokaru-ishi stone without any wait. At the Negari-no-Matsu pine, the guests enjoyed passing under the exposed roots together. At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, I took photos of the group with the Kiyomizu stage in the background, which made for a wonderful memory. Afterwards, we stopped by a ceramics shop along Kiyomizu-zaka, where one of the guests took a great liking to a plate with a green glaze and purchased several pieces. At the bubble tea shop on Ninen-zaka, the guests enjoyed matcha tapioca tea, which they said they were fond of, and we ended the tour on Nene-no-Michi. The guests said they had been traveling around Japan for a while, and mentioned that what left the strongest impression on them was above all the kindness of the Japanese people.

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

    Tour Report by Umi

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet up at Toyosu Market
    • 05:10-05:30 Explanation of related information in advance, such as tuna catching methods, how auctions proceed, collection methods, and the roles of primary wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:40 Tour of Toyosu Market's retail floor and produce market
    • 07:40-07:55 Move to Tsukiji
    • 8:00 Guide to the front of Lawson in the Tsukiji inner market (the meeting place for the next tour) and disband
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    # What's an Early-Morning Toyosu Tuna Auction Private Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Tokyo the previous evening. They arrived at the meeting point in good spirits, saying this early-morning tour was perfect for adjusting to the jet lag. One of the guests had a strong interest in the tuna auction, and the other had booked the tour for that reason. However, once the auction actually began, the one who had booked it seemed even more excited than expected, and both of the guests appeared to be enjoying themselves. Unfortunately, only a few fresh tuna were visible from the public observation deck, but we secured a spot right next to the frozen tuna auctioneer, so the guests were able to watch the auction closely. During the auction, a frozen tuna went for a high price of 7,000 yen per fish, which the guests found exciting to witness. After the viewing, the guests enjoyed breakfast at a sushi restaurant, where they ordered a "tuna assortment" and an "omakase" course and shared them, marveling at the differences in flavor between the various cuts of tuna and the deliciousness of sushi made with fresh fish that had just been brought in that morning. Due to a mix-up on their part, the guests had separately booked another Tsukiji tour starting at 9:00 after this one, so at Tsukiji I simply guided them to the meeting point for their next tour. I used the extra time to show them the retail buildings and produce sections of Toyosu. In the retail building, at a shop directly operated by a sake brewery, the guests tasted a craft gin made in Niseko that the brewery manages. As a big fan of gin, one of the guests purchased a hip-flask-sized craft gin, describing it as "a gin with a wonderful flavor." At a miso wholesaler selling "Iyo barley miso" from my hometown, I bought 200g and asked the shop for a toothpick so the guests could taste the fresh barley miso. It is a sweeter miso, and when I explained that it is also delicious served on top of tofu, the guests remarked, "So it's not just for miso soup," and we had a lively conversation about miso recipes. At Toyosu Market, there are commemorative stamps at the seafood wholesale, seafood intermediate wholesale, and produce buildings, and one of the guests was delighted to collect all the stamps. When I mentioned that stamp books can be bought at station kiosks and that each JR station has its own unique stamp, the guests happily said, "We'll definitely collect them."

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market／Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome／Toei Bus420JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

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

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
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    Our travel date for this tour…

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

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
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  • Tokyo: Tsukiji & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo: Tsukiji & Sensoji Temple

    Kappabashi Knife & Kitchen Town Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ７：５０　Meet at hotel
    • 　８：００　Travel (Oshiage → Tsukiji)
    • 　８：３０　Tsukiji (Honganji Temple → Stroll through the outer market → 3 knife shops (Sugimoto Hamono, Nenohi, Togen Masahisa) → Tsukiji Uogashi Building)
    • 　９：５０　Travel (Tsukiji → Tawaramachi, walk to Kappabashi)
    • １０：２０　Stroll through Kappabashi, visit 3 knife shops (Jikko Hamono, Seisuke Hamono, Kamata Hakensha), kitchenware, lacquerware, and Japanese tableware
    • 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Purchase a knife at Kamata Hakensha
    • １１：２０　Walk to Sensoji Temple
    • １１：３０　Stroll through Sensoji Temple
    • １２：１０　Tour ends in front of Asakusa Station

    Title: What's a Private Knife-Shopping Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji and Kappabashi The guest was a visitor from North America who had arrived in Japan a few days earlier. During the first couple of days, the guest had already visited Tokyo Disneyland and a Harry Potter studio. On the day of the tour, part of the group went shopping separately, while one of the guests joined the tour to purchase kitchen knives. The guest had a strong interest in craft-made products such as traditional Japanese knives. On the day, we visited six knife shops. In Tsukiji, we first looked at a wide variety of knives, listened to explanations from the staff, and narrowed down what the guest wanted to buy. In Kappabashi, we visited shops known as long-established stores. Unfortunately, due to insufficient research on my part, one of the shops turned out not to be a long-established store but rather a relatively recently founded dealer, and they were not very knowledgeable about the techniques, traditions, or culture. On the other hand, other shops with more than 100 years of history gave detailed and courteous explanations. At one of these shops, the guest was even allowed to try cutting, which I believe was a great experience. In the end, the guest purchased a knife at the shop that offered the most thorough explanation and the greatest depth of knowledge. One thing I regretted was that the guest had not brought their passport. Normally, a refund of about 7% of the purchase amount is available after deducting a handling fee from the 10% consumption tax, but because the passport was not on hand, the purchase had to be made with consumption tax included. The guest did not seem dissatisfied at all, but as a guide I reflected that I should have confirmed the passport situation at the hotel meeting. Aside from the knife shopping, the guest was very impressed by Tsukiji Hongan-ji and Senso-ji, and listened with great interest to explanations about Buddhism in particular.

    Click here for more details: Kappabashi Knife & Kitchen Town Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOshiage～Tsukiji320JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Tawaramachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total530JPY

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hi everyone! I’m Atsushi.
    Born in the historic fishing port of Shiogama in Miyagi Prefecture and raised in Tokyo and Kanagawa, I’ve spent my life immersed in Japanese culture.
    During my six years in the countryside as a university student, I fell in love with hiking and visiting temples.
    After graduating with a master’s degree in agricultural science, I spent 40 years in R&D at a food manufacturing company before transitioning from part-time guiding to becoming a full-time professional tour guide at the end of 2025.
    My true passion lies in Japan’s rich culinary and sake traditions.
    I specialize in FIT tours around Tokyo and Hakone, and I even lead sumo culture tours!
    I’m dedicated to making your journey truly unforgettable, and I look forward to helping you get the absolute most out of your stay in Japan.
    I can’t wait to meet you!

    Request Booking

    Aug 28, 2026
    trentw546
    Fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Kappabashi Knife & Kitchen Town Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was fantastic I would definitely book again

    Aug 8, 2026
    49christopht
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    Individual guided tour
    Atsushi was very responsive and thorough…

    Jul 27, 2026
    25stephn
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend this tour!
    Atsushi was an absolutely phenomenal…

    Jul 23, 2026
    melanierK3084ZH
    Tripadvisor review: Asakusa & Yanaka Local Street Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Senso-ji tour
    Atsushi was a wonderful guide! My…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Move to Kanazawa Station by hotel shuttle bus
    • Move　Bus　Hashiba-cho
    • AM 10:30- 11:30 Higashi Chaya District, Shima tour
    • Move　Bus　Kenrokuen-shita
    • AM 11:45- PM 12:30 Kenrokuen Garden tour
    • PM 12:30- 13:30 Kanazawa Castle Park tour
    • Move　Walk　Nagamachi Samurai District via Gyokusen-in Garden
    • PM 14 :00 Tour ends in front of the Nomura Family Residence

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were on their first trip to Japan, visiting from Europe. This day was rainy from the morning and umbrellas were a must, which made for the worst possible conditions for a walking tour. However, by making an effort to give explanations indoors or under the eaves of buildings as much as possible, both the guests and I managed to stay relatively dry and complete the planned course of the tour as scheduled. During the 4-hour tour, we eventually ran over time in the Nagamachi district, so I only had time to introduce the recommended spots there before finishing. I ended the tour after explaining how to take the bus back to Kanazawa Station, suggesting places for lunch, and telling them about the Oktoberfest currently being held in Kanazawa.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Hashiba-cho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusHashiba-cho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

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

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
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    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
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    YOSHI met us at our…

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