Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet guests at Grand Nikko Odaiba
    • 11:00 Azumabashi, Kaminarimon, Nakamise-dori, Sensoji Temple
    • 12:15 Lunch @ Soba restaurant Towada
    • 13:45 Shinjuku Kinokuniya, Hobby Store Suruga-ya
    • 14:30 See off by taxi in front of Shinjuku Annex

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for Guests Arriving Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who arrived in Tokyo the same day, and I had been informed in advance that mobility assistance would be needed, so I attended to them while carefully considering their physical condition and stamina. Since they were scheduled to board a cruise ship to another city the very next day, I strongly wished to make their short time as enjoyable as possible. Traveling with a wheelchair proved difficult, and although I had checked the routes from the stations in advance, moving around took more time than expected. However, at each station, including during transfers, I asked the station staff for assistance, and the guests were very moved by this kind of support. I had planned to take them to Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Kinokuniya in Shinjuku, but along the way we decided to go shopping for a game that had been requested, so we gave up on Meiji Shrine. In Asakusa, on Nakamise Street, they enjoyed mitarashi dango. They ate them right up and said they were delicious. At Sensoji Temple, the elevator happened to be out of service for inspection, so we were unable to go up to the main hall. At a soba restaurant, they had tendon and soba. They finished these as well. At the request of one of the guests, who is an avid book lover, we visited Kinokuniya in Shinjuku, which they had wanted to see. On the subway from Asakusa, since they wanted to buy a board game, I had checked online in advance and took them to a shop in the Shinjuku annex, but unfortunately the item they were looking for was not available, so they could not purchase it. It was truly regrettable, but I had done my very best, and perhaps that came across, as they expressed their gratitude. We ran about 30 minutes over the scheduled time, after which I saw them into a taxi and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherDaiba～Shimbashi325JPY
    Section 2Free PassShimbashi～Asakusa900JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa～Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total1,225JPY

    Tour Report by Haruka

    My name is Haruka Nakagawa, a Tokyo-based licensed guide specializing in private and tailor-made experiences.

    I spent part of my childhood in Sydney (ages 4–10) due to my father’s work, and later joined an exchange program in Brisbane during my first year of high school. These experiences built the foundation of my English communication skills and gave me a deep appreciation for cultural diversity from an early age.

    After graduating from university in Japan, I worked for 20 years in the airline industry, where I developed a refined sense of hospitality, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to customer care.

    Now, as a guide, I truly enjoy meeting guests from around the world and helping them fall in love with Japan. It is always a pleasure to see my guests connect with the culture, and I feel grateful to do what I love every day.

    I have experience working with a wide range of clients, including families with young children, luxury travelers, and guests with special needs. Over the past year, I have guided approximately 100 groups, always adapting each experience to suit their individual preferences and pace.

    On a personal note, I live in Tokyo with my husband and our 5-year-old son, which also gives me a natural understanding of family travel needs.

    I would be delighted to support you and create memorable, meaningful experiences during their stay in Japan.

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    May 28, 2026
    Kturne
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide for First Day in Tokyo. Wish we had booked more…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Sandra_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our Tour Guide Haruka
    Haruka was very helpful and kind. She showed…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Roberta_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The best guide in Tokyo
    Incredible first day in Tokyo with Haruka,…

    Oct 15, 2025
    Gayla_S
    You create your tour with…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    You create your tour with your private…

  • Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Port 8:30 – Satta Pass 9:00 – Hiroshige Museum Exchange Hall 10:00 – Mount Fuji World Heritage Center ~ Mount Fuji Sengen Shrine ~ Lunch 14:00 – Port 14:30

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour from Shizuoka to Mount Fuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who showed great kindness and thoughtfulness throughout the day. They even gave us a souvenir, and they kindly invited both the driver and me to lunch, making it a very enjoyable time. First, we went to Satta Pass. Although Mount Fuji could not be seen that day, they admired the narrow country roads and the view of Suruga Bay and the fishing boats below, calling it beautiful. Next, having heard that woodblock printing experiences were available even though the facility was under renovation, we visited the exchange hall attached to the Hiroshige Museum of Art. One of the guests boldly took on the woodblock printing experience, working patiently and carefully through each step, and produced a truly beautiful piece, saying they were glad to have come. We then arrived at the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre in Fujinomiya City, where I explained the reflecting pool and we took our time going through the center. One of the guests, who had difficulty walking, used a wheelchair and cane at times while enjoying the touch-panel explanations, the rooftop view, and the theater presentation. Afterward, at Sengen Shrine, they performed a purification ritual and touched the water of Wakutama Pond, experiencing the snowmelt water of Mount Fuji. On the way back to Shimizu Port, we stopped at a seafood restaurant, and upon returning to the port, I saw the guests off, reluctant to part ways.

    Click here for more details: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Acchan

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Start of the & Omote-sando street

    Hiroshima in One Day: Start of the & Omote-sando street

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:50 Meet at Intergate Hiroshima
    • 8:10 Start of the tour
    • 8:30 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 9:40 Peace Memorial Park, the Hypocenter
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Chinchikurin
    • 13:05 Miyajima
    • 13:45 Omote-sando street
    • 16:05 End the tour at Hatchobori

    A Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour: A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. Some of the guests had already arrived, but others came later, so the start of the tour ended up being delayed. On the positive side, we were able to enter as soon as the venue opened. Since one of the guests had ankle pain, we used the streetcar to move around so that walking would be kept to a minimum. As most of the group preferred vegetarian food, we chose okonomiyaki at a local restaurant. Recently they have finally started offering it with a vegan sauce. One of the guests who did not follow that preference went to eat soupless tantanmen instead. At Miyajima, we walked close to the torii gate, though the guests did not visit inside Itsukushima Shrine. Afterward, we took free time along the main approach street, and everyone was able to enjoy it in their own way. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHatchobori～Peace Memorial Park240JPY
    Section 2TrainAtomic Bomb Dome-mae～Hiroden Miyajimaguchi240JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroden Miyajimaguchi～Hatchobori240JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

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    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Nakaokachimachi & Meiji Shrine about 60 min

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Nakaokachimachi & Meiji Shrine about 60 min

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00〜10:05 Nakaokachimachi → Akihabara –
    • 10:05〜10:40 Strolling around Akihabara about 35 min
    • 10:40〜11:10 Moving from Akihabara → Harajuku about 30 min
    • 11:10〜12:00 Takeshita Street about 50 min
    • 12:00〜12:30 Café break about 30 min
    • 12:30〜13:30 Meiji Shrine about 60 min
    • 13:30〜14:00 Return to Harajuku Station or move to next about 30 min

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour Covering Akihabara, Takeshita Street, and Meiji Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had arrived in Japan for the first time the day before and seemed a little tired from jet lag. Since I had confirmed the day's plan in advance through a messaging app, we started moving by train from the hotel right away. As one of the guests enjoyed anime and figures, in Akihabara I guided them through the Radio Kaikan building, anime stores, and the underground shopping areas. They had a photo of a specific figure on their smartphone, and when they showed it to a shop clerk, it was immediately recognized. After buying some manga books, we moved on to Takeshita Street. Since there were many tourists and the guests were not very enthusiastic there, I guided them to a matcha café for a break, and after resting we went to Meiji Shrine. They were quite satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNakaokachimachi～Akihabara178JPY
    Section 2TrainAkihabara～Harajuku178JPY
    Total356JPY

    Tour Report by Mitch

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Atomic Bomb Dome & JR to Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima in One Day: Atomic Bomb Dome & JR to Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet at hotel
    • 10:15　By bus to Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 10:35　Arrive at Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 　　　　Monument tour, Museum
    • 13:11　After finishing the museum visit, by bus to Nishi-Hiroshima
    • 13:25　Arrive at Nishi-Hiroshima
    • 13:38　From Nishi-Hiroshima Station by JR to Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 14:00　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 14:05　Lunch at Chinchikurin
    • 15:00　Finish lunch
    • 15:25　By ferry to Miyajima
    • 15:35　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 　　　　Shrine, Omotesando
    • 17:40　After finishing Miyajima sightseeing, by ferry to Miyajimaguchi
    • 17:50　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi
    • 18:03　By JR to Hiroshima Station
    • 18:40　Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima for a group visiting Japan from Europe. Since low tide at Miyajima was expected around noon, the tour began with a visit to the Peace Memorial Park. After explaining the Children's Peace Monument, the guide handed out a personal business card made from recycled paper of the thousand origami cranes, which the guests found very interesting. The guests also listened attentively to the stories of the atomic bomb survivors. Over lunch, the conversation turned lively when talking about fish, as the guests came from a region surrounded by the sea. They were particularly surprised that tuna could be purchased so inexpensively in Japan. They mentioned that they also enjoy eating raw fish, and were amazed at how large Japanese oysters are. The guests were all smokers, so finding a smoking room proved a bit challenging. Having not guided smokers before, the guide was slightly unsure how to accommodate this, but managed to arrange things smoothly.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station～Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Section 2BusMuseum～Nishi-Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 3TrainNishi-Hiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station330JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total1,230JPY

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

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2025
    pedropM3071GD
    Amazing day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing experience to…

    Jul 25, 2025
    ourtravelingt
    Great personalized tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour was fabulous and our…

    Jul 13, 2025
    katherinepE2305IO
    Hiroshima Tour 4hr Walking
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an amazing guide. He…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Preston_H
    Great tour guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an incredible guide who…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Janu Tokyo (1-2-2 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:20 Shibuya <Intersection & Hachiko Statue>
    • 3) 11:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens　※From Kitahanebashimon Gate
    • 4) 12:30 Light meal @ Hitohashi (2-27-1 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo)
    • 5) 13:50 Ueno (walking section from Yushima Station to Naka-okachimachi Station)
    • 6) 14:10 Disband @ Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Naka-okachimachi Station ticket gate

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Nezu and Yanaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Their advance message had indicated no particular requests. The weather forecast the previous day had predicted rising temperatures and humidity, and at our meeting the guests mentioned that they had already visited the Mount Fuji area, Nikko, and Tsukiji, so I suggested the Nezu and Yanaka area, which they accepted. For convenience, they agreed to purchase a Tokyo Free Ticket (1,600 yen for adults), and we began the tour. After introducing the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue, we headed to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. On the train, the guests shared stories about their life and their approach to staying healthy, showing remarkable energy and vitality while still being actively engaged in work. They also shared their impressions of the various places they had visited in Japan and spoke of how moved they were by the kindness and hospitality of the people. On the way toward the Kitahanebashimon Gate of the Imperial Palace, we touched on the special exhibition "Hilma af Klint" at the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, and I could tell they had a deep appreciation for art. In the East Gardens, they showed great interest in the early-summer flowers and plants (such as Japanese dogwood, deutzia, floating heart, iris, and satsuki azalea), which reminded me of the diversity of Japan's nature. As forecast, the temperature and humidity rose, so once we arrived in Nezu we took a break. Since they wished to have Japanese food, I guided them to a Japanese restaurant. The guests ordered a mixed fry set meal (1,000 yen) and were surprised by its deliciousness, the quick service, and the low price. They had already reserved an organic restaurant in Meguro for that evening and, since they were heading to Kyoto the next day, they wanted to return to the hotel to finish packing beforehand. After sending them directions back to the hotel by email and confirming them, we left the restaurant, and I guided them to Naka-okachimachi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, where we parted with smiles at the ticket gate.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Ebisu Station600JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Ebisu Station～JR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station150JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Otemachi Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nezu Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Yushima Station0JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Gotokuji Temple & Kichijoji and Inokashira Park

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Gotokuji Temple & Kichijoji and Inokashira Park

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • （The prepared itinerary was changed on the day at the guest's request）
    • 11:00 Pick up at Sun Palace Taishido
    • 11:30 Gotokuji Temple
    • 12:30 Purchase gluten-free bread at Niigata Rice Flour Bread Workshop najirane
    • 13:30 Kichijoji and Inokashira Park
    • 15:00 Farewell at Shinjuku

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Tour Focused on Local Neighborhoods Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests from Europe at their private accommodation and started the tour. The accommodation in Sangenjaya was in a very local, down-to-earth neighborhood lined with everyday shops, and I felt it was a great location for staying at a private residence. The guests shared that hotels like major chains feel the same whether you are in Tokyo, New York, or Singapore, and that they wanted to experience the atmosphere unique to each destination. They had also booked private accommodation for their next stop in Kyoto. On the day itself, there was a last-minute request to change the itinerary we had shared, in favor of places where they could feel the everyday life of local people rather than the usual spots visited by international tourists. They especially enjoyed Kichijoji and Inokashira Park. (The guests were not particularly inclined to take photos, so the guest image provided is of one of the guests.) [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSangenjaya～Miyanosaka160JPY
    Section 2TrainYamashita～Shimotakaido160JPY
    Section 3TrainEifukucho～Kichijoji188JPY
    Section 4TrainKichijoji～Shinjuku230JPY
    Total738JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spare time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Sep 21, 2026
    judygU2038FZ
    A wonderful time in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had such a…

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00　Meet up @ Hotel 1899 Tokyo
    • 2. 10:20　@ Ginza (4-chome Intersection)
    • 3. 11:00　@ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 4. 11:45　@ Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Marunouchi Side Station Building)
    • 5.12:30　Lunch @ Tsukiji Market
    • 6. 13:30　@ Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 7. 15:00　@ Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 8. 15:30　@ Nezu Shrine
    • 9. 16:30　@ Shibuya
    • 10.16:50　Dismissal @ Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. One of the guests had grown up in North America and was fluent in several languages, and was enthusiastically studying Japanese, with plans to meet an online Japanese-language instructor (a Japanese resident) during this trip. They carried a well-used, self-made list of Japanese words and expressions, and throughout the day asked many questions about Japanese phrasing and wrote in additional notes. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Kyoto and Osaka, and also to enjoy walking along old routes such as the Nakasendo before visiting Kanazawa. They also mentioned that they would be sharing the Japan-related information gathered today, including tips on Tokyo transportation, with friends who would arrive in Japan and join them later. The guests took many photos everywhere we went, and at their request they also took a photo together with me as their guide. However, out of privacy concerns, they asked that any social media posts not show identifiable faces. I was therefore refraining from taking photos on my side, but the guests suggested taking a shot from behind, and posed for me in front of the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace. For lunch, we enjoyed nigiri sushi at counter seats at a sushi restaurant in the Tsukiji Market area we visited. The guests were clearly accustomed to eating sushi, but commented that it was the most delicious sushi they had ever had. At Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine, they experienced drawing omikuji fortunes (both drew "kyo," bad luck), the temizuya purification fountain, and worship. Afterward, having also visited Nezu Shrine, they commented that they preferred Nezu Shrine. Overall, it was a tour that conveyed the guests' deep enthusiasm for Japan.

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    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Mita Line　Onarimon Station～Tokyo Metro　Hibiya Line　Ginza Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro　Yurakucho Line　Ginza-itchome Station～Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro　Marunouchi Line　Tokyo Station～Hibiya Line　Tsukiji Market Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassToei Asakusa Line　Higashi-ginza Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro　Ginza Line　Asakusa Station～Kanda Station0JPY
    Section 6TrainJR Yamanote Line　Kanda Station～Nippori Station170JPY
    Section 7Free PassTokyo Metro　Chiyoda Line　Nezu Station～Ginza Line　Shibuya Station0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
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    Jul 3, 2026
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    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
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    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
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    Lovely experience. My…
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:55　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:10　Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 09:30　Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00　Imperial Palace
    • 11:50　Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Sushi (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:10　Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:30　Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:40　Disband @ Hotel

    What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, one of whom had visited Japan several times before, while the other was visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Nikko, Hakone, Hida-Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which contrasted greatly with Shibuya. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to the historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Sensoji Temple, they were fascinated by explanations about the differences between temples and shrines. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they seemed impressed by the beauty of the Japanese garden and the rose garden. Since I responded to the guests' wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae700JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Shinjuku-gyoenmae0JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku-gyoenmae～Shibuya0JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
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    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
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    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
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  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Narukawa Art Museum

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Narukawa Art Museum

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel (Rakuten Stay Fujimi Terrace Hakone Ashinoko)
    • 9:20 Hakone Shrine
    • 11:00 Owakudani
    • 12:40 Motohakone Port
    • 13:00~14:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Narukawa Art Museum
    • 15:00 Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and Hakone Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. Pickup was scheduled at the hotel entrance at 9:00 a.m., but everyone was already down by Lake Ashi behind the hotel, so they waved from the hotel entrance and we joined up right away. We walked to Hakone Shrine, and the guests seemed soothed by its history of more than a thousand years and by the rich natural surroundings. Next, we visited Owakudani via boat and ropeway. Even with strong winds that nearly blew off their hats, they enjoyed buying the famous black eggs. After that, we returned to Moto-Hakone, and following lunchtime we appreciated art at the Narukawa Art Museum before returning to the hotel. The weather was fine, and the guests seemed satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMotohakone Port～Motohakone Port4,000JPY
    Total4,000JPY

    Tour Report by SHO

    In February 2017, I registered with Kanagawa prefecture as a National Interpreter Guide in English. Since then, I have guided mainly in Tokyo and Kamakura and Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, except during the corona virus epidemic. In addition, in February 2022, I became a Hakone Adventure Travel Guide certified by the Hakone DMO. I am especially good at walking and hiking tours. Here are my recommendations for Tokyo and Hakone.

    Tokyo – Imperial Palace
    The Imperial Palace is formally known as the Edo castle, the stronghold of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This place has been the residence of emperor of Japan since after the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The palace with a compound of 1.15 million square metere consists of the main palace where ceremonies and functions are held, the resindence of the Emperor and Empress, and the East Garden containing the ruins of Tensyukaku Donjon. The Chowadn Hall, located in the main Imperial Palace, is noted for the New Year’s visit by the general public to the Imperial Palace.

    Tokyo – Asakusa
    Asakusa is a famous sightseeing spot in Tokyo, which is reminiscent of the Edo period. This district has been flourishing as a temple town of Senso-ji, the oldest and the largest temple in Tokyo, Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” the outer gate of the temple is very famous as a landmark of Asakusa for its huge red lantern. Both domestinc and foreign tourists flock to thie venerable temple and the shopping arcade called “Nakamise” in the compound, the best place to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs in Tokyo.

    Hakone – Owakudani Valley
    One of the most popular sightseeing spots in Hakone. There are exploded craters, which were formed by the last phreatic eruption of Hakone Volcano about 3,000 years ago, and activer sulfur and hot stream vents. White smoke envelops the desolate ground to this day, and you can feel the intensity of a active volcano. This place is also a popular viewing spot for Mt. Fuji.

    Hakone – Jinja Shrine
    Hakone Jinja Shrine is famous for its Shinto shrine archway of Peace, which was founded in its current location in 757 based on a revelation of the priest Mangan. Manga was famous priest who trained in strict ascetic practices and pacified the nen-headed dragon that lived at the bootm of Lake Ashi, and history is still handed down to people today.

    Hakone – Check Point
    Tokugawa shogun placed 53 sekisy (facility of inspection) on major roads across the nation to defend Edo (current Tokyo). Hakone Sekisho was one of the largest and was thought to be important among them. Hakone Sekisyo was placed on the current location in 1619, during an early period of Edo Era. One of the main roles of sekisho was to control “incoming guns and outgoing women”, which means to prevent wapons from being brought into Edo and wives and children of feudal lords from fleeing from Edo. However, Hakone Sekisho did not inspect “incoming guns” andseverely inspected “outgoing women”. Sekisho which operatef for about 260 years furing Edo Era, was dissoloved in the next years of 1868, when government changed.

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    May 21, 2025
    aileenhs1739
    Great day!
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    Apr 5, 2025
    aradhnaa
    Perfect day
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    Sho was absolutely wonderful. He arrived early at our…

    Nov 9, 2024
    jennifergW1707MI
    Great way to see all the beauty Hakone had to offer
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