Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　09:00　Meet at Hotel Celestine Gion Shijo
    • ②　09:05　Itinerary explanation and explanation about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　09:40　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ④　11:30　Nijo Castle
    • ⑤　13:00　Lunch on Sanjo Street
    • ⑥　13:45　Shopping on Teramachi Street and Nishiki Market
    • ⑦　15:00　Return to the hotel and disband

    Can You Do a Private Kyoto Day Tour Focused on Souvenir Shopping? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and it was their first time in both Japan and Kyoto. They had already been traveling in Japan for quite some time and clearly loved the country. After Fushimi Inari and Nijo Castle, they asked me to help them buy plenty of Japanese-style souvenirs, so we skipped the planned visit to Kinkaku-ji and instead wandered around Sanjo, Teramachi, Shinkyogoku, and Shijo Street, stopping here and there to look for interesting items. In the end, the places where they actually made purchases were Teramachi Street and Nishiki Market. Kyukyodo, near Honnoji Temple on Teramachi Street, was a big hit. In photos they may look rather ordinary, but in reality the guests were wonderfully talkative and chatted with great enthusiasm all day long.

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet at Hotel Monterey Hanzomon
    • 2. 11:30 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 3. 12:45 Lunch (Ain Soph Journey Shinjuku Branch)
    • 4. 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 5. 15:15 Harajuku (Takeshita Street)
    • 6. 16:00 Shibuya
    • 7. 17:00 Dismissal at Hotel Monterey Hanzomon

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, and Shibuya — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to spend about four days in Tokyo before continuing to Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, and other destinations, for a stay in Japan overall. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private walking tour of Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, and Shibuya (the crossing and the Hachiko statue). At Shinjuku Gyoen, late-blooming cherry blossoms could be seen in many spots, and the guests were delighted and enjoyed taking photos. At Meiji Shrine they bought a good-luck charm, and on Takeshita Street they purchased accessories and other items as gifts. They also looked with interest at a mini-pig cafe and other attractions. In Shibuya, they photographed the scramble crossing from the Starbucks beside it, and took a break with some drinks. Finally, we returned to the Hotel, where the tour ended. Since one of the guests had difficulty with stairs and used a cane, we used elevators and escalators throughout. As I had been informed in advance that a gluten-free option would be needed for lunch, I reserved a restaurant near Shinjuku Gyoen that offered a gluten-free menu. Fortunately, they said it was delicious and seemed very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHanzomon～Shinjuku-gyoemmae700JPY
    Section 2Free PassShinjuku-sanchome～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya～Hanzomon0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

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    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hamamatsucho Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Hamamatsucho Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Section L, Hamamatsucho
    • 10:10 Depart Hamamatsucho Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Ueno Park
    • 12:00 Depart Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 12:10 Arrive Nippori Station
    • Nippori Yanaka Ginza
    • 12:30 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:40 Arrive Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 13:10 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:20 Arrive Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya Lunch: Hibiya Chanter
    • Sushisei Hibiya Chanter Branch
    • 14:20 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:40 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Cafe Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 15:30 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:40 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Tokyu Food Show
    • 16:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:30 Arrive Hamamatsucho Station
    • 16:30 Disband: Hamamatsucho Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Oceania, both visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous day on a direct flight, then transferred via the Narita Express and other trains to Hamamatsucho Station and their hotel. This time they planned to stay in Japan for an extended period. After staying in Tokyo, they would take the Shinkansen to Hakodate, then drive a rental car around Hokkaido, before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They said, "We want to enjoy Japan's nature," and, "We hope to see cherry blossoms in Hokkaido." It was cloudy in the morning, but partway through it cleared up to become almost hot. The tour took place in pleasant weather. First, we went to Asakusa. As always, it was very crowded. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as, "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "About what percentage of people are Christian?" One of the guests drew an omikuji fortune and got a "bad luck" result, which was disappointing. We strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street, jostled by the crowds. Then we went to Ueno Park. The cherry blossoms had almost all fallen, which was disappointing. They said, "We're looking forward to seeing them in Hokkaido." We moved on to the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area. I explained about "the history of Yanaka Ginza." They said, "I really understood the original landscape of Tokyo," and, "It gives me a nostalgic feeling." At Nezu Shrine, they were delighted by the azaleas that were just beginning to bloom and took many photos. I gave an overview of "Shinto." They said they wanted a light lunch, so we went to a sushi restaurant in Shibuya. They commented, "It's fresh and delicious," "The price is reasonable," and, "Back home there are only conveyor-belt sushi restaurants," among other things. After this, we moved to Harajuku, starting with Meiji Shrine. I explained about "torii gates," "Shinto," "Emperor Meiji," "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the Meiji Restoration," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." There was also a question: "When did Shinto originate?" We took a short break at the cafe in Meiji Shrine. We moved to Shibuya. Despite it being daytime, there were huge crowds. I explained about "the history of Shibuya." We walked across "Shibuya Scramble Square" and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as, "Why are there so many people at the scramble crossing?" and, "Are they all locals?" After this, they said they wanted to see a Japanese supermarket, so we went to the Tokyu Food Show. They said, "Last night we had dinner at a convenience store, but this is far more extensive than a convenience store." They commented, "The whole city is very quiet, and everything seems to run in an orderly way," "There's no litter in the streets," and, "There are no homeless people to be seen." They also commented, "The trains and subways are clean and quiet. They run functionally and it feels pleasant," and, "The public restrooms are clean too." After this, I saw them off at Hamamatsucho Station and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHamamatsucho Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno Station～Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno Station～Nippori Station146JPY
    Section 5SubwaySendagi Station～Nezu Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayNezu Station～Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 7SubwayHibiya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 8TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 9TrainShibuya Station～Hamamatsucho Station208JPY
    Total1,568JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①9:00 Candeo Hotels Shimbashi
    • ②9:00–10:00 Stroll from the hotel to Hibiya Park and the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace
    • ③10:00–10:40 Take a taxi to Akihabara, visit the Radio Kaikan, then go to Asakusa by subway
    • ④10:40–11:40 Asakusa, Sensoji Temple
    • ⑤11:40–12:15 Sumida River Cruise (water bus to Hamarikyu)
    • ⑥12:15–13:00 Hamarikyu
    • ⑦13:00–13:45 Lunch at Caretta Shiodome
    • ⑧13:45–14:00 Go to Omotesando by subway
    • ⑨14:00–14:30 Stroll around Omotesando
    • ⑩14:30–15:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 11/15:20–16:00 Move to Shibuya, visit the crossing
    • 12/16:00–16:45 Travel via Yurakucho Station to Ito-ya in Ginza, then disband (since shopping takes time, disband 15 minutes early so they can shop leisurely and return to the hotel alone afterward)

    Title: What Can You See in One 8-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a young professional in the technology field, visiting Japan for the first time to attend a conference held in Tokyo. With a very tight schedule, sightseeing was limited to a day trip to Mount Fuji the previous day and Tokyo today. The guest wished to explore Tokyo over a total of eight hours, so we aligned preferences in advance and created an efficient itinerary. Today the weather was fine all day, and we were able to cover the major sightseeing spots just as the guest had hoped, leaving them very satisfied. At the end, the guest wished to take their time shopping at Itoya in Ginza, so I guided them to the store and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkihabara～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2OtherAsakusa～Hamarikyu940JPY
    Section 3SubwayShiodome～Omotesando290JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya～Yurakucho210JPY
    Total1,800JPY

    Tour Report by SAM

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

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    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10: 00 @Hotel　grandereverie
    • 2.10:50 @Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 3.12: 25 Lunch @ Noodles "Ichiri" Kiyomizu Gojo Branch
    • 4.13:30 @Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 5.15:05 @Nijo Castle
    • 6.16:10 Disband @ Nijo Castle Taxi Stand

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera and Nijo Castle Report Body: The guests were a group visiting from North America. When I asked whether they would like to see Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera, they said they would love to. Later, as we talked about Japanese history during the tour, they expressed interest in visiting Nijo Castle, so we added it to the itinerary. For lunch, since ramen had been requested, I guided them to a ramen restaurant near the entrance of Gojozaka. In addition to ramen, they also ordered karaage and chashu, and enjoyed the meal very much. After sightseeing at Kiyomizu-dera, since some of the guests appeared tired, we took a taxi to Nijo Castle. We arrived at Nijo Castle around 3:00 p.m., and after touring the Ninomaru Palace and the gardens, the guiding time came to an end. I had intended to accompany them by subway to Shijo, but as there was a taxi stand right in front of us, they chose to return to their hotel by taxi. So we parted ways at the taxi stand. Weeping cherry blossoms and Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms were still in bloom, and blessed with fine weather, it seemed they enjoyed the day very much.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 4BusTofukuji～Gojozaka230JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Shoko

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & Heijo Palace Site

    Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & Heijo Palace Site

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia
    • 10:00 to 11:00 Kofukuji Temple
    • 11:00 to 11:30 Nara Park
    • 11:45 to 12:45 Todaiji Temple
    • 12:45 to 13:15 Nara Park
    • 13:30 to 14:30 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 15:15 to 15:30 Heijo Palace Site
    • 16:40 Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They chose Japan and one other Asian destination for their trip, enjoying several days in Japan followed by a few days elsewhere. Coming from a warm, tropical climate, the guests had expected mid-April in Japan to be warmer, and the recent cold weather left them feeling a little under the weather and somewhat tired. Even so, they thoroughly enjoyed the charms of Nara, feeding crackers to the deer and taking many photos of the Great Buddha. I hope it becomes a wonderful memory for them.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

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    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel. A couple with a 12-year-old boy. They moved from Ukraine to Germany and are visiting Japan from Germany. Travel to Tsukiji via the Oedo Line. In the outer market, we go from Namiyoke-dori to Naka-dori and Harumi-dori, passing through the 1st and 3rd floors of Tsukiji Uogashi, arriving at Tsukiji Station at 11:30. Via Ginza, arrive at Asakusa Kaminarimon. Pass through Nakamise, Hozomon, worship at the main hall, then West Sando, Hoppy Street, and lunch at an okonomiyaki restaurant. Return to Asakusa Station from Orange Street at 13:50. Arrive at Meiji-Jingumae Station. Pass through the 1st and 2nd torii gates, the sake barrels, and the wine barrels, then purify at the temizuya before arriving at the South Gate. Shrine-style worship at the main hall. Pass through the Meoto Kusu (couple camphor trees) and return to Harajuku via the back streets at 15:30. Stroll along Takeshita Street at 16:00.

    What Can You Do on a Private Tour of Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Harajuku in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report When I asked the guests about food, since they had already had breakfast, they said they preferred to eat in Asakusa. When I asked what they wanted to eat, they said okonomiyaki, so we went to an okonomiyaki restaurant where they enjoyed the first-time experience of grilling it themselves. When I asked for their honest impressions, they said it was delicious. At Tsukiji, they ate raw oysters and tuna at a seafood shop, sampled various items, purchased swordfish at the fish market, and ate it on the third floor. The elderly woman at the shop was very kind, offering mustard in addition to wasabi and saying it was delicious, and the guests also enjoyed conversing with the shop staff. On Takeshita Street, they were very interested in a micro pig cafe and took many photos. Since they liked taking photos so much, I introduced photo spots at each place we visited and took photos of the group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Toei Asakusa Line Asakusa Station290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Jingumae250JPY
    Total820JPY

    Tour Report by Take

    Hi, everyone!
    My name is Ryoji Takeuchi. Please call me Take.
    I am really glad to have an opportunity to guide you.
    I would like to tell you why I became a tour guide. About 10 years ago I traveled mountain area. On the same day I arrived there, Tyhoon hit the area too. A river was raging and maddy but at noon of the next day, the river became transparent, I could see the garvel at the bottom of the river, so clear. I just thought it was because Typhoon had passed, but the guide walking with me said water soaked into the mountain ground, then filtered. That pure water sprang up from the bottom of the river, so it became clear so quickly. Without a guide, I could not notice that natural mechanism. And I want to be like her, then I am a guide now.
    BY the way I would like to introduce my career and myself, briefly.
    I was born in the suburbs of Tokyo. I grew up there in nature, so I like nature very much. I worked at a construction company for 26years, a massage practice and an architect’s office for about 15 to20 years, and retired. I started to work as a tour guide in 2019. I like sports, such as swimming, scuba diving, Japanese martial arts(Judo, karate, sumo etc.), soft ball and so on, now walking and watching rugby.
    I often guide Tsukiji market, sumo watching ,Ninja and Samurai experience, and one day tour of Tokyo or old city Kamakura and so on.
    I often travel in Tokyo here and there with my wife. Tokyo has various faces, high technology, traditional culture, historical building, fish market, subculture spot and so on.

    Enjoy Tokyo with me!

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    May 8, 2025
    Jennifer_K
    Great way to start our 2 week trip!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Take was a wonderful…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Yokohama Cruise Terminal
    • 10:30 After checking in at the hotel, tour starts
    • 11:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Imperial Palace・Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 16:30 Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • 17:20 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like After a Japan Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe after completing a cruise around Japan. They had already traveled through various parts of the country, and this Tokyo sightseeing was the final part of their trip, with a stay of several days planned. I first took them to the Tsukiji Outer Market and explained how to use the subway, along with suggestions on how to enjoy their upcoming days of sightseeing in Tokyo. At Namiyoke Shrine in the outer market area, I explained Shinto. They mentioned that although they had visited shrines and temples in various places, they had not clearly understood the difference between the two. So I explained the distinction, which they found convincing. Next was the Imperial Palace. We visited the area in front of Nijubashi Bridge, where I talked about the role and traditions of the Imperial Family. We then visited Meiji Shrine, and since I had explained Shinto beforehand, they said they were able to understand the shrine much better. To help them plan their sightseeing for the following days, we continued on to Harajuku, Shibuya, and Shinjuku, and finally I took them to Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho. Since they wished to stay in Shinjuku and continue enjoying the area, we ended the tour here.

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

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

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

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

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

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

    May 27, 2026
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    Walking tour of Tokyo
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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 ホテルオークラ
    • 08:45 虎ノ門駅周辺を散策
    • 09:10 – 10:50 浅草寺、浅草神社、周辺を散策
    • 浅草 – 上野経由で東京へ – 地下鉄とJRの乗車を体験
    • 11:35 皇居
    • 13:10 樽善で昼食
    • 14:10 ツアー終了

    Title: What Do Guests Ask on a Private Tour in Tokyo and Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. I take the subway back home, one hour 20 minutes each way, just the same here. 2. Subways – Not running this frequently. 3. Parking is expensive back home – 50 dollars. 4. We don't use cash anymore. Paypal, etc.. SUICA, Is it worth downloading for five days use and in Kyoto? Oh, it is only in Japanese, they don't have English guide. 5. We don't eat McDonald. 6. This is the best sushi I've ever had. Wasabi is not separate. Oh, it's in the sushi? Sushi cooks are perfectionists. They clean the chopping board. 7. I come to Japan often for travel. 8. Some of the guests enjoy cooking, and we go to Kappabashi to buy cooking knives. 9. Is there an army in Japan? Is the draft mandatory? 10. You put your palms together with a rosary around your hands, and that's at the temple not the shrine? 11. That many people commit suicide?

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Train虎ノ門～浅草 東京554JPY
    Total554JPY

    Tour Report by Hideaki

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

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    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
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    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

    May 20, 2026
    olgalA154QQ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with an excellent guide
    Great experience! Our guide WADA Hideaki…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Sightseer57474900023
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
    Hideaki was an incredible guide and…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 Hotel Tokyu (directly connected to Inokashira Line Shibuya Station) Meeting point　Hachiko Statue　Scramble Crossing
    • 0830 Harajuku　Meiji Shrine visit　Guide only to the entrance of Takeshita Street (as it is too early)
    • 1020 Imperial Palace Outer Garden　Tatsumi Yagura　Gyoko-dori Avenue　Marunouchi　Tokyo Station (assistance with purchasing Shinkansen tickets)
    • 1200 Yurakucho～Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1240 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 1350 Shinjuku West Exit　Godzilla Road　3D Cat Display　
    • 1410 Tour ends at Omoide Yokocho
    • Have a little snack, then guide you to the location of the following Sake Tasting (Okubo).

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had recently retired. One of them had briefly lived in Yokohama as a child but had almost no memory of it, so this was essentially their first visit to Japan. The previous day, they arrived in Tokyo in the afternoon and went to Tokyo Tower by taxi in the evening. Today, one of the main purposes was to get used to the public transportation system. They had installed the SUICA app on their iPhone, but getting comfortable with it took some effort. Since they planned to head to Kyoto the next day, I helped them purchase Shinkansen tickets at Tokyo Station. They would return to Tokyo and stay in Asakusa afterward. Today, after my tour ended, they were going to try a sake tasting experience in Okubo, and in the evening they planned to join a food tour. In Kyoto as well, they seemed to have various experiences planned. They intend to drive around the city themselves (which is a little worrying…). After returning to Tokyo, they also plan to ride go-karts (the so-called Mario karts). In any case, it was an aggressive schedule, but I hope they enjoy it. Today, they were able to experience the public transportation as originally intended, and they were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae209JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Yurakucho146JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza～Ueno-hirokoji178JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno-okachimachi～Iidabashi178JPY
    Section 6SubwayIidabashi～Shinjuku West Exit220JPY
    Total1,077JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    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.

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    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…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…